Chapter 3 Getting the Job 3 1 Getting

Lesson 3. 1 Getting the Interview GOALS n Prepare an application letter. n Prepare a resume based on guidelines. n Explain the importance of references and reference letters. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 2

The Application Letter n The application letter, or cover letter, introduces you to a potential employer. n It should accompany your resume. n The application letter is a sales letter. n “Sell” your qualifications. n Create interest in the enclosed resume. n Make a good impression. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 3

Contents of the Application Letter n Specific n Interesting n Direct Chapter 3 ©

Application Letter— First Paragraph n Identify the purpose of the letter—why you are writing.

Application Letter— Middle Paragraph n Give reasons why you are a good choice for the job. n Explain your key qualifications—those that best fit the job. n Express interest in the company. n Describe experiences, classes, or skills that relate to the job. n Be enthusiastic. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 6

Application Letter— Closing Paragraph n Wrap up the letter in a friendly yet assertive manner. n Be direct. n Ask for an interview. n Give the employer your phone number and indicate a good time to call. n Make it clear that you want an opportunity to discuss the open position. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 7

Preparing of the Application Letter n White, standard size (8½ × 11 -inch) paper of good quality n Mailing envelope of the same color and quality n Clear, crisp printout n Standard 12 -point font, such as Arial or Times Roman Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 8

Parts of an Application Letter n Return address n The return address is the first thing to appear at the top of the letter. n It contains your complete mailing address and the date. n Letter address n The letter address contains the name and address of the person or company to whom you are writing. n It is also called the inside address. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 9

(continued) Parts of an Application Letter n Salutation n The salutation is the greeting that begins your letter. n Body n The body is the message section of the letter. n Complimentary close n The complimentary close is a courteous phrase used to end a letter. n Phrases commonly used in business are “Sincerely” and “Cordially. ” Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 10

Return Address Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 11

Letter Address Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 12

Salutation Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 13

Body Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 14

Complimentary Close Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 15

Preparing an E-Mail Application Letter n Set your e-mail to plain text n Place everything at the left margin. n Use no special formatting or tabs. n Prepare your application letter in your -mail message window. e Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 16

Parts of an E-Mail Application Letter n Date: Your message will be dated automatically. n Subject line: Put the title of the job you are seeking in the subject line. n Salutation: Start your message with the salutation. n Body: The body of your message should contain the same content as any other application letter. n Close: End the message with a complimentary close and your typed name, along with your mailing address, e-mail address, and phone number. n Attachment: Send your resume as an e-mail attachment. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 17

E-Mail Application Letter Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 18

The Resume n A resume describes your work experience, education, abilities, interests, and other information that may be of interest to an employer. n Other names n Personal data sheet n Biographical summary n Professional profile n Vita Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 19

Purpose of the Resume n The resume tells the employer n Who you are

General Guidelines for a Resume n Keep resume to one page. n Include all information pertinent to the job for which you are applying. n Choose a format that is attractive, professional looking, and easy to read. n Proofread thoroughly. n Use a high-resolution printer and good quality paper. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 21

Parts of the Resume n Personal information n Career objective n Education n Experience

Parts of the Resume Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 23

Parts of the Resume Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 24

Parts of the Resume Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 25

Parts of the Resume Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 26

Scannable Resumes n Use the following n Simple standard font n Body of resume—

(continued) Scannable Resumes n Avoid the following n Fancy fonts, italics, underlines, condensed type, shading, shadows, and white type on black background n Multiple columns n Horizontal or vertical lines, boxes, and graphics Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 28

References n References are people who have known you for at least a year and can provide information about your skills, character, and achievements. n References should be over age 18 and not related to you. n The best types of references include teachers, advisors, current and former employers, counselors, coaches, and adults in business. n Be sure to ask permission before listing people on your resume. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 29

Reference List n If you choose not to list references on your resume, state “references available on request. ” n Then have a list of names, addresses, and phone numbers available for employers who ask for them. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 30

References n A reference letter is a statement attesting to your character, abilities, and experience, written by someone who can be relied upon to give a sincere report. n It is helpful to give those writing a reference letter a copy of your current resume or a short summary of your accomplishments and background. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 31

Lesson 3. 2 Applying, Interviewing, and Following Up GOALS n List steps for properly completing an employment application form. n Explain how to prepare for and make a good impression on a job interview. n Prepare a thank-you letter as follow-up to a job interview. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 32

The Application Form n An employment application, or job application, is a form that asks questions of people who apply for a job. n Ways to complete an application form n Use pen to fill out paper form n Complete form online at company web site n Download form and submit electronically Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 33

Completing an Employment Application n Write neatly using a black or dark blue pen. n Fill in all blanks appropriately. n Be truthful. n Have all necessary information with you. n Proofread carefully. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 34

The Job Interview n A job interview is a face-to-face meeting with a potential employer to discuss a job opening. n You should spend at least as much time preparing for the interview as you did getting the interview. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 35

Preparing for the Job Interview n Learn about the company. n Be prepared to answer questions. n Review your resume so that all your qualifications will be fresh in your mind. n Be prepared to answer open-ended questions, which require you to respond in paragraphs (rather than “yes” or “no”) and talk about yourself. n Be prepared to ask questions. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 36

Things to Take to an Interview n Bring copies of your resume, reference letters, and transcripts. n Transcripts are school records that include a listing of courses you have taken along with the credits and grades you’ve received for them. n Bring a pad of paper, a pen, and any information you may need. n Use a briefcase or folder to keep your papers organized. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 37

Making a Good First Impression n n n Arrive on time. Dress appropriately. Go alone. Be prepared. Appear self-confident. Be courteous. n Think before you speak. n Emphasize your strong points. n Be enthusiastic. n Look for cues. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 38

The Follow-Up n Follow-up is contact with the employer after the interview but before hiring occurs. n It reminds the employer of who you are and could improve your chance of getting the job. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 39

Thank-You Letter n The thank-you letter shows appreciation to the employer for taking time to speak with you. n It also brings you to the forefront of the interviewer’s mind, providing a reminder of your qualifications and interest in the company. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 40

Writing a Thank-You Letter n Remind the interviewer of your interview. n Remind the interviewer of your interest. n Express your eagerness to hear from the interviewer. n Keep letter short and to the point. n Make sure the letter is error-free. Chapter 3 © 2010 South-Western, Cengage Learning 41