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*What does a resume really prove to someone?* This page offers tips on resume writing and interviewing to help you get the job you want. Another great resource is WorkSource, which offers free workshops—click here to find where and when. Resumes are summaries of your knowledge, skills, background, and abilities and they are the first impression. An employer doesn’t get to meet you first, so what’s on the paper has to be real and it’s about showing your assets. Everyone has great assets, but some people are better at highlighting their assets and experiences on paper than others. If you’re reading this right now, we hope you will continue to spend some time checking out our links. It’s our job to help you look good so we’re rooting for ya. First thing you should know is that there are many different types of resume formats. Some resumes tell your story according to time and other types of resumes focus on your skills, talents, and strengths, rather than a list of your previous jobs. It’s important that you spend time to develop a resume that best fits you and your background. For example, some formats of resumes shouldn’t be used for people who have little work experience. In this case, a functional resume might be the best fit. The main thing is that you should expect to work on your resume longer than you think. It’ll take several drafts and that’s not even counting the time it will take for you to pick some cool paper to print it on. Even people who have good jobs, still have to update their resumes once in a while. It may seem like a pain, but it’s best to put more time into putting a good resume together in the beginning. It will save you more headaches in the end. And don’t forget to ask a couple of trusted adults/friends to look at your resume to make sure every word is spelled correctly and you didn’t forget to include something. *What if I haven’t worked before or have limited work experience? What should I put on my resume?* Everyone starts somewhere, and chances are you’ve had many experiences already that demonstrate your strengths, character, and skills. Volunteer work, community service, baby sitting, helping someone at school with their homework, playing sports, playing music in a band etc. are good examples of activities that show your dedication and talents. These experiences can tell an employer that you enjoy working on teams, that you show up for scheduled activities on time, that you care about others, that you follow through, that you are creative, and that you care about your community. Your job is to highlight your best assets and experiences in your resume so an employer can get a clear picture of your talents, even if you haven’t yet had prior work experience. Aside from any paid work experience(s) you have, use the list below to help you list some things that you have forgotten about or that you may use to create your resume Technologically advanced equipment and tools Advanced writing courses Computer knowledge including software programs you know and any hardware skills you have like setting up a computer network or setting up a computer and printer Volunteer work, externship, and internship positions Special research or high school/college projects Special assignments Family business positions Leadership positions, such as coaching Foreign languages Awards Grades (if they’re good0 School clubs Have at least 2 trusted friends or family members review and help you build your resume People who are close to you are going to be able to point out some things you may have not noticed before, even though you've looked at your resume a thousand times. For example, it's easy to overlook a misspelled word or forget to include an award or volunteer work. Getting advice from those who are close to you will save you some time in the end. Have at least two referrals prepared when you are submitting your resume to any job . These referrals could be a mentor, a teacher, previous boss, counselor, or family member that you may have worked or volunteered for in the past. Be sure to have their contact information easily available and with you while you are job searching, including phone number and email. Also, always ask your referrals first and tell them about the types of jobs you'll be applying for so that they can be prepared when the employers call. Make sure your email address and voicemail are professsional. Voicemail messages: Keep your voicemail clear and simple while you are job hunting. Employers are generally turned off by strange or load voicemails. You can always change the message back to your favorite song once you are hired! Email addresses: If you have an unusal email address like *whozurdaddy@goofball.com* , you may want to consider getting another more professional free email account. Employers may not take you seriously or give you a shot if they see an unusual email address. Don't forget to check your new professional email address on a daily basis. You never know when you might get a request for an interview! To learn more about signing up for a free email account, click on one of these links: www.mail.yahoo.com www.gmail.google.com www.msn.com If you follow these few steps, you are well on your way. Remember everyone had to start somewhere. Good luck! *Interviewing Tips* Top Interview Questions and Suggested Hints on How to Answer (The following top questions are taken from an article published by Carole Martin, Monster Jobs Contributing Writer/Interview Tips page; http://interview.monster.com/articles/iq/) What Are Your Weaknesses? This is the most dreaded question of all. Handle it by minimizing your weakness and emphasizing your strengths. Stay away from personal qualities and concentrate on professional traits: "I am always working on improving my communication skills to be a more effective presenter. I recently joined Toastmasters, which I find very helpful." Why Should We Hire You? Summarize your experiences: "With five years' experience working in the financial industry and my proven record of saving the company money, I could make a big difference in your company. I'm confident I would be a great addition to your team." Why Do You Want to Work Here? The interviewer is listening for an answer that indicates you've given this some thought and are not sending out resumes just because there is an opening. For example, "I've selected key companies whose mission statements are in line with my values, where I know I could be excited about what the company does, and this company is very high on my list of desirable choices." What Are Your Goals? Sometimes it's best to talk about short-term and intermediate goals rather than locking yourself into the distant future. For example, "My immediate goal is to get a job in a growth-oriented company. My long-term goal will depend on where the company goes. I hope to eventually grow into a position of responsibility." What Can You Do for Us That Other Candidates Can't? Summarize concisely: "I have a unique combination of strong technical skills, and the ability to build strong customer relationships. This allows me to use my knowledge and break down information to be more user-friendly." What Are Three Positive Things Your Last Boss Would Say About You? It's time to pull out your old performance appraisals and boss's quotes. This is a great way to brag about yourself through someone else's words: "My boss or former English teacher has told me that I am the hardest worker he has ever had. He knows he can rely on me, and he likes my sense of humor." Before the interview, follow some of these suggestions: 1. Dress appropriately. If you are interviewing for a job in a professional setting (for example, in an office setting or at a retail store), it’s best to dress professionally as well. Professional dress for men includes a shirt, tie, and slacks; for women, it includes a non revealing dress or skirt/plants and blouse. If you are interviewing for a job in a non-professional setting (for example, at a construction site, bakery, or auto repair shop), it’s best to still look sharp (slacks or chinos and a shirt or blouse), but you probably don’t need to wear a tie or suit. 2. Consider what types of interview questions you will be asked and be prepared with answers. At most interviews, employers will ask you to describe your background, why you are interested in this type of job, and what makes you qualified for this type of job. Be prepared to give thoughtful answers to these questions. For example, when answering why you want this type of job, saying you need the money, even though that may be true, is not a good answer. Instead, tell the employer what interested you in this job over others you considered. For example: the job may be closer to your home and this allows you to work a variety of shits; this job offers you a chance to work with the public and your really like interacting with others; this jobs lets you work with your hands as well as your mind and you like that; this job relates to what you are learning in school; you often shop here and you know their product well and you’d like to help others like their product as much as you do. 3. Show up on time. Do your homework. Don’t be late. Who do we sound like? Hey, we speak from experience, because we’ve all showed up late and have felt seriously embarrassed about it. Let us save you the headache. If you show up on time, you show that you are serious about getting a job and that you respect yourself and the people who are taking the time to interview you. As far as getting to the interview, remember that our state isn’t the easiest to get around and weird traffic things happen a lot! Do your homework ahead of time and know exactly where your interview will be and what time it will take place; How are you going to get there and how long will it take? Add another 20 minutes for cushion time, which may mean you have to take the bus even earlier than you wanted. If that’s the case, enjoy the scenery and take some deep breaths. In the best case, go to where your interview will be the day before, using the same route you will take on the day of your interview. Sleep is good. Some people need to set two alarms to be sure they wake up in time. Get a good night sleep regardless of what time your interview is the next day. 4. Ask a friend /or family member to practice interviewing with you. It might feel weird to ask someone to do this but it may help you feel less nervous. Just remember this, even people who make six digits get uptight about this sort of thing. But still, we all need help preparing for interviews. So the point is, use your connections! As you grow older, you will find that your “network” is a valuable asset to you as you change jobs, or need mentoring and coaching. Now’s the time to start using the network you have, so you can build upon it in the future. Just think, some day you may be that mentor or person whom a young adult relies on. Pay it forward. 5. Line up recommendations and letters. Most employers will ask you to submit the names of at least three references. Often, at least two of these references must be professional (past boss, a teacher, or a coach) and one personal (a friend or family member). Before you apply for a job, figure out who you would like to be your references and ask them if they’d be willing to be one. If the answer is yes, write down their full name, address, and contact information (phone and email). Type your references and their contact information on a separate sheet of paper from your resume. When a potential employer asks you for your references, give them this reference list. There’s one final step! Call your references and tell them that they may get a call or email from an employer. This way they’ll know to be looking out for you. Some day, you might be a reference for a person or kid, so be sure to thank your references if you get the gig.

This page offers tips on resume writing and interviewing to help you get the job you want. Another great resource is WorkSource, which offers free workshops—click here to find where and when.

Resumes are summaries of your knowledge, skills, background, and abilities and they are the first impression. An employer doesn’t get to meet you first, so what’s on the paper has to be real and it’s about showing your assets. Everyone has great assets, but some people are better at highlighting their assets and experiences on paper than others. If you’re reading this right now, we hope you will continue to spend some time checking out our links. It’s our job to help you look good so we’re rooting for ya.

First thing you should know is that there are many different types of resume formats. Some resumes tell your story according to time and other types of resumes focus on your skills, talents, and strengths, rather than a list of your previous jobs. It’s important that you spend time to develop a resume that best fits you and your background. For example, some formats of resumes shouldn’t be used for people who have little work experience. In this case, a functional resume might be the best fit.

The main thing is that you should expect to work on your resume longer than you think. It’ll take several drafts and that’s not even counting the time it will take for you to pick some cool paper to print it on. Even people who have good jobs, still have to update their resumes once in a while. It may seem like a pain, but it’s best to put more time into putting a good resume together in the beginning. It will save you more headaches in the end. And don’t forget to ask a couple of trusted adults/friends to look at your resume to make sure every word is spelled correctly and you didn’t forget to include something.

What if I haven’t worked before or have limited work experience? What should I put on my resume?

Everyone starts somewhere, and chances are you’ve had many experiences already that demonstrate your strengths, character, and skills. Volunteer work, community service, baby sitting, helping someone at school with their homework, playing sports, playing music in a band etc. are good examples of activities that show your dedication and talents. These experiences can tell an employer that you enjoy working on teams, that you show up for scheduled activities on time, that you care about others, that you follow through, that you are creative, and that you care about your community. Your job is to highlight your best assets and experiences in your resume so an employer can get a clear picture of your talents, even if you haven’t yet had prior work experience.

Aside from any paid work experience(s) you have, use the list below to help you list some things that you have forgotten about or that you may use to create your resume

Email addresses: If you have an unusal email address like whozurdaddy@goofball.com , you may want to consider getting another more professional free email account. Employers may not take you seriously or give you a shot if they see an unusual email address. Don't forget to check your new professional email address on a daily basis. You never know when you might get a request for an interview! To learn more about signing up for a free email account, click on one of these links:

www.gmail.google.com

www.msn.com

If you follow these few steps, you are well on your way. Remember everyone had to start somewhere. Good luck!

Interviewing Tips

Top Interview Questions and Suggested Hints on How to Answer

(The following top questions are taken from an article published by Carole Martin, Monster Jobs Contributing Writer/Interview Tips page; http://interview.monster.com/articles/iq/)

What Are Your Weaknesses?
This is the most dreaded question of all. Handle it by minimizing your weakness and emphasizing your strengths. Stay away from personal qualities and concentrate on professional traits: "I am always working on improving my communication skills to be a more effective presenter. I recently joined Toastmasters, which I find very helpful."

Why Should We Hire You?
Summarize your experiences: "With five years' experience working in the financial industry and my proven record of saving the company money, I could make a big difference in your company. I'm confident I would be a great addition to your team."

Why Do You Want to Work Here?
The interviewer is listening for an answer that indicates you've given this some thought and are not sending out resumes just because there is an opening. For example, "I've selected key companies whose mission statements are in line with my values, where I know I could be excited about what the company does, and this company is very high on my list of desirable choices."

What Are Your Goals?
Sometimes it's best to talk about short-term and intermediate goals rather than locking yourself into the distant future. For example, "My immediate goal is to get a job in a growth-oriented company. My long-term goal will depend on where the company goes. I hope to eventually grow into a position of responsibility."

What Can You Do for Us That Other Candidates Can't?
Summarize concisely: "I have a unique combination of strong technical skills, and the ability to build strong customer relationships. This allows me to use my knowledge and break down information to be more user-friendly."

What Are Three Positive Things Your Last Boss Would Say About You?
It's time to pull out your old performance appraisals and boss's quotes. This is a great way to brag about yourself through someone else's words: "My boss or former English teacher has told me that I am the hardest worker he has ever had. He knows he can rely on me, and he likes my sense of humor."

Before the interview, follow some of these suggestions:

1. Dress appropriately. If you are interviewing for a job in a professional setting (for example, in an office setting or at a retail store), it’s best to dress professionally as well. Professional dress for men includes a shirt, tie, and slacks; for women, it includes a non revealing dress or skirt/plants and blouse. If you are interviewing for a job in a non-professional setting (for example, at a construction site, bakery, or auto repair shop), it’s best to still look sharp (slacks or chinos and a shirt or blouse), but you probably don’t need to wear a tie or suit.

2. Consider what types of interview questions you will be asked and be prepared with answers. At most interviews, employers will ask you to describe your background, why you are interested in this type of job, and what makes you qualified for this type of job. Be prepared to give thoughtful answers to these questions. For example, when answering why you want this type of job, saying you need the money, even though that may be true, is not a good answer. Instead, tell the employer what interested you in this job over others you considered. For example: the job may be closer to your home and this allows you to work a variety of shits; this job offers you a chance to work with the public and your really like interacting with others; this jobs lets you work with your hands as well as your mind and you like that; this job relates to what you are learning in school; you often shop here and you know their product well and you’d like to help others like their product as much as you do.

3. Show up on time. Do your homework. Don’t be late. Who do we sound like? Hey, we speak from experience, because we’ve all showed up late and have felt seriously embarrassed about it. Let us save you the headache. If you show up on time, you show that you are serious about getting a job and that you respect yourself and the people who are taking the time to interview you. As far as getting to the interview, remember that our state isn’t the easiest to get around and weird traffic things happen a lot! Do your homework ahead of time and know exactly where your interview will be and what time it will take place; How are you going to get there and how long will it take? Add another 20 minutes for cushion time, which may mean you have to take the bus even earlier than you wanted. If that’s the case, enjoy the scenery and take some deep breaths. In the best case, go to where your interview will be the day before, using the same route you will take on the day of your interview.

Sleep is good. Some people need to set two alarms to be sure they wake up in time. Get a good night sleep regardless of what time your interview is the next day.

4. Ask a friend /or family member to practice interviewing with you. It might feel weird to ask someone to do this but it may help you feel less nervous. Just remember this, even people who make six digits get uptight about this sort of thing. But still, we all need help preparing for interviews. So the point is, use your connections! As you grow older, you will find that your “network” is a valuable asset to you as you change jobs, or need mentoring and coaching. Now’s the time to start using the network you have, so you can build upon it in the future. Just think, some day you may be that mentor or person whom a young adult relies on. Pay it forward.

5. Line up recommendations and letters. Most employers will ask you to submit the names of at least three references. Often, at least two of these references must be professional (past boss, a teacher, or a coach) and one personal (a friend or family member). Before you apply for a job, figure out who you would like to be your references and ask them if they’d be willing to be one. If the answer is yes, write down their full name, address, and contact information (phone and email). Type your references and their contact information on a separate sheet of paper from your resume. When a potential employer asks you for your references, give them this reference list. There’s one final step! Call your references and tell them that they may get a call or email from an employer. This way they’ll know to be looking out for you. Some day, you might be a reference for a person or kid, so be sure to thank your references if you get the gig.