job search manual usjaycees

8/4/2019 Job Search Manual USJaycees

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The United States Jaycees

An organization of young men whose aims are personal growth andleadership training while providing solutions to community problems.

The philosophies of the Jaycees are embodied in the Jaycee Creed.adopted in its present form in 1951. and authored by the late C. WilliamBrownfield.

THE JAYCEE CREED

We believe:

That faith in God gives meaning and purpose to human life;That the brotherhood of man transcends the sovereignty of nations:That economic justice can best be won by free men through free

enterprise;That government should be of laws rather than of men:That earth's great treasure lies in human personality;And that service to humanity is the best work of life.

Pursuing these philosophies. Jaycees are involved in programs tomeet specific local community needs as well as programs of national and

international interest.The Jaycee process offers a three fold benefit to its members. Through

the Individual Development programs, Jaycees are helped to realize theirpersonal potential in such areas as goal setting. family communications.leadership skills. human relations, public speaking and spiritual development. The Management Development programs offer Jaycees opportunitiesto study and develop actual skills in personnel management. financialmanagement, planning and organization. Through action programs in thecommunity, Community Development programs, Jaycees gain neededleadership experience and become more sensitive to the needs of thosearound them. These three aspects of the organization combine to formwhat is known as the "total Jaycee concept."of Commerce. but its determination to become involved in all issues with al

young men, led to a name change in 1965 to "Jaycees" - thereby noimplying a direct alliance with any other organization.

The United States Jaycees can now serve all young men between thages of 18 and 35. with organizations that are affiliated but remainautonomous at the local. state. national and international levels. They ar

served by a national headquarters staff located in Tulsa. Oklahomaproviding information on programs, membership and other areas.

,c The United States Jaycees~A Leadership Training Organization



Table of Contents

PagE

Introduction

Chapter One - The First Step .Your Personal Inventory 4

Chapter Two - Marketing Yourself .The Resume 11

Chapter Three - Where the Jobs Are .

Sources of Job Informa tion23

Chapter Four - Showcasing Your Merchandise .The Job In terv iew 26

B i b Iiog ra ph y 32

2



INTRODUCTION

You want a job and you feel somewhere an employer has the job youwant - one that provides challenges and opportunities for advancement.

To find that job, you need to execute a well-planned job search. Youhave a product to sell - yourself. What you need to know is how you canmarket your product most effectively. Whether you are just out of collegeand ready to start your career or are looking for a new position after tenyears of experience, some of the techniques presented in this workbookmay help you. Suggestions are offered on:

• Where to find more information about jobs for which you are qualified.• Where to learn about job opportunities in your field.• How to present yourself through a resume that convinces an

employer you are the person for the job.• How to write a letter of application that catches an employer's interest

and makes him want to talk with you.• How to best present your qualifications in a job interview.

Complete the personal inventory. Use the resume section to prepareyour resume and familiarize yourself with the interview questions. Use thisworkbook to prepare to apply for the job you've always dreamed of. Keep in

mind this workbook is only an aid; using it is not a guarantee you will gainemployment.

3

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LJ



CHAPTER 1THE FIRST STEP

Your Personal Inventory

•••••

Taking a personal inventory is the most important step in your jObsearch You must take this step before you file your first application Apersonal inventory is your own detailed. realistic inventory of your qualifi-cations. Interests and limitations. You must know and understand yourselfto be prepared to answer the interview questions that give an employerinsight to your qualifications. interests and limitations. If you do not. then

how do you expect a potential employer to be interested in you?You can begin your personal inventory by asking yourself a few simplequestions:

What jobs have I had? What did Ilike about each? What skills do I have?What equipment can I operate? What education do I have? What type ofwork does my education qualify me to perform? What are my Interests? DoI have any special talents or aptitudes? Am I limited in any physical way?What kind of job do I want?

Now that you have thought about these questions. you can begin your

personalmventory. Later you can select the data relevant to the job you seek.

4



1. Work HistoryList all your jobs, including part-time, summer and freelance work.

Start with your most recent employment. For each job, give the name andaddress of your employer, your job title, the details of your duties and thedates you were employed. Then answer the additional questions.

Employer _

Address _

Job Title and Responsibilities _

Dates From To _

What did I like about this job? _

Why? _What did I dislike about this job? _

Why? _

Why did I leave? _

Employer _

Address _

Job Title and Responsibilities -----------------

Dates From To ------


Why? _

What did I dislike about this job? _

Why? _

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Why did I leave? _

--------------------------------

Employer _

Address _


Dates From To _


Why? _


Why? _

Why did I leave? _

Employer _

Address _


Dates From To _


Why? _


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Why? _

Why did Ileave? _

2. Skills and Abilities .

• What personal qualities do I have that make me good at certain tasks?What do I do best? _

To answer these questions, think back over your job experience, schoolactivities and volunteer efforts.

• What special knowledge or information do I have? _

Are your strong points initiative, imagination, leadership, ability toorganize, willingness to follow orders, interest in detail or ability to workwith people? (Be honest or this work will not be worth the time you spend.)

• What did I learn on-the-job that I can use in another position?

What equipment can I operate? _

What specific job skills do I possess? _

(i.e., blueprint reading, cash register operation, etc.)

3. Education.

High School Attended _

Address _Subjects of Major Interest _

Dates From To _

Diploma Yes No _

College Attended _

Address _

Major Minor _

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____ No _. _

Dates From To _

Degree Yes No Type __ . _

• List any vocational, business. military, on-the-job training or specialcourses you took (e.g. Jaycee Individual Development programs).the dates and any diplomas or certificates you received.

Additional Training

Training _

Dates From To _

Diploma or certificate Yes No _

Training _

Dates From To

Diploma or certificate Yes No .__

Training _

Dates From To _

Diploma or certificate Yes _

Training _

Dates From To _

Diploma or certificate Yes No _

Then ask yourself:

Which courses or training did I like best? _

Why? _

Which courses or training did I dislike? _

Why? _

Now list your extracurricular activities. scholarships and honors youreceived in school:

Extracurricular activities: _

Scholarships received: _

Honors received: _

If you are a recent graduate. your activities and honors may be a

significant part of your job qualifications. Even if the activities do not

directly relate to a job, they may help you decide your best talents and

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interests. (e.g. Did you enjoy being on the debate team? Did you excel insports?)

4. Interests,Talents and Aptitudes.

What are my hobbies? _

What are my volunteer activities? _

What natural talents do I have? (Le. Can I fix a car? Playa musical

instrument? Draw or paint pictures?) _

What type of work do I learn easily? (Le. mechanical, musical, artistic,

mathematical, etc.) _

What do I consider my ideal job? _

What are my chances of getting it? _

How can I relate my talents and interests to the job? _

5. Do I have a physical handicap or limitation which willeffect my qualifying for a job?--------

6. Is it necessary for me to change my field of work?-

7. How long can I sustain myself if I quit my job?--

8. Career Goals.• What type of work do Iwant to be doi ng five (5) or ten (10) years from

now?

Type of work _

Responsibilities _

Type of work _

Responsibilities _

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• What sort of jobs should I be looking for in order to reach my goal?

Type of jobs needed to reach my goal: _

9. Jobs I Want.

Now that you have organized your personal data, study it carefully. List thetypes of jobs you feel you are best qualified for and want. List them in orderof preference.

Job Title _

Why I am qualified for this job _

Job Title _


Job Title _


If you have completed your inventory, you are ready to move on. Butperhaps you have considered all the factors in your background and stillare not ready to answer the key question, "What type of job do I want?"

If you need to learn more about the types of jobs which exist, a goodsource of information is your public library.

Libraries have a number of books that tell you about specific careers.During your research. be sure to consult the Occupational OutlookHandbook. published by the U.S Department of Labor. The handbookgives the latest information about more than 800 jobs. The informationlisted with each occupation tells about the work involved. where the jobsare located. what training and other qualifications are needed and thechances for advancement. It also lists wages, work conditions andassesses future job opportunities. There is also a reference listing whichtells you where to find additional information about jobs that interest you.

An additional source of help is your nearby state employment office.Information is available about jobs and the qualifications needed to fill them.

Your personal inventory IS the hardest part of your job search. Yet it isthe key to help you minimize the problems you encounter as you look for

employment

10



CHAPTER 2MARKETING

YOURSELF .The Resume

• •

If you are seeking a professional, technical, administrative or mana

gerial job, it is recommended you have a resume. One is also needed formany clerical and sales positions. Although experts disagree concerningthe value of a resume - it is valuable because it shows your career progressand outlines your ability to achieve your goals. Initial screening of

applications generally happens before personal interviews and is based onwhat is submitted in writing. To find work, you must understand the basicprinciples of a resume.

The resume is the document in which you combine your skills, the type

of job you want and your knowledge of the job market. A resume is a livingstatement which is continually changed and updated. Your skills andabilities change, depending on your different experiences each year. The

job market may change too, so you will want to emphasize different aspectsof your background to meet the new market.

Your personal inventory should contain all the information you need toprepare your resume. You must select, arrange and organize the rawmaterials from your inventory in the best way to relate your background to

the job you seek.

Your first task is to select the data you want to use. Ask yourself: Whichparts of my training and experience are relevant to my job goal? What parts,if any, are unrelated? Give all pertinent details about your experience. Butbe brief in listing unrelated jobs; they're of little interest to a prospectiveemployer.

Next you must arrange the information you have selected. To catch anemployer's attention, plan to list your best qualifications early in yourresume. Ask yourself: Is my work experience the most important part of myresume? Or will an employer be more interested in my education and

training?

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Basic Resume PrinciplesThere are three types of resumes discussed In this chapter functional

chronological and portfolio At any given time a person may have two oreven three types. depending on the desired job. A person chooses a resumestyle because it most effectively shows his achievements Included In thischapter is a suggested outline. sample resume types and notes indicating Inwhich situation each resume can be most effective.

Including personal Information on resumes is not encouragedInformation such as age. mantal status. children and their ages andspouses occupation should not be Included One way to make sure thesematters are not used in the Initial screening process ISto leave them off theresume.

You should always provide adequate information on a resume for anemployer to contact you Your address and telephone number should becorrect If possible. list a second telephone number where messages can beleft.

A resume is a positive statement about yourself Do not includenegative reasons for leaving earlier jobs. qualifying statements about thenature of the work done ("part-tIme only" "volunteer work," etc.) orstatements indicating a decrease In salary or responsibilities Potential

employers tend to underestimate an applicant's skills.Do not use Job descnptions developed by a company or agency to

define your work responsibilities. These descriptions stress the routinework done and leave out your IndiVidual achievements. List achievementssuch as "changed a procedure" "developed new rules," etc. Mention anyspecial awards received.

If you have more than one Job objective, you have two alternatives:You can list the Jobs you are qualified for In order of preference Yourresume should Include all data relevant to each Jobyou apply for ThisWill give you one all-purpose resume It has the clear advantage ofsimpliCity and speed You can prepare In advance as many copies asyou need so you'll have them ready to pass out whenever you needthem.

2. You can make separate resumes for different types of jobs You mayWish to do this in the follOWing situations.• If your job goals are In separate fields (for example. research assistant. copywnter or English teacher).• If you will approach several types of Institutions, which may placemore value on different aspects of your background. (For example.one may emphasize certain academiC degrees, while a second isInterested in a particular part of your job experience and still anothermay be looking for clues to your personal traits, such as ability topersuade or deal tactfully With others)

The Details - They Do Make A Difference.If pOSSible, your resume should be typewntten If you can't type It

yourself. having a copy typed is a good investment. You may need

anywhere from two to 200 copies, depending on the type of Job you seek.the supply and demand in your field and the geographic area you wish tocover If your distnbutlon needs are large and you can use the same resumeWithout change for any employer a good practice ISto have enough copiesduplicated for your antiCipated needs. Avoid passing out carbon copies.Carbons advertise that you gave the original to someone else If you needonly a few copies, an alternate method ISto hand-print your resume clearlyIn Ink

If you are sending a number of resumes or are applYing for a position

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with hundreds of other applicants, there are ways to make your resumemore eye-catching. You can have it duplicated on colored paper. You canhave a printer typeset it in a striking print style. If you can do hand-lettering,you can hand-letter your resume. If you decide to make your resume moreeye-catching, you must carefully consider the reader's viewpoint. There is apotential of leaving that individual with a negative or positive impression.

With one exception, the names of references are not generally

included on your resume. This is because you may use one kind ofreference for one job and a different one for another. The exception is to listthe name of a person who's highly respected and well known in thecommunity or a person well known in the field of work for which you areapplying. Otherwise, on the resume state "References provided uponrequest."

A resume does not substitute for a personal meeting with the persondoing the hiring. It can, however, be a first step toward getting that meeting.For this reason, submission of a resume should always be followed with atleast a telephone call and, at best, a personal meeting with the person doingthe hiring.

Your resume should not be left only in the hands of the personneldepartment. Others to get the resumes include: the person actually doing

the hiring, his superior and anyone else in the community who may behelping you find a job or who might have a job opening in the future.

Suggested Outline For Your Resume1. PERSONAL DATA.

Begin with your name, address and telephone number. No other

personal data needs to be included in your resume. However, if youprefer to do so, that's up to you.

2. EMPLOYMENT OBJECTIVE.

Indicate the kind of job you are seeking. If you are qualified for several jobs and are preparing one all-purpose resume, list them in orderof your preference.

3. WORK HISTORY.You can organize this information in two ways. Choose the one thatpresents your work experience the best.

a. By jobList each job separately (even if the jobs were within the same firm),starting with the most recent one and working backward.For each job, list:• Dates of employment.• Name and address of employer and nature of his business .• Position you held.Then describe your job, showing:• Specific job duties-the tasks you performed, including anyspecial assignments and use of special instruments or equipment.

• Scope of responsibility - your place in the organization, howmany people you supervised and, in turn, the degree of supervisionyou received.

• Accomplishments - if possible, give concrete facts and figures.b. By function

List the functions (fields of specialization or types of work, such asengineering, sales promotion or personnel management) you performed that are related to your present job objectives. Then, describebriefly the work you have done in each of these fields without

breaking it down by individual jobs.

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-~-~

4. EDUCATION (IF THIS IS YOUR MAIN SELLING POINT. PUT ITBEFORE YOUR WORK HISTORY).List your formal education giving:

• High school (can be omitted if you have a higher degree), collegeor graduate school.• Dates of graduation or when leaving school.• Degrees or certificates received.

• Major and minor subjects and other courses related to your jobgoal.• Scholarships and honors.

• Extracurricular activities (if you are a recent graduate and youractivities pertain to your job goal).

5. MILITARY EXPERIENCE.

list your military service if it is recent or pertinent to your job goal,indicating:• Branch and length of service.

• Major duties, including details of assignments related to the jobyou seek.• List pertinent military training here or under your education.

6. MISCEllANEOUS.

If appropriate to your field of work, give such information as:• Knowledge of foreign languages.• Volunteer or leisure activities.

• Special skills, such as typing. shorthand or ability to operatespecial equipment.• Membership in professional organizations.• Articles published, inventions or patents.

The Functional Resume:

• Is an outline of your qualifications (sometimes called a qualificationbrief).

• Is tailored to the specific jOb you want.

• Selects functions of jobs and relates your experience to those functions.

• Is useful in eliminating statements not relevant to the job you areseeking. (e.g., unrelated work experience, education not strictly ontarget and gaps in employment.)

• Is accepted in many situations but some employers may not haveexperience with this form or be comfortable with it.

• Allows the person with more volunteer or home experience to translate that experience into skills statements. This shows how it directly

relates to specific work activities.

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George SangerP.O. Box 104

Pryor, OK 74141

SAMPLE FUNCTIONAL RESUME 1

OBJECTIVE

(918) 898-5555(918) 842-3173

Public relations career with dynamic, growth-oriented corporation.

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience in managing and directing sales, development of promotionalpackets and brochures, organizing sales incentive programs, handling advertising, publicity and public speaking, designing and implementing successful sales programs.

EXPERIENCE

ADVERTISING AND PROMOTION:

Managed all advertising and sales for one year for large resort hotel,resulting in nearly 100% occupancy year-round. Developed promotionalpackets for Lakeside City Chamber of Commerce. Initiated programs andadvertising campaigns for business and professional chamber membersduring a three-year period.

WRITING AND SPEAKING:

Wrote copy for brochures, weekly articles for local newspapers,promotional material for city programs and corporate newsletter forresidents and guests. Wrote advertising copy for print, radio and TV for avariety of advertising agency accounts. Spoke to civic organizations andservice clubs, representing Lakeside Chamber of Commerce.

SALES:

Organized resort sales-incentive program resulting in increase of totalgroup sales of 20% in a one-year period. Sold Chamber of Commercememberships and increased membership from 120 to more than 250 in athree-year period, while increasing membership dues at the same time.

MANAGEMENT:

Directed staff of seven in advertising department of resort hotel. ManagedChamber of Commerce office with two secretaries. Won Texas Hollins

Award for Best First-Year Chamber Executive, 1981. Supervised a staff ofnine in an editorial department that produced six weekly newspapers.

EDUCA TION

1976-'78, University of Texas, English, History; 1979-'80, studiedmarketing and advertising, Marshall Career College.

REFERENCES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.

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George SangerP.O. Box 84

Dallas, TX 75204

SAMPLE FUNCTIONAL RESUME 2

(214) 944-7771(214) 944-2815

WHA T I WANT

Opportunity allowing me to use my past expenence and people-relatedskills.

WHAT I DO

• Recruit, train and supervise professional staff people• Select. administer and Interpret standardized measurement instru

ments• Plan and conduct awareness and communications seminars for men

and women

• Develop career-planning programs for other agencies• Design. develop and teach courses concerning job-sear~h

techniques• Make presentations to business community-individuals and

groups-regarding use of agency services• Design. implement and coordinate a complete vocational counsel

ing service• Write a monthly column for Equal Times newspaper• Assist in developing and maintaining a network of service agencies

engaged in serving the same clientele to avoid duplicating services• Work with businesses on an individual and informal basis to assist

them in achieving equal opportunity programs• Design, compile and edit bi-monthly magazine, The Bank Book

WHAT I'VE DONE

• Currently director. Employment Information Service. 3220 LemmonAvenue. Dallas. Texas 75204

• Freelance writer of non-fiction

• Instructor of Developmental Writing. Eastfield College, 1982• Teacher of English at R.L. Turner High School. Carrollton. Texas.

and John F. Kennedy High School, Bloomington. Minnesota. 19771980

• Speech therapist for grades K-9. Reynoldsburg. Ohio. PublicSchools, 1976-1977.

WHERE I STARTED

• M.Ed. in guidsnce and counseling (psychology minor), North Texas

State University, Denton, Texas, granted 1982• B.S. in Ed., Southeast Missouri State University, Cape Girardeau.

Missouri, granted 1976

REFERENCES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

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(602) 281-3243(602) 281-3151

The Chronological Resume• Is a tailored format.

• Lists positions held in chronological order, beginning with the mostrecent, with dates of employment, names of employers, titles held andareas of responsibilities. This is a job history.

• May include publications, honors/awards, hobbies, etc.• Is best if work experience is sequential, recent and continuous;

demonstrates a progressive career development; indicates whetheryou plan to stay in the same career field. Be reasonable about howmuch you list. It isn't necessary to go back to high school if you'vebeen out 20 years. Generally, a ten-year time span is sufficient.

• Is also best suited for applications to organizations with a traditionalconservative nature.

SAMPLE CHRONOLOGICAL RESUME 1

Kevin Hernandez

14 Camelback RoadPhoenix, AZ 84220

OBJECTIVE

Sales Manager in a large department store, preferably in the appliancesection.

EXPERIENCE1980-Present Goldwaters Sales Person

Work in variety of departments including: menswear, sporting goods, smallappliances. Provide information on specific products, work with a largecomputerized cash register system, work under stress during such periodsas Christmas season.

1970-'80 Moss' Small Appliance Sales PersonManaged parts counter. Maintained inventory, ordered and shipped stock.Serviced and repaired appliances.

1967-'70 Hertz Rent-A-Car RepresentativeCar rental representative for Hertz Rent-A-Car office in Phoenix airport.Responsible for taking car reservations for airline passengers, providingclear information about available models and complex rate systems,solving crisis situations if a rental car breaks down or the client finds the carunsuitable.

EDUCATION

1965, Phoenix Union High School, graduate1982, Goldwaters, Salesmanship Training Seminar

1983, Phoenix College, "Body-Language: How to Improve your Non-VerbalCommunication."


Note: This man could do a functional resume but he has specific work

experience related to his current jab goal which he wants to emphasize.

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SAMPLE CHRONOLOGICAL RESUME 2

Richard Jones3020 Warehouse Road

Salt Lake City, UT 37522WORK EXPERIENCE

6/80 - Present

1/79 - 6/80

11/78 - 1/79

6/78-9/78

EDUCA TIOI\J9/74 - 3/78

(801) 533-4221(801) 547-4330

Freelance writer. New York City, New York. EditedWest 75th Block Association Newsletter, directed

creative writing workshop for Phoenix HouseDrug Program, conducted neighborhood seminars in poetry, drama and current events.Copywriter, WTIC AM/FM, Hartford, Connecticut.Wrote live copy for local and national accounts.wrote promotional and non-profit material, handled public relations for advertising and compiledsports programming packages.Editorial Assistant. Connecticut Judicial Depart

ment. Helped edit general law ledger for judges.organized seminars, tours and lectures for continuing education and research.General Assistant. KALL AM/FM, Salt Lake City,Utah. Front-desk receptionist. ran all station contests, wrote public service announcements,scheduled all FM commercial traffic.

B.A. English/Creative Writing, University of Utah.Graduated cum laude. Editorial Assistant and

Poetry Editor of Wasatch Front literary magazine: awarded 1976 scholarship to SummerWriter's Workshop led by Ann Stanford, gave

campus and radio poetry readings, tutored highschool writing students.

l

PERSONAL BACKGROUNDBorn and raised in Evanston, Illinois. Honors graduate from Evanston

Township High School, 1974. Active in producing literary magazine.

REFERENCES AND PORTFOLIO AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.

..~ -~ -~ -..•..• --•..._~-~ -~ -...•• -...•

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Freelance photographerArt teacher, Ogden High School, Ogden, UtahPhotographer/Reporter, Phoenix Daily Sun,

Phoenix, Arizona

The Portfolio Resume

• Is a tailored format.

• Lists experience in a specific field relative to the job.• Identifies your successes.• Is acceptable, but some employers may not have experience with this

form to be comfortable with it.

• Allows the individual with an entire portfolio of creations to list his work.

• Skills are not stressed as much in the written resume as in the visualevidence provided with it. The resume is in a folder and includes some

of your best photographs and a sample of your photo-essay style.• Other work experiences which lend themselves to this approach

include public relations work, writing (including public information

jobs), and graphics design or layout.

SAMPLE PORTFOLIO RESUME

Henry Poole1420 Smith Street

Salt Lake City, UT 87522(801) 533-4221 - Home(801) 547-4330 - Studio

EXPERIENCE1978-Present1975-19781968-1975

PUBLICA TIONS/SHOWS

1984 New Mexico Biennial Show, two photographsArizona Highways, photo essay: "The BeautifulOak-Creen Canyon."

1982 One-man show, Stark Gallery, Salt Lake CityPhotography Exhibit, Utah State Fair, threephotographs, blue ribbon winner in nature photography.

1981 Utah Gazette, photo essay: "The Pollution ofthe Great Salt Lake."

EDUCA TION

19781975

Photography Workshop with Ansel AdamsB.A. in Art, University of Arizona


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Resume Writing Suggestions

DO

• Include names, addresses and telephone numbers.• Be brief and stress positives.

• Limit resume to two pages.

• List your achievements and how you solved problems. not Just theresponsibilities you had.

• Be neat, error free and readable.• Use statistics or numbers where you can show results for what you

did.

• Use action words: planned, designed, coordinated, led. initiated,produced. organized, supervised, contributed, recruited. hired.arranged, trained. controlled, etc.

• Be selective. Use only those achievements which support moststrongly your bid for the position you are seeking Appropriatenessis the key. not volume.

• Use the right vocabulary. Be sure of job titles, functions and otherindustry jargon or you will appear unfamiliar with the field.

• Be specific.• Choose a degree of formality consistent with the field.

• State an objective - the focal pOint of the resume.• Use the top two-thirds of the first page to include the most important

information

• Choose a format which enhances your experience and is suited tothe position you seek.

• Include volunteer expenence where relevant.

• Individualize. Be sure the tone and appearance will SUit you. Writeyour resume yourself to ensure this.

DON'T

• Include salary or reasons for leaVing past employment.• Separate volunteer experience from paid employment.• Use a narrative form or personal pronouns.

• Include controversial material (being fired, dropped out of school).• List the names of people with whom you have collaborated unless

they are famous• Tell what your spouse does.• Use dates.• Include reference names and addresses.

• Include personal data not relative to your ability to do the job (maritalstatus, age, number of dependents, etc.)

• Mention the field in which you have a degree if it is unrelated to theposition you want. Naming the degree is sufficient.

• Send carbon copies.

WHEN LABELING YOUR SKILLS:• Use as few words as you can.

• Avoid phrases such as "my duties included" or "I was responsible for".• Start with an active verb. Follow it with a direct object. Use a modifier

whenever possible.Examples. Reorganized filing procedures:Created community program

• List accomplishments rather than just listing duties.

20



Words and Phrases for Describing Your Skills

expandedpresentednegotiatedorganizedoperatedexhibited

supported

reorganizedcutedited

producedcontactedevaluated

designedimprovedresearched

implementedtrained

established

supervised

analyzedcontractedinventedadministeredconducted

was promoted

preparedmaintainedoversawhandled

taughtdirected

developedreduced costs

plannedwrote

managedsoldcreated

Letter of Application

In many fields of work, writing a letter of application is the customaryway to ask for a personal interview. This is particularly true in the followingcases:

1. When the employer you wish to contact lives in another city or town.2. As a cover letter when you are mailing resumes.3. When you are answering a want ad.

The following guidelines may help you write a letter of application:1. Type neatly, using care in sentence structure, spelling and punctua

tion.

2. Use a good grade of letter-sized, white bond paper.3. Address your letter to a specific person, if possible (use city direct

ories or other sources).4. State exactly the kind of position you are seeking and why you are

applying to the particular firm.5. Be clear, brief and businesslike.6. Enclose a resume.

Letters of application will vary considerably depending on the circumstances in which they are used. The sample illustrates one way of writing a

letter of application.

21



SAMPLE LETTER OF APPLICATION

(date)

Mr. William R. Wilson

President. Metallic Manufacturing Inc.8339 Factory RoadSt. Paul, MN 55415

Dear Mr. Wilson:

Recently, I learned through Dr. James R. Roland of Atlantic and Pacific

University of the expansion of your company's sales operations and yourplans to create a new position of sales director. If this position is open. Iwould appreciate your considering me for it.

Starting with over-the-counter sales and order service. I have had progressively more responsible and diverse experience in merchandisingproducts similar to yours. In recent years. I have carried out a variety ofsales promotions and top management assignments.

For your review, I am enclosing a resume of my qualifications. I wouldappreciate a personal interview with you in order to discuss my application further.

Very truly yours. I

r~)j.':

John W. Door

Enclosure

22



•

CHAPTER 3WHERE THE

JOBS ARE . • • •

Sources of Job Information

Use any and all sources of job information. The more sources you use,

the more you will see job leads are only limited by your contacts. By usingall friends, relatives and acquaintances, public and private agencies,classified ads and other sources, you increase your chances of finding whatyou want. Too often, job seekers let a false sense of pride or confidenceinterfere with their successes. Wanting to be better and to be moresuccessful is a natural desire. You shouldn't feel embarrassed or ashamed

to let people know you want to be better or you are looking for another job.To be successful at finding a job, use all available resources.

Your first source of job information will probably be friends, neighbors

and relatives. Through their work, social or business contacts, they may

know of opportunities not listed by regular sources. Their knowledge islikely to be limited to their own and perhaps a few other places of employ-ment. The old adage, "It's not what you know but who you know," can be

applied in your job search. By knowing someone in the company whereyou are applying, you may have the advantage it will take to get the job.

At the same time you are checking your personal sources, you should

check the usual channels of job information. From all the sources, you haveto select those most appropriate for you. The most appropriate depends onthe type of job you want, where you live and want to work, and the demand

in your field.

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Some sources of job information are listed here, withbrief comments on their characteristics:I. WANT ADS IN NEWSPAPERS. PROFESSIONAL JOURNALS AND

TRADE MAGAZINES.

• Provide a broad range of current openings.• A large share of the listings in want ads that are devoted to your field

are likely to be for jobs you are qualified to fill.

• Descriptions of jobs may not be detailed enough to decide if youare qualified.

• Study the number of ads for jobs in your field: it provides you Withinformation about employment activity in your field in that location.

• Look through the newspaper to find articles Identifying companiesgetting new contracts. expanding their facilities or going throughmergers. as well as those which are announcing retirements or promotions. Use these articles as an additional source in your job search.These growing companies may be hiring additional people.

II. JOB SERVICE OFFICES (STATE EMPLOYMENT OFFICES)• Generally have a large number of job listings in a number of occu-

pational categories.• Located in all parts of the country.

• Offer counseling and career consultation.• No fees are charged.

• Local job listings change daily and provide fresh job prospects on aregular basis.

III. OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT (FORMERLY CALLEDTHE U.S. CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION)

• Handle US Government civilian jobs.• Fill jobs in a wide vanety of professional. technical. clerical. craft and

other occupations.• Positions are located throughout the United States and overseas.• Jobs are filled on a merit basis as determined by examinations.

education and ratings of experience.

• Examinations are given several times a year In cities throughout thenation. Tests for entry-level professional positions are conducted at

many universities and schools.• Most post offices have application forms and information on job

opportunities. You can also write for information to the Office of Personnel Management. Washington. D.C. 20415.

IV. PRIVATE EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES

• Specialize in a few occupations or work exclusively for a few largefirms

• Function with the same characteristiCS of job service offices.• Some charge applicants a fee for registration or placement. others

collect fees from employers.V. YELLOW PAGES OF TELEPHONE DIRECTORY. INDUSTRIAL

DIRECTORIES AND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LISTS.

• list names of firms that may employ workers in your field. These

sources also contain other Information which could be useful whenapplying for a job.

VI. INDUSTRIAL AND CRAFT UNIONS.

• Have exclusive hiring authonty for some firms• Each union deals with a limited number of occupations• In most cases. they work With members onlyVII. SCHOOL OR COLLEGE PLACEMENT SERVICES

• Specialize in pOSitions that graduates are qualified for

• Productive source of profeSSional openings.

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• Usually available only to students and alumni of the school.VIII. PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS.

• Useful for specialized occupations.• Associations are listed at local libraries.

IX. Libraries (public, high school, college)• A number of books concerning job information are in print.• The Directory of Occupational Titles helps you in becoming familiar

with the duties and vocabulary of occupations.• Many libraries maintain a "corporate file" which is alphabetized byfirm name with newspaper clippings of company news.

• Find the Occupational Outlook Handbook mentioned in Chapter 1of this workbook.

• Find items listed in the bibliography at the end of this workbook.Use every source. Under the Civil Rights Act of 1964, all employment

agencies, both public and private, are required to refer applicants toemployers without regard to race, color, religion, sex or national origin. TheAge Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 forbids agencies todiscriminate against older workers. These laws prevent discrimination inhiring.

Use Your Time WiselyEven though you may not be under any pressure to find a job quickly,

start your search promptly. Delays may hurt your chances of finding the jobyou want. If you are about to graduate or are aware of layoffs coming atyour place of employment, you may be competing for similar positions withothers entering the job market. Also, a long delay between college or yourlast job and your application for work may give an employer the impressionhis is the latest stop in a long and fruitless job search.

Once you start your job search, treat it as a full-time job. Searching fora job can be very discouraging, but continued effort usually pays off.

USE THE FOllOWING SUGGESTIONS TO PLAN AN EFFICIENTJOB SEARCH:

1. As soon as you know you will need to find a new job, plan and startyour search.

2. Treat your job search as a full-time job. You are expected to work 40hour weeks for an employer; you should expect no less for yourself.

3. Do not take short "vacations" once you start your job search.4. Do your research before you apply for a job. Know a little about the

company, including when is the best time and day of the week toapply for ajob. Acquire the most recent copy of the company's annualreport or company newsletters. If you can, find someone who works

for the company who can give you information.5. If you have a number of interviews, be sure you schedule them so

there will be no conflicts. Allow plenty of time for testing or otherhiring procedures that may be required.

6. Whenever you hear of a prospect, follow up immediately. Don't beafraid to call a firm to arrange an appointment the same day or early

the next day. You must be prepared.7. Be on time. In fact, be early for each appointment.The more resumes, the more applications and the more contacts you

use, the more successful your job search will be. There will be disappointments, but persistence will payoff.

25



CHAPTER 4SHOWCASING YOUR

MERCHANDISE .....

The Job Interview

A job interview is your showcase for merchandising your talents.During the interview an employer judges your qualifications, appearanceand general fitness for the job opening. It is your opportunity to convincehim you can make a real contribution to the firm.

Just as important, the interview gives you a chance to appraise the job,the employer and the firm. It enables you to decide if the job meets yourcareer needs and interests and whether the employer is of the type andcaliber you want to work for.

Before each interview you should assume the job you are applying foris precisely the one you want - it may be. To present your qualificationsproperly you need to prepare in advance. You should have the necessarypapers ready and the information about yourself firmly in mind. You shouldknow how to act at the interview. This makes the interview an effective

device for selling your skills.

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Preparing For The Interview .• Assemble in easily available order all the papers you need to take

with you. The principal one is your resume-unless you have submitted it before the interview. If you have not prepared a resume, takeyour school records, social security card and work records, alongwith the names of your employers and dates of employment. (Prepare your own list if you have no formal records.) You may also need

any licenses, union cards or military records you have. If your work isthe type where you can show it at an interview, you may want to takesamples (such as art or design work or published writing).

• Learn all you can about the company before you go for an interviewits product or service, standing in the industry, number and kinds ofjobs available and hiring policies and practices. Refer to the researchyou did in Chapter 3 and refresh your memory about the company.

• Know what you have to offer-what education and training you havehad, what work you have done and what you can do.

• If you have not prepared a resume, review your personal inventory inChapter 1 before you go.

• Know what kind of job you want and why you want to work for thatfirm.

• If you do not have a resume that includes references, be prepared tofurnish the names, addresses and business affiliations of three

persons (not relatives) who are familiar with your work and character.If you are a recent graduate, you can list professors. Be sure you askyour references for permission to use their names.

• Learn the salary scale for the type of job you are seeking. (Refer to theOccupational Outlook Handbook) or other sources available for thisinformation.)

• Never take anyone with you to the interview.• Allow as much uninterrupted time for the interview as it may require.

(For example, do not park your car in a limited time space.)• Dress conservatively. Avoid either too formal or too casual attire. Be

sure to wear appropriate dress for the position.

Yau And The Interview• Be pleasant and friendly, but businesslike.• Let the employer control the interview. Your answers should be frank

and brief but complete, without rambling.• Be flexible and willing but give the employer a clear idea of your job

preferences.• Stress your qualifications without exaggeration. The employer's

questions or statements will indicate the type of person the firmneeds. Use these clues in presenting your qualifications. Forexample,if you are being interviewed for an engineering position and theemployer mentions the job will require some customer contact work,use this clue to emphasize any work, experience or courses youhave had working with customers.

• If you have not sent your resume in advance, present it or your workhistory, references, work samples or other materials to support yourstatements when the employer requests them.

• In discussing your previous jobs and work situations, do not criticizeformer employers or fellow workers.

• Don't discuss your personal, domestic or financial problems.• Don't be in a hurry to ask questions unless the employer invites them.

But don't be afraid to ask what you need to know. When the employer

offers you a job, be sure you understand exactly what your duties willbe. You should also find out what opportunities for advancement are

27



open to you. A definite understanding about the nature of your jObwillavoid future disappointment for you and your employer.

• If an employer makes a statement like, "Tell me about yourself." beprepared to talk of the qualification that makes you the best candidatefor the job. Be brief and concise.

• Be prepared to state the salary you want, but not until the employerhas introduced the subject. Be realistic.

• If the employer does not offer you a job or indicate when you will hearback, ask when you may call to learn of the decision• If the employer asks you to call or return for another interview. make

a written note of the time. date and place.• Thank the employer for the interview. If the employer indicates you

will not be needed, ask for suggestions on other possible employers.

THE FOllOWING QUESTIONS COULD COME UP IN AN INTER-VIEW OR AN APPLICATION. READ THROUGH THE QUESTIONS ANDWRITE YOUR ANSWERS IN THE SPACES PROVIDED.

1. Why did you apply for this position? _

2. Are you looking for a permanent job or a temporary one? _

3. Why do you feel that you are qualified for this position? _

4. What caused you to enter this job field?

5. What do you know about this company? _

6. What kind of experience have you had that would help you in this job?

7. Are you willing to move if the company wants to send you elsewhere?

8. What would be the ideal job for you? _

28



9. What do you want to be doing five years from now? _

10. What type of salary would you expect? _

11. What jobs have you had and why did you leave? _

12. Do you have any recommendations from previous employers? __

13. Are there any questions you would like to ask? _

REMEMBER: Prospective employers are looking for enthusiastic, confident people. If you are well-prepared for an interview, you will find it mucheasier to project both enthusiasm and self-confidence. Part of this enthusiasm and self-confidence will come in how you dress and in your overallattitude. It is important you do not chew gum, smoke or tell jokes. Maintain

good eye contact throughout the interview. Shake hands at the beginningand at the end of the interview. Be sure to thank the person forthe interview.

Understanding SubjectivityEach day we make decisions based on our own feelings, our upbring

ings, our likes and dislikes. As we do, so do they, the employers - thepersons who may hire you. Be aware - the selection process is affected by

the employer's feelings, upbringing and his likes and dislikes. It's not what

you think or feel that's important, it's what the employer thinks or feels thatcounts. Realizing the employer will be subjective will give you the

competitive edge. As we further evaluate the interview process and understand the employer's subjectivity, you will realize a successful candidatemust be responsive and aware of what the employer is looking for. With thisknowledge, you will be better prepared to meet face to face with interviewers. As the Talmud says, "We do not see things as they are, we see

things as we are."

Testing

Some businesses may require a psychological test, or a series of suchtests, as part of the application procedure. The tests most commonly usedare those that indicate intell igence or general aptitude. Some firms use tests

that give them information on specific aptitudes, personality traits andinterest patterns.

If you have been away from school for sometime, you may beapprehensive about taking tests. You may fear that your test scores will notreflect your real ability to do a job. Don't let tests scare you off. None of thecommonly used tests require advance preparation; you need not feelconcerned over not having "crammed" the night before. Keep in mind your

29



test scores are only one among the many factors the employer will considerin judging your qualifications for a job.

Many tests have time limits. When they do, you will be told how muchtime you will have. Listen carefully to the instructions you receive. If you donot clearly understand what you are expected to do, be sure to askquestions. The time for questions is before the test begins. After you startthe test. work steadily and carefully. Do not do anything that interrupts yourwork. In taking most tests, don't spend a lot of time on anyone question;instead. go back to difficult or time-consuming ones after you havecompleted the others.

Once the test is over. do not criticize yourself for not having donebetter. If the test is well constructed. you probably would make a similarscore if you took it again. Remember, too, that employers do not regardyour score as the only measure of your abilities - it is only one indication ofthem.

Do not expect to be hired on the spot. Usually both parties will needtime to consider and evaluate what they have found out about each other.

After the Interview

Make each interview a learning experience.

To improve on his technique, a good salesman does an analysis after a

sales interview by mentally going over what was said. the client's reaction,what should have been said and what would have been better left unsaid.TRY THIS ANAL YSIS TO IMPROVE YOUR SELLING TECHNIQUES.

ASK YOURSELF THESE QUESTIONS:

1. How did the interview go?

• What points did I make that seemed to interest the employer?• Did I present my qualifications well? Did I overlook any that are

pertinent to the job?• Did I pass up clues to the best way to "sell" myself?• Did I learn all I need to know about the job? Did I forget or hesitate to

ask about factors that are important to me?• Did I talk too much? Too little?

• Did I interview the employer rather than permit the employer to interview me?

• Was I too tense?• Was I too aggressive? Not aggressive enough?2. How can I improve my next interview?

A letter expressing your appreciation and continued interest (or nofurther interest) should be sent. If you don't hear anything within areasonable time. you may write requesting the status of your applicationand recap its history .

....•• -__. --.a ~~-~ ..~ ~~ -~

30



IN SUMMARY

As you review the job seeking process from your personal inventory tothe interview process, it becomes obvious the knowledge you gain can onlybetter your chances for success. However, the knowledge alone will bewasted unless you use it. Circumstances beyond your control have an

influence in the job search process. Your commitment to achieve yourgoals, your dedication to finding the job, and belief in your knowledge andabilities will lead you to success.

31



BIBLIOGRAPHY

(Recommended Reading)Boll, Carl R, Executive Jobs Unlimited. New York: The MacMiliian

Company. 1965.

Bolles, Richard Nelson. What Color Is Your Parachute?Berkeley, California: Ten Speed Press. 1973.

Bryant, John Talbot. You Can Get A Better Job ... And This Book Tells

You HOW' Buffalo: TMC Publishing Division of Trenton Moncton Corp.(1275 Delaware Ave., B-1 Buffalo. NY 14209, or 345 Lakeshore Road East,Oakville, Ontario, Canada). 1971.

Catt. Ivor. How to Hang Onto Your Job While Everyone Else ISLosing

His: The Catt Concept. the New Industrial Darwinism. New York: G.P.Puttnam's Son's 1972.

Dictionary of Occupational Titles, Vol. I., Definitions of Titles.Washington. D.C.: Government Printing Office. 1965.

Directory of Executive Recruiters lists over 1400. Available fromConsultants News, Templeton Road, Fitzwill iam, NH 03477.

Drucker, Peter F. Management: Tasks, Responsibilities. Practices.New York: Harper & Row, Publishers. 10 East 53rd Street. New York, NY10022. 1973.

Interviewing Techniques for the Non-Personnel Executive. by RobertM. Hecht. Joel E. Aron and Morton D. Seigel, Personnel Data Systems, Inc.,274 Madison Avenue, New York. NY 10017.

Kent. Malcolm, Successful Executive Job-Hunting. New York: LaddinPress. 1967.

Lathrop, Richard. Who's Hiring Who. 1976. Reston PublishingCompany, Reston, Virginia.

McKee, Bill. How To Get A Higher Paying Job Now. Consumer'sDigest. Book Dept. CG-11, 6416 N. Lincoln Avenue, Chicago. IL 60659.1975.

Merchandising Your Job Talents. All About Resumes, Etc. Govt.Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, for Stock No. 029-000-00304-1Moore. Charles G. The Career Game. New York The National Institute

of Career Planning (P.O Box 938. Ansonia Station, New York. NY 10023)1975.

Making the Most of Your Job Interview. New York Life InsuranceCompany. Available from any New York Life Insurance Company office.

MacMillan Job Guide to American Corporations. New YorkMacMillan. Inc. 1967

Noer, David. How to Beat the Employment Game. 1975. Chilton Book

Company. Radnor, Pennsylvania.Reid. Clyde H. Help' I've Been Fired. Philadelphia, PA United Church

Press. 1971.

Sheppard, Harold L., and Belltsky. A. Harvey. Promoting Job Findmg

Success for the Unemployed. Baltimore: the John HopkinS Press 1966Kalamazoo, Michigan: The WE Upjohn Institute. 1968.

Task Analysis Inventones: A Method for Collecting Job Information.

US. Department of Labor Manpower Administration 1973. Stock No 290000163 US SUP DOC

The United States Jaycees, Commur71catlon Dynamics. Cat. No 696-1The United States Jaycees. Leadership Dynamics. Cat. No. 675-1The United States Jaycees. Personal Dynamics. Cat. No 682-1.

The United States Jaycees. Tlnw DynamIcs. Cat. No. 687-1

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