Tips For Finding the Right Job
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U.S. Department of Labor
Employment and Training Administration
Washington, D.C. 20210
[Graphic Omitted]
1996
U.S. Department of Labor
Robert B. Reich, Secretary
Employment and Training Administration
Timothy Barnacle, Assistant Secretary of Labor
Contents
Introduction
Planning Your Time
Determining Your Job Skills
Where to Get Job Information
Cover Letters and Letters of Application
Preparing Your Resume
Interviewing
Testing
After The Interview
Books That Can Give You More Tips for Finding the Right Job
Introduction
YOU NEED A JOB. Somewhere, an employer has the job you want. How do
you get that job? By marketing your job talents. By showing employers
you have the skills they need.
Do you have job talents? YES! Homemakers, disabled individuals,
veterans, students just out of school, people already working--all have
skills and experience for many good jobs.
What you need to know is how to market your talents effectively to
find the right job. This pamphlet will help you to:
* Evaluate your interests and skills.
* Find job information.
* Write resumes and application letters.
* Prepare for job interviews.
* Plan your time.
* Take tests.
Planning Your Time
NOW is the best time to start looking for a job. You're as qualified as
other applicants, so start now before someone else gets "your" job.
You've already made a good start by reading this pamphlet!
What's the most important thing to know about your job search?
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FINDING WORK IS A FULL TIME JOB!
That means:
In a full time job, you: To find a job, you must:
Have responsibilities (work Set your own responsibilities
duties and procedures) (things you must do everyday
to get a job)
"Punch a clock" or be at work Wake up early at a set time
"on time" to start looking for work
Work hard all day, 40 hours Look hard for a job, all day,
week 40 hours a week
Report to a boss, who makes Be your own boss (or appoint
sure you carry-out your a friend to be your "boss")
responsibilities to make sure you carry-out
your job search
responsibilities
Tips for Planning an Effective Job Search:
* Make a "To Do List" every day. Outline daily activities to look for
a job.
* Apply for jobs early in the day. This will make a good impression
and give you time to complete applications, have interviews, take
tests, etc.
* Call employers to find out the best times to apply. Some companies
take applications only on certain days and times during the week.
* Write down all employers you contact, the date of your contacts,
people you talk to, and special notes about your contacts.
* Apply at several companies in the same area when possible. This
saves time and money.
* Be prepared. Have a "master application" and resumes, pens, maps
and job information with you all the time. Who knows when a "hot
lead" will come your way.
* Follow up leads immediately. If you find out about a job late in
the day, call right then! Don't wait until the next day.
* Network. Tell everyone you know that you are looking for job. Stay
in touch with friends and contacts. Follow up new leads
immediately.
* Read pamphlets and books on how to get a job (see the list of books
at the back of this brochure). The time you spend reading these
materials will save you a lot of time in your job search.
* Make automated connections through systems on the Internet, such as
America's Job Bank and the Talent Bank
Determining Your Job Skills
Another tip for finding the right job:
Make a list of your background and experience.
If you think you don't have any experience -- THINK AGAIN! You may
not have specific job experience, but you do have work experience. You
have "worked" as a homemaker, a student, a volunteer, in a hobby or some
other personal activity. The skills you use for these "jobs" can be
applied to other jobs.
A background and experience list may help you to:
-- fill out job applications
-- provide information for job interviews
-- prepare resumes (if you're applying for professional or office
jobs).
Tips for Making a Background and Experience List:
Interests and Aptitudes
* List your hobbies, clubs you belong to, sports you're involved in,
church and school activities, and things that interest you. List
things you are good at or have special ability for.
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Your list may look like it has nothing to do with job skills or
experience. That's O.K. -- the purpose of this list is to make you think
about your interests and things you do in everyday life.
* Look at the first item on your list. Think about the skills or
talents it takes to do that item. Really think about it! All
hobbies, activities, etc. take a lot of skills, knowledge and
abilities. Write them all down.
Here are some examples:
Hobbies, Sports, School Skills, Knowledge, Abilities,
Activities Things l Do Well: and Talents It Takes To Do
These Things:
Playing Basketball -- Ability to interact with
others ("be a team player")
-- Ability to use basic
arithmetic (keep track of
score)
-- Ability to reach, lift,
jump, stoop, and run
-- Skills in directing others
(calling plays, coaching)
Homemaking -- Ability to manage budgets
-- Ability to handle multiple
tasks
-- Knowledge of human
development
-- Skills in teaching/training
others
-- Cooking, cleaning, laundry
Fixing Cars -- Ability to diagnose
mechanical problems
-- Skill in using a variety of
tools
-- Ability to see differences
in shapes and sizes of
objects
-- Knowledge of electronics
Work History
If you've worked before, list your jobs. Include volunteer, part-time,
summer, and self-employment. Next, write down work duties for the jobs
you listed.
Now, think about the skills or talents it took to do each work
duty. Write them down.
Here's an example:
Work Duties Skills or Talents
Pick vegetables and fruits on Inspect fruits for
a farm damage/ripeness
Use hoes, shovels and shears Ability to work quickly and
to plant, cultivate, and prune skillfully with hands
fruit trees
Skill in using tools
Ability to work outside for
long periods of time
Physical endurance
Bending, stooping
Education
* List the schools you attended, dates, major studies or courses
completed. Include military and vocational education and on-the-job
training.
* List degrees, certificates, awards and honors.
* Ask yourself what classes or training you liked. Why did you like
them?
Physical Condition
* Do you have any disabilities limiting the kind of work you can do?
Companies will often make special accommodations to employ disabled
persons (in fact, some accommodations are legally required). If you
have strong or special physical capabilities, list these too.
Career Goals
* What kind of work do you want to be doing 5 or 10 years from now?
What kind of job could you get now to help you reach this goal?
Matching Your Background And Experience To Jobs
Look at the abilities (talents) identified on your background and
experience list. You have talents that you use everyday.
Now find out what JOBS can use your talents.
Start at your local State Employment Service Office ("Job Service").
This office has free information about many jobs. You may be given an
appointment with a career counselor who can help you decide what kind of
work is best suited to your abilities and interests.
While you're at Job Service, ask to see the Guide for Occupational
Exploration and the Occupational Outlook Handbook (you can also get
these books at most public libraries). These easy to read books,
published by the Department of Labor, describe:
-- work duties for many different occupations
-- skills and abilities needed for different types of jobs
-- how to enter occupations
-- where jobs are located
-- training and qualifications needed
-- earnings, working conditions, and future opportunities.
Match the skills and abilities in your list to the skills and
abilities of different jobs. Don't limit yourself. The important thing
is not the job title, but the skills and abilities of the job. You may
find that your skills and abilities match with an occupation that you
have never thought about.
Where To Get Job Information
If you know what job skills you have, you are ready to look for a
job. You can look for job openings at these sources:
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* Networking. Tell everyone you know you're looking for a job. Ask
about openings where your friends work.
* Private employers. Contact employers directly to market your job
talents. Talk to the person who would supervise you even if there
are no jobs currently open.
* State Employment Service Offices provide help on finding jobs and
other services, such as career counseling. See the back of this
brochure for the Employment Service Office in your state.
* America's Job Bank. A nation-wide pool of job opportunities which
will extend your search to other states and can be viewed in your
local Employment Service offices or directly through the Internet'
HTTP:\\WWW.AJB.DNI.US
* Federal, state and local government personnel offices list a wide
range of job opportunities. Check the Government listings in your
phone book.
* Local public libraries have books on occupations and often post
local job announcements. Many state libraries are also providing
free access to Internet through PCs.
* Newspaper ads list various job openings.
* Local phone book. Look for career counseling centers in your area
(some may require fees).
* Private employment and temporary centers offer placement (employer
or job hunter may pay a fee).
* Community colleges and trade schools usually offer counseling and
job information to students and the general public.
* Proprietary schools. Private training centers offer instruction in
specific trades (tuition is usually required). Check with your
office of state education for credible schools.
* Community organizations such as clubs, associations, women and
minority centers, and youth organizations.
* Churches frequently operate employment services or provide job
search help.
* Veterans' placement centers operate through state employment
offices. Veterans' social and help organizations often have job
listings for members.
* Unions and apprenticeship programs provide job opportunities and
information. Contact your state apprenticeship council or relevant
labor union directly.
* Government sponsored training programs offer direct placement or
short-term training and placement for applicants who qualify. Check
the yellow pages under Job Training Programs or Government
Services.
* Journals and newsletters for professionals or trade associations
often advertise job openings in their field. Ask for these at the
local library.
Under the Civil Rights Act of 1964, all of the sources listed above
serve persons of any race, color, religion, sex or national origin. The
Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 forbids agencies to
discriminate against older workers. Both laws forbid employers to
discriminate in hiring.
Most Commonly Used Job-search Methods
Percent of
Total
Jobseekers
Using the Effectiveness
Method Method Rate*
66.0% Applied directly to employer ............... 47.7%
50.8 Asked friends about jobs where they work ... 22.1
41.8 Asked friends about jobs elsewhere ......... 11.9
28.4 Asked relatives about jobs where they work . 19.3
27.3 Asked relatives about jobs elsewhere ....... 7.4
45.9 Answered local newspaper ads ............... 23.9
21.0 Private employment agency .................. 24.2
12.5 School placement office .................... 21.4
15.3 Civil Service test ......................... 12.5
10.4 Asked teacher or professor ................. 12.1
1.6 Placed ad in local newspaper ............... 12.9
6.0 Union hiring hall .......................... 22.2
* A percentage obtained by dividing the number of jobseekers who
actually found work using the method, by the total number of
jobseekers who tried to use that method, whether successfully or
not.
Cover Letters & Letters of Application
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Letter of Application
A letter of application is used when inquiring about a job or submitting
an application form.
Cover Letter
If you're applying for a job that requires a resume, you should
write a cover letter to accompany your resume.
The purpose of these letters is to:
-- tell how your job talents will benefit the company
-- show why the employer should read your resume or application form
-- ask for a job interview.
Tips for writing cover letters include:
* Write a separate letter for each job application.
* Type letters on quality 8 V~" x 11" paper.
* Use proper sentence structure and correct spelling and punctuation.
* Convey personal warmth and enthusiasm.
* Keep your letter short and to the point.
Sample Letter of Application
John Kile
Ace Auto Service
1369 Oak Street
Megapolis, IN 01234
Dear Mr. Kile:
I've been checking into auto repair shops in the area to find a
garage that has a good reputation and offers an entry mechanic training
program. Several sources recommended Ace Auto Service as a reliable
garage that uses the latest diagnostic equipment.
I've worked on cars with my uncle, who is a member of the "Tin
Lizzies" auto club. I'm doing tune-ups through word of mouth referrals
and I recently helped overhaul a Nissan 3002X. I've worked with
computers in school, so I feel I could learn how to operate computerized
diagnostic equipment with minimal training.
With my background and interest in car repair, I think I could
contribute to the continued success of Ace Auto Service.
I will call you on Monday, December 13 to talk to you about
possible job opportunities.
Sincerely,
Joe Clark
6913 Willow Street
Megapolis, IN 01234
(321) 345-6789
Show that you've done some homework on the company (you know what
they do, their interests and problems).
Try to identify something about you that is unique or of interest
to the employer.
Request an interview. If possible, suggest a specific date and
time.
Include your address and your telephone number.
Cover Letter
Mr. Clarence Brown, Supervisor
Norton Electronics
6543 Sunrise Ave.
Anytown, US 04538
Dear Mr. Brown:
I am interested in the position of electronic assembler which you
advertised recently in the Anytown Oracle.
The enclosed resume outlines my experience and skills in
electronics and printed circuit board assembly. I am familiar with
Norton Electronics and the quality products you produce.
I would like to meet with you to discuss how my skills would
benefit Norton Electronics. I may be reached at 778-4321.
Sincerely,
Rhonda Ramirez
304 Park Street
Anytown, US 04536
Address each letter to the specific person you want to talk to (the
person who would actually supervise you).
Highlight your job qualifications.
State the position you are seeking and the source of the job
opening (newspaper ad, friend, etc.).
Preparing Your Resume
You want to apply for a job. Do you need a resume? That depends on
the kind of job you're applying for:
RESUME Professional, technical, administrative and
REQUIRED managerial jobs.
Sales positions
Secretarial, clerical, and other office jobs
RESUME SOMETIMES Skilled jobs (Examples: Baker, Hotel Clerk,
REQUIRED Electrician, Drafter, Welder)
RESUME Unskilled, quick turnover jobs (Examples: Fast Food
NOT REQUIRED Server, Laborers, Machine Loader, Cannery
Worker, etc.)
Tips for Good Resumes
You need two types of information to prepare your resume:
1. Self information. You need to know your job talents, work history,
education and career goals. Did you complete your background and
experience list on page four? If you did, you have the self
information required to prepare your resume.
2. Job information. Gather specific information on the job you're
applying for. Here's what you need:
* Job duties (to match your skills to the skills needed for the job).
Get your job duties from the job announcement. If the announcement
or ad is vague, call the employer and ask for a description of job
duties.
* Education and experience required (again, so you can match your
education and experience with that required for the job).
* Hours and shifts usually worked.
* Pay range (make their top offer the minimum acceptable!).
With the information on yourself and the job you're applying for,
you're ready to write your resume.
Two Types of Resumes:
Reverse chronological resumes list jobs you've had. Your most
recent job is listed first, your job before that is listed second, and
so on. Each job has employment dates and job duties.
Functional resumes describe your skills, abilities and
accomplishments that relate to the job you're applying for. Employment
history is less detailed than chronological resumes.
What kind of resume should you use? Answer the following questions:
* Have you progressed up a clearly defined career ladder, and you're
looking for job advancement?
* Do you have recent job experience at one or more companies?
If your answer is yes, use a REVERSE CHRONOLOGICAL resume.
* Are you a displaced homemaker?
* Are you a veteran and you want to relate your military training to
civilian jobs?
* Do you have little or no job experience?
* Do you have gaps in your work history?
* Is the job you're applying for different from your present or
recent job?
* Do you want to emphasize your work skills and accomplishments
instead of describing your job duties?
If your answer to any of these questions is yes, use a FUNCTIONAL
resume.
The following pages have examples of both types of resumes and
suggestions on how to prepare them.
Tips for Preparing a Functional Resume:
* Study the duties for the job you're applying for. Identify 2 or 3
general skills that are important to the job.
* Review your background and experience list. Find talents and
accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to perform the job
skills.
* List your talents and accomplishments under the job skills they
relate to.
* Use simple, short, active sentences.
This applicant is still in high school. He wants to work part time
until he graduates.
ROBERT YEE
139 River Lane
Ceder, OH 01234
(513) 98745543
OBJECTIVE: Part time entry level position in Bookkeeping
QUALIFICATIONS:
* Earned Exceptional Accomplishment raise at McDonald's.
* Excellent at thinking through problem situations.
* 1 year successful experience in Bookkeeping & Cashier at McDonalds.
* Finished business classes with high grades.
EXPERIENCE
Bookkeeping
* Accurately completed bookkeeping assignments at McDonald's in half
the usual time required.
* Recorded daily sales
-- computed total items sold and tallied total daily revenues
-- assembled monthly reports showing cashiering errors and audited
employee register records
* Verified accuracy of vendor invoices and helped compute employee
hours on time cards.
* Balanced family checkbook and helped pay bills.
Administrative Support
* Assisted store manager in training and assigning employees
-- prepared new employee personnel folders
-- called substitutes to cover during illness or rush hours.
* Filed and retrieved personnel records.
* Posted and filed official documents.
* Word processed letters; answered telephone; scheduled interviews;
made reservations.
WORK HISTORY
1990 Full-time student Ceder High School
May 89-Present Cashier McDonald's
Dec. 88-May 89 Bookkeeper McDonald's
summer 1988 Clerk Ceder Recreation
Center
EDUCATION & TRAINING
Senior -- Ceder High School
Business courses: Accounting, Word Processing, Journalism
President of school Business Club
Focus attention on strong points.
Most resumes do NOT include references.
This applicant is a high school dropout. She has some paid
experience, so her resume focuses on related experience and her hobby.
JENNIFER A. LONG
215 Amber Lane
Tuvax, CA 94321
512-5432
JOB OBJECTIVE: position as a Paralegal
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
* Strong interest in the law; I spend much of my spare time:
-- reading transcripts of old law cases (from law books at the
library)
-- watching legal/educational programs on TV
* Experience as a Legal Secretary:
-- updated and maintained the filing system
-- processed documents on the word processor
-- processed and delivered the mail
-- answered the phone and made appointments with clients
* Skills
-- word processing
-- can take dictation
-- have an investigative and curious nature
* Academic
-- Studied business law and legal principles in high school and
community college.
EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
1987-Present Legal Secretary-- Kramer & Kramer, Truly, CA
1985-87 Receptionist -- Walter Smyte, MD, Swiss, CA
1983-85 Food Server -- Burger King, Swiss, CA
EDUCATION
Moohey College -- Secretarial courses -- two semesters 1984
Lonemont Community College -- Business courses -- three
semesters 1985
Lonemont Adult School -- Equivalency certificate 1983
Personal information that is not related to the job (age, height,
weight, and marital status) is NOT included.
Describe specific skills and accomplishments, using short
sentences.
List special skills such as wordprocessing or ability to operate
special equipment.
Make wide. Leave space between parts of the resume.
Tips for Preparing a Reverse Chronological Resume:
* List your jobs starting with your present or most recent job. Give
exact dates for each job.
* Briefly describe the main duties you performed in each job.
* Emphasize duties that are important for the job you're applying
for.
* Use simple, short, active sentences.
This applicant has steady employment. Each new job has increased
responsibility.
LOUISE JOHNSON
543 River Court
Nashville, Tennessee 37219
(516) 984-1000
EXPERIENCE
Since 1990 Personal Secretary, Cotton Gin Inc.,
Nashville, Tennessee.
Secretary to Personnel Director. Duties
Included taking dictation, word processing and
scheduling meetings.
1984-90 Secretary, Cotton Gin Inc., Nashville,
Tennessee. One of 13 word processors in legal
department Duties included entering
correspondence and forms on the word
processor, proof reading legal documents, and
processing the mail.
1979-84 Clerk-Typist, Raymond Sewing Factory, Memphis,
Tennessee. Duties included typing forms,
processing mail, establishing and maintaining
filing system.
1976-79 Receptionist, D.W. Meringue, D.D.S., Memphis,
Tennessee. Duties included answering
telephone, scheduling appointments, greeting
patients and processing billings.
SKILLS Can take dictation
Wordprocessing
Typing
Good organizational skills
EDUCATION Underwood High School, Nashville, Tennessee.
High school diploma with emphasis in business
education, 1975.
Member, National Honor Society
Avoid precise dates--just give years if possible
Include scholarships and honors and major school subjects if
related to your job goal.
10 Tips for the Effective Resume
The following rules apply to all resumes:
1. If possible, use a computer to prepare your resume. There are
computer programs that make it easy to produce a professional
looking resume. Your local school, library, Employment Service
local office or "quick print" shop can help.
2. Do not include irrelevant personal information (age, weight,
height, marital status, etc.).
3. Do not include salary and wages.
4. Center or justify all headings. Don't use abbreviations.
5. Be positive. Identify accomplishments.
6. Use action verbs (see the list below).
7. Be specific. Use concise sentences. Keep it short (one page is
best).
8. Make sure your resume "looks good" (neat and readable).
9. Proofread the master copy carefully. Have someone else proofread
the master copy carefully.
10. Inspect photocopies for clarity, smudges and marks.
Action Verbs
Action verbs give your resume power and direction. Try to begin all
skills statements with an action verb. Here is a sample of action verbs
for different types of skills:
Management skills
administered
analyzed
coordinated
developed
directed
evaluated
improved
supervised
Technical skills
assembled
built
calculated
designed
operated
overhauled
remodeled
repaired
Clerical skills
arranged
catalogued
complied
generated
organized
processed
systematized
Creative skills
conceptualized
created
designed
established
fashioned
illustrated
invented
performed
Financial skills
administered
analyzed
balanced
budgeted
forecast
marketed
planned
projected
Helping skills
assessed
coached
counseled
diagnosed
facilitated
represented
Research Skills
clarified
evaluated
identified
inspected
organized
summarized
Communications skills
arranged
addressed
authored
drafted
formulated
persuaded
The Talent Bank
Once a resume is completed, it can be fed into the Talent Bank, now
available in many local Job Service offices. The "Bank" is an
electronically searchable database of resumes or other statements of
qualifications from job hunters seeking employment. Those searching for
jobs or new opportunities can post their resumes/qualifications to the
bank. Employers search the banks to select a group of resumes for
further screening.
Interviewing
Most hiring decisions are made at the first interview. How you come
across in that interview could be as important as your experience and
job talents.
Here are some interviewing tips that will help you get the job you
want.
Before The Interview:
* Learn as much as you can about the company salary and benefits.
Friends, neighbors and relatives who work for the company are good
sources of information. Libraries, local chambers of commerce, etc.
are also helpful.
* Learn everything you can about the job and how your previous
experience and training qualify you for the job.
* Write down the things you will need to complete applications:
your background and experience list (contains names of former
employers, schools, training, etc.)
a resume or summary of your work experience
samples of your work (if practical). Also include any work-related
or community service awards that you have received.
* Be sure to bring your social security card, driver's license, union
card, military records, etc.
The Interview:
* Dress for the interview and the job. Don't overdress or look too
informal.
* Always go to the interview alone. Arrange for baby sitters,
transportation, and other pitfalls ahead of time so that you can be
on time and relaxed in the interview.
* Find common ground with the employer. Pictures, books, plants,
etc., in the employer's office can be conversation.
* Express your interest in the job and the company using information
you gathered to prepare for the interview.
* Let the interviewer direct the conversation.
* Answer questions in a clear and positive manner. Show how your
experience and training will make you productive in the shortest
time with minimal supervision.
Note:
* Speak positively of former employers and co-workers no matter why
you left even if you were fired from your last job.
* Let the employer lead into conversations about benefits. Your focus
on these items can be a "ram off." But, don't be afraid to ask
questions about things that you really need to know.
* When discussing salary, be flexible--avoid naming a specific
salary. If you're too high, you risk not getting the job. If you're
too low, you undersell yourself. Answer questions on salary
requirements with responses such as, "I'm interested in the job as
a career opportunity so I'm negotiable on the starting salary".
Negotiate, but don't sell yourself short.
"Closing" the Interview:
* If the employer does not offer you a job or say when you will hear
about it, ask when you may call to find out about the decision.
* If the employer asks you to call or return for another interview,
make a written note of the time, date and place.
* Thank the employer for the interview and reaffirm your interest and
qualifications for the job.
Testing
For some jobs, you may need to take a test. Usually, the job
announcement or ad will say if a test is required.
[Graphic Omitted]
There are several types of selection and job fitness tests:
* Aptitude tests predict your ability to learn and perform job tasks.
* Job knowledge and proficiency tests measure what you know and what
you can do in a job (for example, word processing speed for a
secretary job, knowledge of street names and routes for a fire
fighter job, etc.).
* Literacy tests measure reading and arithmetic levels.
* Personality tests help identify your personal style in dealing with
tasks and other people. Certain personalities can be well suited
for some jobs and not-so well suited for other jobs. For example,
an outgoing person may be well suited for a sales job.
* Honesty and Integrity tests evaluate the likelihood of stealing and
trustworthiness of applicants.
* Physical ability tests measure strength, flexibility, stamina and
speed for jobs that require physical performance.
* Medical tests determine physical fitness to do a job.
* Drug tests show the presence of illegal drugs that could impair job
performance and threaten the safety of others.
How to prepare for tests:
You can't study directly for aptitude tests. But you can get ready
to do your best by taking other tests. Look for tests or quizzes in
magazines and school books. Set time limits. By taking tests, you learn
about the testing process. This helps you feel more comfortable when you
are tested.
Brush up on job skills. For example, if you're taking a typing
test, practice typing. If you're taking a construction test, review
books and blueprints.
Get ready for physical tests by doing activities similar to those
required for the job.
For literacy tests, review and do exercises in reading and math
books or enroll in remedial classes.
It's natural to be nervous about tests (some anxiety may even help
you).
Here are some tips that will help you take most tests:
1. Make a list of what you need for the test (pencil, eye glasses,
I.D., etc.). Check it before leaving.
2. Get a good night's sleep.
3. If you're sick, call and reschedule the test.
4. Leave for the test site early.
5. If you have any physical difficulties, tell the test administrator.
6. If you don't understand the test instructions, ASK FOR HELP before
the test begins.
7. If there are strict time limits, budget your time. Don't linger
over difficult questions.
8. Find out if guessing is penalized. If it's not, guess on questions
you're not sure about.
9. If you have time, review your answers. Check to make sure you did
not misread a question or make careless mistakes.
10. You may be able to re-take the test. Ask about the retesting
policy.
11. Get a proper interpretation of your scores. The scores may
indicate other career opportunities that should be pursued.
After the Interview
Make each interview a learning experience. After it is over, ask
yourself these questions:
* What points did I make that seemed to interest the employer?
* Did I present my qualifications well? Did I overlook qualifications
that were important for the job?
* Did I learn all I needed to know about the job?
* Did I ask questions I had about the job?
* Did I talk too much? Too little?
* Was I too tense? Too relaxed?
* Was I too aggressive? Not aggressive enough?
* Was I dressed appropriately?
* Did I effectively close the interview?
Make a list of specific ways you can improve your next interview.
Remember, "practice makes perfect"-- the more you interview the better
you will get at it.
[Graphic Omitted]
If you plan carefully and stay motivated, you can "market your job
talents". You will get a job that uses your skills and pays you well.
JOB SEARCH CHECKLIST
Complete items 1-3 on this checklist before starting your job search
Complete items 4-5 everyday of your job search Complete items 6-9 when
you have interviews
1. IDENTIFY -- Make a background and experience list.
OCCUPATIONS -- Review information on jobs.
(Page 4-8) -- Identify jobs that use your talents.
2. IDENTIFY -- Ask relatives, etc. to help you look for
EMPLOYERS job openings.
(Page 7-8) -- Go to your State Employment Service Office
for assistance.
-- Contact employers to get company and job
information.
-- Utilize other sources (page 7&8) to get job
leads.
-- Obtain job announcements and descriptions.
3. PREPARE -- Write resumes (if needed). Use job
MATERIALS announcements to "fit" your skills with
(Page 9-17) job requirements.
-- Write cover letters or letters of
application.
-- Assemble a job search kit: pens, writing
tablet, maps, public transportation guides,
clean copies of resumes & applications,
background and experience list, Social
Security Card, and picture ID.
-- Use the Talent Bank.
4. PLAN YOUR -- Wake up early to start looking for work.
TIME -- Make a "to do" list of everything you'll
(Page 2-3) do to look for a job.
-- Work hard all day to find a job.
-- Reward yourself (do a hobby or sport, visit
friends, etc.)!
5. CONTACT -- Call employers directly (even if they're
EMPLOYERS not advertising openings). Talk to the
(Page 3) person who would supervise you if you were
hired.
-- Go to companies to fill out applications.
-- Contact your friends and relatives to see if
they know about any openings.
-- Use America's Job Bank on the Internet.
6. PREPARE FOR -- Learn about the company you're interviewing
INTERVIEWS with.
(Page 18-19) -- Review job announcements to determine how
your skills will help you do the job.
-- Assemble resumes, application forms, etc.
(make sure everything is neat).
7. GO TO -- Dress right for the interview.
INTERVIEWS -- Go alone.
(Page 18-19) -- Be clean, concise, and positive.
-- Thank the interviewer.
8. EVALUATE -- Send a hand written thank you note to the
INTERVIEWS interviewer within 24 hours of the interview.
(Page 22-23) -- Think about how you could improve the
interview.
9. TAKE TESTS -- Find out about the test(s) you're taking.
(Page 20-21) -- Brush up on job skills.
-- Relax and be confident.
10. ACCEPT -- Understand job duties & expectations, work
THE JOB! hours, salary, benefits, etc.
-- Be flexible when discussing salary (but don't
sell yourself short).
-- CONGRATULATIONS!
Books That Can Give You More Tips for Finding the Right Job
Everything You Need For Your Job Search
Bolles, Richard N., What Color Is Your Parachute? Ten Speed
Press, Box 7123, Berkeley, CA 94707. Updated annually.
Figler, Howard E., The Complete Job Search Handbook: Presenting
the Skills You Need to Get Any Job, And Have A Good Time Doing
It. Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 383 Madison Ave., New York, NY
10017. 1979.
Collard, Betsy A., The High-Tech Career Book. Finding Your
Place in Today's Job Market. William Kaufmann, Inc., 95 1st
St., Los Altos, CA 94022. 1986.
Durkin, Jon, "Mid-Life Career Changes." Johnson O'Connor
Research Foundation, Human Engineering Laboratory, 701 Sutter
St., San Francisco, CA 94109.
Wegmann, Robert, and Chapman, Robert, and Johnson, Miriam, Work
in the New Economy: Careers and Job Seeking into the 21st
Century. JIST Works, 720 North Park Ave., Indianapolis, Indiana
46202. 1989.
Resume Writing:
Parker, Yana, The Damn Good Resume Guide. Ten Speed Press,
Box 7123, Berkeley, CA 94707. 1986.
Interview Skills:
Hellman, Paul, Ready, Aim, You're Hired!: How to Job-Interview
Successfully Anytime, Anywhere with Anyone, AMACOM, 135 W. 50th
St., New York, NY 10020. 1986.
Medley, H. Anthony, Sweaty Palms -- The Neglected Art of Being
Interviewed. Ten Speed Press, Box 7123, Berkeley, CA 94707.
1984.
Young Job Seekers:
Haldane, Bernard, and Jean, and Martin, Lowell, Job Power: The
Young People's Job Finding Guide. Acropolis Books Ltd., 2400
17th St. NW, Washington, DC 20009. 1980.
Durkin, Jon, "Mid-Life Career Changes." Johnson O'Connor Research
Foundation, Human Engineering Laboratory, 701 Sutter St., San Francisco,
CA 94109.
Women Job Seekers:
Educational Testing Service, Publication Order Services, CN
6736, Princeton, NJ 08541-6736. I CAN Lists. (Classifies
homemaker skills under various job titles in business)
Disabled Workers:
Klein, Karen with Hope, Carla Derrick, Bouncing Back From
Injury: How to Take Charge of Your Recuperation. Prima
Publishing & Communications, P.O. Box 1260BB, Rocklin, CA
95677. 1988.
Minority Group Applicants:
Johnson, Willis L., Ed., Directory of Special Programs for
Minority Group Members: Career Information Services, Employment
Skills Banks, Financial Aid Sources, 4th ed. Garrett Park
Press, P.O. Box 190, Garrett Park, MD 20896. 1986.
Job Skill Requirements:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook,
Supt. of Documents, U.S. Govt. Printing Off., Washington, DC
20402. (Describes hundreds of occupations and thirty-five major
industries)
Guide for Occupational Exploration. Supt. of Documents, U.S.
Govt. Printing Off., Washington, DC 20402.
Training:
National Association of Trade and Technical Schools,
2251 Wisconsin Ave., N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20009 (202) 333-1021.
(A list of accredited technical schools).
Federal Job Opportunities
U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Career America, Supt. of
Documents, U.S. Govt. Printing Off., Washington, DC 20402.
State Employment Service Offices
ALABAMA
Employment Service, Dept. of Industrial Relations
469 Monroe Street
Montgomery, AL 36130
(334) 242-8990
ALASKA
Alaska Employment Service
Department of Labor
P.O. Box 25509
Juneau, AK 99802-5509
(907) 465-2712
ARIZONA
Department of Economic Security
P.O. Box 6123-010A
Phoenix, AZ 85005
(602) 542-5678
ARKANSAS
Employment Security Division
P.O. Box 2981
Little Rock, AR 72203
(501) 682-2121
CALIFORNIA
Job Service Division
P.O. Box 826880-MIC 37
Sacramento, CA 94280-0001
(916) 654-9047
COLORADO
Department of Labor & Employment
Tower 2, Suite 400
1515 Arapahoe St.
Denver, CO 80202-2117
(303) 620-4700
CONNECTICUT
CT Labor Department
200 Folly Brook Blvd.
Wethersfield, CT 06109
(203) 566-4384
DELAWARE
DE Department of Labor
820 North French St., 6th Flr.
Wilmington, DE 19714-9499
(302) 577-2713
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
DC Department of Employment Services
500 C Street, NW, Rm. 600
Washington, D.C. 20001
(202) 724-7107
FLORIDA
Dept. of Labor & Employment Security
2012 Capitol Circle, SE
Suite 303, Hartman Bldg.
Tallahassee, FL 32399-2152
(904) 922-7021
GEORGIA
GE Department of Labor
148 International Blvd, NE
Suite 400
Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 656-3011
HAWAII
Department of Labor & Industrial Relations
830 Punchbowl St., Room 320
Honolulu, HI 96813
(808) 586-8844
IDAHO
Department of Employment
317 Main Street
Boise, ID 83735
(208) 334-6110
ILLINOIS
Department of Employment Security
401 South State St., Suite 624
Chicago, IL 60605
(312) 793-9279
INDIANA
Department of Workforce Development
10 North Senate Avenue
Indianapolis, IN 46204-2277
(317) 233-5661
IOWA
Department of Employment Services
1000 East Grand Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50309
(515) 281-5365
KANSAS
Department of Human Resources
401 Topeka Blvd.
Topeka, KS 66603
(913) 296-7474
KENTUCKY
Department for Employment Services
275 E. Main Street
Frankfort, KY 40621
(502) 564-5331
LOUISIANA
Office of Employment Security
P.O. Box 94094
Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9094
(504) 342-3013
MAINE
Department of Labor
P.O. Box 309
Augusta, ME 04330-0309
(207) 287-3788
MARYLAND
Department of Economic & Employment Development
1100 North Eutaw St., Rm. 600
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 767-2400
MASSACHUSETTS
Department of Employment & Training
19 Stanford St., 3rd Floor
Boston, MA 02114
(617) 626-6600
MICHIGAN
Employment Security Commission
7310 Woodward Avenue
Detroit, MI 48202
(313) 876-5901
MINNESOTA
Department of Economic Security
390 North Robert St.
St. Paul, MN 55101
(612) 296-3711
MISSISSIPPI
Employment Security Commission
P.O. Box 1699
Jackson, MS 39215-1699
(601) 961-7400
MISSOURI
Department of Labor and Industrial Relations
P.O. Box 504
Jefferson City, MO 65102-0504
(314) 751-4091
MONTANA
Department of Labor & Industry
State Capitol
Helena, MT 59624
(406) 444-3555
NEBRASKA
Department of Labor
550 South 16th St.
Lincoln, NE 68509
(402) 471-3405
NEVADA
Department of Employment Training and Rehabilitation
1830 East Sahara
Las Vegas, NV 89104
(702) 486-7923
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Department of Employment Security
32 South Main Street
Concord, NH 03301-4857
(603) 228-4000
NEW JERSEY
Department of Labor
CN 110
Trenton, NJ 08625-0110
(6O9) 292-2323
NEW MEXICO
Department of Labor
P.O. Box 1928
Albuquerque, NM 87103
(305) 841-8409
NEW YORK
Department of Labor
State Campus Building 12
Albany, NY 12240
(518) 457-2741
NORTH CAROLINA
Employment Security Commission
P.O. Box 25903
Raleigh, NC 27611
(919) 733-7546
NORTH DAKOTA
Job Service ND
P.O. Box 5507
Bismarck, ND 58506-5507
(701) 328-2836
OHIO
Bureau of Employment Services
145 S. Front Street
Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 466-2100
OKLAHOMA
Employment Security Commission
215 Will Rogers Memorial Office Bldg.
2401 N. Lincoln
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
(405) 557-7201
OREGON
Employment Department
875 Union Street, N.E.
Salem, OR 97311
(503) 378-3208
PENNSYLVANIA
Department of Labor and Industry
Labor & Industry Building,
Room 1700
Harrisburg, PA 17121
(717) 787-3756
PUERTO RICO
Bureau of Employment Security
505 Munoz Rivera Avenue
Hato Rey, PR 00918
(809) 754-5376
RHODE ISLAND
Department of Employment and Training
101 Friendship Street
Providence, RI 02903-3740
(401) 277-3732
SOUTH CAROLINA
Employment Security Commission
P.O. Box 995
Columbia, SC 29202
(803) 737-2617
SOUTH DAKOTA
Department of Labor
700 Governor's Drive
Pierre, SD 57402-4730
605-773-3101
TENNESSEE
Department of Employment Security
500 James Robertson Parkway,
12th Floor-Volunteer Plaza
Nashville, TN 37245-0001
(615) 741-2131
TEXAS
Texas Workforce Commission
101 E. 15th Street
Austin, TX 78778
(512) 463-2213
UTAH
Department of Workforce Services
140 East 300 South
P.O. Box 143001
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-3001
(801) 531-3780
VERMONT
Department of Employment and Training
P.O. Box 488
Montpelier, VT 05601-0488
(802) 828-4300
VIRGIN ISLANDS
Department of Labor
2131 Hospital Street
Christianstead, St. Croix
USVI 00802
(809) 773-1994
VIRGINIA
VA Employment Commission
703 East Main Street
Richmond, VA 23219
(804) 786-3001
WASHINGTON
Employment Security Department
P.O. Box 9046
Olympia, WA 98507-9046
(360) 902-9301
WEST VIRGINIA
Bureau Employment Security
112 California Avenue
Charleston, WV 25305-0112
(304) 558-2630
WISCONSIN
Department of Industry, Labor & Human Relations
P.O. Box 7946
Madison, WI 53707
(608) 266-7552
WYOMING
Department of Employment
122 West 25th Street
Herschler Bldg., 2nd Floor
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-6402
National Office
United States Employment Service
200 Constitution Ave. NW
Room N-4470
Washington, DC 20210
(202) 219-5257
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