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Self-Assessment
• What types of jobs interest me?
• What is my ideal work environment?
• What is my geographical preference?
• What are my work values? (money, security, flexibility,
etc.)
• What are my short-term and long-term goals?
• Is further education necessary to accomplish those goals?
Top 10 Characteristics Employers Look
For:
1. Communication Skills
2. Honesty/Integrity
3. Interpersonal Skills
4. Motivation/Initiative
5. Strong work ethic
6. Teamwork Skills
7. Computer Skills
8. Analytical Skills
9. Flexibility/Adaptability
10. Detail-oriented
From Job Outlook 2007, National Association of Colleges and Employers
Prepare Your Marketing Tools
• Start by developing a top notch resume.
• Develop a basic cover letter.
• Introduces you to a potential employer and entices them
to read your resume
Organize Your Campaign
• Adjust your resume and cover letter to meet the needs of
the jobs you are applying to
• Prepare a Job Search Workstation:
- Office supplies
- Resume paper, envelopes, stamps, etc.
- Job Search Worksheets
- Fax Cover Letters
- Filing System to track leads, contacts, etc.
• Target geographic locations
• Research companies of interest
• Research newspapers, libraries, employment agencies in that
area
• Research salary information for your field and geographic
location
• Launch campaign!
Where to Find Job Leads:
• Career Services Office of your local campus
- On-campus interviews
- Professional speakers
- Job Fairs
- Contacts
• Federal, state, and local government offices
• Employment Security Commission
• Public Libraries
• Newspaper Classifieds
• Phone Book
• Employment Agencies – Either professional or temporary
• Organizations or Professional Groups
• Internships
• Journals and/or Newsletters
• Internet (see attachment for job search sites)
• Chamber of Commerce
NETWORKING!
• 80% of job seekers find a job through networking
• Anyone you know can be a potential contact
• Develop a preliminary list of contacts with information
such as name, title, address, etc.
• Always be professional and dress appropriately
• Have resume or business card available at all times
• Don’t be afraid to make contacts by e-mail, phone,
informal interview, mailings, etc.
Networking Ideas:
• Friends, parents, relatives, neighbors
• Club and organization affiliations
• Internships
• Job Fairs
• Informational Interviewing
• Volunteering
• Develop your own by contacting employers directly
Responding to Leads
• Send/Mail resume with cover letter
• Visit site to fill out application (Tip: Always dress professional
even when only picking up an application.)
• On-line applications or e-mail resume
• Fax resume and cover letter
• Important: Read all job descriptions carefully to ensure
you are following their procedures. For example, do not send reference
letters if they have not asked for them.
What Happens Next?
• Track all communications with employers using filing system
to ensure accuracy
• Prepare for the interview
• Prepare list of previous employer information such as dates,
addresses, phone numbers, etc. (This helps when filling out applications.)
• Manage the interview and do follow ups
• Weigh your job offers
• Prepare to negotiate salary
Job Hunting Mistakes
1. Not having a clear objective or career goal.
2. Unrealistic expectations.
3. Typos in cover letter and/or resume.
4. Not being prepared for interview.
5. Not using multiple job search efforts.
6. Failing to highlight your strengths and skills to an employer.
7. Being afraid to network and make contacts.
8. Failure to follow through on leads.
9. Showing a negative attitude.
10. Lack of organization.
Contact the Director of Career Services
Office Phone: (910) 630-7257
Fax: (910) 630-7651 |
