How to Job Search
No matter at what point in your life you're searching for a job, here are some things that every job seeker should know:
Evaluate
Start by deciding what job you want or need. Consider location, schedule and pay. Strive to find a job that meets your needs.
Next, evaluate yourself. What kind of skills, experience and education do you have to offer an employer? What skills or education are needed for the jobs you want? Find out more about self-evaluations and assessments.
Job Application
Some employers require candidates to fill out a job application so the company has the same information on file for each person. A job application is a form provided by the employer that asks about your skills, education and work history. You'll need to provide the dates, names, phone numbers and addresses of places you've worked, and names of past supervisors.
Resume
A resume is a 1-2 page description that you create to highlight your qualifications for a specific type of occupation. It details your education, work experience, employment-related accomplishments and other activities that would impress a potential employer.
Resume Do's
Be brief.
Make it easy to read.
Use action verbs.
Highlight your relevant skills.
Include a cover letter.
Use high-quality paper.
Check spelling and grammar.
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Resume Don'ts
Include personal information.
Send a photograph of yourself.
Use fancy binders or loud paper.
Include salary expectations.
Use abbreviations.
Change tense of verbs.
Staple pages together.
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Interviews
A job interview is simply a meeting between you and a possible employer. The employer will ask questions to learn more about you. You also have the chance to learn more about the position and the employer.
Before any job interview, research the company, practice answering commonly asked questions and prepare questions to ask the employer.
Job Portfolio
You could also bring a career portfolio to your interview. A portfolio is collection of your work that includes your resume, transcripts, recommendation letters, awards or samples of your work.
Portfolios can be papers neatly arranged in a binder, or put on disk, CD-ROM or the Internet. Visit MCIS or E-Folio Minnesota for portfolio options.
MnCareers' Job Search & Work Articles:
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