Managing a Job Search PDF

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After compile the the list, list, discuss discuss how how you could job search. could effectively effectively use u§e each eaid1resource resource in in a a job search. 307 ch16.qxp 9/23/2009 2:10 PM Page 308 308 Chapter 16 ■ Managing a Job Search Analyzing Job Search Resources Career self-assessment can help you choose a career path that will bring you satisfaction. T he first step in applying for a job is finding out what jobs are available. How can you find opportunities that meet your needs and fit your strengths? You can use job search resources—tools designed to help you find job leads—to identify opportunities for employment. You can use a variety of resources to identify available jobs. You will probably need to use more than one of the following resources. ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Networking uses people you know to help you find opportunities. Online resources let you access information and job listings on the Internet. Want ads are a traditional source for job listings. Career counselors help you identify jobs that match your skills, interests, and abilities. Employment agencies work to match employers with employees. Job fairs provide an opportunity to introduce yourself to many different employers. Knowing how to make the most out of available job search resources is critical for finding a job. {)={]@'W [k©)[n)~ Does [Q)@@~It ~~ Take li©l~@ How Long ~@ ~[n)©]@ Find a ]@©1 Job? to Surveys show that the average time it takes to find a job is between 12 and 24 weeks—that’s 3 to 6 months! In a down economy with a high unemployment rate, it can take longer than that. Knowing that it can take a long time to find a job helps keep you from becoming discouraged, or giving up. Some experts recommend that you begin an active job search 6 to 9 months before the date you hope to start working. During that time, you can work at a job to earn money, or volunteer to gain experience. If you treat your job search like a job itself, you know you are actively working to achieve your career goals. How much time would you spend working each day if you had the job you want? Try to spend that time working on your job search. You might not be earning an income, but you can meet your responsibilities by developing your employability skills, creating and improving job search materials, and exploring resources that might lead to job prospects— the possibility of employment. ch16.qxp 9/23/2009 2:11 PM Page 309 Managing a Job Search ■ Chapter 16 309 What Is Networking? Some studies show that nearly 80 percent of all job openings are never advertised. How can you find out about a job if it isn’t advertised? Network! Networking in a job search means sharing information about yourself and your career goals with personal contacts—people you know already, or new people you meet in any area of your life. Hopefully, one of the contacts works for a company that is hiring, or knows someone at a company that is hiring. The contact recommends you for the position. Employers like to hire people who come with a recommendation from someone they know and trust. Here’s how it works: 1. You see a cousin at a family party and tell him that you are trying to find a job as a paralegal—someone who works in a law office assisting lawyers with legal paperwork. 2. Your cousin is bowling with friends and mentions that you are looking for a position as a paralegal. 3. One of the bowling buddies tells his mother, who is a lawyer, about you. 4. The law firm where she works is looking for a paralegal. She invites you to apply for the job. How Do I Network? The first step in networking is to tell everyone you know that you are looking for work. Be specific about your career goals. Tell your family, friends, classmates, and teachers. If you volunteer, tell the people at the volunteer organization. If you are a member of a club or organization, tell the other members. Stay in touch with your contacts through regular calls or e-mails. Set up a networking file to keep track of each contact. Set up the file using index cards or a computer program. In the file, include: The name, occupation, mailing address, phone number, and e-mail address of each contact. ■ A reminder of how you know the contact. Is it a personal friend? “I "I Did you meet through someone else? Did you meet through a wonder ifif wonder club or organization? this person will this pernori will ■ Notes about each time you communicate with the contact. be be a ai good good The first time you call a contact, explain who you are and contact?” coritaict?" why you are calling. Do not ask for a job. Instead, ask for: ■ ■ ■ ■ Job leads Information about occupations and companies, such as what trends are affecting a certain industry Introductions to people who might become part of your network Remember to give the contact your phone number and e-mail address so he or she can reach you. Always be polite, speak clearly, and say thank you. 0 Job Search. Career Research. What’s the Difference? You completed a career selfassessment worksheet. You picked two careers that match your interests, skills, and abilities. Why isn’t anyone asking you for an interview? You are spending only a couple of hours a week on your job search. You are applying for positions that require more skill and training than you currently have. You do not have personal recommendations for the positions. You are applying for the same job that hundreds of other candidates are applying for, too. You are continuing to spend time building a network of contacts. You keep your job search materials organized to make it easy to apply to any new job opening. You use all available job search resources to increase your chances of finding a job. Remember, career research helps you identify types of careers that match your skills, interests, and abilities. A job search identifies specific job openings and opportunities for employment. How can you use your career research to help you in your job search? ch16.qxp 9/23/2009 2:11 PM Page 310 310 Chapter 16 ■ Managing a Job Search Government Job Gove1r1nmer11r(f; Jo/b Search Resources SMJrrclo ~ourrce.§ Some Web sites that link to government job search resources include: Using Online Resources The Internet is a great tool for finding career prospects and job leads. You can even use it to make contacts for networking. Some of the more effective online resources include: Company Web sites.You can learn a lot about a company from its Web site, including what they do, the backgrounds of the people who work there, and ✔ Federal: who to contact in each department. Most sites also have a page listing job openings, with information on how to apply. Even if there are no openings that www.usajobs.opm.gov interest you, you can contact the human resources department to try to set up www.allthegovernmentjobs.com an informational interview. www.jobsfed.com/ ■ Government sites. Like corporations, government agencies list information and www.studentjobs.gov/ job openings. There are also government Web sites that provide job listings. ✔ Texas: ■ Industry sites. Many industries and industry associations have Web sites that list job opportunities. For example, if you are interested in a career as a social www.twc.state.tx.us/jobs/job.html worker, you could look for positions on www.socialworkjobbank.com. ✔ New York: ■ Online job agencies. Companies such as Monster.com or CareerBuilder.com list job openings and let you upload your resume for employers to look at. You can www.labor.state.ny.us/ search these sites for jobs in a field or career that interests you. Some of these lookingforajob.shtm sites charge fees. ✔ California: ■ Social networking sites.You can use social networking sites such as Facebook or LinkedIn to meet contacts and learn about jobs. There are groups for people in www.ca.gov/Employment/Jobs.html certain careers, or who work for specific companies. Employers join these sites, as well. They look for potential employees based on the personal profile you create. What Happens Next? That’s an important reason for only posting information Jane is looking for a summer job. She is that would be appropriate for a potential employer to see! considering a career in hospitality, so she would like to work in a hotel. Using a Career Center Glenna is also looking for a summer job. She is considering a career in law, so she would like to A career center is an excellent place to start a job search. work in a law office. Your school might have a career center that you can use Jane goes online and starts looking through want ads. free of charge. Career centers have job listings, research She sends out her resume to a few hotels in the area, but resources, and counselors who will help you identify jobs does not hear back from any. She goes to the library and that match your skills and interests. They can also introlooks through the want ads in newspapers and magazines. duce you to former students who are now employed— She sends out more resumes, and still gets no response. giving you more opportunities for networking. She is beginning to think she will never find a job. Employment offices are similar to career centers. Some Glenna also looks online and in newspapers and magare sponsored by the state or local government. They proazines. She makes an appointment with a career counselor vide job search resources and assistance free of charge. at school, who helps her compile a list of offices in the community. The counselor gives Glenna the name and Private employment agencies charge a fee to match phone number of a lawyer she knows. Glenna makes time employees with employers. Sometimes you pay the fee, one afternoon to personally drop off her resume at a few and sometimes the employer pays the fee. Sometimes you of the local law offices. She calls the lawyer and asks if she pay even if you don’t find a job. They all have different can come in for an informational interview. She feels that policies, so be sure to ask before you sign a contract. her chances of finding a job she wants are pretty good. Temporary employment agencies are hired by a company What is different about the way the two girls are to fill temporary jobs. For example, a company might approaching their job searches? Which girl do you think need temporary data entry help to complete a large projhas a better chance of finding a summer job? Using your ect, or help to fill in for a worker on vacation or on a 21st Century Skills—such as decision making, goal setleave of absence. Temporary jobs can lead to a permanent ting, and problem solving—write an ending to the story. position. They are also a good way to build skills, gain Read it to the class, or form a small group and present it experience, and meet people in the industry. as a skit. ■ ch16.qxp 9/23/2009 2:12 PM Page 311 Managing a Job Search ■ Chapter 16 311 /I.§It /It Too 7/"()() Good ((;()()di Is to Be True? ~!Be 7rr(J,{Je? What About Want Ads? Another resource used by job seekers are help wanted ads. Help wanted ads— which are sometimes called classified ads—are printed in newspapers and magazines, and posted online at newspaper and magazine Web sites. Usually, there are many ads listed alphabetically. They may be organized into general categories, such as Medical, Professional, and Education. For example, if you are looking for a teaching position, you would look at the listings under Education. Help wanted ad listings usually include a job title and a very brief description of the responsibilities and experience required. Sometimes they include information about wages and hours. There may be a phone number or e-mail address to contact for more information or to apply, or a mailing address where you can send a resume. Do not fall for employment scams, such as a job ad that promises income of thousands of dollars a week and requires no experience or education. If a job description sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Be wary of any job that: ✔ Asks you to pay for something ✔ Managing Your Job Search Resources “I "I Keeping your job search resources organized will help you folwonder how wonder how low up every possibility. When you are actively looking for many kids are mainy kids are work at many companies, it is easy to forget who you spoke going to apply going to apply to and even what you spoke about. An employer might not for the the same for saime look favorably on someone who repeats the same conversajob?” job?" tion, or cannot remember who referred her in the first place. ■ ■ ■ ■ ✔ ✔ up front Asks for a scan of your passport or other personal information Offers a part-time, work-fromhome job that earns a large salary Includes money transfers or money transactions in the job description Comes from an agency representing a cruise ship Keep a to-do list of tasks you want to accomplish each day, such as people you want to contact, resumes you have to send out, and thank✔ you notes to write. Cross off each item you complete, and add new items as they come up. Contact some people in your network every day. Make brief phone calls, or send brief e-mail messages to let them know you are looking for work, and to ask for assistance finding job opportunities. Follow up on all leads. Keep a record of the people you contact, including phone numbers, e-mail addresses, and mailing addresses. Include the dates and times, the method of communication, and the result. Did they invite you in for an interview? Did they refer you to someone else? Set up folders for storing documents that relate to your job search. Use the folders to keep Job Search track of information you send to If you enjoy researching careers, and matching skills, each contact or potential employabilities, and interests with jobs, you might want to er, and the response you get back. consider a career in human resources. Most compaThe folder might include copies nies have a human resources department—or a perof the cover letter and samples of achievement you sent. It might sonnel department. People who work in human also include notes you took durresources review job applications, advise employees on work- and ing a phone call or interview, a career-related issues, and manage employee records. brochure about the company, and The educational requirements depend on the specific job, but usually a printout of an e-mail message require a bachelor’s degree. Use the Internet, library, or your school’s you received. guidance resources to learn more about a career in human resources. Write a job description, including the educational requirements, career pathway, and potential salary range. ch16.qxp 9/23/2009 2:13 PM Page 312 312 Chapter 16 ■ Managing a Job Search Creating Job Search Materials The documents you use in your job search can influence an employer’s opinion of you. E mployers often consider tens or even hundreds of candidates for every job opening. Sometimes they shuffle through stacks of letters, or field multiple phone calls. How can you make a positive impression and show you are serious and qualified for the job? You can prepare professional, accurate job search materials, including a resume, cover letter, and list of references. ■ ■ ■ Your resume may be the most important job search document. It is a written summary of your workrelated skills, experience, and education. It is so important, it has its own section, starting on page 314. A cover letter is sent along with your resume. It introduces you to a potential employer and highlights the qualities that make you suitable for the position you want. A list of references includes the names and contact information of people who know you and your qualifications, and who are willing to speak about you to potential employers. Do I Need a Portfolio? If you are looking for a position in a creative career, such as photography, graphic design, or journalism, a portfolio that includes samples of current work, such as clips of published articles or samples of artwork. is an important part of your job search materials. It lets you show potential employers your abilities and achievements. It is a good idea to have the original sample in the portfolio if possible, and to have copies available to give to potential employers. Artists sometimes create slides of their artwork to include in a portfolio. Everyone looking for work should keep a career portfolio for storing documents such as a resume, cover letters, personal data sheet, and list of references. You can use a career portfolio as a resource when you are applying for jobs or going to an interview. For example, if you have your reference list with you when you are filling out a job application, you do not have to worry about remembering names and contact information. ch16.qxp 9/23/2009 2:17 PM Page 313 Managing a Job Search ■ Chapter 16 313 Why Do I Need a Cover Letter? When you include a cover letter with your resume, you make a better impression on the employer than if you send the resume alone. Including a cover letter shows that you have taken the time to match your qualifications with a specific job. A cover letter should be short and to the point. Direct it to the person who is responsible for hiring. If you do not know the person’s name, title, and address, call the company and ask. You can customize the cover letter to the job opening you are applying for. Use it to tell the employer why you are interested in that job, and why you are qualified to do the work. Even when you send a resume electronically, it is important to send a cover letter. For example, you can write the cover letter in an e-mail message, and include the resume as an attachment. When you write a cover letter, ask yourself these questions: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Have I identified the job title for the job I want? Have I stated where I learned about the position? Have I listed the skills I have that make me qualified for the position? Have I thanked the reader for his or her time and consideration? Have I checked for and corrected all spelling and grammatical errors? How Do I Choose a Reference? A reference is someone who knows you well and is willing to speak to employers about your qualifications. A good reference knows your positive work qualities and values, understands your abilities and interests, and can describe how you behave in a work environment. 8 Create a reference list to include in your career portfolio, and make sure you have it available to give to employers when they ask. Put your name and contact information at the top, and use the heading “References.” Select at least three people, and ask them for permission to use them as a reference. On the list, include each person’s full name, occupation, mailing address, e-mail address, and daytime telephone number. Some people who make good references include former or current employers, coaches, club advisors, and teachers. A relative or best friend is not usually a good choice for a reference because relatives and friends may not be objective about you and your strengths and weaknesses. What message do you think spelling errors in a cover letter sends about your qualifications as an employee? October 3, 2012 Ms. Helen White MNO company 4671 Highland Avenue Palatine, IL 60067 Dear Ms. White, I am writing in response to the job posting for a human resources assistant that I saw on your Web site. I am enclosing my resume for your review. For the past two years, I have worked as an account assistant at Employ Action, LLC., an employment agency. In that time, I have learned a great deal about employment options and opportunities. I am a hard worker who is looking for new challenges. I would welcome the opportunity to speak with you personally about the human resources assistant position. You can contact me by phone or e-mail using the information below. Thank you for your time and consideration, Sincerely, Thomas Leslie Thomas Leslie 2323 McCloud Street Palatine, IL 60067 555-555-5555 [email protected] MONEY MADNE$$ C an you save money by submitting your resume and cover letter electronically? How much does it cost to send a first class letter using the U.S. Postal Service? How many resumes are you going to send out? Say it costs 52 cents for each resume, and you plan to send out 20 resumes. How much will it cost? What if you send out 55 resumes? Write a paragraph explaining why the cost of mailing a resume and cover letter is worth it, or not, and what alternative methods of delivery you might use instead. ch16.qxp 9/23/2009 2:18 PM Page 314 314 Chapter 16 ■ Managing a Job Search Preparing a Resume Use your resume to provide a snapshot image of your qualifications. A resume is a document that summarizes you, your skills, and your abilities. It is a statement of who you are, what you have done in your life, and what you hope to do next. Your resume may be the first communication between you and a potential employer. You will make a positive impression if your resume is: ■ ■ ■ ■ Neatly printed on white paper True and accurate Free of any typographical, grammatical, or spelling errors Direct and to the point You want your resume to describe you in a way that makes the employer want to meet you. A well written resume will help you to get an interview. How Should I Format My Resume? There are many ways to organize or format a resume. Most word processing programs come with resume templates—sample documents. You can also find sample resume designs in books and on the Internet. Choose a format that highlights your experience and skills so they stand out to someone who might just glance at the resume quickly. Other factors to consider include: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Make it easy to read. Leave space between lines so it is not crowded or overloaded. Use one font, and apply different font styles and sizes for emphasis. Bullets are effective for making lines of text stand out. Use proper spelling, punctuation, and grammar. Keep it to one page, if possible; two pages at the most. (If you use two pages, be sure to put your name in the header or footer on page 2, in case it becomes separated from page 1.) Sometimes you will mail your resume in an envelope with a cover letter. Sometimes you will send it electronically by e-mail. Make sure it looks professional when it is printed, and when you view it on a computer. ch16.qxp 9/23/2009 2:21 PM Page 315 Managing a Job Search ■ Chapter 16 What to Include on Your Resume A typical resume has four main sections. ■ ■ You may also include a Skills section for listing jobs skills such as your ability to use computers or speak a foreign language. You might also want to include Personal Information, such as extracurricular activities, awards, and honors. You can list all clubs and organizations of which you are a member, and things you do in your school or community. Use Action Words! Action words are verbs that describe your actions in a way that makes them stand out to the reader. When you use action words to describe your responsibilities and skills in a cover letter or on your resume, it will bring your actions to life. ■ ■ ■ ■ Why do you think it is important to include extracurricular activities on your resume? Contact information. Include your full name, address, telephone number, and e-mail address at the top of the page. This gives the Clyde Duggan 2556 Granger Avenue employer all the information necessary Palatine, IL 60067 to get in touch with you. (555) 555-5555 Objective.An objective describes your career goal. It [email protected] should be short and clear. You can have a general, longObjective To work as a part-time sales associate in a fashion term goal as your objective, or you can customize your clothing store. resume for a specific position by using a short-term goal. Education Currently enrolled in Wickham High School; expect to For example, a general objective might be “To work in graduate in June 2013. fashion sales.” A customized objective might be “To work Work Experience as a part-time sales associate in a fashion clothing store.” 9/10–present Fashion consultant, HH Shelter for Women and Education. If you have little work experience, it is Children, Palatine, IL • Select and coordinate outfits for women preparing for important to highlight your education. List the name, job interviews. city, and state of every school where you earned a 5/09 Fashion show organizer, Wickham High School, degree, starting with high school (or the last school you Palatine, IL attended). Include the years you attended the school, the • Proposed, planned, and managed fashion show of degree you earned, and any special courses or certifistudent designs to raise funds for the HH Shelter for Women and Children. cates that relate to your career. You might want to include your grade point average, as well. Skills • Sewing • Clothing coordination and fit Work experience. Include all full-time and part-time • Basic math skills jobs, internships, apprenticeships, and volunteer experi• Fluent in Spanish ence, starting with the most recent experience first. Extracurricular Activities Include employment dates, job titles, company names, Family, Career and Community Leaders of America city, and state. Briefly describe your main responsibility, (FCCLA); member since 2008; chapter treasurer 2010–present and list your duties and accomplishments. Be specific. If you have work experience, you might want to put this section before Education. ■ ■ 315 Instead of Made lunch, try Cooked healthy lunches for 50 people. Instead of Filed papers, use Organized customer files alphabetically. Instead of Took pictures, try Photographed school events and functions for use on Web site and in newspaper. Instead of Know CPR, try Certified by the American Red Cross in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Other Action Words Otlloer Almon Word!& to to Consider Con&id!er Use a thesaurus—reference book of definitions and synonyms—to find action words to replace common verbs, such as go, have, or get. Some attention-getting action words for resumes include: ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Created Supervised Built Published Coached ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Operated Prepared Produced Planned Improved 9/23/2009 2:23 PM Page 316 6 (!fjjJ ~ @, Be sure to bring a few copies of your resume and reference list to hand out when you apply in person. Also, ask for business cards from the people you meet so you know how to contact them. ~ ■ ~ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Use a professional e-mail address. A cutesy address such as suzieq, lonewolf, daredevil, or wildgrrl828 is not likely to impress a potential employer. Even when you are asked to fill out a standard job application form, submit a resume as well. Be polite and professional to everyone you meet. Whether you apply in person or are speaking on the phone, be courteous and respectful to everyone. When you submit a resume online, ask whether you must use a specific format. Some companies want resumes in plain text format, others accept files created using a word processing program. Customize your resume for a specific job. You can customize the objective, or rearrange your experience and skills to highlight the information you think is most appropriate for the position. When you apply for a job, your short-term goal is to get invited for an interview. There are a few things you can do to improve your chances and to make your application stand out from the crowd. ~ In a small company, that means speaking directly with the owner or manager. For example, if you are applying for a position in a local restaurant, you would speak with the manager. In a large company, applying in person might mean going to the human resources department. Employees in the human resources department often meet job applicants first to decide whether they meet the qualifications for the position. @, @, Tips for Applying A successful job application will lead to an invitation for a job interview. Chapter 16 ■ Managing a Job Search = ~ ■ hen you find a job you think you want, you apply for it. Applying means that you present yourself as a candidate—possible employee— for the position. Applying usually starts with sending in your resume and a cover letter. Sometimes you can improve your chances of landing an interview by applying in person. W Applying for a Job 316 ch16.qxp ©l) ch16.qxp 9/23/2009 2:24 PM Page 317 Managing a Job Search ■ Chapter 16 317 Filling out a Job Application A job application is a standard form you will fill out when you apply for a job. You might fill it out in person when you visit a potential employer, or you might fill it out online. It requires a lot of the same information that you put on your resume, such as your contact information, as well as details about your education and work experience. It may ask for your Social Security number. What’s Important W!foat1'& llmporli&fP1Jt B(J,(J$iP1Je.§.§ Card? A/bout About aa Business Card? A business card lists contact information such as name, title, phone number, and e-mail address. What if you Filling out an application form may seem simple, but a lot of people make misattend a job fair and meet representakes, or forget important information. A messy or incomplete job application tatives from 10 companies? If you will not make a positive impression on the employer. collect business cards, you can: ■ Read the form before you start filling it out. ✭ Contact each representative using ■ Follow all instructions. the correct title and address. ■ Be truthful and accurate. ✭ Copy the information from each ■ Write neatly. business card into an electronic ■ Enter N/A for not applicable if there is a question that does not apply to you. database or contact manager. ■ Check your spelling and grammar. ✭ File the business cards in a busi■ If you make a mistake, ask for a new form and start again. ness card organizer for future use. You might find it helpful to bring a personal information card with you when you ✭ Write notes on the card to help apply for a job. A personal information card is an index card on which you write you remember details about the the information you might need, such as your Social Security number and people you meet. the contact information for your past employers. "01,, “Oh, What problems might arise if no! no! II can’t can't So That’s Why I Have a Career Portfolio! you forget to collect business remember remember my my cards from contacts that you You can use the documents you have in your career portfolio to help Social Sodal Security Security fill out a job application. Your resume includes facts you will need meet? number! What numbel"l What about your previous employers. Your reference list includes the names and contact information of your references. should should II do?” do?" If you do not want to bring your entire career portfolio with you, write key facts on index cards, or print this information on a piece of paper: ■ ■ ■ ■ Your Social Security number The names and addresses of your previous employers, including dates, and the amount you were paid The names and addresses of schools where you earned a degree, including dates The names and addresses of your references TECH CONNECT Careers in the field of technology range from software programming and game development to hardware installation and maintenance. However, almost every job in every field requires experience with technology. Office workers use computer applications to create business documents, databases, and spreadsheets. Graphic designers use programs to create artwork. Even jobs such as construction or animal care benefit from an understanding of how to use technology to communicate with others, plan a schedule, and store customer information. How are your technology skills? Do you have experience keyboarding? Have you used a presentation graphics program? Do you know how to write a program, install an app on a cell phone, or add memory to your PC? Make a list of your technology skills and experience. Write a paragraph explaining how these skills and experience might be useful at work. ch16.qxp 9/23/2009 2:26 PM Page 318 318 Chapter 16 ■ Managing a Job Search Interviewing for a Job A job interview is successful if you convince the interviewer to offer you the job. It is also successful if you learn that the position would not be right for you. W hat happens when an employer reads your cover letter and resume and thinks you have the qualifications she is looking for? She invites you for a job interview. A job interview is a meeting between a job seeker and a potential employer—the interviewer. A job interview helps you and the interviewer make important decisions: ■ ■ The interviewer decides if the job seeker is the best person for the position. You decide if the position is one you really want. Both you and the interviewer can use the job interview to get to know each other. You learn information that you cannot learn from a cover letter or resume. For example, the interviewer learns whether or not you make eye contact. You learn if people at the company are friendly. Telephone Interviews Many companies use telephone interviews to screen— make a first decision about—potential employees. They might be interested in you based on your cover letter and resume, but want to see how you present yourself during a conversation before they invite you for a faceto-face interview. ■ ■ Some employers will call or e-mail to schedule a telephone interview. Then, you can prepare for the call the same way you would prepare for a face-to-face interview (see the next page). Some employers will call out of the blue. This lets them learn how well you handle stress, and if you are able to communicate effectively without preparation. You can prepare for surprise calls by practicing with a friend or relative. You can also make sure you are always prepared to talk about a company you apply to, the position, and yourself. ch16.qxp 9/23/2009 2:26 PM Page 319 Managing a Job Search ■ Chapter 16 319 Preparing for a Job Interview A test is always easier if you are prepared. A job interview is like a test—if you pass, you are offered the job. Use these four steps to prepare for a job interview. 1. Research the company or organization where you are going for the interview. Talk to someone who works there. Visit the company’s Web site. 2. Make a list of questions an interviewer might ask you. Common questions include, “Tell me about yourself.”, “Why do you want to work here?”, “Do you have the skills to get the work done?”, and “Why should I hire you?”. 3. Prepare answers to the questions.Be specific. Emphasize your strengths, skills, and abilities. Explain how you solved a problem, made an important decision, or showed responsibility. Mention your goals, and how you plan to achieve them. 4. Make a list of five to ten questions you can ask the interviewer. Ask about the company, the work environment, and the position. Common questions include “What kinds of projects or tasks will I be responsible for?”, “Is there opportunity for advancement?”, “What are the hours?”, “What is the salary range?”, and “When will you make a hiring decision?”. How can practicing for an interview help you perform better in an actual interview? Practicing for a Job Interview A job interview is stressful. You are trying to make a good impression. You want to look and sound your best. You want the interviewer to like you and to respect you. Practicing for the interview by rehearsing your behavior and answers to questions helps give you confidence. Working with a partner is probably the best way to practice. You can take turns being the interviewer and the job seeker. If you are alone, practice in front of a mirror. If possible, record your practice so you can watch yourself. Test IT Yourself ! Does practicing really make a difference in your ability to answer questions? Conduct an experiment to find out: 1. 1. Think of ten questions, type them in a word processor, and print six copies. Start with easy questions, such as “When is your birthday?”, and progress to questions that require more and more thought, such as “What is your favorite color?”, “When is your mother’s birthday?”, or “On what continent is the country of France?”. 22.. Assemble 10 volunteers and split them into two groups. 33.. Give the list of questions to the five volunteers in the first group (keep one copy for yourself). 44.. One at a time, out of earshot of the others, ask each volunteer in the second group—the group that has not seen the questions—each question. Rate how quickly and accurately they answer each question on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the best. 55.. One at a time, out of earshot of the others, ask each volunteer in the first group to answer each question. Rate their responses based on speed and accuracy. 66.. Analyze the results. Which group ranked higher in terms of how quickly and accurately they answered the questions? Did the group who had a chance to prepare do better? 77.. Write a paragraph explaining the results. Use a chart or graph to illustrate your results. Tips for Practicing Tipsfor Pnud:kip,pg for aa J~/b Job Interview !hotemerw for Practicing your interview will help you feel comfortable and prepared. Use the time to rehearse your words and actions for the actual interview. Here are some tips for practicing: ✔ Be truthful. ✔ Pronounce your words in a strong, clear voice. ✔ Keep your answers brief and to the point. ✔ Use positive nonverbal communication, such as eye contact, relaxed arms, and good posture. ✔ Dress as you would for an actual interview. ✔ Avoid fidgeting or playing with your hair. ✔ Ask someone to critique your interviewing skills and use their comments to improve your technique. ch16.qxp 9/23/2009 2:28 PM Page 320 320 Chapter 16 ■ Managing a Job Search Looking Your Best uo!ldg,gg Yo(J,{JJr Bi!td Interview for an for a/J1J IIfJ1Ji:ernerw Some tips for presenting a professional appearance: ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Wash, dry, and comb your hair. Making the Most of the Job Interview Many interviews are 10–15 minutes long. How can you best use that time to get a job offer? ■ ■ Trim and clean your fingernails. ■ Use deodorant. ■ Brush your teeth. ■ Avoid products such as perfume or body spray that have a strong odor. ✔ Wear small, neat jewelry. ✔ Wear clean, neat clothes that are appropriate for the work environment. ✔ Avoid bright or contrasting colors that might distract the employer. ✔ Avoid revealing too much skin. ✔ Arrive early enough so you have time to visit the restroom to check your appearance and freshen up. ■ ■ ■ ■ Dress neatly and professionally. Your clothes should be clean and appropriate for the workplace. Be clean. Comb your hair, brush your teeth, and wear deodorant. Avoid using body products that have a strong odor. Arrive ten minutes early. Be polite and respectful to everyone you meet. Shake hands with your interviewer. Listen carefully, using positive body language. For example, smile and lean forward slightly when the interviewer is talking. Use proper English when you speak; no slang. Avoid chewing gum, cell phone calls, and texting. At the end of the interview, shake hands again, and thank the interviewer. Ask for a business card, so you have the interviewer’s contact information. A neat appearance, positive attitude, and confidence will make a good impression. In fact, studies show that interviewers judge job seekers first by appearance, next by behavior, and third by what they say. After the Interview The interview is over. Now what? Start by writing a thank-you note. A thank-you note reminds the interviewer that you are serious about wanting the job. You can use a thank-you note to restate your interest in the job and your qualifications, and to thank the interviewer for spending time with you. Refer to something specific that you discussed during the interview. Address the note to the person who interviewed you—that’s why you asked for the business card! Send the note within 24 hours of the interview. Myth “Wow. "WowolI got got the the job!” job!" Interviewers all ask the same questions. Truth Most interviewers ask questions that relate to the job opening, the company, and the individual candidate. A good interviewer will know how to ask questions that encourage you to describe your own strengths and weaknesses. 0 “I "I didn't didn't get get the job. Did the jobo Did II do do something something wrong?” wrong?" ch16.qxp 9/23/2009 2:29 PM Page 321 Managing a Job Search ■ Chapter 16 321 What’s Taking So Long? During the interview, you asked how long it would be before the interviewer made a decision. If you do not hear from the interviewer within that timeframe, you can call or send an e-mail. Ask if he or she has made a decision, and say again that you are interested in the position. Sometimes, one interview leads to another. The first interviewer might like you for the job, but not be authorized to make hiring decisions. Or, he or she wants to see how other employees react to you. Being called back for a second interview is a good thing. It means you passed the first test. “ rd baseball Never wear a backwa unless cap to an interview, What If You Get the Job? If you are offered the job, you have reason to celebrate. But, before you accept the offer, make sure you have all the information you need to make the best decision. You should not have to accept or reject the offer immediately. If possible, ask to talk to someone in the human resources department who can explain the company policies to you. For example, you might want to ask: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ What is the salary? What benefits—health insurance, vacation time—come with the position? When does the job start? What are the hours? When do you need an answer, because I would like to put thought into my decision? Do not automatically turn down the offer if the salary and benefits are lower than you expected. You may be able to negotiate—reach a compromise—with the employer (see the next section, Examining Employment Needs). When you have all the information you need, use the decision-making process to decide whether to accept the position or not. ■ ■ If you accept the offer, thank the employer and ask when and where you should report to work. You may have to sign a formal letter of acceptance. If you reject the offer, thank the employer anyway. What If You Do Not Get the Job? If you do not get a job offer, it is okay to be disappointed. It will be very helpful if the interviewer can explain why you were not selected for the job. When you are feeling calm: ■ ■ ■ ■ ” of umpire. applying for the job Call the interviewer and politely ask what you could have done differently to get the job. Listen carefully—take notes, even. The information will help you succeed at your next interview. Say thank you at the end. Ask the interviewer to keep you in mind for other opportunities. Some interviewers will not want to talk to you. Do not be discouraged. Remind yourself that the interviewer thought highly enough of you to invite you for an interview. Sooner or later, you will find the right position, and you will get the job. can Humorist — Dan Zevin, Ameri I Thought It Went Well, But . . . You showed up on time. Your hair was neat. Your tie was clean. But, you didn’t get the job. You asked the interviewer why. She said you came across as uninterested. What actions might affect an interviewer’s opinion of you? You don’t shake hands. Your cell phone buzzes during the interview. You are chewing gum. You don’t make eye contact. You ask no questions. You are knowledgeable about the company. You ask lots of questions. You smile and lean forward to listen when the interviewer talks. You follow up immediately with a thank-you note. How can you use the information an interviewer gives you about your behavior during an interview to improve your chances of getting a job offer in the future? ch16.qxp 9/23/2009 2:30 PM Page 322 322 Chapter 16 ■ Managing a Job Search Examining Employment Needs Before accepting a position, you can talk to the employer about your specific work needs. R ecall that needs are things you require. Employment needs are the things you require to be successful in your job. When you receive the job offer you have been working for, it’s time to think about your employment needs. Employment needs range from compensation—wages and benefits—to recognition; from training to accommodations for disabilities. Employers provide compensation to employees in exchange for work. You may be satisfied with the first offer from the employer. It may meet your requirements. However, if you believe that the company could pay more, or offer different benefits or accommodations, knowing how to negotiate for the things you need will help you make sure the exchange is fair. What Are Benefits? Benefits are things other than wages that have value. Most companies offer some type of benefits, although smaller companies may not. Some benefits, such as unemployment insurance, are required by law. Some types of benefits include: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Health insurance Retirement plan Life insurance Vacation time Disability insurance Education benefit to pay tuition for work-related classes Some companies offer benefits in the form of a subsidy, which is a cash payment toward a specific work-related need. For example, a company might offer a child- or elder-care subsidy to use to pay a caregiver, or a transportation subsidy to use for travel or parking expenses. There is a trend toward flexible—or cafeteria style— benefits. With flexible benefits, an employee can choose the benefits that are appropriate. For example, a single adult might choose an education benefit instead of a child-care benefit. ch16.qxp 9/23/2009 2:31 PM Page 323 Managing a Job Search ■ Chapter 16 How to Negotiate Your Compensation Negotiating is a bit like problem solving. The employer makes you an offer. You point out the things about the offer that you think are problems. You work together to find solutions that make you both happy. 323 Negotiating is like problem solving. How can you use the problem-solving process to negotiate employment needs? For example, you might think the salary is too low. Your employer might not be able to offer you more money, but maybe he can offer a benefit that has value to you, such as free parking, or a flexible schedule. Or, he may be able to offer you a raise if you meet expectations for three months. When you negotiate, always be polite and positive State your goals clearly so your employer knows what you are trying to achieve. Be prepared to compromise. Remember, you want the job. Do You Need Accommodations? A disability might get in the way of you performing a task the same way a nondisabled person would. For example, if you use a wheelchair to move around, you might not be able to access a storage room that is down a flight of stairs. An accommodation makes it possible for a disabled employee to perform his or her job responsibilities in a safe and accessible work environment. By law, employers who are aware of an employee’s disability must make accommodations, if the accommodations do not impose an extreme hardship on the business. (See the next section for more about employment laws.) Tell your employer if you need an accommodation to do your job. Not all disabilities are visible—your employer may not know that you have one. NUMBERS GAME Some salespeople are paid a commission in addition to or in place of a salary. A commission is a payment calculated as a percentage of total sales. Earning a commission encourages sales people to sell more, because the more they sell, the more they earn. Commonly, expensive items such as cars, boats, recreational vehicles, houses, and furniture are sold on commission. If you are a real estate agent earning a 7% commission, how much would you earn by selling a house for $195,000.00? Multiply $195,000.00 by 7%: $195,000.00 × .07 = $13,650 What if you sell a house for $242,900.00? What if you sell cars and earn 8% on your total monthly sales. In one month, you sell one car for $13,955.00, one for $15,495.00, and one for $14,455.00. How much commission will you earn for that month? Typical Tgpi~I Accommodations A~mm(Jdta1-ti(J!J'D& Examples of accommodations include: ✔ Making nonwork areas such as cafeterias and lounges accessible by installing wheelchair ramps or elevators ✔ Modifying work schedules ✔ Replacing equipment ✔ Changing exams, training materials, or policies ✔ Providing sign-language interpreters for the hearing impaired ch16.qxp 9/23/2009 2:32 PM Page 324 324 Chapter 16 ■ Managing a Job Search Analyzing Employment Laws You have rights and responsibilities as an employee. W hat would you do if an employer did not pay you for two months? What if an employer expected you to use a dirty bathroom, or work in a building without smoke detectors? As a worker in the United States, you have rights that are protected by law. Federal and state agencies are responsible for making sure your employer treats you fairly and obeys the law. Your employer is responsible for: ■ ■ ■ ■ Paying you on time Providing you with safe working conditions Allowing you to leave to care for your family Preventing discrimination against you Understanding your rights as a worker will help you make decisions about where to work, and what type of career to choose. You will also be better prepared to negotiate for your needs. Youth Labor Laws The government protects the rights of children as workers. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets the rules for workers under the age of 18. ■ ■ An employee must be at least 16 years old to work in most nonfarm jobs and at least 18 to work in nonfarm jobs declared hazardous by the Secretary of Labor. Youths 14 and 15 years old may work outside school hours in various nonmanufacturing, non-mining, nonhazardous jobs under the following conditions: ● No more than 3 hours on a school day or 18 hours in a school week ● Eight hours on a nonschool day or 40 hours in a nonschool week ● Work may not begin before 7 a.m. or end after 7 p.m., except from June 1 through Labor Day, when evening hours are extended to 9 p.m. Different rules apply for young people working in an agricultural occupation. For more information, visit the YouthRules! Web site at www.youthrules.dol.gov. ch16.qxp 9/23/2009 2:34 PM Page 325 Managing a Job Search ■ Chapter 16 The Right to Safe Work The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) is the main federal law governing safety at work. As a worker, you have the following rights and responsibilities: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Right to know.You have the right to know about hazards in your workplace, as well as the right to training to learn how to identify workplace hazards and what to do if there is an incident. Right to refuse unsafe work. If you have reasonable grounds to believe the work you do or the piece of equipment you use is unsafe, you can stop this work immediately. You cannot be laid off, suspended, or penalized for refusing unsafe work if you follow the proper procedures. Responsibility to follow safety rules. It is your employer’s responsibility to teach you the safety rules; it is your responsibility to follow the rules. Responsibility to ask for training. If you feel that you need more training than your employer provides, it is your responsibility to ask for it. Responsibility to speak up. It is your responsibility to report incidents and unsafe work practices as well as unsafe conditions. 325 How does the Family and Medical Leave Act promote equal employment opportunities for men and women? Other Types of Worker’s Protection Putting Others at Risk Workers with disabilities are protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA prohibits employers from discriminating against qualified individuals with disabilities in all aspects of employment. States also have anti-discrimination laws. Some of the state laws are stronger than the federal laws. You have the right to a safe workplace, but you also have responsibilities to do your part to keep yourself, co-workers, and clients safe. How might your actions affect the safety of others? The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides certain employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year. The leave must be used for family or medical reasons, such as the birth of new baby or to care for an ailing parent. The law also requires that the employee’s health benefits continue during the leave. According to the government, FMLA is designed to help employees balance their work and family responsibilities. It also promotes equal employment opportunity for men and women. Who Made Your Sneakers? Laws protect workers in the United States. Workers in other countries might not be as fortunate. Many of the pieces of clothing sold in the United States are made in Southeast Asia. In countries such as Thailand and Cambodia, workers have very few rights, and very few opportunities. Sweatshops— unsafe factories—are common. Children as young as 7 may work, and wages for everyone may be very low. Do you own clothes made in Southeast Asia? How do your own buying habits impact sweatshops in Southeast Asia? How do the sweatshops impact the economy of the United States? Use the Internet or the library to learn more about working conditions in other parts of the world. Write an essay on the topic, “Should We Care About Workers in Other Countries?” You fail to report a worn-out electrical cord. You do not request training on a new piece of equipment. You do not report that a new co-worker does not know how to use the equipment. You participate in your company’s safety committee. You request safety inspections. You keep your safety training current. What careers do you think have the riskiest work environments? Does risky work appeal to you? ch16.qxp 9/23/2009 2:36 PM Page 326 326 Chapter 16 ■ Managing a Job Search Case Study Claude is hoping to land an internship at a company where he can use his skills in computer programming. He researches companies in his community and identifies five that hire student interns. He picks the one that is closest to his home and calls the human resources department. The assistant tells him to send in a resume and cover letter, along with a school transcript. Claude wants his application to stand out from those of the other students who apply. He inserts his class photo at the top of his resume. He prints his cover letter on neon yellow paper. Two weeks after sending in his information, Claude receives a letter telling him that he will not get the internship. ■ What do you think Claude did well in his job search? ■ What do you think Claude could do to improve his job search? ■ What do you think Claude should do next? Sounding Off! ❶ ❷ Have you heard the phrase “equal pay for equal work”? What do you think it means? Do you think that there is any instance where unequal pay for equal work happens? Do you think it is right? Do you think employees should be responsible for safety in the workplace? Q 1. job search 1. List Li~ five five types types of of job search resources. resources. 22.. What What is when searching for aa job? job? is networking networking when searching for 33.. What What is the most job search is the most important important job se<l!rchdocument? document? 44.. What What is the purpose is the purpose of of aa cover cover letter? letter? 55.. What What are the four are the four main maiin sections sections of of a<llresume? resume? 66.. List types of you are List four four types of information information you are likely likely to to need m~ed to complete job application. to complete aa job application. 77.. List four steps for preparing job interview. List four steps for prep<l!ringfor for aai job interview. 88.. What What are four things things you are four you can can do do to to make make aa good good impression job interview? impression at at aa job interview? 99.. List types of List six six types of benefits. benefits. 10. What is 10. What is the the purpose purpose of of an an accommodation accommodation in in the the workplace? workplace?