Make a Great First Impression

You have the qualifications, the motivation and the skills to succeed in your field. How do you let a prospective employer know how great you are, particularly on paper instead of in person?

First, here are some key ideas. If you are going get the job, the first step is to get noticed by the person skimming the cover letters and resumes. If you can't make it through the skimming phase you can't get the interview. Second, searching for a job is not that difficult – it just takes time, effort, and perseverance.

Follow the steps outlined here and you will be one step nearer to a job interview. You need to stand out but at the same time stay within the guidelines. After all, most prospective employers seek people that will fit within their corporate culture rather than mavericks who like to shake things up.

Why do we follow guidelines? When everybody agrees to a conventional way of doing things, the system works more efficiently (whether it is job search or driving on the same side of the road). Stick with the "rules" and it will be easy. Abandon them and you restrict yourself.

The two major causes for job search failure are:
1. Some people attempt to beat the system by doing things their own way (thereby disregarding the guidelines)
2. Others choose to take the easy way out and do the bare minimum. They don't set up their resumes using an appealing format that is easy to read.

Here are the guidelines that will help make that great first impression:

Be Thorough – Check your spelling and grammar. Read over your resume and cover letter and have someone else check it over. Typos will not make a good impression. Double check your contact information. Pay attention to everything you send out such as the spelling of the potential employer/hiring manager's name and address. When you think you are done, check it again.

Be prepared – You will need information to put your best foot forward. Here two things you need to know:


• First, you need to know YOURSELF. Why? You need to be able to identify your personal and professional character, your abilities, and your skills. In addition, you will need to relate these positive qualities to the workplace setting. You can apply this self knowledge when you create your resume and also in the interview to increase your likelihood of success.

• Second, you need to find information about the prospective employer/company and the position you are seeking. Find out about the company's size, their products and services, and who they serve. In addition, you want to know their "mission," their history and their future plans. It is also helpful to understand their market and their market position. This way you can target your application information to the company and the position you seek. This knowledge is invaluable when you prepare for the job interview.

Be yourself – Use your self knowledge to present your personal and professional skills on paper and in the interview. There is no need to stretch the truth or lie as this will hurt you in the long run.

Be ambitious – Do your best on everything do what it takes. You want the interview, right? Then be complete and as professional as possible. Focus on the things that matter such as the cover letter and resume. Make sure you get the call and not someone else.

Make your first impression count on paper and with advanced preparation you will have a great interview. Follow the steps outlined here so both your written and interview skills will stand out.

Follow the guidelines and be prepared so your job search will go smoothly.

For more information, please take a look at these articles:

'Suitable Attire'

'Interview Mistakes'

'Interview Thank You Letter'

'Telephone Interviews'

'Employee Selection Process'

'What You Need to Know About a Hiring Manager'


_____________________________________________

Cover Letters for Nurses

Cover Letters for Nurses

Why are cover letters so important? They provide the prospective employer with a brief review of your skills and abilities in the form of a letter. Letters are written much differently than resumes and can have a lasting impact on the reader.

The best news is that writing one it isn’t that hard. An excellent Registered Nurse is always going to be in demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Among all of the health care occupations, registered nurses had the highest level of employment—over 2 million."

What does that mean? It means there are more nursing positions in the health care industry than doctors, surgeons and technologists.
Nurses, generally speaking, are in a good labor market right now. If you are a nurse, that's good news. You should not encounter difficulties in obtaining work.

What about that awesome position with the top salary that you have your eye on, though? Do you think the competition for that position will be greater? You bet it will. That means your credentials will have to be presented in the best light possible if you are to get the job offer.
So, how do you write a great cover letter?

The cover letter builds on the resume and leads the employer toward it. Its goal is to get the employer excited about the resume. It is a sales tool, just like the resume is. Sell yourself in a compelling and exciting way. Inject energy and let your best qualities reach the employer through carefully written examples and anecdotes. Don't just state what you are capable of, show the employer what you have done in the past with vibrant language that attracts and invites the employer to want to know more.
You are a part of a significant sector of the labor market.

You have to be your very best to get the great jobs. What skills and abilities do you have that you can offer the employer – and – how can you do so in a way that makes the employer pick up the phone and call you for an interview?

Be personable, but professional at the same time.

Let your cover letter generate interest in your resume, then let your resume grab the employer's attention so that you are invited in for a face to face meeting.

A cover letter isn't likely to persuade an employer to grant you an interview on it's own, but it is part of the whole package that WILL encourage an employer to want to get to know you better. Make it an exciting and enjoyable read and you will find yourself being offered the next Registered Nurse position you apply for.

To review a cover letter checklist, click here: Cover Letter Checklist
______________________________________

Resume Tips

Resume Tips:

• Good resumes show how your qualifications fit the requirements of the jobs you apply for.
• Most occupations require abilities like reliability, teamwork, and communication.
• Good resume objectives focus on the employer's needs.
• Nonwork activities add experience to your resume.
• Tailor your resume for each occupation or job of interest.
• Use action phrases— not complete sentences.
• Highlight specific achievements.
• Include quantifiable results where possible.
• Identify increases in responsibility.
• Mention special work related skills.
• Identify coursework relating to the employer’s needs.

More Tips:
• Chronological resumes organize your experience around the jobs you have held.
• Functional resumes emphasize skills rather than employment history.
• Sprinkle your resumes with language found in the position description.
• Use a laser printer and keep the font size at 10 points or above.
• Avoid mistakes by having several people proofread for you.

Even more Tips:
• Resumes can be formatted for scanning, e-mailing, or posting to Internet sites.
• Digital resumes use simple, technologically friendly formatting.
• Digital resumes emphasize keywords.
• Plain text resumes should not exceed 65 characters per line.
• E-mail a plain text resume to yourself and to a friend to test the way it transmits.

Source:
http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/employ/resumes/resumes.htm

Additional resume information:

'Plain Text Resumes'

'Resume Preparation'

'Job Application Form'


______________________________________________

Is it Important to Send a Cover Letter?

While many employers require cover letters from prospective jobseekers, some do not specify what their requirements are. This leaves the jobseeker with the classic dilemma, whether or not to send a cover letter.

Writing a good cover letter takes time and effort. A mistake on the cover letter such as a spelling error could prove fatal to the jobseeker's chances. However, in general it is advisable to send one even if the employer doesn't require it.

Most employers are looking for good employees who are interested in doing the tasks provided to them, and who will stay with the company for a while. Even if a resume perfectly matches the job description, a resume says nothing about how the jobseeker feels about that company in particular.

A cover letter is a great tool to help the jobseeker stand out from the crowd and show the employer that he is interested and excited about working there. The employer will know that the jobseeker has taken the time to put together a cover letter, and that implies that he really wants the job and will accept if it is offered.

A cover letter is always a great idea, but caution should be taken in making sure the format is acceptable and the spelling and grammar are correct. There are few better ways to distinguish a qualified jobseeker from the crowd than a fantastic cover letter.

To learn more about cover letters, consider the following articles:

'Cover Letter Guideline'

'Cover Letter Checklist'

'The Power of a Good Cover Letter'

'Cover Letter Tips'

'A Great Cover Letter'

'Ten Cover Letter Tips'


________________________________

Tips for career changers: Federal Jobs

Are you a career changer?

If you are an experienced worker looking for a Federal job, you are in good company. More than 40 percent of the people hired by the Federal Government last year were experienced workers over the age of 35. These tips will help you to get credit for your expertise.

• Estimate your GS level. As mentioned in this article, the Federal Government classifies positions according to the complexity of their job duties and their level of responsibility. People qualify for a given level based on education, experience, or a combination of both. The most common classification system is the General Schedule (GS). To find your GS level, use the table on page 6 to estimate the level you qualify for based on education alone. If you also have relevant experience, your GS level will be higher than that. If you have had relevant managerial responsibilities or do complex work independently, you might qualify for a GS-12 or above. To be certain, read the job descriptions in vacancy announcements.

• Understand job requirements. Vacancy announcements often say that a worker needs experience equivalent to a particular GS level. A vacancy announcement at the GS-12 level, for example, might say that you need 1 year of experience at the GS-11 level. Some announcements give examples of what that experience could be. Others don't. The simplest way to know if you qualify for a job is to read the job duties. If the work described there is only slightly more complex or responsible than work you have done in the past, you might be eligible for the position.

If some of the required experience for a job seems unique to the Federal Government, explore further by calling the agency or the contact person for the position. You might learn that your private-sector experience meets the requirement.

• Be flexible about titles. If you want to be a manager or supervisor, do not limit yourself to openings with those words in the job title. Jobs with widely varying levels of responsibility are often listed under the same title.

• Be specific about past experience. Human resources managers will study the details of your application to decide if you qualify for a job. They will compare your past work to the kinds of tasks performed at different GS levels. Managers will pay close attention to the amount of time you spent in each job. They usually will estimate exactly how many months or years you have done each major job task.

When creating a resume or writing statements about your skills, show your level of expertise by explaining who you reported to or worked with and how your work was used.

• Explain past job titles. Use job titles that clearly describe what you did. You may want to put the equivalent Federal title in parentheses next to your actual job titles.

• Consider Senior Executive Service. Finally, if you have substantial experience in high-level leadership positions, you might qualify for the Senior Executive Service (SES). SES positions require you to answer a set of standard questions about your leadership ability. A review board established by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management will certify your qualifications based on your answers and your experience. For more information, see www.opm.gov/ses or call (202) 606-1800

http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/employ/govtjob/fedjob.htm#tips

Brought to you by: Professional Resume Example.com

A Successful Job Interview

A successful job interview

Career counselors say a successful job interview starts well before the jobseeker and interviewer meet. Preparation can be as important as the interview itself. Researching, practicing, and dressing appropriately are the first steps to making the most of a job interview.

This post focuses on research.

One of the best, but most frequently overlooked, ways to demonstrate enthusiasm for a job is to research both the company and the position for which you are being interviewed. Employers say they are impressed by well-informed jobseekers.

Before arriving for an interview, you should know what the company does, how large it is, any recent changes it has undergone, and what role you could play in its organization. Try to learn about the company's goals and values. With these facts, you can show how your qualifications match the company's needs.

The company itself is often the easiest place to start your search. Many businesses fill their websites with information tailored to jobseekers. These sites often include a history of the company and a description of its products and customers. And many companies' human resources departments will send recruiting information if you request it.

Public libraries and career centers also have valuable information about employers, including companies' annual reports to shareholders, reports kept by local chambers of commerce, trade journals, and business indexes, such as Hoover's Business Index and Dun and Bradstreet.

To read more about Company Research, go here: Research the Company

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

Why is it Important to Prepare for an Interview?

The Job Interview: Wing it? Prepare for it?

A lot of us tend to think that interviews are just a formality. A substantial number of interviewees also feel that the recruiters ask the same questions in every interview and hence, they do not need to prepare for interview. However, the reality is that a most of the interviewers are not looking for your answers, they are looking for your confidence level and consistency through your answers. Therefore, you need to be very confident and consistent in your interview.

Preparing for an interview is more important when you are sitting for a HR interview in contrast to a technical interview. If you have studied your subject well you will most certainly get through a technical interview. However, HR interviews are more focused upon testing your attitude rather than you knowledge and unless you have done some rehearsal for your answers, you might get deviated and lose the interviewers.

The best way to prepare for an interview is to make a list of commonly asked questions in an interview and prepare your answers for it. Try to be as honest as possible. Do not try to furnish false information to impress the interviewers as it can backfire. Always remember the people sitting in the interviewer chair have seen as lot of interviewees and they are looking for an additional spark in you.

Just be confident and consistent in your answer. Stick to your position, even when they try to confuse you as it is just a strategy they might be using to judge your consistency. A little preparation and a little caution is your key to success in any interview.

For additional information on job interviews, follow this link: Top 10 Interview Questions

Interview Questions

What You Need to Know About Interview Questions

The interview is a sales meeting and you are both the salesperson and the product. The basic question in every interview, whether it is asked or not, is "Why should I hire you?" All other questions center on this one issue. Basic interview questions can take a variety of forms. Generally, questions will ask about you, your qualifications, experience, skills and motivation. If you have prepared for the interview and are confident about your qualifications, none of these questions should be difficult.

Listen carefully to each question asked in the interview. Take your time in responding and make sure your answers are positive. Express a good attitude and show that you are willing to work, eager to learn, and are flex¬ible. If you are unsure of a question, do not be afraid to ask for clarification. Sometimes a good strategy is to close a response with a question for the interviewer. If you have researched the company beforehand, you will be better informed and able to ask more in-depth questions.

Focus on your qualifications but also look for opportunities to personalize the interview. There is nothing wrong with injecting some personal insight into your life. However, do not get too personal or dwell too long on non-job related topics. Show your potential to the company. Support your answers with examples from your experience. Avoid "yes" or "no" responses to questions.

Use caution if you are questioned about your salary requirements. Try to avoid the question until you have been offered a job. If that isn't possible, turn the question back to the interviewer and ask what salary range the position falls in, or what others in similar positions are being paid.

The interview is not over when you are asked if you have any questions. Come prepared to ask a couple of specific questions that again show your knowledge and interest in the job.

Source:
http://jobs.utah.gov/jobseeker/guides/07_34.pdf

Click here for more information about Answering Interview Questions.

Teen Interview Tips

Teen Interview Tips

How to Prepare for Your interview

First and foremost - Have a neat appearance and be on time!

You will probably have an interview of some sort. It may
be a formal interview with a specific list of questions you
must answer, or it may be a friendly get-to-know-you
conversation. Whatever the setting, consider it a part of
the screening process and take it seriously. One suggestion
is to dress one step above what you would typically
wear on the job.

Appropriate dress:
No hats, jeans, or T-shirts
Check buttons and zippers
Dress simply and in good taste, no fads
Clean, wrinkle-free clothes, polished shoes
Clothes in good repair
No sunglasses
Cover body jewelry and tattoos

Good Grooming:
Hair clean and neatly combed/brushed
No body odor
Brushed teeth
Clean shaven for males
Makeup not overdone
Clean nails and hands
No gum chewing

Good Posture:
Sit up straight
Pleasant expression
Be alert
Act interested

Be Hardworking

Go the Extra Mile &
Make your Future Boss Smile!

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

Do Teenagers Need Resumes?

Absolutely. Teenagers need resumes.

With the economy in a downturn, searching for a good job has gotten more competitive than ever. Some people may feel that teenagers who don't have any working experience do not need a resume to apply for a job. There are several reasons why this assumption is incorrect.

First of all, the United States just experienced an economic downturn in which many industries shed jobs. Relatively unskilled adults who once held jobs are now out of the job and searching in the same pool of unskilled jobs as teenagers will be. These adults will be equipped with more experience, a resume, and possibly recommendations from previous employers. When competing against these adults teenagers want to look as professional as possible, and providing employers with a formal resume is the best way to do that.

Secondly, a resume is not only useful for describing previous job experience, but also for exhibiting personal skills and talents. Teenagers can list their activities there, attributes that make them a strong candidate for the job, information on their schooling and their grade point average. This gives the employer plenty of information about the teenager so they can judge if the job is the best fit.

Without a resume, the employer will have no knowledge of the teenager's past experience or talents, and won't be able to compare him to other candidates.

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

Job Skills Identification

Job Content Skills
Job content skills are those skills specific to a job or occupation. A secre¬tary is skilled in typing, word processing, answering telephones, company correspondence, and filing. An accoun¬tant would list accounts receivable, performing accounts payable, payroll, figuring taxes, using a 10-key adding machine, and computer accounting programs. A salesperson would include customer service, record keeping, order processing, inventory management, billing, and product displays. Job content skills are important to employers for obvious reasons. These are the specific skills they are looking for in a candidate to accomplish the duties of the job. Job skills do not always come from employment. Along with the skills you used in previous jobs, you may have developed job skills through education, hobbies, community activities, and life experiences. Common activities such as shopping, managing finances, balancing a bank account, hosting a party, and teaching a child all contain potential job skills.

Self-Management Skills
Sometimes called "personality traits," these self-management skills are the skills you use day-by-day to get along with others and to survive. They are the skills that make you unique. Sincerity, reliability, tactfulness, patience, flexibility, timeliness, or tolerance are examples of self-management skills. Employers look for these skills in candidates as evidence of how they will "fit" into the organization. How a person will "fit in" is an important consideration for employers.

Transferable Skills
These are skills that can transfer from one job or occupation to another. They may be either self-management or job content skills, and may or may not have been developed through previous employment. For most job seekers it is very unlikely that they will find a job that is identical to their previous employment. For many today, that new job will be totally different from their past experience. Therefore, it is critical for successful job seekers to carefully evaluate how their skills transfer into other opportu¬nities. It is also important to look for ways to express this transferability to a prospective employer.

Duties
Many people have trouble distinguishing between their skills and duties. Duties are the basic functions of an activity. Skills are the tools used to accomplish these functions. Duties or functions are a part of any organized activity, whether it is employment, volunteer work, or hobbies. A simple example is the management of a lemonade stand. The basic duties of a lemonade stand owner might be to manage lemonade operations including production, marketing, distribution and finances. There are many skills needed to accomplish these functions including: mixing, measuring, planning, sales, customer service, writing, cash handling, record keeping, maintenance, timeliness, dependability, accuracy and motivation. A complete list of skills would be very long. Writing out the duties or functions of an activity first can be a useful way to begin identifying skills. When presenting your skills to an employer, it is best to tie them to specific activities in which they were used. It is not enough to tell the employer your skills; you need to be prepared to tell where, when, and how you used those skills.

http://jobs.utah.gov/jobseeker/guides/07_28.pdf

Brought to you by: Professional-Job-Search.com

______________________________________________

How Can you Handle Job Search Stress?

Job Search Stress

Stress is an inevitable part of searching for a job, whether you are a teenager looking to make some extra cash, someone who recently lost a job, or a recent college graduate trying to pay back their loans and get on their feet. Fortunately, there are ways to manage stress effectively.

The most important thing is to stay organized. Treating the job search like an important project, by maintaining action item lists, files and keeping up with correspondence, is the best way to feel a sense of control over the project and reduce stress. Knowing that everything that can be done from your end is finished and under control takes the panic out of the process.

Secondly, make sure to not tie your self-worth to your ability to find a job right away and have a back-up plan. It is a tough time for everyone to find jobs, and it is unlikely that you will find the perfect job for you right away. Be willing to accept a slightly less appealing job that you can do while you wait to hear back from employers you are interested in.

These simple steps can greatly reduce your stress and make searching for a job an exciting opportunity, not a hassle.

Brought to you by: Professional-Job-Search.com

_____________________________________

Write an Interview Thank You Letter

Why is it Important to Write an Interview Thank You Letter?

If you are qualified for a particular job but there is a stiff competition between you and your closest contender, even small things can matter. It is often seen that interviewers are not looking just for qualifications and intelligence, they are also looking for the right attitude in the job candidates. This manifests in the way they approach to a problem or even in the way the enter the office of interviewers.

There are a lot of things people tend to forget when they sit for an interview, especially things that are non-technical and do not have a direct relation to their job profiles or the employer profile. However, even simple things such as the etiquette of writing a thank you letter can make a huge difference when it comes to stiff competition between your and your competitors.

Writing an interview thank you letter is a means of telling the interviewers that you are thankful for the opportunity. It also tells the interviewer that you are polite and diligent. It not just conveys the fact that you are not overconfident that you will the job, but also suggests that are looking forward to associating with the firm.

A thank you letter can also be a means of communicating your skills in a more subtle way in addition to making yet another good impression. So next time when you sit for interview make sure you write a thank you letter and increase the chances of your selection.

Brought to you by: Professional-Job-Search.com

_____________________________________

How can Social Networking Help You Find a Job?

How can Social Networking Help You Find a Job?

Who says job opportunities rest in news papers? Not anymore for sure. You can find a job right from your home, without having to run from pillar to post looking for opportunities. All you need to know is a little bit of surfing and a little bit of social networking.

Social networking is basically a group of people with similar ideas, who come together and share their views on a particular topic through a public forum. For instance, if you have interest in share market, you can join a public forum on share market or finance market and meet up with other people, who share the passion in the field. Social networking can start from basic forums such as Facebook as well.

In the course of discussions, you can also communicate the fact that you are looking for a job in a particular sector - and since the forum is full of people who are in the field - there is a high possibility of someone or other looking for the perfect job candidate like you for their business.

Another option you have is to apply for part time work with some projects posted to the group and if you are successful in making an impression on the requester for such project, there are high chances of your being considered for the next job opportunity with his or her firm.

How can Social Networking Help You Find a Job?

Social networking is not just for fun, it can actually help you change your life for good.

Brought to you by:
Professional-Resume-Example.com

________________________

Combination Resume Format

Is the Combination Resume Format For You?

No two jobs are created alike, so no two resumes will likely be the same, either. Be sure to target your resume to the specific position you are seeking, too. State your job intent clearly in the Objective section, then follow through with every statement on the resume geared toward the position you are seeking.

Choosing the style of your resume is certainly important. As with any resume format, you have to make the best first impression possible. Just be sure it allows for you to accomplish what you need to.

You get – maybe – 30 seconds to make a good impression with your resume, right?. If you do not capture the attention of the reader FAST, you won’t catch it at all. A first impression is made very quickly.

Using the combination format, you have the ability to disguise certain parts of your personal history that you don’t want highlighted. You have a multitude of options to place the focus where you want it or shift the focus away from something that isn’t quite as vital (but still needs to be listed on the resume).

When designing your resume, be sure to clearly identify what each section is in regards to so that the hiring manager can identify pertinent information readily. He or she will want to hone in on information that is applicable to the particular position they have open.

Typically, most people who use this format detail their skills and achievements first, and then list their employment history and education in reverse chronological order.

Just be sure that you are speaking to the employer's needs and not your own. How does your resume convey your desire to work hard and succeed? You have to use Keywords to stand out and show that you are a person of ACTION.

Give employers what they want: Results in a format that is easy to read and makes an impact.

Good luck!

Carla Vaughan



Click here for more information on Resume Formats:

Resume Formats



Carla Vaughan is the owner of Professional-Resume-Example.com, a web site devoted to assisting candidates in the job-search process. She holds a B.S. in Business from Southern Illinois University and is working on her Master's degree in Education at Texas A&M University.

Objective statement.

The Resume Objective Statement

Placed immediately below your contact information, the objective statement tells the reviewer what kind of position you want— for example, "Seeking a position as an administrative assistant." Some objectives include more detail, such as “Seeking an administrative position using my organizational, word processing, and customer service skills."

Objective statements are optional and are most often used by recent graduates and career changers. "I like to see an objective on a résumé because it shows focus," says Jannette Beamon of Dell Computers’ Central Staffing Division in Round Rock, Texas.

But writing objectives can be tricky. A vague statement, such as "Seeking a position that uses my skills and experience," is meaningless. And an overly specific objective can backfire, eliminating you from jobs you want that are slightly different from your objective. If you decide to include an objective statement, make sure it fits the job you are applying for. "Tailoring is expected,” says Beamon. "A statement should show that you know the type of work the company does and the type of position it needs to fill."

This information from:
http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/employ/resumes/resumes.htm

For more information about resumes, cover letters and such, this is your link: Job Search Documents

_____________________

Job Fairs/Career Fairs

Job fairs, like interviews, are face-to-face meetings between jobseekers and employers. They are one of the easiest places to find good job leads. Every employer attending is there to hire one or more workers.
At a fair, jobseekers gather information about a company to help them decide if they want to apply for a job. Recruiters staff booths and answer questions, distribute brochures, accept resumes, and size up jobseekers.

Making a good impression at a job fair may give your resume or application added weight. The following tips can help you make the most of any fair.

Find the fair. Career centers, associations, State and local governments, and private companies organize job fairs. Find the fairs in your area by looking everywhere they might be announced. Ask a career counselor, review the business bulletin board at your school or local library, check the employment section of the newspaper, and search online via an Internet job fair locator.

Ready your resume. Before attending a fair, you should prepare a resume. Bring several copies to the fair. Leave at least one with every company that seems promising.

A resume lists your name, contact information, education, and experience, both paid and unpaid. It emphasizes accomplishments and skills. Most resumes for entry-level jobs are one page.

Dress neatly. A job fair is like a series of mini-interviews, with recruiters forming impressions of the people they meet. You might not need to wear a suit, but clothes that are too casual could be a strike against you. Clothes that are too short, too tight, too worn, or too playful are particularly risky. If you are unsure about what to wear, ask a career counselor or someone from the organization sponsoring the fair.

Go alone. Leave children and other relatives at home. If you plan to attend the fair with a friend, don't appear to be inseparable when visiting booths. A professional image is easier to maintain if you speak to employers alone.

Survey the terrain and plot a strategy. When you arrive, take a quick walk through the fair. Time is limited, and booths are crowded. Plan a route before stopping at booths to see your favorite companies. Save visits with the best prospects until after you've warmed up with a few other employers.

To make the best use of your time, ask for a list of participating companies a few days before the fair, and rank visits before you arrive.

Complete applications flawlessly. When a company distributes application forms, take two. Once will be a rough draft. If you bring an application home to send late, consider adding a note saying you met the recruiter at the fair.

Master the mini-interview. Every time you speak with an employer, no matter how briefly or how boisterous the atmosphere, consider it an interview. Recruiters will expect you to introduce yourself, shake hands confidently, answer questions about your coursework or experience, and have an idea of the type of job you want.

Finding out about the company is equally important. You might ask what the hiring process is like or what jobs are available for people with your education.
Before you leave the booth, be sure to ask for the recruiter's business card.

Take notes. After visiting several booths, it's easy for conversations to run together, leaving any jobseeker muddle-headed. After each visit, take a few notes to read at home.

Stay organized. Fairgoers are deluged with paper-company literature, recruiters' business cards, applications, and their own notes. Bring a briefcase, an expandable folder, or a canvas bag to keep materials organized. Counselors suggest going through these papers while your memory is still fresh.

http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/employ/employ-interview/fair.htm

Here's more information about: Career Fairs

Job Application Forms

Applications: Fitting yourself to the form

Many jobs require jobseekers to complete an application instead of submitting a résumé. But an application is a résumé in disguise: Its purpose is to show your qualifications.

Assembling the following information about yourself in advance will make it easier to complete applications:

• Identification. Be prepared to give your name, address, phone number, and social security number. You may also need to bring proof of identification when you pick up and drop off the application.

• Employment history. List the month and year you started and ended each job; your supervisor's name, address, and phone number; your job title, location, salary, and major duties; and your reason for leaving.

• Education and certification. Know the name and city of the schools you attended and the year you received your degrees and the name, level, and award and renewal dates of certification.

• Special skills. List any special skills you have that are closely related to the job, such as computer applications, typing speed, or equipment operation.

• References. Provide the names, phone numbers, and addresses of three or four people who have agreed to recommend you.

When you pick up an application, don’t miss an opportunity to make a good first impression. Dress as you would for the job. Politely request two copies of the form, or make your own copies of the original before you start filling it out. Read the entire application before you begin. Then, use one copy as a rough draft and the other as the final product. Use a typewriter or write neatly with black ink.

Answer every question on the application. Write "not applicable" or "none" if a question does not apply to you. Some reviewers suggest answering "will discuss in interview" if asked for information that might disqualify you.

Make a copy of your completed application. If you go back for an interview, take this record with you. Having a completed form will also make it easier to fill out the next one.

Although forms do not offer the same flexibility as a résumé, you can still find ways to highlight your best qualifications. For example, you can use strong action verbs to describe your duties. If you do not have paid experience, you can give job titles to your volunteer work or list relevant academic experience, substituting student for job titles.

Computer applications. If you are filling out an application for a computer database, you will want to use keywords and simple formatting— no boldface or bullets. Put the most important information first. Include as much information as you can for each question without becoming wordy or repetitive. The more relevant details you provide, the better your chances of using a keyword that matches an employer's requirements. Before submitting the form, copy and paste your answers into a word- processing program so you can check the spelling.

Information gathered from:
http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/employ/resumes/resumes.htm

Brought to you by: Professional Job Search

Cover Letters for Sales Representatives

Why are cover letters so important? They provide the prospective employer with a brief review of your skills and abilities in the form of a letter. These types of letters are written much differently than resumes and can have a strong impact on the reader.

The best news is that writing one it isn't that hard. An excellent Sales Representative is always going to be in demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for Sales Reps through 2014 will grow somewhere between 9 and 14% per year.

What does that mean? It means there will be continued growth in the field. If you are good at selling, you should not encounter difficulties in obtaining work.
What about that awesome position with the top salary that you have your eye on, though? Do you think the competition for that position will be greater? You bet it will. That means your credentials will have to be presented in the best light possible if you are to get the job offer.

So, how do you write a great cover letter?

The cover letter builds on the resume and leads the employer toward it. Its goal is to get the employer excited about the resume. It is a sales tool, just like the resume is. Sell yourself in a compelling and exciting way. You know how to sell, so put it to good use by highlighting your accomplishments. The employer will naturally want to know more about what you have to offer.

Something else you must consider is how to inject energy in your cover letter. Most hiring managers are looking for sales representatives who offer enthusiasm, determination and vigor. Why? If a job candidate brings all of that into a cover letter (and a resume), then it leads the employer to believe that the candidate will be like that in person (and on the job).

What makes the best impression on employers? The wise use of accomplishments with anecdotes will win over a hiring manager much faster than simply stating what you did and who you worked for. Let your best qualities reach the employer through carefully written examples and stories. Don't just state what you are capable of, show the employer what you have done in the past with vibrant language that attracts and invites the employer to want to know more. Whenever possible, quantify your results using verifiable sales data from your past record. Numbers take on a new meaning when mixed in with your accomplishments.

You are a part of a significant sector of the labor market. You have to be your very best to get the great jobs. What skills and abilities do you have that you can offer the employer – and – how can you do so in a way that makes the employer pick up the phone and call you for an interview?

Let your cover letter generate interest in your resume, then let your resume grab the employer's attention so that you are invited in for a face to face meeting.
A cover letter isn't likely to persuade an employer to grant you an interview on its own, but it is part of the whole package that WILL encourage an employer to want to get to know you better. Make it an exciting and enjoyable read and you will find yourself being offered the next Sales position you apply for.

Brought to you by: Professional-Resume-Example.com

Interview Tips

Are you ready for these Interview Tips?

An employment interview is simply a meeting between you and a potential employer to discuss your qualifications and see if there is a "fit." The employer wants to verify what they know about you and talk about your qualifications. If you have been called for an interview, you can assume that the employer is interested in you. The employer has a need that you may be able to meet. It is your goal to identify that need and convince the employer that you are the one for the job and that you can add value to their bottom line.

Preparation is the key to success in a calculated job search campaign. Preparation will help win the interview and will improve interview success. Begin by gathering all the information and documents you may need for the interview. Bring extra copies of your resume, a typed list of references and letter(s) of recommendation. You may also want to bring school transcripts, licenses and certifications. Work samples are also powerful tools (e.g., designs, drawings, writ¬ings). Finally, bring a pen and pad of paper for taking notes.


•Maintain good eye contact throughout the interview.
•Do not be a clock watcher.
•Do not discuss illegal or discriminatory subjects such as race, religion, age, national origin, equal rights or gender.
•Dress a step above what you would wear on the job.
•Be aware of nonverbal body language; do not:
-put your hands in your pockets
-chew a pencil or other object
-clench or wring your hands
-tap a pen or pencil
-fiddle with jewelry
-jingle keys or coins in your pocket

http://jobs.utah.gov/jobseeker/guides/07_34.pdf

Interview Tips

Brought to you by: Professional-Job-Search.com

How to Write a Resume - Resume Guidelines

How to Write a Resume - Resume Guidelines

Contact Information
The header of your résumé should include your name, address, phone number, and email address, if you regularly use it. When submitting a paper version of your résumé, it is visually appealing to use a large font for your name. Include both a local and permanent address and a phone number so that an employer can easily reach you. This is especially important for graduating students.

Job Objective
Although optional, a job objective statement shows employers the direction you want to go, your work preferences, and serves as a focal point for employers to review and analyze your résumé. It allows employers to immediately identify the kind of position you want. If you are looking for jobs in a number of different fields, you need to have a different job objective for each position. To address this, prepare some résumés without objective statements. Or tailor each résumé to the specific job you seek. Do not write an objective that is vague and meaningless-if is isn't specific, don't include one. It may contain up to four parts:

The level of the position. This can be anything from an internship, to full time, entry level, experienced, supervisory, or executive.

Skills you hope to bring to the position. Look to the list of action verbs included in this toolkit to identify which skills you have experience using.

Position. If you are responding to a job listing, look in the text of the listing to find out what the employer calls the position. This is the actual title, such as consultant, investment banker or field or industry in which you hope to work. Such as telecommunications, health care, and banking.

Education
In this section, include any information about your degree(s), including where and when you graduated; date(s); major, minor, or concentration; certification; and academic awards and honors. Make sure you use the official names for schools, degrees and majors/minors.

Include all honors, special awards, and recognitions. While commonly known awards, such as Phi Beta Kappa, do not need an explanation, less known awards should be briefly explained.

Include your GPA if it is an asset. If your GPA is not strong, focus your résumé on non-academic strengths and skills. A general rule of thumb is that if your GPA is a 3.0 or higher, include it. If the GPA for your major is strong, you can just put that down but make sure you specify that it is only for classes in your major.

If you are calculating a major GPA, make sure that if employers ask for your transcript, they will be able to follow your calculations. If not, they will assume you falsified your résumé! GPA is calculated as follows: 3.15 can be rounded up to 3.2. However, 3.14 cannot be rounded up. If you do not have a lot of relevant experience for the position you are applying for, it is a good idea to list courses and class projects of interest to the employer.

Employment History
The way you structure the "experience" section will depend on what you are looking for and what you have done. This section lists in chronological order the positions you have help, names and locations of employers, and dates employed. You should also list responsibilities, achievements, significant contributions and demonstrated skills.

Try to describe your experience in the most interesting and brief way possible. However, don't sacrifice clarifying details about important accomplishments for the sake of brevity. Remember to use active verbs to describe your work experience. Be hard on yourself, and, if necessary, discard "good" material that will have no meaning for an employer. To assist you in writing this section, refer to the list of action words in this toolkit.

Descriptions such as "responsibilities included developing course material" can be phrased more persuasively as "developed course materials." Descriptions do not need to be phrased in full sentences. The questions in an employer's mind are "Why should I speak with this person? How are they different from all the other applicants?" Try to answer these questions in each of your descriptions.

You should also include independent study or volunteer work if it is relevant to the job you want and provided you with significant skills and experiences. If you do include your volunteer work, do not describe if under a heading which implies you were paid.

In some instances, you may want to divide your experience into sub-sections. For example, if you are seeking a teaching job, and have both a teaching and business background, two separate headings-one "Teaching Experience" and "Additional Experience" may have more impact than a single heading.

Skills and Abilities
This is the place to put important and/or interesting information that does not fit anywhere else. With the advance of technology, it is increasingly important to include a section on computer skills. This should include any of your knowledge of computer programs, hardware, software, database knowledge, and/or Internet functions. If you have any other notable skills, such as foreign languages, musical talents, or writing skills include these here.

Activities and Honors
If you have received any awards or honors, or been involved in campus or community organizations, such as athletics, clubs or student government, you should mention them in this section. Identify any leadership roles that you had in these organizations. If you have too many organizations to list, choose the ones that have the strongest connection to the type of job you seek, don't pad this section with organizations you joined "in name only." Employers may ask you about your involvement during an interview.

References
Simply indicate that references are "available upon request" in a paper version of your résumé. You should know at least 3 people who can serve as your references. Ask in advance for permission to use them as references. Use faculty and employers as references, not personal acquaintances. Do not include their names, address, or phone numbers on the résumé. You may send a separate sheet with this information along with your résumé, or wait until the employer requests references.

http://www.wa.gov/esd/guides/resume/write/write_components.htm

Brought to you by: Professional Job Search.com

100 Best Companies to Work For

How high do you set your sights when it comes to finding a great job?

Rank Company


1 SAS
2 Edward Jones
3 Wegmans Food Markets
4 Google
5 Nugget Market
6 DreamWorks Animation SKG
7 NetApp
8 Boston Consulting Group
9 Qualcomm
10 Camden Property Trust
11 Robert W. Baird & Co.
12 Bingham McCutchen
13 W. L. Gore & Associates
14 Recreational Equipment
15 Zappos.com
16 Cisco
17 Methodist Hospital System
18 Whole Foods Market
19 Genentech
20 Devon Energy
21 NuStar Energy
22 Johnson Financial Group
23 Umpqua Bank
24 Goldman Sachs Group
25 Novo Nordisk
26 CHG Healthcare Services
27 Scottrade
28 JM Family Enterprises
29 Quicken Loans
30 Alston & Bird
31 PCL Construction Enterprises
32 Baptist Health South Florida
33 Shared Technologies
34 Chesapeake Energy
35 American Fidelity Assurance Co.
36 Container Store
37 Aflac
38 Scooter Store
39 TDIndustries
40 Scripps Health
41 QuikTrip
42 Adobe Systems
43 Salesforce.com
44 Ernst & Young
45 USAA
46 OhioHealth
47 J. M. Smucker
48 FactSet Research Systems
49 Mercedes-Benz USA
50 King's Daughters Medical Center
51 Microsoft
52 Booz Allen Hamilton
53 Nordstrom
54 Paychex
55 Mayo Clinic
56 CarMax
57 DPR Construction
58 Four Seasons Hotels
59 Monsanto
60 Indiana Regional Medical Center
61 Brocade Communications Systems
62 Kimley-Horn
63 Southern Ohio Medical Center
64 Stew Leonard's
65 Arnold & Porter
66 Plante & Moran
67 EOG Resources
68 Men's Wearhouse
69 MITRE
70 Deloitte
71 PricewaterhouseCoopers
72 McCormick and Company
73 American Express
74 Children's Healthcare of Atlanta
75 Perkins Coie
76 Balfour Beatty Construction
77 Baker Donelson
78 Mattel
79 Meridian Health
80 Build-A-Bear Workshop
81 Atlantic Health
82 Marriott International
83 S. C. Johnson & Son
84 Accenture
85 Arkansas Children's Hospital
86 Publix Super Markets
87 National Instruments
88 KPMG
89 Bright Horizons
90 General Mills
91 FedEx
92 Gilbane
93 Starbucks Coffee
94 Intuit
95 Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe
96 LifeBridge Health
97 Herman Miller
98 Intel
99 Winchester Hospital
100 Colgate-Palmolive

From the Feb. 8, 2010 issue

Notes:
U.S. employees includes part-timers as of time of survey. Job growth, new jobs, and voluntary turnover are full-time only. All data based on U.S. employees.

Full report here: http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/bestcompanies/2010/full_list/

Brought to you by: Professional-Job-Search.com

Does the Employer Know What You Are Capable Of Achieving?

When you write your resume and cover letter – and even during an interview – expressing your achievements is extremely important. The employer needs to know that you handled more than a variety of responsibilities. Don't be shy here. This helps the employer not only see what you have accomplished in the past, but also what you are willing to do to get a job done.

Why do employers place such an emphasis on accomplishments? Think of it this way: Many people can perform tasks. How many of them look for improve their own work environment? How many attempt to help their boss succeed? The person who goes above and beyond the "call of duty" is the one that employers are especially looking for. Communicating your accomplishments to an employer goes beyond simply stating what skills you have.

It shows the employer HOW WELL you utilize the skills and abilities you have.

For instance, let's pretend that you are an automotive mechanic. You diagnose and repair engines using computer diagnostics. But say you also focus extra time and energy on mastering the ability to repair ingnition problems. You may have even won an award at your last job for doing just that. The employer wants to know what you have done that goes above and beyond what is normally expected of you.

When you can do this, you have an edge over other candidates.

Think about what you have achieved on your last job. Compare that to what you believe your current employer would value most. Focus on the top 3 achievements and prepare to tell a story that details these accomplishments. How did you do so well? What steps did you take? What did you have to overcome?

Being able to provide an anecdote that exemplifies your achievements will go a long way to convincing an employer that you should get the job.

Best of luck!

Learn more here: Accomplishments