Today’s Agenda

1. Dress to Impress!: Professional Attire

2. The Job Search

3. Job Applications

4. Professional Resumes: The Basics

5. Preparing for the Job Interview

Professional Dress

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Professional Dress

• When interviewing or interacting with employers, it is important to dress the part!

• This shows that you are serious about the job, and that you understand workplace professionalism.

• You should always: Dress 1 Level Above the Position You Are Trying to Get.– Examples on Next Slide

“Casual” “Jeans Casual” “Business Casual”

General Guidelines for Professional Dress and Appearance

• Again, Dressing one level above• Clothing Fit• Avoid Distracting Colors/Patterns– Stick to Neutral Colors

• Piercings, Tattoos, etc.• Fingernails– Length? Colors?

• Hair style/Facial Hair• Hygiene

The Job Search

Job Search• Where do I look? How do I get started?

• There are several typical approaches you will likely take– Visiting Business Location

• Ask about job openings, Pick up application, Speak with manager, etc.

– Visiting Known Business’s Website to check openings and apply.– Using Online Search Engines

• Examples: Indeed.com, Careerbuilder.com, MN Job Network

• *There are resources available if you need access to the internet for job searching.– Local Libraries– Minnesota Workforce Centers

• Additional Benefits of WFC’s

• Importance of caution when job searching online– Scams, Schemes, and Unauthentic Job Postings

Job Applications

Applications

• Job Applications come in different forms, but they often ask for a similar set of information.

• So… You can prepare by putting together a “cheat sheet” to have with you when completing applications!– *Handout– Why is this important? Why not just go by

memory?

Application TipsDO

Dress appropriately

Bring a “cheat sheet” so you have your information on hand.

Be detailed and specific.

If handwritten, write neatly.

Follow ALL directions

Use positive wording. *What does this mean?

BE HONEST

Application Tips Continued…DON’T

Don’t rush! This could lead to mistakes.Don’t leave blank spaces.Don’t be afraid to ask questions.Don’t use abbreviations.Don’t bring friends.Avoid errors, scratch-outs, or write-overs.

Resumes

Resumes-What is it?

Your resume is used to market yourself to potential employers.

It tells employers all of the most important information about yourself.

They are more important once you develop a work history.

What should I include in my resume?

• Education (include GPA if 3.0 or above)• Work history• Volunteer work• Community activities• Related course work • Extra curricular activities• Skills and talents (computer skills, etc.)

Make sure to…

• Write in reverse chronological order (most recent first)

• Try to use action verbs• Keep resume 1 page in length• Use a font that is easy to read• Be honest• Proof read!!!!

Importance of Proofreading

The Interview

First Impressions

It is important to always try to make a good first impression.

You don’t wantthis

Timeliness

2. Don’t be too early!

1. Don’t be late!

But…

10 Minutes Early is Ideal.

Never arrive Late!

Verbal Communication

• Enthusiastic, Interested Tone

• Speak up!• Avoid sounding

bored, impatient, irritated, etc.

• No Slang!!!

Nonverbal Communication

• Avoid Poor Posture

• Lean Forward

• Smile

• Eye Contact

• Avoid Fidgeting

Other Interview Etiquette

-No Perfume/Cologne

-Don’t Take a Seat Until Offered or Until the Interviewer Sits

-Firm Handshake

-Turn Your Cell Phone OFF!

Remember -How you dress is important!

Know Your Weaknesses

Know Your Strengths!

Get to Know Yourself

but also…

What if I Don’t Like the Interviewer?

• You don’t have to like the interviewer… but remember, he/she is the one offering a job.

• Even if you don’t like the interviewer, stay positive and stay focused on what you are there for!

Nervous?

Being Well-Prepared WILL Help!