Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Prepared by:
The Connecticut Department of Labor
Office of Research
200 Folly Brook Boulevard
Wethersfield, CT 06109
(860) 263-6275
Special thanks to the following agencies for permission to adapt their articles:
Maine Department of Labor, Job Hunting in Maine; and Virginia Occupational Employment Coordinating
Committee, Mid-Atlantic Guide to Information on Careers.
Table of Contents
Work Search Planning
To immediately link to the appropriate page, click on the page number. A 1
Introduction ...................................................... 2
Section A: Work Search Planning
Connecticut Department of Labor Offices ........ 3 Networking ......................................................... 9
Tips on Attending a Job Fair ............................. 7 Career Development on the Job ..................... 13
Using Your Telephone ....................................... 8 When to Look for Work ............................. 14, 15
Section D: Interviewing
Interview Preparation ................................ 37, 38 The Mature or Overqualified Worker .............. 45
Employers’ List of Top Interview Mistakes ...... 39 The Lunch Interview ........................................ 46
Common Interview Questions ................... 40, 41 Thank You Letters ........................................... 47
Your Legal Rights When Job Searching ... 42, 43 Salary Negotiations ......................................... 48
Criminal Records and Substance Abuse
Testing .......................................................... 44
Section E: Resources
Resources ..................................................49-51 Record of Job Leads ....................................... 54
Career development is a lifelong, ongoing process. Changing jobs or careers opens new doors to
experiences you may not have previously considered. Your Job Search Guide provides information and
resources to use in your job search process. Skills assessment, résumé preparation, interview
techniques, and networking are all essential components of your job search. Finding a new job is a full-
time job, and is easier to accomplish when using a variety of methods. Career counselors are available,
at no cost to you, at Connecticut Department of Labor (DOL) offices throughout the State. DOL office
locations are listed in the next section; Web sites, books, and other resources are also identified throughout
this guide for your reference.
The job search process can be challenging and discouraging, but keep in mind that it is a process.
It will take time, but eventually you will find the right job. Set aside time for family and friends, exercise,
and proper diet. All these elements will help you maintain a positive attitude. Surround yourself with
supportive people and be honest with your family and friends; it is very important to avoid isolation. Set
attainable goals and focus on your accomplishments. Volunteer work and support groups can also
provide a sense of fulfillment. How quickly you find employment relies a great deal on the importance
you place on your job search.
Unemployment insurance is temporary income for workers who are unemployed through no fault
of their own and who are either looking for new jobs, in approved training, or awaiting recall to
employment. Call or visit your local DOL office to file for benefits as soon as possible after you are
separated from employment. Claims will be taken without a “pink slip.” While each case is evaluated on
an individual basis to determine eligibility and amount of benefits, some of the guidelines for eligibility
are listed below:
• You are physically and mentally able and available for full-time work.
• You are actively seeking work by making reasonable efforts to find employment each week.
• You are identified as a dislocated worker and participate in selected reemployment services.
• You are partially or fully unemployed through no fault of your own, e.g. layoff, downsizing, or termi-
nation of a seasonal job.
• You have left work to care for a seriously ill spouse or child, or a parent domiciled with you, provided
the illness is documented by a licensed physician.
• You left work solely because of government regulation or statute.
Please keep in mind this is only a partial list of eligibility requirements; a counselor at your local
DOL office should be contacted to discuss your individual case and right to benefits.
Note: If you are collecting unemployment insurance benefits, you must keep a daily log of the steps you
take to find work. You may be required at any time to present this log to an agency staff member for
review. If you are declared ineligible for any weeks in which you did not actively look for work,
you will be required to repay any unemployment benefits you received but were not entitled to.
Whether you’ve become recently unemployed or are seeking a career change, we encourage you to
take advantage of the services the Department of Labor Offices offer. Our primary goal is to assist you
in any way we can to find your next job. To find a list of the DOL Offices, visit the Department of Labor
Web site at www.ctdol.state.ct.us and select “Divisions and Offices”, call 1-888-CTWORKS, or visit the
nearest DOL Office (listed on the following page).
Connecticut Department of Labor offices coordinate the various job development needs of the State for
employers and job seekers. They provide easy, one-stop access to a wide variety of career information
including services for the unemployed, underemployed, students, those in career transition, and career
counselors. Some of the services include:
! Career resource library ! Free phone and fax use ! Training program referrals
For more information about DOL office services, visit the Department of Labor Web site at
www.ctdol.state.ct.us and select “Divisions and Offices,” call 1-888-CTWORKS, or visit the nearest
DOL Office.
Bridgeport Middletown
2 Lafayette Square 645 South Main Street
Bridgeport, CT 06604 Middletown, CT 06457
Telephone: (203) 330-4830 Telephone: (860) 344-2661
Start NOW. Take action now in spite of the fact that you may not feel like it. Your feelings will change and
you will feel better as you take action. If you think you need to take a break, slow down the pace for a day
or two. Even if you send out only one letter or make one phone call a day, you are still making progress.
The important thing is not to let yourself get into a rut of feeling frustrated and unmotivated.
There are many ways to find out about employment opportunities. The more resources you use, the
more you will learn about job opportunities. Consider the options below:
Apply Directly to a Company: Visit a company to inquire about career opportunities. Most personnel
or human resources departments have applications for you to complete.
Community Organizations: Volunteering at nonprofit institutions not only offers experience, but also
builds contacts and employment leads. Many organizations such as AARP, GreenThumb, and the
Permanent Commission on the Status of Women offer job placement assistance to persons with particular
barriers to employment. If you are interested in a particular company, find out which charities they actively
support and volunteer there - it may provide an important contact.
Connecticut Department of Labor Offices: Services are provided free of charge regardless of
employment status and include job referrals, career counseling, computer, phone, and fax use.
Internet: There are many Web sites where you can post your résumé on-line for review by many
different companies. You can also visit a specific company’s Web site to view job opportunities and
apply on-line. If you don’t have a computer, visit your local library or DOL office.
Job Fairs: A job fair gives you the chance to speak to a company representative about their hiring
needs and your qualifications for employment. The Connecticut Department of Labor, community colleges,
and private groups often hold job fairs with over 100 employers represented.
Networking: Let friends, family and acquaintances know you are looking for work. Most people find
jobs through word-of-mouth, and your chances of securing employment are always improved if you are
recommended to an employer by someone they already know.
Newspaper Ads: Read through several newspapers to find the right opportunity for you. Be aware that
some training facilities and jobs requiring investments place ads in the employment section. A legitimate
job offer does not require money from the job seeker. If you are interested in training or investments, check
with your local Better Business Bureau for information on an organization before sending any money.
Private Employment Agencies: Otherwise known as “temp agencies,” private employment agencies
will place you to work temporarily in a company, anywhere from one day to several years. Temporary
work can lead to full-time, permanent positions, and includes clerical, technical, and professional positions.
Some companies choose to use private employment agencies for all their hiring needs. Check the
yellow pages under “employment agencies” and call them to find out which companies they represent.
Professional Associations: Consult the Occupational Outlook Handbook for lists of associations relating
to certain occupations. This publication is available on-line at www.bls.gov/oco.
Public Library: Books on résumé writing, interviews, and other career development techniques are
available. Some libraries now have career centers and computers for patron use.
School Career Centers: Almost every high school and college has a career center that offers counseling
and job placement. Even if you graduated years ago, most schools offer their services throughout a
student’s lifetime.
Trade Unions: Libraries have lists of local trade unions for carpenters, plumbers, electricians, etc.
Yellow Pages: Companies are organized in the telephone directory’s yellow pages by the services they
offer or products they produce. Call the human resources department to ask about job opportunities.
401K Option to invest money with tax This ad is for part- and full- FLORAL DESIGNER
breaks; some employers match time positions as a floral F/T P/T positions, gd pay &
your savings designer. Experience is insur, exp req’d. Apply within
AA Affirmative Action required for applicants, at Petals Deluxe, 305 Flower
Appt Appointment and the job offers good Lane, Wethersfield. No
Attn Attention pay with insurance. phone calls. EOE F/D/V
avail Available Applicants should apply in person at the address listed.
Bnfts Benefits Petals Deluxe is an Equal Opportunity Employer that
c/o Care of hires females, the disabled and veterans.
EEO, EOE Equal Employment Opportunity
Equal Opportunity Employer Immed Immediate
A policy that gives each Indivs Individuals
applicant a fair opportunity. Ins Insurance
May appear with M/F/D/H/V, K Thousand
which represent Male, Female, Loc Location
Disabled, Handicapped, M-F Monday through Friday
Veteran Mjr Major
Eqpmt Equipment Nec Necessary
Exc Excellent Oppty, Opps Opportunity, Opportunities
exp’d, exper Experienced, Experience OT Overtime
F/T Full-time P/T Part-time
Fee Paid Temporary agencies charge PC Personal Computer
companies to use their workers. Perm Permanent
While some agencies make Pref, Pref’d Preferred
workers pay this fee, “fee paid” Prof’l Professional
means the agency has paid it. Rep Representative
Flex Flexible Req’d Required
Flex-time Employees are given some Reqmnts Requirements
choice in their work hours. Res Résumé
gd Good Sal+Commis Salary plus Commission
HR Human Resources Shift Diff Shift Differential - a higher
Hrs Hours wage is paid to workers on
2nd or 3rd shift
SALES!!! Some advertisements that temp Temporary
Great opportunity for appear promising require you to trans Transportation
motivated individuals. Set
send money for an “investment w/ With
your own schedule and opportunity” or “training.” Check Wk Week
pay. Call 555-1212 forany company that requests Yr, Yrs Year, Years
more information. money with your local Better
Business Bureau or Chamber of Commerce.
At a job fair, company representatives rent a display area to present information on their company and
its job opportunities. Some companies will conduct in-house job fairs to give a firsthand account of the
working environment and employment opportunities. It is up to you to approach the representatives,
introduce yourself, and describe your employment goals. To find out about upcoming job fairs, visit your
local DOL office, the Connecticut Department of Labor’s Job Fairs Web site at www.ctjobfairs.com, or
your local newspaper. Follow the tips below for a productive job fair visit:
Do Your Homework. Before attending any job fair, obtain a list of the participating companies and
research key information on those firms in which you are interested. Recruiters will ask, “What do you
know about us?” and you should have an answer prepared.
Know What You’re Looking For. When a recruiter asks, “What are you looking for?” be prepared
to answer. Recruiters are not willing to waste their time with people who are in a “what job pays the most”
attitude or are unsure of what they want. Even if you can’t narrow your career choice to fewer than three,
identify only one to each recruiter. If you have more than one résumé, separate each version by colored
folders so you can easily pick the appropriate one. Saying, “Oh, that’s the wrong résumé,” and trying to
take it back could ruin an opportunity.
Bring Extra Résumés and Business Cards. Copiers are generally not available and finding a
copy place takes time away from your job search. Try to determine the number of companies attending
and bring at least one résumé for each company. Note that some companies may request additional
copies in order to forward them on to different departments. If you do happen to run out of résumés,
exchange business cards with the recruiter to ensure that your name will be remembered. Business
cards are also helpful when networking with other job seekers at the fair.
Get the Recruiters’ Business Cards. This allows you to address follow-up calls and letters to a
specific person. Take the time to jot down notes on the back of the card about what you discussed. When
you talk to the recruiter again, you will be able to jar each other’s memory by saying, “I remember you,
we were talking about marketing research opportunities.”
Present Yourself in a Professional Manner. Don’t make the mistake of showing up in casual
attire. Recruiters may consider you if you’re in business casual, but professional attire gives you a
winning edge and reflects your motivation. Be polite, courteous, and pleasant to everyone you
encounter.
Approach Employers Individually. If you choose to carpool with a friend, arrange a meeting time
and split up while visiting companies. Showing up in a group makes a recruiter doubt that you are
serious about your job search efforts. Do not bring children. An employer will be reluctant to hire
someone without reliable daycare.
Go Early. Usually the slowest time of a job fair is the first hour, so arrive early to spend more time
with employers. Give yourself at least an hour to walk through and talk to the company representatives.
The worst time to arrive is the last hour; some employers will have found their new employee and left
early.
Visit as Many Companies as Possible. Pick up a list of the employers exhibiting and visit all of
them. Don’t skip a company because of its name or type of business. A hospital may have openings for
clerical staff and a manufacturer may be looking for a nurse. Check with employment agencies — you
may find the company you wish to work for is represented by one of them.
Talk to Other Candidates. While standing in line, take time to talk to other candidates. Someone
may have turned down a position you would find rewarding. Someone else may be employed at a
company in which you are interested. A job fair is a perfect opportunity to establish new networking
contacts.
Your Job Search Guide
Proper use of a telephone during networking and job searching greatly increases your
opportunity for employment. An employer needs to know that he or she will be able to reach
you if necessary and that you will be able to conduct a professional conversation with customers
over the phone. The “Record of Job Leads” on page 54 is useful in documenting telephone
conversations.
Check your Use Your Home Phone Number. If you are currently employed, you should not
p h o n e use your business telephone number for contact information. An employer will
messages gain the impression that you are in the habit of using work time to take care of
at least personal business. Furthermore, if you share a telephone line at work, your co-
once a day, workers and current boss are more likely to find out about your job search. If you
and return phone calls have no other choice than using your work number, mention to the employer that
the same business day. you are only comfortable taking personal calls during your break time. This request
A prompt response to will show that you respect your employer’s rules. If at all possible, establish a one
an employer’s message to two hour time frame to be at home each day to answer telephone calls. Then
not only creates a good when an employer asks for a good time to call, you will be able to give a specific
impression, but also time frame.
gives you an advantage
Follow Phone Etiquette. Every time you answer the phone, use a professional,
over other applicants.
calm voice and identify yourself. For instance, “Hello, Jack Brown speaking.” Keep
a pen, notepad and calendar by your phone for easy reference. When making
telephone calls, make sure there is no background noises such as the T.V., radio, children, or someone
calling for you. Do not smoke, drink or eat while on the phone. Remember to smile while talking to a
contact or an employer. It may seem silly, but smiling helps you to maintain an upbeat tone of voice.
Inform Everyone that Answers the Phone. Let everyone in your home know that an employer may be
calling you, and that they should answer the phone politely. Emphasize the importance of accurate
messages delivered in a timely manner. Try to limit the number of people that will be using the phone.
An employer will not understand if you return a call days later because your roommate forgot to give you
the message or your child didn’t write down the person’s name and phone number.
Have a Message System Ready. You must have voice mail or an answering machine during your job
search. If you do not have a message system, an employer will probably only call twice to try to reach
you before moving on to the next applicant. It is unprofessional to call an employer to see if you missed
a call. The message you choose for your answering machine or voice mail is important. Avoid jokes,
messages by children, or other persons. The employer should hear your voice without background
noise. An appropriate message is: “You have reached 555-6868, the June Smith residence. Please
leave a message and I will return your call as soon as possible. Thank you.” If you do not have an
answering system for use while on the Internet, limit Internet use for the evening when employers are
less likely to call. Check your messages at least once a day, and return calls within 24 hours. Do not
expect an employer to leave more than one message; they will only leave a message once and expect
you to return the call.
Ask Permission Before Using a Phone Number. If you do not have a phone, ask permission from a
responsible person to use his or her phone. Let the person know that employers will be calling; it will
only make you look foolish if an employer calls for you and your friend answers, “Oh, he doesn’t live
here,” or “Who’s calling? I didn’t even know he was looking for work.” Check for messages every day.
Did you know that approximately 85% of the job openings are never advertised? Most employers don’t
need to advertise - there are enough interview candidates referred to them from a trusted employee or
colleague. A word-of-mouth referral dramatically increases your chances of being called in for an interview.
Keep in mind that checking the classified ads should not be discontinued, but the greatest percentage of
your time should be spent utilizing the most effective job search technique.
Networking is the most effective way of discovering the hidden job market. The purpose is to develop
and use personal contacts in order to exchange information, ideas and resources, and to get feedback
on your résumé, qualifications, and job search strategies. In the process, your goal is to inform as many
people as possible that you are looking for a job and to let them know what type of job you want. At first,
you may have some reservations about approaching people for help, but once you get started, you will
be surprised at how willing most people are to offer assistance.
First, make a list of all the people you know. Include your extended family, business contacts, friends,
acquaintances, previous employers and previous co-workers, etc. If you do not want your current
employer to know about your job search, do not network with your co-workers. Contact the
career centers of schools you attended; most offer their services to alumni and current students alike.
Register at a DOL office - where services are provided free of charge regardless of your employment
status - to receive job referrals and career counseling. Support groups are also helpful in providing
encouragement, job leads, and information on companies.
Consider five to ten people you can use for a reference, and ask their permission to do so. Record each
person’s name, address, telephone number, and occupation. Let them know what kind of work you are
looking for and give them a copy of your résumé. Typically, each time you apply for a job you will only be
asked for two or three references, but you should use different people so no one person is bombarded
by calls. Family members are not acceptable as references, and you should never use a person as a
reference without his or her permission.
Contact the people on your list and inform them of your job search and describe your work qualifications
and preferences. Send them a copy of your résumé so they will be better able to recommend you if they
hear of a job opening. Line up one or two people to review your résumé and practice interviewing with
them. Ask everyone to recommend you for an appropriate opening, and to notify you of any job
opportunities. Gain as much information as possible by asking questions such as:
l How did you get your current job?
l When you hire someone, what do you look for?
l What training programs or classes do you think would help me?
l What mistakes did you make in your job search?
l What resources did you find particularly helpful in your last job search?
l Will you let me know if you hear of any opportunities that fit my qualifications?
l Who would you recommend for me to contact next?
You are guaranteed to receive conflicting advice, but don’t let confusion prevent action. Consider the
source; usually advice from people in your field is most relevant. Different employers look for different
things in a résumé, interview, and employee. Tactics that may work in one occupation may not work in
another. For instance, if you are looking to land a competitive sales position, aggressiveness and
persistence would probably pay off, but if you are seeking a counseling position, presenting a patient,
understanding persona would be better. If in doubt, err on the conservative side and never do anything
that makes you feel uncomfortable.
Keep in touch with your contacts throughout your job search to update them on your progress. When
you do find employment, inform your network. A formal thank-you note lets them know you appreciated
their time. Remember to extend the same help to them in the future.
A. A.
If you are graduating soon from high If you have been fired from your last
school, college, or a training program, job, you should allow yourself time to
you should begin your job search two process your emotions. Then, in an
to three months before the graduation date. objective mindframe, you should reflect on why
Starting your job search early gives you a distinct your job was terminated and determine if you need
advantage over your competing classmates. It to adjust your job search. Should you look for a
gives you time to prepare your résumé, practice different type of job? Update your skills? Modify
your interviewing skills, obtain references, and your behavior? Addressing the issue and releasing
network. your emotions is necessary in order to be
productive in your search for a new job.
When you design your résumé, you will want to
emphasize your education by placing it above Do not rely on the myth that it is against the law to
your work experience (see page 23.) If your work give a bad reference; employers can and do give
experience is limited or unrelated to your desired bad references. Once you have formulated a job
job, it may be best to use the functional or search plan that addresses the issues related with
combination format. Even if you are looking for your termination, contact your former employer.
entry-level work, do not include that phrase in your Explain that you are in the process of finding
objective. If you held any leadership positions in employment and give an example of how you plan
school activities, such as captain of the football to explain your termination in an interview. Ask if it
team or president of the yearbook, be sure to coincides with the reference he or she plans to
include these in your activities. They demonstrate give. You may be fortunate enough to have an
strong leadership skills which employers are employer that will explain the dismissal as a mutual
looking for. decision.
Most schools have counselors, resource rooms, If you are guilty of any wrongdoing such as theft,
and computers to help you with your job search. insubordination, or lying, it is especially important
They are often the best way to find employment to contact your previous employer. For example,
before and after graduation. Make an early Joe was fired for theft from his previous employer.
appointment with a counselor to secure He contacted his former employer, apologized for
individualized attention. At graduation time, they his mistake, and arranged a payment plan. He
will be bombarded with requests and will have prepared the following statement to explain his
less time to spend with you. Counselors typically termination in an interview. “I was terminated from
have many contacts with local employers, so my last job because I stole equipment valued at
consulting with them is an easy way to get your $300. I understand that this was a violation of trust,
résumé in circulation. Your school may even host and have made payment arrangements with my
its own job fairs. previous employer in order to make amends. I
have learned from my mistake, and am anxious to
Employers want employees with updated skills
return to work.”
and related work experience. Hopefully, you have
balanced your education with experiences gained In order to reestablish your work record, you may
through school activities, part-time work, have to take a position with less responsibility or
internships, co-ops, job shadowing, or volunteer income than your previous one. You may want to
work. Even if your program does not require consider working temporary jobs through an
technology classes, most employers expect employment agency in order to reestablish your
familiarity with computer software programs. Ask work record. Remember, your future employer is
those who have already graduated in your area taking a greater risk offering you a job instead of a
of study which computer programs are most used, typical candidate.
and learn them.
An employer knows very little about your personality and abilities, and has to rely on the few times you
meet to make a decision. They want someone who will be able to represent the company well - persons
with all the right experience and skills may be passed by if they do not possess a professional image.
Dressing professionally is necessary throughout your job search, even when you are not talking to an
employer. You must dress in your best business attire when you pick up an application, network, conduct
an informational interview, attend a formal interview, and when you begin working.
Cleanliness - You should have showered that day and have clean, neatly combed hair. You will be
shaking hands with employers so make sure your fingernails are neatly trimmed and clean. Refrain
from using cologne or perfume since many people are allergic and the fragrance can be distracting.
Brush your teeth - you don’t want a piece of food in your teeth as you talk to an employer. Your clothes
should be clean and pressed without tears, stains or wrinkles.
Clothing - Your clothes should always be clean and neatly pressed - never wear stained or torn clothing.
For business professionals, wear a dark, conservative suit and polished, unscuffed dress shoes. Women
should wear a business suit with a knee length skirt, natural-toned nylons and shoes with a moderate
heel. Men should not forget to wear a belt, tie, dark socks, and creased pants. If you are applying for a
job that is less formally attired, such as construction or assembly work, business casual is appropriate.
This includes a button-down, tucked in shirt, pants, belt, and shoes. Under no circumstances should
sneakers, sandals, jeans, shorts, t-shirts, short or tight clothing be worn. A general rule of thumb is to
dress for the position above the one for which you are applying. For instance, if you are applying for a
cashier position, you should dress as though you were the store manager.
Hair - Hair should be clean, trimmed, and neatly combed. During
your job search, schedule frequent haircuts to maintain a freshly
trimmed style and avoid an overgrown or shaggy look. Avoid any
A professional image
unnatural hair dyes. Men should be clean shaven or have neatly will make people
trimmed facial hair. If a woman’s hair falls below the shoulders it
should be pulled back or up. more comfortable in
Jewelry - The one piece of jewelry everyone should wear is a referring you to an
watch since it helps you to stay on time and communicates
responsibility. A belt should always be worn with pants for a
employer.
complete, neat look. Both women and men should limit rings to
one finger and, if at all possible, conceal tattoos. Men should leave
additional jewelry at home - this includes earrings, bracelets, extra
rings, and necklaces. For women, light make-up and one pair of earrings is preferred. Fingernails
should be business length - just past the fingertips, and no loud colors or designs. Clear polish or a
french manicure is best. Anklets should not be worn.
Manners - Along with dressing properly, you must communicate confidence and professionalism. Do
not use slang words or swear, smoke, or chew gum. Maintain eye contact and speak in a clear voice.
Answer with “yes” and “no,” not “yeah,” “nah,” or “uh-huh.” Avoid nervous mannerisms such as fidgeting,
tapping, or touching your hair. An interviewer will notice if you are uncomfortable or fidgeting with your
clothes. Wear your outfit before meeting with an employer to know that it is comfortable to sit, stand, and
walk in and needs no adjustments. Do not eat anything during an interview.
The application form should be taken seriously; many applicants have lost job opportunities due to
unfinished or carelessly completed forms. Whenever you visit an employer to inquire about a job or
arrive for an interview, be prepared to fill out a job application. Prior to your initial visit, pick up a job
application at almost any business establishment to see what information is requested. Then document
the information below and bring it with you when making any employer contact.
Employment History - For each job you’ve held, record the company name and address along with
your supervisor’s name and telephone number. Confirm that this information is still accurate - phone
numbers and mailing addresses can change. Include the month and year of the beginning and ending
dates of employment.
Personal Information - You will need to provide your address, telephone number, Social Security Number,
driver’s license number, and any necessary working papers. You should not use your current work
telephone number for contact information. Other information that is typically requested includes the
name and address of schools you have attended, your course of study, graduation dates, and G.P.A.
Include information on high school, colleges, training programs and equivalency tests.
References - You must ask a person’s permission before using them as a reference. It will only reflect
badly on you if an employer were to call an unprepared person. Your references should have a copy of
your résumé and be familiar with your qualifications and the type of job you are seeking. You will need
the full name, home address, telephone number, and occupational title for each of your references.
Have at least five to ten solid references available and alternate names so that no one person is bombarded
with calls. Family members are not acceptable references.
To complete an accurate, neat application form, follow the additional tips below:
l Tell the truth. If you lie on an application form, l Be neat and clear. Do not eat or drink while
you can be fired. completing the application, and be sure to print
clearly. If an employer has to struggle to
l Read the entire application form before filling understand your handwriting, he or she will
it out. Provide the information where it is probably skip over it.
requested. For example, notice if you should
write your last name first or if there are l Keep your future job in mind when describing
separate lines for street and town information. your previous experience. For example, if
your last job was as a sales clerk but you are
l Fill out all the information. If you are not sure now applying for a bookkeeping job, you would
what the question is asking, ask for first list the job duties of the sales position that
clarification. If a question does not apply to involved bookkeeping, i.e., balancing a cash
you, print “not applicable” or “n/a.” This shows drawer, calculating sales discounts, following
that you did not just skip over a section. written instructions, etc., before the primary
customer service skills.
l Print or type the information. Bring a blue or
black pen to fill out the application. Any other l Sign and date the application form.
color is unprofessional, and borrowing a pen
shows you are unprepared. l Proofread. Once you have completed the
form, reread it to make sure the information is
l Apply for a specific job. You may list up to accurate and complete. Double check that
three job titles, but never write “anything.” you have provided a telephone number.
Even if you take a job temporarily, it is important to provide valuable work to your employer. Not only
does this establish a reference for a future job, but it also maintains your self-worth and workplace
morale. Use your present job to gain as much experience, training, and skills as possible. In the event
that you do decide to move on to a new job, remember to give at least two weeks’ notice. Following the
guidelines below will improve your chances for raises, promotions, and positive career development.
1. each
Be Punctual and Dependable. Your employer should be able to rely on you to show up on time
day for work. If your day begins at 8:00, you should actually be working at 7:50, not walking
in the door or getting coffee. Do not call in sick unless you actually are sick - too many sick days will look
poor on your job attendance record. Limit your personal phone calls to established break times.
2. Be Neat. Even if your boss’s desk is a mess, your work area and equipment should be kept neat
and organized. This helps you to work productively while projecting a responsible image and
respect for the company’s equipment.
Communicate with Your Boss. If performance evaluations are not offered, ask your boss to set
3. aside a time to discuss your performance and suggestions for improvement. Be open to constructive
criticism. Volunteer for new projects, overtime or new responsibilities. If you have to approach your
boss with a question or problem, you should be able to offer a suggestion or possible solution.
Avoid Criticism. Employers value good morale as much as technical skills, so do not complain
4. about your work environment or co-workers. Never criticize your boss to others. Instead of
saying, “What a stupid rule,” ask why the rule exists. Usually there is a good reason for workplace
procedures.
Stay Informed. Read relevant books, magazines, and other sources of information pertinent to
5. your company and job. Keep in touch with the news - are local, state, or national issues likely to
affect your business?
Update Your Skills. Inquire about training programs and tuition reimbursement at your company.
6. Most colleges now offer distance learning classes; if your schedule is too hectic to attend a class,
consider taking an on-line course. Keeping your skills up-to-date will help you become more productive
and will increase your employment opportunities and options.
Keep a Journal. Record important dates and events at work. Include your accomplishments,
7. instances where you performed beyond what was required, and problems with employers or co-
workers. Keeping track of your accomplishments helps in validating your importance during evaluations
or salary negotiations. This information can be used to update your résumé (which should be done
every six months), and is important for a new job or promotion. If you have a serious problem with a co-
worker or employer, a record of specific events and corresponding dates will help you prove your point-
of-view.
Don’t Steal. Using company equipment for personal use is theft. This includes office supplies, e-
8. mail, Internet use, computer software, or borrowing equipment. Many employers have the capability
to check your e-mail messages, deleted documents, and Internet use and will not hesitate to fire individuals
in violation of company policy.
Dress and Act Professionally. Your employer should not be in the awkward position of reminding
9. you to dress and act professionally. If you are interested in a promotion, you should dress as
though you already had the position. Treat everyone you encounter with courtesy and respect. If you
have an ongoing problem with an individual, ask a supervisor to sit in on a discussion between the two
of you.
Even if you are perfectly happy in your current job, you should stay
aware of changes in your company, the job market, and your personal
responsibilities that affect your job security. It is rare for a person to
spend their working life in one job or company; on average, a person
will change jobs eight times during his or her lifetime. Consider the
topics below to determine the right time to look for work. It is best to
explore possible changes and options before you become discouraged
or displaced.
Is Your Job Type at Risk? If your job is managing other managers, consists of monitoring, checking
or inspecting, or lacks visibility, it may not be secure. Also, if you have
been in the same job for over six years, have been working primarily
on a product or service that has had poor results, or have difficulty
demonstrating a direct contribution to profit, you may need to reevaluate
your position. If your job can be easily out-sourced to another
department, outside agency, or performed by someone with a lower
salary, it may not survive budget cuts.
Are You Buying a House or If you are purchasing a home or have expensive medical care, it may
Have Medical Expenses? be in your best interest to stay put. Changing jobs can affect home
loan approvals; generally lenders like to see a two year commitment to
your most recent job. If you are experiencing large medical expenses,
you must consider that medical benefits vary from employer to employer,
and changing jobs can create a lapse in coverage.
Have You Changed? The perfect job is only relative; you may have outgrown your
job or it may simply no longer fit your life-style. If your health
or family obligations have changed, perhaps you need a job
with different hours and responsibilities.
How Valuable are You as Looking for another job keeps you informed of other opportunities
an Employee? and also lets you know how competitive you are in the job market.
If your skills have become outdated or job specific, consider
training programs in order to update your skills or develop new
ones. Job-hopping is often viewed as a flaw in employees, so if
you have been changing jobs often, you may need to stay
longer to demonstrate dependability.
On average, a person
will change jobs eight
times during his or her
lifetime.
l Career ladder, advancement possibilities l Salary for entry-level and experienced workers
Keep in mind that there are many options within a field. For instance, the medical profession not only
includes nurses and doctors, but also physician assistants, laboratory technicians, home healthcare
aids and research staff. So, if upon self-assessment you find you are interested in science, value
serving others, and need mental challenge, but want a dependable 40-hour work week with set times,
low stress and limited contact with the public, you would be better suited for laboratory technician or
research worker than a nurse or doctor.
Travel Agent Characteristics After considering the list and other interests, you decide to
l Opportunity to travel investigate flight attendant and children’s party clown careers.
l Short training program l The flight attendant career relies on travel, has a short
l Works with the public training program, involves the public, is fun, and pays more
l Average stress than a travel agent, but has more stress and does not rely
l Pays the salary I need on organizational skills. Also, layoffs are common during
l Uses my organizational skills recessions.
l It’s fun l The children’s party clown career would allow you to travel
on a smaller scale, has a short training program, works with
the public, has less stress, requires organizational skills,
and is fun. Extended travel would be possible if working for
a circus, and self-employment is possible. However, the
salary would be initially less than a travel agent.
These possibilities are promising, and after talking to people
in these fields along with further research, you decide to pursue
a career as a children’s party clown.
?
How do you transform an everyday task into job-related
skills? Start by describing the task performed, and then solve problems
choose skills that describe the task. You may be supervise others
surprised at the work related skills you already possess. teach and train others
Project: Painting a room type efficiently
visualize
Description: Figured out amount of paint needed to stay within
budget, prepared the room, gathered supplies needed, chose a work in teams
color to complement the room, finished in the time planned, and work independently
cleaned up the room work under stress
Skills: Budget expenses, calculate numerical data, plan project, write detailed instructions
organize tasks, creative ability, finish tasks on time, work write reports
independently
In addition to assessing skills, you should also consider your values, interests, and preferred work
environment. Taking time to think about what you want to do and the type of place you would like to work
in is necessary for developing a satisfying career.
The questions below can help identify your work environment. Prioritize your responses by how strongly
you feel about them. For instance, is it more important for you to work outdoors or have the opportunity
to counsel people? While there are careers that incorporate seemingly contradictory characteristics,
you may have to choose between two favorable aspects. You should not expect your job to capture all
of your interests; some people even prefer to keep their greatest interests separate from the stress and
criticism of a work environment.
What would I like to learn more about? Am I comfortable supervising other people?
What type of magazines, books, and Am I comfortable working under close
newspapers articles do I read the most? supervision?
In school, I enjoyed classes in ___________. Am I comfortable working in a position that
regularly receives criticism?
As a child, I dreamed about becoming a ___.
Do I prefer a fast-paced work environment that
As an adult, I dream about becoming a ____.
requires quick reactions, or a slow-paced
People describe me as_________________. work environment with more time for
decisions?
I have the most respect for people who are:
a. athletic b. benelovent c. brave Do I prefer work that has immediate results?
d. creative e. intelligent f. spiritual
Would I enjoy working with the public?
I have won awards for_________________.
Do I enjoy counseling or teaching others?
I am most proud of: ___________________.
Am I comfortable in judging and disciplining
Do I prefer to work alone or with others? others?
Do I enjoy “tinkering” to figure out how Am I comfortable in a job with physical risk?
something works? Am I willing to take on a high level of
How important is it to have a job that helps responsibility for other people’s health,
others? Demands respect? Earns a high finances, or legal rights?
income? What income level will suit my needs?
List what you liked and disliked about your What length of time am I willing to dedicate to
previous jobs. education and training?
Are most of my activities outside or indoors? Will I be happy in a career that requires frequent
Am I good at talking others into sharing my updating of skills?
opinion or performing a task? Am I willing to travel or relocate for a job?
Do I perform better in a structured I would like to work for a:
environment with detailed procedures and a. large established corporation,
rules? b. small, slow growth company,
Do I perform better in an environment which c. small, rapid growth company, or
encourages creativity and expression? d. my own business.
Whichever style of résumé you feel fits your needs, a résumé should have clear, easily
distinguished sections. Many people find writing a résumé a daunting task. If you find
yourself avoiding it, concentrate on one section at a time.
Personal Information n Your name, home address, phone number (with area code), and
e-mail address should appear at the top of the page.
n If you have a two-page résumé, your name should also appear
at the top of the second page.
n Unless you are in modeling, entertainment, or video journalism,
do not include photographs or physical descriptions of any kind.
Objective n Clear, focused objectives let an employer know you are focused
in your job search. Avoid vague, “one-size-fits-all” objectives
and do not use the phrase “entry-level.”
n A strong objective will be specific about the type of job and
business sought. If you are considering more than one type of
position, create several different versions of your résumé.
Work History n Start with your most recent history and work backwards, detailing
the last three to five positions for up to 20 years. The title of
your position, the name of the company, the town and state of
the company, and the month and year of your employment should
all be included.
n If earlier positions are not relevant to the job for which you are
applying, omit the description of job duties.
n With each position listed, emphasize the major accomplishments
and responsibilities that demonstrate your full competence to
do the job. Do not repeat details that are common to several
positions.
n Once the most significant aspects of your work are defined, it is
generally unneccessary to include lesser achievements since
they will be assumed by employers.
n In a functional résumé, companies and titles are often listed near
the bottom of the résumé without job descriptions or dates of
employment.
Education n If you have graduated within the last five years, your education
should be placed above your work history, if it has been more
than five years, place it after the work history.
n If you are a college graduate, it is unneccessary to list your high
school information. However, if you have a master’s or doctorate
degree, you should still list your bachelor’s degree.
n Your graduation date should be included with your course of
study. If your graduation date is within six months, you may list
“anticipated graduation date of June 2003.”
n If your highest education attainment is a G.E.D. certification, it
should be listed with the date certification is/was awarded.
n Recent graduates may list relevant classes along with a G.P.A.
of 3.0 or higher.
Activities n This optional section reveals your personal side and makes it
easier for employers to begin casual conversations.
n Include hobbies, charity work, and organizations you belong to.
Be careful not to include controversial organizations since most
businesses prefer to appear neutral to customers.
Headline Résumés
This format is also gaining
popularity among job seekers and
employers. A survey of certified
professional résumé writers and
employment professionals in
Connecticut promotes the Headline
Résumé format as an effective
résumé for today’s job seekers. The
Headline Résumé highlights the
individual’s skills, accomplishments,
experiences and qualifications
needed for the occupation early in
the résumé and, therefore, improves
the chances for consideration.
Advantages
! Employers can quickly learn about the person
! Headline statement that includes the occupation title and critical occupation skills
at the beginning adds impact to the résumé, and improves the chances for
consideration
! Includes areas of expertise (keywords), which highlight specific knowledge and
skills
! Eliminates using an objective statement which, in many cases, simply states the
obvious to the employer
! Effective for all career fields and levels of skills
Disadvantages
! Does not include multiple occupations of interest, which may narrow job search
! May be difficult to identify correct occupation
In this résumé, the applicant is seeking a temporary internship for school credit, and hopes to find
permanent employment after graduation. In this case, listing a current and future career objective is
acceptable; however it should be used with caution since most employers will be reluctant to hire and
train someone who might soon change jobs. The education section has been placed above the work
experience because the graduation date is within the year and it is relevant to the position sought.
Peter A. Wolfe
560 Forest Lane
Manchester, CT 06040
(203) 555-7878
wolfe@aol.com
Career Objectives Current: Part-time internship as a legal secretary in an environmental law firm.
Future: Full-time position as a paralegal in an envrionmental law firm.
1985 - 1987
Receptionist - Comfy Home Real Estate - Tolland, CT
• Directed phone calls for ten realtors
• Created “quick service” phone book for in-house use
• Greeted customers and attended to their needs and questions
1981 - 1984
Cashier - Handy Hardware - Coventry, CT
• Responsible for high-volume cash transactions
• Designed merchandise displays
HOLLY JENKINS
555 Main Street
Colchester, CT 06040
(860) 555-6633
CAREER OBJECTIVE:
A marketing managerial position offering opportunity in solving marketing problems and creating profitable
programs. Well-qualified to contribute in such areas as Marketing Management, Marketing Research,
Planning or New Product Development.
SUMMARY OF EXPERIENCE:
l Self-directed and motivated professional with vision and eleven years’ progressive experience in
product sales and marketing support.
l Innovative, dedicated manager with excellent ability to both plan ahead and improvise as situations
present themselves.
l Proficient at coordinating and managing projects with proven track record of improving sales and
reducing costs.
l Qualified in motivational training and thematic approaches, cooperative learning strategies, and
integrated lessons.
l Possess strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills in highly visible and responsible
positions.
EMPLOYMENT HISTORY:
1992 - Present ABC Company, Colchester, Connecticut
Communications Manager, Agency Marketing Services
l Developed and implemented a marketing support program for over 20 new and
30 improved product lines.
l Expanded field sales by 30% through research and development of a direct mail
campaign.
l Developed and conducted in-house training sessions for field representatives
on software set-up, life and annuity products, taxation, and consumer
investment strategies.
l Directed a series of consumer/dealer acceptance studies responsible for the
introduction of a $3,200,000 contra-seasonal recreation product.
l Headed task force that introduced computerized forecasting and inventory
control system saving $21,000 annually and improving cash flow.
l Received bonus for creating Marketing Expense Control System allowing for
monthly detailed budget analysis and providing guidelines for projected
expenditures.
l Involved with almost all levels of product design. Credited with saving over
$60,000 in production costs and providing product line continuity by personally
designing new graphics, logo, and color scheme for entire consumer line.
HOLLY JENKINS
Page 2
EDUCATION:
2000 M.B.A., University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
1980 B.S., Marketing/Finance, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia
COMPUTER SKILLS:
ACCESS, DBase III+, Excel, FoxPro, Internet savvy, MicroSoft Word, Powerbase, PowerPoint, Unisys
Andrew Dragon
42 Blossom Drive (860) 555-5555
Wethersfield, CT 06109 dragon@aol.com
n Communication
n Advanced American Literature
Accurate, lively, and fresh writing style specializing in
n Advanced Fiction Writing
non-fiction topics. Created reports for local businesses
n Harlem Renaissance
through Professional Writing Internship class.
n History of the Language
n Professional Writing Internship
n Literature
n The Study of Words
Familiar with a wide range of authors from Chaucer to
n Technical Writing and Communication
Angelou; focus on American authors.
n The Works of Chaucer
n Writing for Business and Industry
n Technical
Proficient in Microsoft Word and PowerPoint.
Employment History
1978 - 1998 Accountant, Freeman & Reed Accounting Services, New Haven, CT
Created brochures, business cards, and advertisements to promote accounting
services. Managed financial records for 20 clients.
RICHARD F. JOBSEEKER
35 Gridleon Street
RICHARD F. JOBSEEKER
Bristol, CT 06010-6207
35 Gridleon Street
Team Builder with strong leadership aptitude. Highly effective motivator. Superior customer service skills. Able to
develop credibility and confidence with the public. Solid organizational and multitasking skills. Easily establish rapport.
Troubleshooter with demonstrated ability to identify problems and implement solutions. Excellent interpersonal and
communication skills. Computer literacy includes MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Internet savvy.
EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
Store Manager
Manage all facets of daily operations for upscale retail apparel and accessories store with annual sales of $2 million.
• Oversee activities and efforts of 23 sales associates. Train staff in providing superior customer service.
• Establish and coordinate work and vacation schedules. Arrange coverage for absences.
• Orchestrate recruiting efforts including screening resumes/applications, interviewing and hiring personnel. Refer
for termination. Conduct exit interviews.
• Evaluate staff and deliver constructive performance appraisals. Compensate employees based on corporate
guidelines and policies.
• Maintain and monitor computer sales and inventory programs. E-mail weekly reports to District Manager.
• Coordinate creative merchandising efforts by adapting corporate provided materials to customer demographics.
• Address and resolve problems with vendors and suppliers.
• Resolved and corrected overstock problems resulting in $2,000 monthly additional sales.
• Reduced employee theft 100% by developing and instituting Team Sign Out Policy. Received $500 bonus and
commendation from company president. Policy now implemented in all stores nationwide.
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Science in Management - University of Hartford, Hartford, CT
KEYWORDS: Cost Reduction, Customer Driven Management, Customer Liaison, Customer Loyalty, Customer
Retention, Customer Satisfaction, Diversity Management, Employee Relations, Employee Retention, Incentive
Planning, Merit Promotions, Order Fulfillment, Promotions, Public Relations, Sales Incentives, Sales Management,
Service Measures, Special Events, Staffing
10. Don’t use a résumé that looks cluttered or lacks white space.
Remember, an employer will first glance at your résumé. If
it is not neatly organized with information quickly available,
it will probably not be read. Since a résumé is a quick
reference for employers, it should not be more than two
pages in length.
Most employers will ask for references on an application form, but will typically contact them only when
you are a finalist for employment. References are very important, especially if there are other similarly
qualified candidates applying for the position. The people you ask to be your references should be able
to speak from firsthand knowledge about the skills, abilities and personal qualities that would make you
successful in the job for which you are applying. References should also be easy to reach during business
hours.
Collect information on your references before you fill out an application form or go to a job interview. You
will need the person’s name, address, telephone number, occupation, and the length of time you have
known each other. Consider five to ten people
you can use for a reference, and ask their Andrew Dragon
permission to do so. Let them know what kind 42 Blossom Drive (860) 555-5555
Wethersfield, CT 06109 dragon@aol.com
of work you are looking for, jog their memory,
and give them a copy of your résumé. Typically, References
each time you apply for a job you will only be Dirk Komodo
asked for two or three references, but you Accountant
should use different people so no one person Freeman & Reed Accounting Services
15 Business Lane
is bombarded by calls. Family members are New Haven, CT 06011
not acceptable as references, and you should 203-666-5555
never use a person as a reference without his Blunder.fras@aol.com
Years of acquaintance: 15 years
or her permission. Relationship: former co-worker
Jamal Monitor
You should list your references on the same Project Manager
type of paper you use for your résumé, with Habitat for Humanity
23 Main Street
the same heading as your résumé (name, East Haven, CT 06011
address, phone number, e-mail) along with 203-666-5535
Years of acquaintance: 4 years
your name and contact information. Therefore, Relationship: fellow volunteer
if you are asked to supply them, you will be
Eleta Lizard
able to give a professional list. If you want a Sales Manager
letter of recommendation, offer to provide the Quiet Corner Book Store
paper to the writer. Do not include reference 555 North Main Street
New Haven, CT 06011
information in your résumé, or the line 203-666-5545
“references available upon request.” It is eletal@msn.com
Years of acquaintance: 2 years
assumed that you will be able to provide Relationship: current co-worker
references. Contact your references when you
have an interview, informing them of the
company and person’s name so they won’t be
surprised by a phone call. Thank your references and keep in touch, you may need them again in the
future for assistance in promotions, new jobs, etc.
If you do not have previous work history, then you may consider using a friend, landlord, teacher,
principal, guidance counselor, or member of the clergy. Whomever you choose should be able to talk
about how you have demonstrated your skills through school, clubs, civic or volunteer activities. Never
write a letter yourself and sign another person’s name to it, or ask a friend to pretend to be an employer.
59 Rhodes Road
Newington, CT 06111
860-555-9999
August 3, 2000
Petals Deluxe has been the first choice among Newington residents for fresh flowers and
gardening ideas for nearly sixty years. It is with great interest that I read the description of the
gardening and sales position that is now open. I have a unique blend of experience that I feel
prepares me to fulfill the requirements of this position. Along with a long-term hobby in
landscaping and gardening, I have the following skills and accomplishments that will
compliment your company:
Ø Created and maintained custom home garden complete with diverse plants, pond and
fountain.
Ø Extensive knowledge of characteristics and required care for annuals and perennials.
Ø Volunteered to visit residents at Shady Pines Senior Citizen Home.
Ø Utilized pleasant phone manner to raise $1,000 for church fund-raiser.
Ø Maintained home budget and financial records.
The prospect of working with individuals who share my interest in quality gardening and
concern for excellent customer service is very exciting. I will call you on Thursday, August
10th, to further discuss the position and arrange for a mutually convenient time for an
interview.
Sincerely,
(Signature)
Heleta Jones
Many organizations use scanners, e-mail, and Internet recruitment to build an electronic résumé
library for their hiring needs. The traditional résumé, even from the most perfect candidate, may be
lost if it is not redesigned for the computer’s eye. Keywords are more important in scannable and on-
line résumés because computers often rank an application according to the number of keyword
matches. For example, an administrative assistant position might look for “typing score,” “WordPerfect,”
and “Excel.” The more times a match is found, the better a résumé ranks.
Job seekers should check with companies if scanners are used and if the scanners require special
fonts, paper, or styles of type. When e-mailing a résumé, it is important to copy and paste your
résumé into the message because an employer may not have the appropriate software to open an
attached document. There are many Web sites that allow you to post your résumé on-line for
employers to review, some are listed on page 50. Some require users to have an e-mail address; you
can create an account at public computers, free of charge, by using a variety of Web sites including
hotmail.com, yahoo.com, and excite.com. Follow the general guidelines below to make your résumé
technology friendly:
l Post your résumé on-line before you see an appropriate job opening. Often employers begin reviewing
résumés as soon as there is an open position, and if they find an appropriate match, they may never
post the opening on-line.
l Check to see how often résumés are purged from the system. Typically, résumés are removed after
six months and you might want to resend yours to remain a candidate for employment.
l Always place your name as the first item at the top of the page since the scanner assumes that the
first line is the applicant’s name. Your name and phone number should be on separate lines.
l Provide a laser printed original if possible. Scanners cannot read a faxed résumé; if you fax a
résumé, be sure to also mail a hard copy.
l Use white or light-colored 8.5” x 11” paper, printed on one side only.
l Use standard serif and sans-serif fonts (i.e., Helvetica, Arial, Times New Roman, Courier). Avoid
fonts where the characters touch. Do not condense spacing between letters.
l No line should exceed 65 characters. End each line by hitting the enter key - automatic word wrapping
will create long lines that may not be readable.
l Italics, boldface, underlining, and reverse type cause problems for scanners, especially if combined.
Use ALL CAPITAL LETTERS for emphasis, or set off words with asterisks (*). If you use asterisks,
there should be a space between the asterisk and the text.
OBJECTIVE
Seeking advanced challenge and responsibility to employ my management and
communication skills as a training manager within an international pharmaceutical firm.
KEYWORD SUMMARY
Proficient in Excel and ACCESS, willing to travel globally, advanced verbal and written
communication skills, seven years management and training experience.
EXPERIENCE
Statewide Manager, Feel Good Pharmacy, 1987 - present
+ Utilized ACCESS and Excel software to organize employees’ records
+ Traveled to local stores for in-house training of new managers
+ Created written materials, including handbooks and reference guides, for training purposes
+ Organized annual training seminars for current employees
+ Managed a staff of twelve for five years
+ Decreased turnover rate of managers by two years
+ Recruited new staff
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
American Red Cross volunteer, 1998 - present
Big Brothers/Big Sisters volunteer, 1996 - present
EDUCATION
B.A. in Business Management, Central Connecticut State University
A.A. in Business Management, Manchester Community College
Next to your résumé, your cover letter is your best way to sell yourself on paper. It allows your
personality to come through and identifies the benefits of hiring you. It should always accompany
your résumé or job application. Follow the tips below for writing effective cover letters:
2. Make it personal - address your letter to a specific person within the company.
If possible, call for a contact name. “To whom it may concern” and “Dear sir/madam” letters are not
read as often as those addressed to a specific person.
6. Always type and proofread your cover letter before sending it.
Cover letters must be professional; mistakes are simply unacceptable. Errors may negatively affect
the employer’s judgment of you. If your letter is neat and professional, the employer is more likely
to believe that you are too. The cover letter should be on the same type of paper as your résumé
and printed with a laser quality printer.
I have recently graduated from Southern Connecticut State University, where I Second Paragraph. Indicate why you are
focused on American Literature. While attending, I had the good fortune to work as interested in the position, the company, its
an intern for Name First, an advertising firm servicing local businesses. Utilizing products or services — above all, clearly state
my writing and computer skills, I created a variety of promotional materials and what you can do for the employer. If you are a
press releases to suit individual company’s needs. recent graduate, explain how your academic
background makes you a qualified candidate for
My knowledge of American Literature, along with my writing and marketing the position. If you had practical work experience,
skills, would be an asset to American Literature Monthly. I would very much point out your specific achievements or unique
appreciate the opportunity to meet with you and discuss some of my ideas on the qualifications. Try not to repeat the same
subject. At your request, I am providing my salary history. While working part-time information the reader will find in your résumé.
at Quiet Corner Book Store, my annual salary is $11,400. Prior to that, I earned
$54,300 while working full-time at Freeman & Reed Accounting Services. I have Final Paragraph. In the closing paragraph, refer
enclosed my résumé for your review and will telephone you on August 17th to set the reader to the enclosed résumé or application
up a meeting. which summarizes your qualifications, training,
and experiences. Indicate your desire for a
Sincerely, personal interview and your flexibility as to the
time and place. If the job announcement
(Signature) requests no phone calls, repeat your phone
number in the letter. If no such request is made,
Andrew Dragon state that you will call on a certain date to set up
Enclosure an interview. Salary information should only
be provided upon request.
Sincerely yours,
(Your Signature)
Your typed name
(enclosure)
and the best way for you to determine if the position is right for you. Research, preparation,
and practice are key to making the interview productive and securing an employment opportunity.
Interviews can be stressful, but relax and keep in mind that the employer wants to find the right
candidate and fill the position as quickly as you want to complete your job search.
Make sure you allot enough time for the interview. Remember that you
Schedule an Interview
may be asked to fill out an application, take a personality or skills test, or
interview with several people. Allow enough time to commute, interview,
and jot down notes afterwards. You should also set aside time to write and
send a thank-you note within two days. Bring a calendar or date planner
with you in case you are asked to schedule a second interview. Do not ask
the interviewer for directions; call back to ask the receptionist and inquire
about potential traffic problems at the time you plan to arrive.
Prior to the day of your interview, obtain a written job description from the
Research the Job
Human Resources Department and ask for more details about the job.
Talk with someone who has a similar job, or consult publications such as
the Occupational Outlook Handbook, for a description of job duties, benefits,
education, experience, and training requirements.
Know about the company before you arrive for the interview. Check if it
Research the Company
has a Web site and visit it. Know the company’s history, its latest sales, the
number of employees, its locations, major competitors, philosophy and,
most importantly, future goals. Annual reports, trade and business
magazines, sales brochures, and newspapers are all excellent sources of
information. Many employment Web sites provide profiles on companies.
Read the newspaper to be aware of general events in the area and things
that could possibly affect the company. You will leave a strong impression
Brush up on
if you are able to make a comment such as, “I noticed in Tuesday’s Hartford
Current Events
Courant that the local resort has closed its doors forever. Since your
company relies on the tourist season, are you seeking other markets? I
have some innovative marketing ideas that may be of help.”
Review and prepare answers to the questions on pages 40-41. Role play
with a friend and, if possible, videotape your mock interview. Along with
Practice
your answers, pay attention to your posture, body language, eye contact,
and attitude. Time your answers; they should not be too long or too short.
We are often unaware of nervous mannerisms - ask your friend to take
notice of them. Schedule your first interview with a company in which you
have little interest in order to gain confidence for “the big interview.”
Have Information At the interview, you may be asked to complete an application; preparation
Readily Available tips are provided on page 12. You should have several forms of identification
(driver’s license, social security card, birth certificate, work papers), and
any relevant training certification or licenses. You should also have the
name, address and telephone number for three to five references. Bring
several copies of your résumé - you may interview with several persons, or
the employer may request a second copy. If possible, bring an example of
your work. Bring a notebook to record what was discussed during the
interview and the next step you should take. This should be done
immediately after the interview, but not in the interviewer’s presence.
Present a Professional A professional image will give you a winning edge over other applicants.
Image Keep in mind that you may bump into your future employer in the parking lot
or elevator, and should therefore act professionally for the entire time you
are on the company’s premises. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early for your
appointment, and go alone. Be polite to everyone you encounter, maintaining
a positive, enthusiastic and courteous attitude. Look the employer in the
eye and use a firm (but not crushing) handshake. Be aware of your body
language - slouching or crossed arms relays boredom and defensiveness
to the employer. Listen carefully to the questions and respond clearly and
decisively. Your answers should be positive; never criticize former
employers. Answer with “yes” and “no,” never “yeah,” “nah,” or “uh-huh.”
Be Polite to the Be pleasant to the receptionist and secretary. The employer will consult
Receptionist and with them after you have left, and they will surely mention if you were rude
Secretary or ill-prepared. Introduce yourself and call them by name. Do not ask them
for information about the job such as salary, the business’s competitors, or
the boss’s personality. Do not complain about the directions or the company,
and avoid any negative comments.
Dress Professionally In addition to acting professionally, you must look professional and wear
your best business attire. Detailed advice is provided on page 11.
Close the Interview If you are interested in the position, make sure you say so. Offer your
appreciation for the interviewer’s time and consideration and ask for their
business card. Telephone them in a week or so to reconfirm your interest
and to inquire about when a final decision is expected to be made. However,
if you get the sense that you are not suited for the job, inquire about other
positions within the company that might better match your qualifications. If
nothing is currently available, ask to be kept in mind for future opportunities.
The Thank You Note To strengthen your candidacy and establish goodwill, send a thank you
note to each person with whom you interviewed within two days of your
interview; an example is offered on page 47. Also, be sure to send thank
you notes to any of your networking contacts who gave you the relevant job
lead or agreed to be used as a reference.
Employers are looking for persons who not only have the necessary
experience and skills, but also demonstrate self-confidence and a
willingness to become a team player. These interview mistakes have
cost many people job opportunities - avoid them in order to secure your
next job!
• Inability to express oneself clearly. Answered questions with “yes” or “no” but
offered no explanation or further information.
• Arrived late and claimed that the directions given were wrong.
• Poor hygiene.
• Forgot to bring extra copies of the résumé and could not provide
any references.
Background Questions
Background questions are geared more to your personal growth, including your personality, education,
and overall career development. They are used to determine if you are a well-rounded individual leading
a happy, balanced life.
Example Q&A: “What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishments to date?”
- “While I always enjoyed the challenge of learning and wanted to obtain a college degree, my family did
not find value in a college degree. I was able to finance my education through scholarships and work,
and last year I became the first college graduate in my family.”
• Tell me about yourself.
• How would your friends and past employers describe you?
• What makes you lose your temper?
• Where do you see yourself five years from now? Ten years?
• How satisfied are you with your career progress?
• How do you make use of your spare time?
• Why did you choose your college major? How did this prepare you for your career?
• What classes did you enjoy the most? The least?
Management Questions
These questions are often used to determine what kind of management style you work well with and if
you fit the company’s work philosophy. Refrain from criticizing former employees or employers.
Example Q&A: “Describe a problem you had with your last supervisor and how you resolved it.”
- “Due to a miscommunication, I was unaware that my supervisor would be out of the office for three
days to attend a conference and would therefore be unable to sign necessary paperwork. I found his
hotel number and faxed him the papers to be signed and returned. To avoid future issues, I suggested
using a manager’s log to record issues, schedules, and projects, thereby improving communication.”
• To what type of managerial style do you respond best?
• What do you see as the major role of management? Why?
• Who is involved in your planning process? In what ways do you involve them?
• What methods and techniques do you employ when managing others? How effective are these?
• How do you motivate employees and maintain good morale?
• How do you go about planning for department results?
• What is the proper balance between managerial control and employee independence?
Stress Questions
Stress questions are intended to test your response to stressful situations. Take a deep breath, remain
calm, and give a positive answer focusing on what you learned or how you have changed.
Example Q&A: “Describe a flaw in your working style.”
- “In the past, I have procrastinated on large projects, resulting in requests for deadline extensions.
However, I have learned to break projects down into smaller steps, schedule my time better, and now I
finish projects before deadlines.”
• What aspects of your work are most often criticized?
• You seem underqualified for this position. Why should I hire you?
• Describe a time when you failed to solve a conflict with a co-worker.
• Describe a time when you failed to perform your job.
• What would you do if I told you that I thought you were giving a very poor interview today?
Consult the chart below to familiarize yourself with your legal rights. If you feel you have been discriminated
against, contact your local DOL office or call the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and
Opportunities at 1-800-477-5737.
Age Are you under the age of 18? When were you born? How old are you?
Are you a citizen? Do you intend to When did you become a citizen? Are
Citizenship
become a citizen? your parents/spouse/children citizens?
Criminal Records Have you been convicted of a crime? Have you ever been arrested?
What school did you attend/graduate When did you graduate? - or any question
Education
from? What did you study? that would indicate an applicant's age.
Are you a U.S. veteran? What is your Are you receiving a service-connected
Military
U.S. military service history? disability pension?
Any question about an organization that
Are you the member of any organizations
would indicate the religion, race, sexual
Organizations which advocate overthrowing the U.S.
preference, or national origin of its
Government by violent means?
members.
No questions, unless asked for What is your race? Photos cannot be
Race
Affirmative Action purposes required with an application.
A. A.
If you have a criminal record, an Substance abuse not only affects your
employer is more likely to give you a mental and physical health, but also
chance if they feel you have become your family, friends and employers. Al-
an honest, dependable person. Do not lie about Anon teaches that for every alcoholic, twelve people
your history; parole officers often call employers to are affected. Unfortunately, those twelve people
confirm they know of an employee’s criminal will be the ones you care about most.
conviction. If you lie on an application, you can be
Substance abuse has become a $100 billion a year
fired, regardless of how well you are doing your
problem for employers. When employees call in
job. When an employer asks about your criminal
sick or cannot work to their full potential, an
conviction, state your crime but do not go into detail.
employer loses productivity and revenue.
Instead, your reply should focus on your current
Furthermore, mistakes made while under the
and future plans for improvement. Do not make
influence of drugs or alcohol can lead to a faulty
excuses or downplay your criminal record in any
product and lost customers. Add to this the cost of
way. Mention any training that has helped you
insurance and treatment for employees with
change your behavior, such as the Intentional Skill
substance abuse problems, and employers are
Development (I.S.D.). For example:
forced to have a firm no-drug policy.
“I see on your application that you have had a
Employers have several different ways of screening
criminal conviction. What were you convicted of?”
applicants to determine a potential substance
“I was convicted of armed robbery. My two-year abuse problem. They may test urine, hair or blood
sentence gave me the opportunity to face my samples, ask you to take a polygraph (lie detector)
mistakes and decide where my future was headed. test, and directly question you. They may also ask
After being released early for good behavior, I your views on drugs - if they should be legalized, if
enrolled in a class to earn my G.E.D., have you consider casual use acceptable, etc. Some
reconnected with my family, and am seeking employers will tell you in advance of testing, others
employment to support myself.” prefer unannounced testing. If you lie about drug
Pursuing education or training and volunteer work use and tests prove that you use drugs, you can
are good ways to establish your reliability and build be fired for lying. If you refuse to take a test, it will
references. The more skills you develop, the more probably be interpreted as a sign of drug use.
an employer will be willing to hire you. Be realistic If you are tested, be sure to mention any
about where you apply. For instance, if your prescription and over-the-counter drugs you take
criminal conviction involves monetary theft, you to the test administrator before the test is given.
probably won’t be able to get a position working in Ask what would cause a positive result - it depends
a bank or as a cashier. Remember to take things on the type of test used, the type of drug, and how
one step at a time; your first job is merely a stepping long ago the drug was used. Inquire if any foods
stone to a better one. As you continue to work you or drinks can trigger a false positive result - poppy
will build a reputation, contacts, and referrals to help seeds are an example.
you develop your career.
If you feel you need help with a drug or alcohol
problem, contact your doctor or look in the yellow
pages for treatment centers and support groups.
Infoline is a telephone service that links callers to
appropriate help; to contact them dial 211.
A. A.
Employers are often hesitant to hire an Employers view overqualified applicants
older worker for several reasons. They as a risk because they will probably be
may view you to be overqualified, slower dissatisfied with their daily tasks and
to adapt to new technology or ideas, or less soon seek new work. Presenting interest in both
ambitious than younger workers. It is your job to the position and company will help to sway the
present your age as an advantage. employer’s mind.
During interviews point out that as a mature worker, Emphasize that you are fully qualified, not
you have more dedication to an employer and will overqualified, and don’t discuss all your skills, but
tend to stay longer in a position and company than only the ones that are relevant to the position.
a younger person eager to build a new career. Express how you view both the position and
Mention that you have years of experience dealing company as important. Find out as much as you
with various personalities and developing problem- can about the company and discuss what impressed
solving skills. If appropriate, mention that the aging you about its history, present and future. Ask
client population may better relate to a worker in questions about the position itself, and future goals
the same age group. It is important to mention new for the person in that job. If you have had a similar
skills you have learned and programs or classes position in the past, mention what you miss about
that you have attended. Express an interest in new the work. Point out work experience where you have
solutions and give examples of your efforts to use stayed for years to establish your loyalty to a
change to solve a problem. company.
Make it harder to distinguish your age. A new suit An employer who views you as overqualified will be
along with an updated hairstyle and glasses can sure to ask why you want the position. Prepare an
make you look years younger. You will also be answer that relates your dedication to the position.
viewed as keeping up-to-date with new ideas and An employer would likely view you as less of a risk
open to change. Avoid comments that hint at your if you are taking a position with less responsibility in
age, such as “I spend as much time as I can with order to have more time for the care of children and
my grandchildren,” or “I graduated from my college parents, or to pursue personal goals. If this is the
in the 50’s, I imagine it has changed a great deal case, inform the interviewer of these changes.
since then.” Instead, use comments such as “I
Employers spend an average of 30 seconds to
enjoy the time I get to share with my family,” and
review a résumé before further consideration. If your
“I am very proud of the education I earned at my
résumé displays too much experience or skills, you
alma mater.” On your résumé, omit graduation
may be immediately discounted. Rework your
dates and early work experience. However,
résumé to display less information. List skills and
graduation dates are an advantage if obtained
experience relative to the position you are applying
within the past ten years.
for and omit some of the irrelevant experience. An
It is illegal for an employer to inquire about your employer will only view you as overqualified if you
age, but some may ask for your date of birth, supply the information. The résumé is key to
graduation date, or other inquiries that would obtaining an interview.
establish your age. If you choose not to supply
the information, make sure your answers are calm
and polite, not agitated or defensive. Consult
groups such as AARP and GreenThumb for job
development advice for mature workers.
The thank you letter should be mailed within two days after an interview, even if you feel there is no
immediate job opportunity for you at that company. Thank the interviewer for his or her time, and refer to
the topics discussed along with your ideas and qualifications. If you are certain that you would not
accept an offer, ask to be kept in mind for a more appropriate position. If you interviewed with more than
one person, send a thank you letter to each individual. Also send a letter to anyone who informed you
about the job opportunity. Each letter should be written with an individual person in mind and make
specific reference to subjects discussed. As always, provide contact information, type the letter, and
double check spelling and grammar.
42 Blossom Drive
Wethersfield, CT 06109
(860) 555-5555
August 23, 2002
Chris Thompson
Editor
American Literature Monthly
55 Elm Street
Hartford, CT 06106
Thank you for the opportunity to meet with you. I am very interested
in working for American Literature Monthly, and look forward to future
discussions.
Sincerely,
(Signature)
Andrew Dragon
There are many books, Web sites, and agencies that offer career planning information. Visit your local
library, school, or DOL office to access these more popular resources. Call Infoline at 211 to obtain
information on support groups, volunteering opportunities, and child care referrals.
Books Internet
But What If I Don’t Want To Go To Career Focus 2000 Interest Inventory
College? A Guide to Success www.iccweb.com/careerfocus/index.asp -
Through Alternative Education, by questionnaire that determines level of interest
Harlow G. Unger. in an occupational field and provides a list of
Do What You Are: Discover the Perfect occupations matching interest.
Career for You Through the Secrets The Career Key www.ncsu.edu/careerkey
of Personality Type, by Paul D. Tieger Assessment tool in a game format
and Barbara Barron-Tieger. The Keirsey Temperament Sorter
Do What You Love The Money Will www.keirsey.com - on-line personality
Follow: Discovering Your Right questionnaire.
Livelihood, by Marsha Sinetar. The Riley Guide www.rileyguide.com -
I Could Do Anything If I Only Knew What researches your skills, occupations, and
It Was: How to Discover What You employers.
Really Want and How to Get It, by The TypeFocus Personality Profile
Barbara Sher. www.typefocus.com - quick, easy questionnaire
What Color is Your Parachute? A to help discover your personality type.
Practical Manual for Job-Hunters &
Career Changers, by Richard Bolles.
More information is available at
www.jobhuntersbible.com.
w Information on Occupations
Books Internet
America’s Career InfoNet - www.acinet.org
Jobs Rated Almanac, by Les Krantz. Connecticut Department of Higher Education -
Occupational Outlook Handbook, by the www.ctdhe.org
Bureau of Labor Statistics. Available in Connecticut Distance Learning Consortium -
print and on-line at www.bls.gov/ www.ctdlc.org
ocohome.htm Connecticut Licensing Information Center -
www.ct-clic.com
Peterson’s Guide - www.petersons.com
The Connecticut DOL’s Office of Research -
www.ctdol.state.ct.us/lmi produces the
following publications:
l Connecticut Career Paths
l Connecticut Occupational Employment &
Wages
l Writing your Résumé for Success
l Your Job Search Guide
Books
Gallery of Best Résumés: A Collection of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to the Perfect
Quality Résumés, by David F. Noble. Résumé, by Susan Ireland.
101 Great Answers to the Toughest Interview The Everything Get a Job Book: From
Questions, by Ron Fry. Résumé Writing to Interviewing to Finding
Tons of Job Openings, by Steven Graber.
Web Sites for Posting Your Résumé and Receiving Job Search Advice
AARP - www.aarp.com - offers career and life advice for mature workers.
Connecticut’s Job Bank - www.ajb.org/ct
Connecticut Department of Administrative Services - www.das.state.ct.us - provides
information on State of Connecticut Employment.
Connecticut Department of Labor - www.ctdol.state.ct.us - links to Connecticut’s Job
Bank and the Job & Career Connection. Upcoming job fairs are also listed.
Connecticut Job & Career ConneCTion - www.ctjobandcareer.org - offers the most
comprehensive source of information on jobs, careers in Connecticut.
CTnow.com - www.ctnow.com - provides career advice, résumé posting, job listings, and
links to other sites.
Job-Hunt.org - www.job-hunt.org - internet accessible job search resources and services.
MonsterTRAK - www.jobtrak.com - advice and job postings for college students and recent
graduates.
Monster - www.monster.com - post your résumé on-line and receive job seeking advice.
Wetfeet - www.wetfeet.com - researches companies and occupations and enables you to
post your résumé.
You Belong in ConneCTicut - www.youbelonginct.com - links to several job search Web
sites and provides information on Connecticut.
Avon St. Ann’s Church, Rt. 167 & Arch Road. 860-673-7650.
East Haddam First Church of Christ Congregational, 499 Town Street (Rt.151). 860-873-2824.
Gales Ferry St. David’s Episcopal Church, Routes 12 & 214. 860-464-6516.
Glastonbury St. Dunstan Church, Manchester Road & Hebron Avenue. 860-633-3317.
New Canaan St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 111 Oenoke Ridge. 203-972-3519.
First Presbyterian Church, 178 Oenoke Ridge. 203-857-4625.
New Haven New Haven Job Club, Catholic Family Services, 478 Orange St. 203-787-2207.
New Haven CTWORKS, 560 Ella Grasso Boulevard. 203-624-1493 ext. 210.
Southport Trinity Job Network Group, Trinity Church, Pequot Avenue at Center Street. 203-755-0454.
www.ctdol.state.ct.us/fbo/default.htm
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The Connecticut Job & Career ConneCTion provides on-line information on career
development, occupational profiles, and finding employment, all at one site -
www.ctjobandcareer.org.
DOL-700
Rev. 5/03
0043-700-12