Check out this Dress Codes 101 infographic!

 

To view the original infographic, visit http://txstrategichr.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/infographic-dress-codes.jpg

Formatting Your References

Job references should be on a separate sheet of paper from your résumé. A heading in the same format you used on your résumé should appear at the top of the page. For font, the rule of thumb is to use the same font you used on your résumé.

When you list your references, use a format similar to this:

Name, Position

Company

Company Address

Company Phone Number

Cell or Alternate Phone Number

E-mail Address

Try to use recent references and make sure you connect with them beforehand to ensure their contact information hasn`t changed, and to let them know you will be providing their information to a potential employer.

 

 

Who Makes a Good Reference?

Every employment and volunteer opportunity you’ve had has contributed to the network of people you know.  When you’re applying for a job, it’s a good idea to make a list of past managers, supervisors, co-workers, and professors who could provide a positive reference on your behalf.  For instance, a supervisor or manager makes a great reference because they are able to attest to your skill set, character and work ethic.  A former co-worker can also be a good reference, and can demonstrate how well you work as part of a team.  Ideally, you want to choose references that can evaluate your skills, are well spoken, and that you got along well with.  An academic reference is also a good possibility, because they will be able to convey your learning and communication skills to a potential employer.  Each time you leave a position, whether it was paid or volunteer, remember to ask for a letter of recommendation or a reference. But don’t forget, when you give their contact information to a potential employer, be sure to let your references know in advance.

Dos and Don’ts of Resume Writing

DO:

·         Use formatting and bullets on your résumé.

·         Keep your résumé clear and concise.

·         Target your résumé for the specific job you’re applying for.

·         Acquire relevant experience through internships and/or volunteer work.

·         Proofread your résumé multiple times, and have somebody else proofread it.

·         Keep your résumé up to date, even when you aren’t actively sending it out.

 

DON’T:

·         Lie on a resume. Ever!

·         Add irrelevant details (like hobbies and interests) if they don’t pertain to the job.

·        Make your resume too long. Aim for one page, two maximum if you have enough relevant experience to fill more than one page.

 

Résumé Resources

The best resource to help you create your resume is the Loyalist Career Centre. The Centre can help you develop, review, and fine tune your résumé before you start distributing it. If you can’t make it to the Career Centre for advice, here are some other good resources:

What Recruiters Look at During the Six Seconds They Spend On Your Resume

This interesting article shows you where recruiters spend the most time focusing on resumes.  The study, which used a scientific technique called “eye tracking” on 30 professional recruiters, determined some of the most important aspects of a résumé.

12 Revealing Traits of a Successful Résumé

This great infographic will help you review some of the details you should include when writing a résumé.

Résumé Keywords

Here you will find a list of 250 keywords you can add to your résumé (as long as they apply). Remember: It’s always a good idea to look for keywords in a specific job posting as well.

E-mail Matters

Something as simple as your e-mail address may not seem like a big deal, but it could actually be the reason you haven’t had any calls from prospective employers lately.  When you’re submitting resumes and cover letters, be conscious of even the small details – like your e-mail handle.  If you’re still using the same cutesy e-mail address you created in high school, it may be time to upgrade to something a little more professional.  When creating a new email address, remember to keep it simple. 

Creating a professional e-mail address is easy. Here are some formats to consider:

ü  FirstLast@domain.com

ü  FirstLast123@domain.com

ü  First.Last@domain.com

ü  Initial-Last@domain.com

Is Your Cover Letter Doing More Harm Than Good?

Your cover letter will often be the first thing a potential employer sees, so a simple mistake could cost you an interview or even the job.  Here is a list of common errors to avoid when writing and distributing your cover letter:

1.       Too generic. When you’re applying for multiple jobs, avoid using the same generic cover letter for every position.  You should always tailor your cover letter around the specific job posting, using concepts and keywords from the posting in your letter.

2.       Full of errors. As with everything, proofread thoroughly to make sure your letter is free of spelling and grammatical errors.  Make sure to have someone else read over the letter as well. A fresh set of eyes has a fresh perspective.

3.       Length. Your cover letter shouldn’t be too long, but it can’t be too short either.  Typically, cover letters are between three and five paragraphs.  See our last post for more information about what to include in your paragraphs.

4.       Salutation. When submitting a cover letter, ensure that you have referenced the right position. Attention to detail is very important to employers, and it’s easy to make simple mistakes when you’re sending out dozens of applications.  Also, avoid “To Whom It May Concern” whenever possible. Do research and try to find the name of the person who will be reading your cover letter. 

5.       Stolen content. Cover letters online are great, but only for ideas. You should never copy one word for word, or repurpose the content of somebody else’s letter. Be creative and write your own letter that accurately reflects your personality and experience.

 

10 Steps to a Cover Letter

1.       Make sure your contact information is in bold font and is accurate, with a professional email address included.

2.       A slogan on a cover letter is entirely optional.  If you feel it would work in your favour, or is appropriate for the career path you’ve chosen, add something that will attract an employer and make your cover letter stand out.

3.       Make sure to date and properly address your cover letter.

4.       The company’s contact information and the job you’re interested in, with the correct job title, should be in the job posting. When possible, always try to use the name of the person who will be reading your resume (do your research!).

5.       In the first paragraph, include the position you are applying for and indicate why you are the perfect fit for the job by demonstrating some of the biggest qualifications you possess. Use the original job posting as your reference point.

6.       In the second paragraph, include all relevant skills and experience and explain how your qualifications match up with the company’s expectations.  Tip: Make sure not to repeat your resume in this paragraph! Highlight only your key qualifications, and be creative.

7.       Your cover letter should be 3 to 5 paragraphs long.

8.       The closing paragraph of your cover letter should encourage the reader to follow up with you. Once again, include a contact number and e-mail address.  Most importantly, thank the reader for their time and consideration.

9.       When closing your letter, be professional. Print your name and sign the letter. If you are sending a cover letter via e-mail, you might want to scan a copy of the letter with your signature to use for online applications.

10.   Finally, make sure your letter is presentable, use a font that is easy to read, print the cover letter out on plain white paper, and keep the tone professional. Plus, don’t forget to proofread your entire cover letter and resume!

Volunteer Experience

Relevant volunteer experience is one of your biggest assets on a resume. Volunteering is also great for networking, acquiring solid references, and gaining relevant experience while looking for a job in your field.  If you do well in a volunteer position, it may have the potential to turn into a paid position.  The biggest piece of advice you can follow while volunteering is to treat it as if it were a paying job.  Show up often and on time, establish strong relationships, and show a passion for the work you’re doing.  Showing the initiative to take on new things in your volunteer position will show the people you work with that you are ambitious and eager to learn, and have various skills you can apply to the position.  Versatility and attention to detail are key in any situation, and can be valuable when volunteering as well.  Most importantly, let the manager know you are interested in a position if one becomes available, and make sure to keep in contact so he or she knows you’re interested.  Making connections can be valuable to your career, but maintaining those connections is key.    

 

The Old Fashioned Way

The convenience of the online job search has its advantages, but there can also be disadvantages.  The process of applying for a job from behind a computer screen can sometimes take away the personal face-to-face experience of searching for a job. The convenience of applying with a click of a button also creates a lot of competition between applicants.  If a job posting asks applicants to apply online or in person, consider dropping off a resume in person and shaking a hand or two while you’re there. Taking the time to go in person, even if you don’t make it past the receptionist, shows that you are genuinely interested in and serious about the position.  Although applying in person can give you an advantage, remember that if the job posting specifically asks for an electronic application, you should respect the company’s wishes.

Where to Look for a Job

A good job doesn’t have to be impossible to come by. Ultimately, one of the best resources for finding a job is your ability to network and research.  You can find many job postings online, but don’t be limited to electronic resources. Don’t forget to check your local paper, career centres, and connect with local businesses.  The Loyalist Career Centre offers a list of specific job search sites for each program offered at the College, and should be your primary resource while searching for a job. They offer job boards within the school and online, and provide a list of generic job search sites to start your search.  When appropriate, remember that it can be a good idea to visit a business in person and ask for an application or drop off a resume.  Another way to gain experience and make connections during your job search is volunteering.  Volunteering gives you the chance to build your network in a field that is relevant to you, while you gain hands-on experience. Volunteer positions can also lead to job opportunities.