Job Search Tools

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Job Search Tools

Below are tools to assist students with the job search process. An effective search includes proper planning, organization, resources, and time. 

  • A cover letter should be submitted with each resume.

    The cover letter introduces you to the employer and indicates which position you are applying for. It should also go into some detail about your interest to work for the company, your qualifications for the position, why you are a great candidate, and summarize the main highlights of your past experience as it relates to the position you’re applying for.

  • The purpose of a resume is to get an interview.

    A resume is like a quick advertisement that summarizes and promotes your qualifications and accomplishments. The resume is a selling tool that outlines your skills, education, and work experiences so an employer can see, at a glance, how you can contribute to the employer's workplace.

    Your resume should speak to how you fit with the position (and company) that you’re applying to and should be tailored to each position, using keywords and phrases from the job posting.

    Make heavy use of action verbs and display content in a flattering/organized manner so an employer may quickly review the content.

    Resume Review

    1. Review the following resources:
      1. Resume Writing Checklist (PDF)
      2. Example Resume (PDF)
      3. Example Resume - Nursing (PDF)
    2. Generate a Word document rough draft of your resume.
    3. Bring a hard copy to the Job Readiness Services Center to be critiqued.

  • It is important to research the company or organization prior to applying or interviewing for a job or internship. Some questions to find answers to are:

    • What industry are they in?
    • What might be different about this organization than others?
    • What is their mission and vision?
    • Are they a large or small company?
    • How many employees do they have?
    • What types of positions do they commonly hire for?

    Tips

    • Check out the company's website and read the "About Us" section
    • Go on LinkedIn.com to see if you are connected to anyone who has worked or currently works at the company
    • Check the company page on LinkedIn.com (other social media sites, i.e. Facebook, Twitter, etc.) to see what type of updates are featured
    • Search the company name on Google to review recent news articles
    • Arrange an informational interview with a past or current employee

  • Interviews allow both the employer and the job seeker to determine if there is a correct fit between them.

    Interviewing is a learned skill, and there are no second chances to make a great first impression.

    Preparation is key to a successful interview!

    Before an Interview

    1. Know yourself
    2. Research the company
    3. Study the job description
    4. Develop success stories from previous jobs, achievements or experiences
    5. Find common interview questions and practice your answers
    6. PRACTICE (try a mock interview)
    7. Be prepared to ask a few questions yourself

    During the Interview

    1. Plan to arrive early
    2. Dress to impress; wear professional clothing
    3. Make a great first impression; use a firm handshake
    4. Be mindful of body language and non-verbals
    5. Keep your answers relatively succinct (generally one to two minutes)
    6. Express enthusiasm for the job and motivation to be successful within the company

    After the interview

    1. Send a thank-you note
    2. Follow up
    3. Do a self-evaluation; treat each interview as a learning opportunity

    Resources

  • NACE Salary Calculator: Salary results based on college, location and other factors for a reliable analysis

    Bureau of Labor Statistics: Salary information by occupation

    Minnesota Department of Employment & Economic Development (DEED) Data Tools: Find salaries for many occupations in the State of MN, as well as by region. The Cost of Living Tool provides a yearly estimate of the basic-needs cost of living in MN, for individuals and families, by county, region, and statewide.

    Glassdoor: Anonymous salary info for jobs and real employee company reviews

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