Difference between revisions of "Get Hired"

[[Category: Job Search]]

#Identify where you want to work. For some job seekers any job will do, however for the vast majority there are a number of considerations that need to be weighed before deciding where they want to work. By taking the time to think about yourself and what you want to do for a career, you will be starting your job search on the right foot.<ref name="rf1">https://www.umuc.edu/alumni/careerdevelopment/upload/Job-Searching-Guide.pdf</ref>

#Learn how to [[Make a Resume]]. Your resume is often the first thing employers will look at in your application, so it is important that you put your best foot forward. A resume is essentially a quick written picture of you, including the background, skills, qualities and experience that you will offer an employer. It is vital that your resume captures the interest of potential employers.<ref name="rf2">https://tulane.edu/hiretulane/students/resume.cfm</ref>

#Make a quick impression. You will want to make a quick impression with your resume. The average viewing time for a resume is 10 seconds, so it is important that your resume does exactly what it needs to do.<ref name="rf3">http://www.forbes.com/sites/kerryhannon/2011/08/24/want-an-unbeatable-resume-read-these-tips-from-a-top-recruiter/</ref> Typically, a resume should be one page in length and it should not be more than two pages. Here are some suggestions about what to include, and what not to include.

#Come up with a list of transferable skills. For applications where you feel as though you do not completely match the requirements, it helps to add any transferable skills that are pertinent to the position on your resume. To do this, think of what experiences you have had in the past that will help you succeed in the job. Transfer those thoughts onto your resume.<ref name="rf4">http://www.forbes.com/sites/dailymuse/2014/11/13/what-to-put-on-your-resume-when-you-have-no-relevant-work-experience/</ref>

#* Transferable skills include ability to work in a team, verbal communication skills, create reports, computer proficiency, plan and organize a work schedule, and decision making and problem solving.<ref name="rf5">https://www.binghamton.edu/ccpd/quick-reference-guides/transferable-skills.pdf</ref> How have your past experiences proved that you have these skills?

#Make adjustments to your resume according to the job advertisement. It is a good idea to adjust your resume to include keywords from the job advertisement. Companies may use software to scan resumes, so having keywords will help you get through the screening.<ref name="rf6">http://www.businessinsider.com/what-to-include-on-your-resume-2014-12</ref>

#Create a resume that matches the type of job you are applying for. <ref name="rf3" /> If you are applying for a position in graphic design, you will want a resume that is ornate and decorated to prove your skill. For most other jobs, you will want to have a resume that is conservative and does not take too many risks. Consider the following tips.

#Know what not to include. Do not include irrelevant work experience, personal information such as marital status or children, your hobbies, photographs, salary information and your date of birth.<ref name="rf7">http://www.businessinsider.com/things-never-put-on-your-resume-2014-6?op=1</ref>

#* Objectives or summaries are optional, some experts suggest it is best to leave them out entirely however.<ref name="rf3" />

#* The following organization may provide a guide. Paragraph one should explain why you are writing and who you are (I am writing to apply for the position of insurance agent after recently finishing my BA in business). The second paragraph should complement your resume, expanding on key points that are relevant to the position. The third paragraph should conclude, politely asking for an interview and noting your contact details and any other information you have provided.<ref name="rf8">https://writing.wisc.edu/Handbook/CoverLetters.html</ref>

#* Some experts suggest dividing your cover letter into three bullet points. If you adopt this strategy, each bullet point should be drawn from a specific qualification that the job description mentions. This should then be followed by a paragraph explanation of how you meet the qualification.<ref name="rf9">http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voices-careers/2013/07/25/3-cover-letter-tips-that-guarantee-an-interview</ref> For example, if the job description calls for "familiarity with research techniques" you can note that "while studying for my undergraduate degree, I conducted several long term research projects that employed different research methods". Proceed to explain this in more detail over the course of the paragraph.

#* Your network is extremely valuable in helping you get hired. Try looking at alumni associations from your college or university, military job networks, and making new contacts with professionals in your field of interest. Find out if they know of any job opportunities, or if they can put you in touch with managers looking for new people.<ref name="rf10">http://www.forbes.com/sites/deborahljacobs/2013/03/22/the-six-best-ways-to-find-your-next-job/</ref> Remember, You can always try to enhance your network on social media.

#* Career fairs are a valuable resource as well, as they are designed to connect employers with individuals looking to get hired. If you attend a career fair, be sure to dress and act professionally, prepare a brief statement that advertises you and your skills, and to be assertive. Always follow up with potential employers.<ref name="rf11">https://www.ndsu.edu/fileadmin/pharmacy/Career_Fair_Benefits_Tips.pdf</ref>  

#* You can also check local employment agencies, the public library, newspapers, classified ads and college career centers for employment opportunities.<ref name="rf1" />  

#Cast a wide net to maximize your opportunity. When trying to get hired, it is best to apply for a wide range of jobs. In other words you should not narrow your field down to a single industry, instead think about how your skills, experiences and interests would work in different industries.<ref name="rf12">http://www.forbes.com/sites/jacquelynsmith/2013/02/27/10-unconventional-but-very-effective-tips-for-job-seekers/</ref>  This will allow you to apply to a larger number of jobs and increase your chances of getting hired. Here is a sample of some areas in which to apply.<ref name="rf1" />

#* Apply early, do not wait until the deadline to submit your application.<ref name="rf13">http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voices-careers/2012/07/11/the-9-best-tips-for-submitting-an-online-job-application</ref>

#Research some commonly asked interview questions. By doing this you can hopefully identify a few questions before the interview takes place. This will give you and edge when the questions come up.<ref name="rf14">http://money.usnews.com/money/careers/slideshows/the-10-most-common-interview-questions</ref> Some common interview questions include the following:

#Be mindful of the basics on the day of the interview. While some of the following suggestions may seem basic, they play a key role in making a good impression at an interview. First, you should show up 5 minutes before the interview; do not show up too early, and never be late. Secondly, appear well dressed and carry yourself in a professional manner. Finally, arrive prepared with a pen, paper and several copies of your resume in case they are requested.<ref name="rf15">http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voices-careers/2015/02/05/5-tips-for-instant-interview-success</ref>

#Pay attention to your body language during the interview. This starts when you greet the interviewer with a smile, handshake and direct eye contact. You will want to carry this good start into the interview room, where there are several points to keep in mind.<ref name="rf16">http://www.forbes.com/pictures/lml45lide/10-body-language-interview-mistakes-2/</ref>

#Follow up after the interview. Some interviewers will let you know their timeframe for a decision. If they tell you two weeks and two weeks has gone by, you should send a polite email confirming you are still interested in the position and asking if they have a decision timeline. If you were not told a timeline, you can send a similar email after about two weeks.<ref name="rf17">http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voices-careers/2013/10/28/what-to-say-when-following-up-on-a-job-interview</ref>