BUS 220 Career Planning Strategies

BUS 220: Career Planning StrategiesSections 01 (Monday) and 02 (Tuesday)

Noon – 12:50 p.m., Spring 2014

Instructor: Rick Smith, Ph.D.Burgess Hall, Room 110(309) 677-2510rsmith@bradley.edu

Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.Schedule an appointment online at: http://scc-rick_smith.youcanbook.me/

Course Materials:1. NACE Job Choices (digital edition)2. Online accounts: (1) BRADLEY eRecruiting, (2) OptimalResume, (3) LinkedIn,

(4) Big Interview, (5) Others to be shared in class

Course Goal:The ultimate goal of this course is to assist business students with planning, implementing, andevaluating their careers. This course will present the foundations for executing a successful job searchand focus on career management as a lifelong process.

Objectives:After completing this course, students should have:

● Learned strategies to assist in focusing and establishing career goals.● Learned job search strategies and interviewing techniques.● Developed a high impact resume and written correspondence skills (letters).● Gained understanding of the nature and value of networking.● Interacted with a potential employer via a mock interview or informational interview.● Learned about job search ethics and accepted practices.● Gained skills in career management as a lifelong process.● Created a five-year career plan.

Grading and Attendance Policies:BUS 220 is graded on a PASS/FAIL basis. Your grade is based upon class attendance and completion ofall assignments.

● ATTENDANCE: Is expected. Since we meet once a week, you may have no more than three (3)absences from class, for any reason, or you will not pass this class (4th missed class equalsfail).

● ASSIGNMENTS: ALL assignments are mandatory and must receive a “satisfactory” grade.They are expected to be of high quality, acceptable for a potential supervisor to review andadvance your materials to the next stage in the job/internship process.

ASSIGNMENTS DATE DUEBRADLEY eRecruiting (Updated Profile and one saved search) February 10, 11Five-Year Career Plan February 24, 25Draft Resume March 3, 4Cover Letter (including job/internship ad) andFinal Resume (with critiqued draft)

April 21, 22

Career Search Event April 28, 29Mock/Informational Interview (with Thank You note) May 5, 6

*Include the assignment sheet along with the stated required portionsAssignments will not be accepted via email

DATE Topics covered, Special Activities, and Assignment due dates

January 27, 28 Syllabus and Review of course assignments✓ Overview of BRADLEY eRecruiting✓ Overview of Big Interview and Interview Training Center Video Curriculum

February 3, 4 Starting Your Job Search: Learning about Your Major, Options, and Job Search-related Sites✓ Overview of What Can I do With a Major In . . .?, Occupational Outlook Handbook, US.jobs,

SimplyHired (college), Current Jobs for Graduates, Urban Employ, industry-specific sites, etc. ✪ Feedback Friday: Resume Critique Day, February 7, Noon – 4:00 p.m., Student Center, Ballroom

February 10, 11 Internships and Job Fair Tips✓ Overview of CareerSpots and BRADLEY eRecruiting Job Fair resources

✪ Spring Job & Internship Fair, February 13, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Renaissance Coliseum

� ASSIGNMENT DUE: Updated BRADLEY eRecruiting Profile and one saved search

February 17, 18 Resume Writing (Part 1) please bring your DRAFT resume to class✓ Overview of OptimalResume

February 24, 25 Resume Writing (Part 2) – please bring your DRAFT resume to class✓ Overview of O*Net – Occupational Network

� ASSIGNMENT DUE: Five Year Career Plan

March 3, 4 Job Search Letters (cover letters, thank-you notes, etc.)

� ASSIGNMENT DUE: Draft Resume

March 10, 11 Networking and Informational Interviewing✓ Overview of GoingGlobal

March 17, 18 Spring Break – No Class Meeting

March 24, 25 Exploring and using On-line Networking Tools✓ Overview of LinkedIn, BU Mentor, and BU Connect

March 31, April 1 Interviewing (Part 1) ✪ Career & Summer Job Fair, April 3, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Michel Student Center, Ballroom

April 7, 8 Interviewing (Part 2) – Joe Battelline, Foster College of Business Career Advisor will lead class

April 14, 15 No Class Meeting

April 21, 22 Evaluating and Negotiating Offers✓ Overview of Salary.com

� ASSIGNMENT DUE: Cover Letter (with ad) and Final Resume (with critiqued draft)

April 28, 29 First Year Transition and Beyond✓ Overview of Job and Career-related blogs

� ASSIGNMENT DUE: Career Search Event

May 5, 6 Wrap Up and Class Evaluation

� ASSIGNMENT DUE: Mock Interview and Thank You note

ALL ASSIGNMENTS MUST BE TURNED IN!

Name: ______________________________________BRADLEY eRecruiting Profile Due: February 10, 11

The Internet has become a vast resource for job seekers needing to locate opportunities, post resumes, researchemployers, etc. To help locate information specifically for our campus, the Smith Career Center has partnered withConnectEdu (formerly Experience.com) to provide a comprehensive career resource site designed specifically forBradley University students and alumni. By visiting BRADLEY eRecruiting, you too can join the hundreds of users that havemade their career connections utilizing this site to:

● Search for campus jobs/internships/post-graduate positions● Research participating job fair employers● Publish a resume to the online resume book for employers to view● Develop saved searches (results can be sent to you via e-mail)● Apply for campus interviews● Find a networking contact● Research a career field

To complete this assignment:● Log into your free BRADLEY eRecruiting account (visit your MyBU to access your account)● Edit and update all sections of your PROFILE, specifically:

1.Personal Info2.Academic Info3.Career Preferences4.OPTIONAL - upload and publish your resume(Profile may be updated due to log in process – this is OK – you should still verify each area though)

● Set up one (1) SAVED SEARCH related to your area of interest. For example, “Chicago-area internships inMarketing” or “Accounting full-time jobs anywhere in the United States”.

1.Once in BRADLEY eRecruiting, hover over “Jobs & Internships” (upper right on the gray bar) and select“Job/Internship Search”

2.Select one or more: type of position, job function, city, state, compensation, desired major and then click“search”

3.Click on “Save Your Search” (upper left area)4.On the Saved Search page, name your search (ex., Chicago-area Accounting Internships PAID), and then

answer the other questions.5.Before you click on “Save” PRINT THE PAGE

● Or, on your BRADLEY eRecruiting Home screen, print the page (there is a box on the left thatshows your saved searches by name)

� Updated Profile (done by February 9) The Instructor will verify

� Print out of the “Saved Search” page showing the Instructor that you have set it up.

Name: ______________________________________Five-Year Career Plan Due: February 24, 25

As a soon-to-be graduate, it is important to think about your future options. Developing this plan will provide thethought process necessary to develop your career goals.

Remember, if you don't know where you want to go, you just might end up somewhere else!

This assignment must be 5 pages in length, typed (double-spaced, font = 12 point, Times New Roman, 1 inch marginon all sides), double-spaced. Proper grammar and spelling are required. You do NOT need a reference page.Citations, if any, should be simple and in the text.

The following are guidelines to be used in completing the assignment.

● INTRODUCTION - Begin your career plan with identifying your major and why/how you selected your major.Then you will need to identify the different career possibilities that this major provides.

o Hint: Use the Choosing and Using Your Major portion of the Smith Career Center web site(http://bradley.edu/offices/student/scc/students/choosing/):

● What Can I Do With This Major?● Occupational Outlook Handbook - http://www.bls.gov/oco/● InsideJobs at http://www.insidejobs.com/● Other resources shared in class

● PERSONAL SELF-ASSESSMENT - Make sure to include your values, interests, and skills you will need and how youdetermined these:

o Describe the broad career fields you want and the main types of work you would like to be doing.Include information on the corporate environment you think would be most beneficial to maximize yourproductiveness.

o Tell about the skills needed for the job and how strong you think you are in these skills.o Define your work values. (If you have completed the Myers-Briggs, please include a simple

summary)

● SHORT TERM CAREER OBJECTIVE - Develop a career objective for your first full-time job; identify a careerfocus, describe the industry; then match your skills with those valued in the industry. Start from today. Thinkabout organizations you could join, classes you can take, skills you want to develop, etc. and note them. If youwant to go to graduate school or law school, note this and tell why this will help you.

● LONG TERM CAREER GOAL - Identify your desired career path starting with entry-level job title. Tell where youwould like to be at the end of five years and the path that could take you there. Refer to position titles andresponsibility changes. Describe where and what you might be doing professionally in five years. Includeinformation about the geographic location you have selected for now and any transitions you envision for later.(You can include personal info that will influence your life).

● REQUIREMENTS - Define the requirements that will be needed to attain your five year career plan, includingeducation, job title, estimated salary (state the source), and professional growth. Try to think forward tochanges and innovations in your chosen field and the impact they might have on your progress. If you identify aneeded skill or educational level that you do not currently possess, describe a strategy for attaining that skill.

● FURTHER INVESTIGATION (optional) - If, at the end of this course, you are undecided regarding your careergoals, especially the long-term goals, describe what you plan to do that would help define these goals.

Do not wait until the last minute to complete this assignment!

To help you, use the resources/books in the Smith Career Center Library, web sites, or other resources! Also, youSHOULD use information gained other means – conversations at the Job Fair, with friends/family in similaroccupations, etc. to provide additional support.

Name: ______________________________________DRAFT Resume Due: March 3, 4

The format of the resume is very important and should be easy to read. Have a list of accomplishments to refer to whenwriting your resume. Stress past accomplishments and the skills used as well as detailed descriptions to assist thereviewer (use numbers, etc.). Write clearly and concisely, and make sure you start each statement with an action verb(See the list handed out in class). Include any community service activities and leadership roles. Be sure to listinternships, summer jobs, volunteer work, senior projects – any related work experience that you can mention. Includethe key words for your target career field. Use plain paper in white or buff. No crazy graphics, textures, or patterns.

Helpful resources:● Resume Tips - http://www.bradley.edu/offices/student/scc/files/resume_writing.pdf● Use OptimalResume - https://bradley.optimalresume.com/ - to develop your document. Use your Bradley

University e-mail address to create your account.● Resume info from our national association, NACE

o Build the Resume Employers Want -http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/nace/JobChoices0812/index.php#/48

o A Step-by-Step Guide to a Winning Resume -http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/nace/JobChoices0812_Diversity/index.php#/35

● CareerSpots video – Make your Resume POP (3:47) -https://www.careerspots.com/secure/vidplay_links_secure.aspx?aid=676&apass=zj6J8oNRhNHCIX+vHjdfTIIKmeOMc4RtEBRj7xfC+vY=&vidnum=5

DO:☑ Articulate, clearly, your skills, experiences, education, achievements, etc. in relation to the individual job ad☑ Remember that the appearance of the whole page is important☑ Try to keep it to one page. If you go over one page, shoot for at least half a page of good content☑ Show details and results (use numbers and percentages whenever possible)☑ Use action words and keywords from your industry☑ Explain information (don’t assume the read will understand everything)

DON’T:☒ Use Resume Templates!!! - your resume should be unique and distinct☒ Overstate your qualifications☒ Use first person pronouns (I, me, my, we)☒ Use passive verbs (“Responsible for” or “Assisted”)☒ Include salary history☒ Include “personal” information (age, race, sex, marital status, photograph, etc.)

Remember to PROOFREAD – PROOFREAD – PROOFREAD! Then, have a friend proofread!

Please remember that reviewing a resume is subjective. I will try to provide as much information possible in light ofwhat an employer will ask for when they see your resume for the first time. Try to provide something that you feel willhelp you obtain an internship or full-time job!

ASSIGNMENT

DRAFT Resume● Using your notes from class, and the helpful resources listed, turn in your DRAFT resume. Comments and

suggestions will be given to you to help you formulate your FINAL resume.● You are encouraged, but not required, to visit with the instructor to discuss your draft. Call (309) 677-2510

and set up an appointment with the course Instructor or visit during established walk in hours.● Take advantage of Feedback Friday: Resume Critique Day and have an employer offer advice.

ResumeRubric

Resume should effectively land youan interview. GOOD JOB!

Resume could land you aninterview (borderline case).

Resume is average, needsimprovement to rise to the "top

of the stack."

Resume needs significantimprovement and would bediscarded during screening

Format

◻ Fills the page but also is notovercrowded.

◻ No grammar or spelling errors.◻ Could be easily scanned.

◻ Almost fills the page but hassome uneven white space.

◻ There may be a single spellingor grammar error here (notadvisable though)

◻ Font and spacing are notappealing and easily scanned.

◻ More than one spelling orgrammar errors.

◻ Either one­half page or twoto three pages long.

◻ Font is too big or may behard to read.

◻ More white space thanwords on the page.

◻ Multiple spelling errors.

EducationSection

◻ Organized, clear, and well defined.◻ It highlights the most pertinent

information.◻ Includes: institution with its

location, graduation date, major,degree, GPA, study abroad, andany relevant course work.

◻ Organized and easy to read.◻ Includes: institution with its

location, graduation date,major, and degree. GPA ismissing from this section.

◻ “Extra” information such asstudy abroad and course workare not mentioned.

◻ Not well organized.◻ Information such as institution

with its location, graduationdate, and major are included.

◻ Degree and GPA are notlisted.

◻ There is no order to howinformation is formatted in thissection.

◻ Missing the most crucialinformation.

◻ Institution is listed without alocation.

◻ Graduation date is notlisted.

◻ Major is listed but notdegree.

◻ No GPA is stated in thissection.

ExperienceSection

◻ Well defined, and informationrelates to the intended careerfield.

◻ Places of work, location, titles,and dates are included for eachposition.

◻ Descriptions are clear and wellmarketed in the form of bulletstatements beginning with actionverbs.

◻ Could be split into related andother experience.

◻ Descriptions are clear in theform of bullet statementsbeginning with action verbs.

◻ Descriptions are not detailedenough to fully understand whatwas done.

◻ Information does not relate100% to the intended careerfield.

◻ Places of work, location, titles,and dates are included for eachposition.

◻ Descriptions are not in theform of bullets beginning withaction verbs.

◻ Complete sentences inparagraph form are used todescribe previous positions.

◻ Places of work are includedfor each position but notlocations, dates, and titles.

◻ Not well defined, and thereis no order to thedescriptions of eachposition.

◻ Descriptions are notdetailed and offer noillustration of what wasdone.

◻ No locations and dates ofemployment are listed.

Honors/Activities

◻ Well organized and easy tounderstand.

◻ Activities and honors are listedand descriptions include skillsgained and leadership roles held.

◻ Dates of involvement are listed.

◻ Includes all necessaryinformation but is difficult tofollow.

◻ Leadership roles withinorganizations are listed butskills are not defined.

◻ Dates of involvement are listed.

◻ Missing key information suchas leaderships positions heldor dates of involvement.

◻ Organizations are listeddescribing the organization,not individual involvement.

◻ Missing or contains verylittle information.

◻ Organization titles or datesof involvement are notlisted.

◻ No descriptions are listed

Name: ______________________________________Cover Letter (with FINAL resume and job announcement) Due: April 21, 22

The content and format of the cover letter is very important and should be easy to read. This document will introduceyou to a prospective employer. It almost always accompanies (literally "covers") a resume. Its intent is to entice thereader to invite you in for an interview by clearly stating your educational and work qualifications, plus other relatedexperience that matches the employer's staffing needs. Include the key words and phrases for your targeted careerfield. Use plain paper in white or buff.

DO:☑ Tailor your letter for the specific job description and/or employer. (Use the announcement to help guide you with

content)☑ Use job objective/job title/job announcement information. This may be recommended for a resume, but it is

essential within a cover letter.☑ Use business-professional/formal style☑ Use action words, keywords/”buzz” word, and phrases recognizable within your field/industry. Incorporate

information, terms, etc. from the announcement.☑ Establish a rapport with the reader. Use a business like, but conversational tone.☑ Keep it to one page. (3 or 4 paragraphs are all you need)

DON’T:☒ Copy the examples from any source!!! Do use them as idea generators, don’t copy their form, word usage, etc.

– use your own!☒ Start “Hello, my name is . . .”☒ Restate advertisement content (your ad state you are seeking a ___, I have this!)☒ Overstate your qualifications.☒ Use subjective terms such as “great”, “excellent”, etc. or use casual writing style such as “a lot”☒ Use the first person pronouns (I, me, my, we) at the beginning of each paragraph or string of sentences.☒ Use form letters (generic, not customized)☒ Include salary history☒ Include personal information (age, birthplace, ethnicity, religion, photographs, etc.)

Remember to PROOFREAD, PROOFREAD, PROOFREAD! Then, have a friend proofread!

ASSIGNMENT

This assignment is to be paired with the FINAL Resume Assignment. Include a copy of actual job description whichincludes qualifications or requirements (dated within the last 30 days)

● You may seek out an internship, summer job, volunteer position, or full-time job relevant to your field● Use your BRADLEY eRecruiting account to locate an appropriate advertisement● Take a highlighter and note the requirements/qualifications and key words important in describing the skills

required to be successful in the position

The cover letter must include:● Highlighted text that shows how you met the requirements from the ad above, demonstrated usage of the

keywords, and any important skills.● Indicate the position you are applying for, how you heard about it, educational and course

project/work/volunteer qualifications, and what you have enclosed. Be sure to entice the reader to examineyour resume

● The nine (9) basic parts: (1) Return address, (2) Date, (3) Employer name and address, (4) Salutation, (5) Body (3to 4 paragraphs), (6) Complimentary closing, (7) Signature (blue or black ink preferred), (8) Your typed name,and (9) Enclosure line (to identify any additional document(s) in envelope, such as a resume or transcript).

Cover LetterRubric

Great Job! A chance at landingthe interview

AverageYou can do better

Needs significantimprovement

Content ◻ References skills requested inad

◻ 2­3 strong examples of relatedexperience

◻ Demonstrates knowledge ofemployer, position, andindustry

◻ Well­written, butmentions few skillsrequested in ad

◻ Could be sent tomultiple organizationswith changes to a fewwords

◻ Overuse of subjectivestatements (“I am the bestcandidate”)

◻ A few vague references toskills/too much irrelevantinformation

◻ Inappropriate expectations ofthe applicant

◻ Form letter with noreferences to specificemployer

◻ Repeat of resume with noadditional information

Spelling/Grammar/Writing Mechanics

◻ Perfect spelling/grammar◻ Professional appearance in

standard business format withenclosures or attachments

◻ Interesting information withstrong opening/closingsentences for each paragraph

◻ Structure is sound, butrather boring

◻ Use of strong actionverbs to describeexperience

◻ Short/choppy sentences withoveruse of “I” statements

◻ Lack of strong opening/closing sentences for eachparagraph

◻ Tired phrasing◻ Repetitive use of specific

words

◻ Spelling/grammaticalerrors

◻ Inappropriate format/ fonts◻ Long paragraphs/ difficult

to read◻ Poor editing◻ Not in standard business

formatTone ◻ Demonstrates passion for the

career field/interest in theemployer

◻ Glimpse into the personality ofthe writer

◻ Provides content ofinterest to theemployers

◻ Confident sounding byeliminating all “I believe”or ”I think” statements

◻ Use of passive or outdatedlanguage

◻ Informal or “naïve” soundingphrasing (“My name is . . .”)

◻ Long list of what thecandidate desires in thejob

◻ Begging and or questions

Other Considerations:● In general, 1­page cover letters are expected.  The first paragraph should include the title of the position you are interested in pursuing and source.● If at all possible, research the employer in order to address the cover letter to a specific individual in the organization.● The question of salary should not be addressed in a cover letter, unless specifically requested.  If then, include a salary range versus a specific amount and

ALWAYS say it is negotiable.  Salary ranges should be set using appropriate research based on location, size of employer, job title, industry, etc.● Do not use spell check as your only form of proofing.  It is always a good idea to have someone else read your letter to assist with the editing process.  The

Smith Career Center’s overnight review service and the writing center can provide professional assistance.● If sending application materials via email, it is helpful to include the job title of interest in the subject line of the email.  If attaching documents as part of job

search email, document titles should include your name. (lastname.firstname.resume)● Your cover letter, resume and reference page should have a consistent, professional look.  Use similar fonts and paper choice to create a cohesive image.● It is important to have a strong letter, but if you are re­drafting and re­drafting to produce a perfect letter your time may be better spent applying to additional

employers.

Name: ______________________________________FINAL Resume Due: April 21, 22 (with Cover Letter and Job Ad Assignment)

FINAL Resume must include:● The critiqued DRAFT resume● An appropriate advertisement using your BRADLEY eRecruiting account● Incorporate suggestions from class, articles, meeting with the Instructor, Feedback Friday: Resume Critique Day,

the job ad, etc. to UPDATE and TARGET/TAILOR the draft resume specifically for the advertisement.● Highlighted text that shows how you met the requirements from the ad, demonstrated usage of the keywords,

and any important skills.

● This assignment is to be paired with the Cover Letter Assignment. Include a copy of actual job descriptionwhich includes qualifications or requirements (dated within the last 30 days).

Helpful resources:● Resume Tips - http://www.bradley.edu/offices/student/scc/files/resume_writing.pdf● Use OptimalResume - https://bradley.optimalresume.com/ - to develop your document. Use your Bradley

University e-mail address to create your account.● Resume info from our national association, NACE

o Build the Resume Employers Want -http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/nace/JobChoices0812/index.php#/48

o A Step-by-Step Guide to a Winning Resume -http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/nace/JobChoices0812_Diversity/index.php#/35

● CareerSpots video – Make your Resume POP (3:47) -https://www.careerspots.com/secure/vidplay_links_secure.aspx?aid=676&apass=zj6J8oNRhNHCIX+vHjdfTIIKmeOMc4RtEBRj7xfC+vY=&vidnum=5

Name: ______________________________________Career Search Event Due by: April 28, 29

Choose ONE from any of the following:

● Smith Career Center WorkshopsReview the SCC Calendar and choose either one 1 hour-long or two 30 minute long workshops. Sessions aretypically held in Burgess Hall, room 124. Visit http://www.bradley.edu/offices/student/scc/files/calendar.pdffor the current calendar of workshops.

● Career-oriented opportunitiesCampus and community organizations offer workshops, networking, and other career-related opportunities thatmay be of interest to you. Participate in one 1 hour-long session. See instructor with questions before youattend the event.

● Feedback Friday: Resume Critique DayFriday, February 7, Noon – 4:00 p.m., Michel Student Center Ballroom. Submit original draft version andemployer critiqued resumes for credit. This critiqued draft is perfect for the Resume assignment!

● Employer Information SessionsPresentations and times scheduled throughout the semester. Visit thehttp://bradley.edu/offices/student/scc/students/eis/ for an up-to-date list.

For the above events:1. Must sign in/register (may be attendance sheet or electronic) for credit. NO EXCEPTIONS!2. Take notes on the presentation including names of presenters3. Type your notes

● Spring Job & Internship Fair – February 13, 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Renaissance Coliseum

● Career & Summer Job Fair – April 3, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Michel Student Center, Ballroom

For the above fairs:● Review the organizations attending the fairs by looking at the list on the SCC Web site.● Identify at least three (3) organizations to network with, although there may be many more that

are of interest to you!● Attend the Fair(s) of your choice. Remember to dress to make a positive first impression and

bring resumes!● Be prepared to give a “One Minute Commercial” regarding what you have to offer. Be creative

and make the most of this time with recruiters.● Ask questions appropriate to your job search, such as:

▪ Do they recruit new college grads of [your major]▪ What is the career path within the organization for people with [your major]▪ Do they offer co-op or internships? Summer opportunities? What is the application

process and deadline(s)? What are some example opportunities for interns?▪ Are they conducting campus interviews this semester? Immediately after the job fair?

Later in the semester?▪ If the recruiter is not the right one for you to talk to, who is?▪ DO NOT GATHER OR TURN IN BUSINESS CARDS FOR THIS ASSIGNMENT!

● Type up your notes; indicate questions, employer responses, your overall impression of eachinteraction, and what your next steps should be for each employer.

Name: ______________________________________Interview Assignment Due: May 5, 6

Choose one of the two variations to complete the assignmentDo not wait until the last minute to complete this assignment!

This assignment is designed to integrate the components of a job search that we have discussed in class and provide youwith a real life interview experience (in person or a phone interview) or a recorded, live interview experience using BigInterview. Please follow appropriate dress attire when interviewing!

Please note: Interviews with family members or friends will not be accepted! Keep in mind that we may verify that anactual mock/practice interview occurred. An actual on campus interview will be accepted in lieu of this assignment. Anyinterview outside of Bradley University will not be accepted unless approved BEFOREHAND by the instructor

FIRST ASSIGNMENT VARIATION – (choose one of the following three)

This assignment will include the following components:● Producing job search correspondence materials● Conducting employer research● Mock interview with an employer

Option 1: PRACTICE INTERVIEW WITH AN EMPLOYER/RECRUITER (in person or by phone)Complete the following steps:● Search for alumni or company recruiters in related field. (If you have trouble identifying a person, see me for

suggestions.)

● Telephone an employer, introduce yourself and ask them if they would conduct a practice interview withyou.

● E-mail, mail or fax your resume and a cover letter to the employer.

● Go to the interview at the employer’s site. If completing a phone interview, confirm time and phone numberfor interview to take place.

● Send thank you letter to employer.

● Submit a copy of the thank you letter and Mock Interview Evaluation Form and the person’s BusinessCard for credit.

Option 2: BIG INTERVIEW, complete the following steps:● Identify a position you are interested in from BRADLEY eRecruiting. Research the company as though you

were completing an actual interview.

● You may use your own computer and webcam to complete a mock interview using Big Interview. If you donot have a webcam, please contact the Smith Career Center (677-2510) to schedule a time to use one of theSCC computers.

● Upon completion of Big Interview, set up an appointment with the Course Instructor. During theappointment, your interview will be reviewed, suggestions offered.

● Submit a thank you letter for the interview, a one (1) page synopsis of the process (your review of theinterview, suggestions offered during the appointment, etc.), as well as the position you used fromeRecruiting.

Option 3: ACTUAL INTERVIEW FOR A JOB/INTERNSHIP● See the instructor BEFORE the interview to obtain the assignment requirements

Name: ______________________________________Interview Assignment Due: May 5, 6

SECOND ASSIGNMENT VARIATION – Informational Interview

When properly done, the informational interview will be one of the most effective tools in your job search. It will beextremely useful in researching:

● General Career Fields: and determining how you fit into them● Specific employers: discovering how your skills meet their needs● Specific Career Options: and how they satisfy your goals● Beginning an effective network: to assist you in your job search

Steps to follow:

1. GIVE YOURSELF PLENTY OF TIME FOR THIS ASSIGNMENT! It takes time to locate someone, schedule andappointment and complete the assignment

2. Identify one or more potential employers for possible research.3. Identify appropriate resource person(s) within those organizations. Ideally this should be a person who is

currently in a position similar to one you wish to obtain. You could do one or more of the following:● Call the employer and ask for a referral or recommendation of a proper resource person.● Contact a friend or relative.● Search for alumni or parents in related field. Use Job Fair contacts, the Alumni Online Directory (BU Connect),

or LinkedIn. If you have trouble identifying a person, see the course Instructor for suggestions.4. Read all you can find on company background information.5. Formulate questions to ask based on knowledge about field and employer.6. Contact resource person explaining your reason for calling and request an appointment to interview them.7. Prepare for and complete the interview.

● Dress appropriately.● Do not ask simplistic questions that you could answer through research. Ask meaningful questions to get a

broader view of the industry/position/company.8. Write a thank you letter to send to contact.9. Turn in a copy of the thank you letter, employer’s business card (if assignment is done via e-mail, please

include contact info normally seen on a business card – name, title, employer, address, phone, e-mail), andat least one (1) TYPED page that lists the questions asked and responses given.

Sample Questions (try to come up with some of your own!)

● What was your educational background? (school, major, minor, etc.)● What courses best prepared you for this position? (business, non-business)● Which courses do you wish you had taken?● What are the most valued skills in this industry/type of job/company? How can I best obtain these skills?● What do you do? (typical and unique duties)● What do you look for in a prospective employee? (skills, abilities, education, experience)● What is the most common entry-level position in this field?● What would be the general career track for this field? (organizational chart)● What advice would you give to someone seeking a career in this field/industry?

Remember: Don't limit yourself to these questions. Be creative! This is an ideal opportunity for you to learnvaluable information that can assist you in your job search.

Do not wait until the last minute to complete this assignment!

Use this form with Option 1: PRACTICE INTERVIEW WITH AN EMPLOYER/RECRUITER (in person or by phone)

Candidate’s Name: Date: Employer’s Name: Attach business card O

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Appearance

Grooming

Posture

Dress

Bearing/Poise

Manners

Neatness

Preparation for the Interview

Knowledge of the Organization

Awareness of Available Positions

Asked Pertinent Questions

Verbal/Non Verbal Communication

Delivery and Articulation

Handshake

Eye Contact

Grammar and Vocabulary

Direction

Well-Defined Goals

Confidence in Abilities

Realistic and Practical Goals

Personal Qualities

Maturity

Ambition

Assertiveness

Enthusiasm

Decisiveness

Creativity

Positive Attitude

Campus/Community Activities

Participation

Leadership

Professional Development

Sincerity

Genuine

Interest in Organization

Honest and Sincere

Qualifications

Academic Preparation

Grade Point Average (overall, major)

Work Experience

Match with Position

Overall Evaluation

Long-Range Potential

Drive and Ambition

Ability and Qualification

Probable Action ___ - Further Consideration ___ - Uncertain ___ - No Match

Additional Comments: