• ACCOUNTING / ADMINISTRATIVE
• INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
• ENGINEERING
• SUCCESSFUL TIPS
• SAMPLE RESUMES
• Benefits

Successful Tips

Job Seeker Tips

Never just try to be as good at your job (whatever it is) as the person next to you.

----------

Make sure your resume is targeted to the employers who receive it. Make sure your resume is easy to read and the most important details stand out. Make more than one resume if you are applying to more than one industry.

----------

When looking for a new opportunity, you should always have a copy of your resume with you.  Keep it in your car, in your briefcase/purse,etc.  It is also a good idea to have fresh copies of your resume prepared in case you are called to an interview at the last minute.  Many times people will be visiting at the coffee shop or at an association meeting and the other party is interested in learning about you - so be prepared while it is on top of their mind and while you are in front of them!

----------

Think of the people you know - relatives, friends and their friends, professors, classmates, co-workers at summer jobs, and others. Make an effort to meet with them and use the conversations to make them aware of your job search. Learn more about their jobs or their companies to help you get the names of others who might be useful in your job search.

----------

Ask the interviewer questions regarding details of the position and the company's values. Make note of the atmosphere. Does it appear to be a positive environment? Researching these things now, could ultimately keep you from being disappointed in the future.

----------

As the end of the year approaches, many job seekers hold off on their job search. This makes the pool of candidates smaller, giving you a better chance of getting recognized. Use this to your advantage, by sending out greeting cards as an additional resource for networking. You never know, this small gesture may just land you a job!

----------

If you don't, your interviewers will know it and will most likely not be interested in hiring you.    Remain confident, but prepare yourself for challenges ahead.  It can often take months for even experienced professionals to find the right opportunity.  Keep telling yourself the right job is just down the road - stay positive.

----------

If you find out about a position late in the day, call right then. Don't wait until the next day.  It is all about being in the right place at the right time.

----------

Before an interview, always visit the company website to find out about their latest merger or coup in the industry.  It will impress the interviewer that you took the initiative to learn about them beforehand.

----------

You never know who you'll meet at an association meeting or in the line at the store. Know what your skills are and how to communicate them. You should be able to tell prospective employers and others you meet what you can offer. You should also be able to talk about how your skills relate to the industries that interest you.

----------

You must be conformable having conversations about yourself.  Evaluate yourself and be self-aware of what sets you apart from your peers.  If you are having a difficult time in this area, you can always state the positives your employer has told you.  You can start out by saying:  "My supervisor always says???... about me" OR "My co-worker compliments me on ???...".

----------

Write down all the employers you contact, the date you sent your resume, any contact made, people you talk to, and notes about those contacts.  Get into the habit of updating your notes daily so you will be on the top of your game when the contact calls you for questions or to schedule an interview.

----------

Make sure your resume is targeted to the employers who receive it. Make sure your resume is easy to read and the most important details stand out. Make more than one resume if you are applying to more than one industry.

----------

Be sure to confirm the date and time of your interview the day before.

----------

On time is late and 15 minutes early is on time.  Be at least 15 minutes early to any interview. 

----------

Have everything the interviewer might ask for on hand at the interview (Resume, References, Certificates, Transcripts, Interview Letter, etc.)

----------

Make a list of questions and practice with a friend.  This will help you respond to questions with confidence.  Make sure to avoid sounding as though you assume the job is yours. 

----------

To help make a lasting first impression use these pointers: Smile, Smile, Smile - A positive attitude is everything. Your attire is extremely important - Professional dress, clean and pressed! Exert Confidence - Eye contact and strong handshake Do not talk too much - Do not interupt, Listen to the questions and give a through but timely answer. NO CELL PHONES!

----------

Be sure to always get permission from your references in advance.  This will prevent any surprises along the way. 

----------

Make sure to end with a positive note, strong handshake and a thank you.  Go the extra mile and mail a handwritten thank you that same day. 

----------

Employer Tips