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Resumes
Your resume is your advertisement. It won't get you a job, but it should get you an interview. Here are some tips for writing a resume:
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Good grammar, correct spelling, and no typographical errors are essential. Proofread.
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Be concise. Make the employer want to know more about you.
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Use action words to describe your abilities. rather than saying "Duties included designing and building...," start with "Designed" or "Built."
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Develop a strong skill section explaining the experience, education or work that relates to the position.
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Select an attractive format. Make impor-tant information stand out by using bold face type, bullets, spacing, all caps, italics, underlining, or indentation.
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Don't use: I, me, or my.
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Use high quality paper and a good production method.
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Have someone read and critique your resume.
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Keep your resume up-to-date.
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Interviews
A successful interview can result in achieving your goals of finding employment.
Preparation :
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Learn all you can about the company.
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Practice responding to typical questions - role play.
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Take resume and reference materials (name, address, phone number) with you.
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Determine what you will wear.
Presentation :
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Arrive 15 minutes early and alone.
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Greet the interviewer by name, with a smile, firm handshake, and good eye contact.
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Be confident, poised, and sincere. Stress achievements; be enthusiastic.
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Answer questions completely-don't be afraid to expand on answers to sell yourself.
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Do not chew gum or smoke.
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Be positive about former employers and working conditions.
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Be prepared with questions that will help you make a sound decision.
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Do not inquire about salary or benefits during the interview process, wait for the actual offer.
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Thank the employer for the opportunity to interview.
Follow-up :
Cover Letters
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A typed cover letter, on paper that matches your resume, should accompany every mailed resume.
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Address it to a specific person if at all possible. Make sure you have the correct spelling of the person's name.
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Use a three paragraph format.
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Introduction - How you found out about the position.
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Sales - Zero in on the qualifications you have that the employer is seeking.
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Close - Ask for an interview. Tell them how they may contact you.
- Sign the letter.
Click here for cover letter samples.
Applications
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Follow the instructions.
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Complete the entire application neatly, or type it if you're able to take it home.
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Be prepared with dates of employment and Names of employers and supervisors.
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Be honest.
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Sign and date the application.
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