Keys to a Successful Job Search

Keys to a Successful Job Search NWTC Career Services April 23, 2009

True or False If there are several applicants for one position, the person with the best qualifications generally gets the job offer. False

True or False The Human Resources Office does all the hiring and firing, so that’s the first place to contact if you are looking for a job. False

True or False The most effective way to get job interviews is the old adage, “See a guy who knows a guy,” A technique known as “Networking.” True

True or False It is important to include every job you ever held when writing a resume. False

True or False A job interview is really a sales presentation by the applicant. Therefore, the job seeker must sell his or her personality, potential, strengths, and experience. True

True or False Approximately 2% of job seekers are successful in obtaining an interview when responding to a blind ad. True

True or False The job application is considered a tool of the employer, while the resume is considered a tool of the job seeker. True

Before you start knocking on doors, you’ll want to prepare for your search. • Self Assessment • Explore Career Options • Research Employers • Prepare Job Search Materials

A self assessment will help you identify what you are looking for in a job. You should be able to: • Describe what you want to do • Match your skills, values, and interests to career fields and job titles • Research your career fields Career Counseling | NWTC Graduate Follow-Up | Career Center Library | Occupational Outlook Handbook | www.myplan.com

Researching Employers can help you learn about the organization and determine your place in it. • Make a list of preferred employers to target • Learn more about the employers by researching • Consider conducting informational interviews • Newspapers • Fellow Professionals • Competitors • Internet • TechConnect • Employer Websites • Networking Opportunities • Job Related Search Engines • Annual Reports • Trade Associations TechConnect| Professional Associations| Career Center Library | Occupational Outlook Handbook

Employer Locatorhttp://www.acinet.org/acinet/employerlocator

Prepare Job Search Materials • Prepare an effective resume and cover letter – getting a job is SALES! • 1 page accomplishments based resume • Proof-read! • Practice interviewing • Review practice questions before going to an interview • Purchase appropriate interview apparel • Focus on the employer’s needs Resume Critiques| Resume Samples and Books| Workshops| Mock Interviews

Top 10 Job Search Survival Tips 10. Consider Volunteering 9. Consider Temping 8. Eat Right, Sleep and Exercise 7. Join a Professional Association 6. Timing 5. Emotional Support 4. Use the Career Center 3. Network Intelligently 2. Turn off your computer 1. Give yourself a Break

#10 - Consider Volunteering • Volunteering with help build your network of local professionals • It also may provide experience in your field. For example: A marketing student may help plan and advertise for a fundraising event

#9 - Consider Temping • Working for a Temporary Agency has many benefits: • Get your foot in the door of a good organization • “Try before you buy” – You are able to try out an organization without much of a commitment • Get valuable professional work experience • Meet professionals working in your field • Earn a few dollars during your job search

#8 - Eat Right, Sleep and Exercise • You will be more alert mentally, if you take care of your physical health • Take advantage of the nice weather – get outside and enjoy it!

#7 - Join a Professional Association Professional Associations provide: • Journals • Provide up to date information about your field (great for interviews) • Highlight the ‘movers and shakers’ in your field • Provide connections to professional development and conferences • Access to member information – great for networking! • Job Listing services • Great resume builders • Local Chapters

#6 - Timing • Good jobs don’t stay open long- act immediately if you are interested in a position

#5 - Emotional Support • Looking for a job can be a stressful endeavor • Rely on your family and friends for support

#4 - Use the Career Center • Use the Career Center in person or online • Individual appointments to assist with your job search strategies are available • Check out our office for the latest job search news, job listings, workshops, networking opportunities and links to area employers Career Services SC235 Monday-Thursday 8:00am-7:00pm Friday – 8:00am-5:00pm

#3 - Network Intelligently • Networking is not just about asking someone for a job • Develop contacts and build long term relationships • Most jobs come through people who know you and your skills • Tell everyone you know that you are looking and what you are looking for Networking 30-49% Direct contact with Decision-Makers 19-37% Published Job Openings 15-24% All others 1-16%

#2 - Turn off your computer • The internet provides a massive amount of information, however it does not replace valuable personal interaction • Use your computer as one of many tools necessary for a successful job search, not the only tool for your job search • Most people find jobs through other people, not via the internet • For each hour you spend online, try to match it with one hour of phone calls and personal interaction

#1 - Give yourself a break • Don’t be too hard on yourself. A job search can be a difficult task. • Don’t try to compare yourself to others, the job you decide to take has to be right for you.

Your goal is multiple job offers! • You have the most control when you have choice • You have no decisions to make until someone makes you an offer • Pursue every option until you get an offer

Keys to a Successful Job Search