You have heard you need one, you have learned what sort of experience needs to be on it, you have heard how to get that experience . . . but do you know how to put one together? I know, its near the end of the year and it is probably the last thing on your mind, with exams and such, but still . . . it is important information to know. So if you need a resume, especially for that summer job at Starbucks, here are some quick tips for writing one. Feel free to come in and get it revised by our Career Assitants who are here 9-5 until Finals Week.
Have a strong but not distracting header
Your name and contact informating should be at the top of the resume, with your name in a slightly larger font than the rest on the paper. It should stand out but not be distracting. Additionally, it should look crisp and clean, not cluttered. Stay away from fonts that are hard to read, but also make it interesting.
Sell yourself on the top half of the page
After your contact information (your objective. . . if you want one) and your education, the next thing should be related experience to the job you are applying for. Make this top half your best experiences. Make sure everything goes in reverse chronological order. So put the most recent jobs you have had at the top. Using a variety of past tense action verbs, explain the tasks and accomplishments that you acheived in the position you are describing. Need some action verbs? Check out the online resource room on out website and go to resume writing guide for help!
It should only be a page
Unless you are an education major, your resume should only be a page. References are not required to be attached anymore. Education majors are able to have two pages because of their feild experiences. If you do have a second page. . . on the second page put your name and page two in the upper right hand corner. If you are having trouble fitting everything on one page try making your margins smaller and your font smaller. You can go as small as 10 on font, as long as it is still readable.
I know this is a quick overview. But I do not want to overwhelm. The key is baby steps. I will continue with resume writing with my next post. Stick with me.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Procrastinating
It is sunny outside, the theme on your gmail is showing blue skies with no clouds. You can walk without the wind cutting into your skin and your eyes peaking through a small hole between your hat and your scarf. All this weather makes you want to do is procrastinate, especially on your job or internship search.
Even though summer is fast approaching there are still a few deadlines that haven't elapsed yet, which means there are still jobs to be had in the world. If you still haven't gotten your dream job do a final lap. Go onto e-recruiting, follow up with places you have already applied to, or take a new angle. If you are looking for a job, consider applying for internships instead. Sure, they aren't forever, but they will give you a strong start and some experience while you are still job searching. This way you keep up your skills sets and learn new things instead of laying around lazily on your parent's couch. Additionally internships will give you more experience to put on your resume, making you a stronger canidate for jobs you may want to apply for in the future. Even consider taking an unpaid internship. Sure, its hard not making bank . . . but the experience will make up for it. Again, you aren't making money just laying around all summer, so why not get something out of your lazy days.
I know there are more opportunities out there. The key is to have everything ready so when you see that final place to apply with a fast approaching deadline, you can get your information out ASAP. This is your final call to arms. Don't get lazy or apathetic now. There is still time. Stick with me.
Even though summer is fast approaching there are still a few deadlines that haven't elapsed yet, which means there are still jobs to be had in the world. If you still haven't gotten your dream job do a final lap. Go onto e-recruiting, follow up with places you have already applied to, or take a new angle. If you are looking for a job, consider applying for internships instead. Sure, they aren't forever, but they will give you a strong start and some experience while you are still job searching. This way you keep up your skills sets and learn new things instead of laying around lazily on your parent's couch. Additionally internships will give you more experience to put on your resume, making you a stronger canidate for jobs you may want to apply for in the future. Even consider taking an unpaid internship. Sure, its hard not making bank . . . but the experience will make up for it. Again, you aren't making money just laying around all summer, so why not get something out of your lazy days.
I know there are more opportunities out there. The key is to have everything ready so when you see that final place to apply with a fast approaching deadline, you can get your information out ASAP. This is your final call to arms. Don't get lazy or apathetic now. There is still time. Stick with me.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
What you need
All jobs are different and different companies have different requests when it comes to what they want to see when you are applying for a job. But here are a few things that are always good to have . . . just in case. These are helpful for when you are applying or interviewing for a position. They may also help you when you are trying to get scholarships or things of that nature.
Writing Samples- it is always helpful to have writing samples ready and available for employers. Of course this applys to careers that require writing, i.e. journalism, english, PR, marketing . . .etc. But it never hurts to have them available. Have several copies too, in case a position requires you to send them with your resume and cover letter. If you are sending them by mail make sure you mount them on cardstock. It looks more professional. On the back it is always helpful to include a description of what that writing piece was used for. Try not to send in something that is 10pages long. The smaller and more concise the sample is, the better. But also make sure it shows off your skill.
Creative Samples- Especially within my field of PR it is important to always show examples of the projects you have worked on. This shows employers that you have hands on experience and backs up whatever you say on your resume. It is usually best to put pieces such as this into a portfolio. This way during an interview if you are talking about something, you can say "I have a copy of it if you would like to see it". Never assume the employers wants to see your work by forcing it on them, but always have it available if they ask.
A Portfolio that contains a note pad- this allows you to have the questions you have for the end of the interview written down, and also makes you look prepared if you need to write anything. In that portfolio there should be copies of your resume. Always bring a copy of your resume to an interview. Ashland has a very nice leather portfolio that works perfectly for this function. Also make sure you have a nice pen, cheap plastic ones ruin the look.
These are all helpful things to have on hand for when you are interviewing or applying for jobs. The key is to have the materials and to also present them in a professional way. This shows organization and preparation when you apply. Stick with me.
Writing Samples- it is always helpful to have writing samples ready and available for employers. Of course this applys to careers that require writing, i.e. journalism, english, PR, marketing . . .etc. But it never hurts to have them available. Have several copies too, in case a position requires you to send them with your resume and cover letter. If you are sending them by mail make sure you mount them on cardstock. It looks more professional. On the back it is always helpful to include a description of what that writing piece was used for. Try not to send in something that is 10pages long. The smaller and more concise the sample is, the better. But also make sure it shows off your skill.
Creative Samples- Especially within my field of PR it is important to always show examples of the projects you have worked on. This shows employers that you have hands on experience and backs up whatever you say on your resume. It is usually best to put pieces such as this into a portfolio. This way during an interview if you are talking about something, you can say "I have a copy of it if you would like to see it". Never assume the employers wants to see your work by forcing it on them, but always have it available if they ask.
A Portfolio that contains a note pad- this allows you to have the questions you have for the end of the interview written down, and also makes you look prepared if you need to write anything. In that portfolio there should be copies of your resume. Always bring a copy of your resume to an interview. Ashland has a very nice leather portfolio that works perfectly for this function. Also make sure you have a nice pen, cheap plastic ones ruin the look.
These are all helpful things to have on hand for when you are interviewing or applying for jobs. The key is to have the materials and to also present them in a professional way. This shows organization and preparation when you apply. Stick with me.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
What is Casual?
In many internships and jobs offices are moving towards business casual in the workplace. Others who are more formal tend to have casual Fridays. But what does this mean? Casual is a confusing word, especially to the college kids who think hey! jeans and a hoodie is casual to me. Well, while that is alright for your 9:25 class, it is not for your place of employment. Even though it may be “casual” there are still some rules you should abide by.
A good business casual look should not include jeans for either gender. Nice slacks, kakis, or a nice skirt (girls only), are acceptable for bottoms. On top you should stay away from spaghetti straps ladies. Stick to button downs, polos, and turtlenecks. Sweaters are nice as well. Try not to wear anything too low cut, or that shows your stomach when you are bending over. Guys, button ups should always be tucked in.
Shoes for a business casual look should be professional and not sneakers. Closed toes are preferable, never wear flip flops unless you ask your boss and they say ok. But I don’t suggest asking. Heels shouldn’t be too high ladies. Guys pumas don’t could as nice, something leather and squared toe always look great. They can also be worn with jeans to maintain a casual Friday look.
Jeans are accepted in some work places for casual Fridays, but this does not mean coming in slopping. You should still pair your jeans with the same type of business casual shirt you would wear on any other day. Shoes should be the same too. Jeans should not have holes in them, and should not be your tight and bedazzled clubbing jeans. You should still try to be as professional as possible even though you are allowed to be comfortable for before the weekend. Stick with me.
A good business casual look should not include jeans for either gender. Nice slacks, kakis, or a nice skirt (girls only), are acceptable for bottoms. On top you should stay away from spaghetti straps ladies. Stick to button downs, polos, and turtlenecks. Sweaters are nice as well. Try not to wear anything too low cut, or that shows your stomach when you are bending over. Guys, button ups should always be tucked in.
Shoes for a business casual look should be professional and not sneakers. Closed toes are preferable, never wear flip flops unless you ask your boss and they say ok. But I don’t suggest asking. Heels shouldn’t be too high ladies. Guys pumas don’t could as nice, something leather and squared toe always look great. They can also be worn with jeans to maintain a casual Friday look.
Jeans are accepted in some work places for casual Fridays, but this does not mean coming in slopping. You should still pair your jeans with the same type of business casual shirt you would wear on any other day. Shoes should be the same too. Jeans should not have holes in them, and should not be your tight and bedazzled clubbing jeans. You should still try to be as professional as possible even though you are allowed to be comfortable for before the weekend. Stick with me.
It's the Little Things that Count
One of the hardest parts is over. You got the interview! That in itself deserves a congratulations and a pat on the back! Now, it’s time to impress the employer in person. If you have been following some of our other blogs on interviewing, you’ve already read our many tips on what wear, what to say, and so on. But guess what? There’s more to know!
When you are competing against many other applicants, every little detail counts. The best way to stand out from the rest is to be proactive and do the little things that will impress the interviewer. Here are some tips to consider for your next interview that just might allow you to get that job or internship over somebody else.
Have a good handshake.
A firm handshake shows confidence. This will be one of the first things that an employer will notice about you.
Be engaged.
You should not just look interested, you should be interested. Smile, show your passion, and be ready to share your own experiences, as well as ask about your interviewer’s experiences.
Have fun!
Interviews do not always have to be rigid and serious. Relax. Enjoy the conversation that you are having, and don’t be afraid to laugh.
Be proactive.
Being well prepared will impress your interviewer. Have an extra resume and a list of your references ready for each individual interviewing you. Also, if you have writing samples or other items that you want to give the interviewer, create a folder that he/she can keep that contains all of your work. This will help the interviewer remember you afterward too! If you have a portfolio, show it off during your interview. Showing what you are capable of is just as important as talking about it.
Ask insightful questions.
Ask questions that other candidates may not. Get to know the company, its goals, and its accomplishments, and ask about those. Showing that you really want to learn more about the company and the people that work there can really set you apart from the rest. Remember that even though the interviewer is evaluating whether you are a good fit for the company, you should be evaluating whether the company is a good fit for you.
Follow up.
You have heard it time and time again, but that is how important this really is. Write thank you notes! Do not wait too long after your interview either! Let all of your interviewers know how much you appreciated the invite to come in for the interview, and express your thanks for the time they took to sit down and talk with you. Tell them what you were impressed by, and reiterate your interest in the position. Both handwritten and email thank you notes are acceptable. Just make sure you do at least one or the other!
When you are competing against many other applicants, every little detail counts. The best way to stand out from the rest is to be proactive and do the little things that will impress the interviewer. Here are some tips to consider for your next interview that just might allow you to get that job or internship over somebody else.
Have a good handshake.
A firm handshake shows confidence. This will be one of the first things that an employer will notice about you.
Be engaged.
You should not just look interested, you should be interested. Smile, show your passion, and be ready to share your own experiences, as well as ask about your interviewer’s experiences.
Have fun!
Interviews do not always have to be rigid and serious. Relax. Enjoy the conversation that you are having, and don’t be afraid to laugh.
Be proactive.
Being well prepared will impress your interviewer. Have an extra resume and a list of your references ready for each individual interviewing you. Also, if you have writing samples or other items that you want to give the interviewer, create a folder that he/she can keep that contains all of your work. This will help the interviewer remember you afterward too! If you have a portfolio, show it off during your interview. Showing what you are capable of is just as important as talking about it.
Ask insightful questions.
Ask questions that other candidates may not. Get to know the company, its goals, and its accomplishments, and ask about those. Showing that you really want to learn more about the company and the people that work there can really set you apart from the rest. Remember that even though the interviewer is evaluating whether you are a good fit for the company, you should be evaluating whether the company is a good fit for you.
Follow up.
You have heard it time and time again, but that is how important this really is. Write thank you notes! Do not wait too long after your interview either! Let all of your interviewers know how much you appreciated the invite to come in for the interview, and express your thanks for the time they took to sit down and talk with you. Tell them what you were impressed by, and reiterate your interest in the position. Both handwritten and email thank you notes are acceptable. Just make sure you do at least one or the other!
IT WAS EXTREME
Brooke Henderson's Extreme Career Makeover has been completed. After four months of Extreme fun, fashion, and inFORMation, Brooke was able to have a wonderful premiere night. She got her hair done again by Toppers, so at the event she was sporting beautiful auburn locks. After watching the 11 minute video that documented the four month process, Brooke was able to tell the audience a little bit about why she applied and what she had learned. It was a great experience, and one the interns at the CDC were proud to be a part of. We were all excited for Brooke and would like to thank everyone who came to support her.
The other exciting part of the evening was the Extreme Career Fashion Show! Models did a phenomenol job struting their stuff down the runway to the tunes of Rihanna and the Spice Girls. The outfits on display ranged from a suit and tie for a business interview to the sloppy jeans and tshirt of a future painter. Everyone had the personality to go with their look and the evening was as entertaining as it was educational. If you couldn't make it, you should have.
The video for the Extreme Makeover should be available on the CDC website for viewing soon. It is as much fun to watch as it was to make. We are excited that our Charlie's Angels theme worked out so well. We at the CDC are very proud of Brooke and her effort through it all. We are excited for the possibilities of next year's winner. A special thank you to all who attended! And stay tuned for my next post. . . What is and isn't casual . . . inspired by last night's fashion show.
The other exciting part of the evening was the Extreme Career Fashion Show! Models did a phenomenol job struting their stuff down the runway to the tunes of Rihanna and the Spice Girls. The outfits on display ranged from a suit and tie for a business interview to the sloppy jeans and tshirt of a future painter. Everyone had the personality to go with their look and the evening was as entertaining as it was educational. If you couldn't make it, you should have.
The video for the Extreme Makeover should be available on the CDC website for viewing soon. It is as much fun to watch as it was to make. We are excited that our Charlie's Angels theme worked out so well. We at the CDC are very proud of Brooke and her effort through it all. We are excited for the possibilities of next year's winner. A special thank you to all who attended! And stay tuned for my next post. . . What is and isn't casual . . . inspired by last night's fashion show.
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