EICCD - employment - Job Search Tips

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:

Good grammar, correct spelling, and no typographical errors are essential. Proofread.
Be concise. Make the employer want to know more about you.
Use action words to describe your abilities. rather than saying "Duties included designing and building...," start with "Designed" or "Built."
Develop a strong skill section explaining the experience, education or work that relates to the position.
Select an attractive format. Make impor-tant information stand out by using bold face type, bullets, spacing, all caps, italics, underlining, or indentation.
Don't use: I, me, or my.
Use high quality paper and a good production method.
Have someone read and critique your resume.
Keep your resume up-to-date.
Make a professional first impression; it may be the only chance you get.

Click here for additional resume information including a template you can use to build your own.

A successful interview can result in achieving your goals of finding employment.

Preparation :

Presentation :

Arrive 15 minutes early and alone.
Greet the interviewer by name, with a smile, firm handshake, and good eye contact.
Be confident, poised, and sincere. Stress achievements; be enthusiastic.
Answer questions completely-don't be afraid to expand on answers to sell yourself.
Do not chew gum or smoke.
Be positive about former employers and working conditions.
Be prepared with questions that will help you make a sound decision.
Do not inquire about salary or benefits during the interview process, wait for the actual offer.
Thank the employer for the opportunity to interview.

Follow-up :

Send a typed thank-you letter. Be brief.
Evaluate the interview to discover ways to improve your technique.
Inquire about the status of the position if you haven't heard from the company by the set time.

Click here for interviewing information including sample questions and answers.

A typed cover letter, on paper that matches your resume, should accompany every mailed resume.
Address it to a specific person if at all possible. Make sure you have the correct spelling of the person's name.
Use a three paragraph format.
Sign the letter.

Follow the instructions.
Complete the entire application neatly, or type it if you're able to take it home.
Be prepared with dates of employment and Names of employers and supervisors.
Be honest.
Sign and date the application.