Below is some information we have collected that has been useful to job seekers. Keep checking back for updates as we will continue to add information to this page.
JOB SEARCH
If you HAVE to Have a Cover Letter...
As a recruiter, I'm not a fan of cover letters. I very rarely have the time to read them, and if I do, it's because the very first sentence compelled me to do so. Also, if they are very short and to the point, I will find myself "skimming" over them before heading straight to the resume. Many company HR departments will require a cover letter when applying for an opening. If you HAVE to have one, here is an example.
Resume Tips
So many people are reaching out to resume writing services and paying hundreds of dollars that they don't have. Unfortunately, some of these services can do you more harm than good. I recommend doing it yourself and having others review it. People you trust and respect. Here are six tips to keep in mind when writing your own resume.
Need a Handbill?
Instead of carrying around your resume in case you may meet someone who can help you with your job search, try creating a Handbill to advertise yourself as an expert in your field.
Instead of carrying around your resume in case you may meet someone who can help you with your job search, try creating a Handbill to advertise yourself as an expert in your field.
Preparing For an Interview:
- This information will guide you through the entire interview process. From preparing for a phone or in person interview, to negotiating salary and writing a resignation letter.
Behavioral Interview Questions:
-Behavior based interviewing focuses on experiences, behaviors, knowledge, skills and abilities that are job related. It is based on the belief that past behavior and performance predicts future behavior and performance. You can use work experience, activities, hobbies, volunteer work, school projects and family life as examples of your past behavior. The best way to answer these questions is in three parts:
- Beginning - Tell the interviewer about the issue that occured.
- Middle - What did you do about it?
- End - What was the outcome? (always choose a situation with a good result due to your actions)
Improper Inquiries During an Interview
If you've had an interview where the employer has asked personal questions about you, they are breaking employment laws. Here are some examples of questions you should never answer and companies should never ask.
Click Here for Examples
Whether you're employed or are on an active job search, there are some extremely useful tools online that will help you determine what and where you'd like to focus your career on.
50 Tools to Change Your Career Path
Whether you're employed or are on an active job search, there are some extremely useful tools online that will help you determine what and where you'd like to focus your career on.
NETWORKING
Networking Request Letter
Following up and keeping in touch with people is key when networking. Hopefully you meet people and find out more about how you can assist them, just as often as finding out how they can assist you. Networking is about building relationships. Once you've done something to help someone else, it's much easier to turn around and ask them for a favor. After all, who doesn't want to help someone who helped them? Here is an example of a quick note to follow up and ask for assistance with a fellow networker...
Job Hunters Networking Clubs
Chicago Pink Slip http://chicagopinkslip.com/
LaidOffCamp www.laidoffcamp.com
Out of Work Chicago www.outofworkchicago.com
The 405 Club www.the405club.com
Layoff Moveon www.layoffmoveon.com
Networking Events
...are all over the place! Ever wonder how people hear about them? Industry associations and alumni groups are great resources to find out about networking opportunities. Also, the Internet is a wonderful tool people! Here are some websites that have a great list of events for you to check out.
If you do not have a profile on LinkedIn.com, you are missing out on one of the most powerful online networking tools available for professionals. I've collected a few online resources to assist you with creating and utilizing a profile.
Click Here for The LinkedIn '09 Grad Guide
5 Networkers to Avoid
-Article found on HotJobs.com
Whether you are new to networking or not, if you find yourself in one of these categories, STOP.
Whether you are new to networking or not, if you find yourself in one of these categories, STOP.
FREE BUSINESS CARDS!
This is an absolute MUST when networking. If you can't afford to have some made, VistaPrint.com offers free business cards and very affordable shipping & handling.
www.VistaPrint.com
Meeting people in person is always key when building relationships. By utilizing on-line networking tools such as LinkedIn.com or Facebook, you can generate contact names within certain companies of interest and give them a call instead of sending an email. Let them know why you're interested in meeting with them. Below is a form to help you prepare for these types of calls.
Networking by Phone:
Meeting people in person is always key when building relationships. By utilizing on-line networking tools such as LinkedIn.com or Facebook, you can generate contact names within certain companies of interest and give them a call instead of sending an email. Let them know why you're interested in meeting with them. Below is a form to help you prepare for these types of calls.
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