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Have You Ever...- 9-12-07

Had to Get a Job?

By ChaChanna Simpson

Now, I must warn you that landing the job of your dreams may not be as easy as you imagine and everyone’s experience will not be the same. Your friend may get out there and land their dream job on the first try while you are still trying to get someone, anyone to call you back. It’s annoying I know but don’t get discouraged. It is all in the name of the game.

Before we go any further, let’s discuss one of two important documents you must submit to prospective employers: the cover letter. A cover letter is a one-page brief statement, usually about three paragraphs long, about who you are, what position you are applying for and why you are the best candidate for the job. This is accompanied by your resume, which we will discuss later.

In order to write an effective cover letter, do research on the company by either going to their website or doing a search online before you begin writing. With this information, tailor your letter to promote only the skills and accomplishments that pertain to the job you are applying for. Don’t write about all the things the company can do for you, stress how all the skills you possess can help enhance the company’s mission.

If the job description does not include the name of the hiring manager, go the extra step and find out by calling the company and asking the office manager/secretary who the hiring manager is. It will make the letter more personal than addressing it to: To Whom It May Concern.

Writing the letter

The first paragraph is where you introduce yourself to the employer and tell them what position you are applying for. (They could be looking to hire in many departments, so you just want to clearly identify which position you are seeking to fill.) This should only be about two-three sentences long.

The second paragraph is for bragging about you. This is typically the longest paragraph and can be broken up into two paragraphs if you have to. This is the time to point out only the specific skill sets you possess that pertain to the job and how these skills combine to make you the perfect candidate for the job. Give specific examples using past job experiences, internships or other accomplishments to back up your claims. Even though you will be referring to jobs on your resume, do not rewrite your job description in the cover letter. Just discuss what you did in your previous positions and how those skills make you the only person for the job.

The last paragraph should only be two to four sentences long. Thank the hiring manager for their consideration and let them know how they can contact you.

If you don’t hear anything from the company aftertwo weeks, then do a follow-up call. And if you get the voicemail just leave a brief message stating your name, the reason you are calling and number requesting that they call you back. Hiring managers are regular people. They get busy, they may have had something happen in their lives, so don’t assume that because you haven’t heard anything that they don’t want you. You never know, it could be that call that gets you moved up on the interview list.

Creating the resume

Now that your cover letter is complete, let’s review your resume. The purpose of a resume is to list all your work experience and if possible, you should tailor your resume to the job you are applying for. The standard for all resumes is at the top, you are to put your name, address, contact phone number (home or cell) and email address. Some people like to put an objective, which is a one-sentence statement about your career goals and sets the tone for the resume.

There are several types of resumes: Functional, Chronological and mixed (both formats). Melanie Szlucha, job interview and resume coach of Red Inc., located in Stamford, CT says, “Functional resumes place the focus on the skill sets in each position, rather than listing the companies and positions. Functional resumes are good if you're trying to prove that you've got the skills for a job but may not have worked in the industry. The drawback is that some recruiters are suspicious that candidates are hiding something. Chronological resumes list the companies and positions and duties and achievements for each position. It's a timeline that shows your work history. Some recruiters and hiring managers like this format better because it's harder to hide any employment gaps.”

Since you are just getting started in the workforce, you may not have that much work experience but that doesn’t mean you nothing to offer. “Be proud of all the jobs you’ve had. Employers know that you’ve had some part time, seemingly meaningless positions – they’re OK with that,” says Szlucha. You can list your internships, accomplishments/awards, computer skills and activities and list what duties you performed for each task. It may not have been a paid job but you gained experience and learned something you can take to a job and add value to a company.

As an aside, all colleges and state department of labor programs have a career center where you can get help with writing your resume. So if you need additional help, please seek their council.

Happy Hunting!

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