RESUME | SEARCH | NETWORK | APPLY | INTERVIEW
Resumes
A resume is an honest, easy to read, impressive summary of your "occupational self". It serves as the “sales” tool to help you market yourself to potential employers. It tells:
- who you are as an employee
- what your employment history has been
- what your strengths and accomplishments are
- what skills and abilities you have
- why the prospective employer should call you in for an interview
HANDOUTS
- What is a resume and why do I need one?
- Types of resumes
- Before your begin you resume
- Resume dos and don'ts
- Resume content (parts of a resume)
- Resume checklist
- Resume action verbs
- Resume nouns
- Resumes and references
- Electronic resumes
- Resume resources on the web
- Sample resume: Business
- Sample resume: Re-entry Adult
- Sample resume: Teaching
- Sample resume: Hotel Management
- Sample resume: Fashion
VIDEOS
PRESENTATIONS
ONLINE WORKSHOP
Cover Letters
The Cover Letter (or cover email) is an essential part of the job search process and should be included with every resume and/or job application that you send out, even when it is not requested. It is a self-marketing tool that serves as your introduction to a prospective employer. It provides you the opportunity to expand upon the material included in your resume.
Job Searching
Job Connect is the official student employment system for the students in the San Diego Community College District. Employers who post jobs and internship are looking for college students within SDCCD. This provides students with distinct opportunities. It is free to use, all students need is their CSID. Job Connect
Industry specific sites offer narrow search parameters that can produce better job searches and results. It is not recommended that you PAY for any type of job searching assistance, as there is a wealth free resource available.
HANDOUTS
- Effective job search activities
- 10 steps to jump start your job search
- Staying motivated during your job search
- Money vs. Passion
ARTICLES
GUIDES
VIDEOS
PRESENTATIONS
MAGAZINES
There are thousands of job search sites and students can spend hours searching and searching without results. The sites below offer particular services that are unique and therefore more useful than generic or mega job sites.
Better Business Bureau of San Diego
Career Jet - Job Postings from around the world and in different languages.
Glassdoor.com - Gives you an inside look at company salaries, reviews, and interview questions for thousands of companies.
San Diego North Chamber of Commerce - Jobs from over 800 local employers
Networking
The vast majority of job openings are never advertised; they're filled by word of mouth. That's why networking is the best way to find a job. Unfortunately, many job seekers are hesitant to take advantage of networking because they're afraid of being seen as pushy, annoying, or self-serving. But networking isn't about using other people or aggressively promoting yourself—it's about building relationships.
Networking may sound intimidating or difficult—especially when it comes to finding a job or asking for help—but it doesn't have to be. Networking can be rewarding and fun, even if you're shy or you feel like you don't know many people. And it's much easier than you think!
Informal job networking refers to the idea of telling everyone you know that you are looking for a job. These people should include your family, your friends (at school and at home), your family's friends, your professors, past employers, alumni, community, and church members. Through casual conversations you can indicate that you are exploring careers or seeking employment. Use your online social networking sites to let everyone know you what you are looking for.
Business and association meetings, conferences and events are a good way to build a professional network.
VIDEOS
ARTICLES
PRESENTATIONS
LOCAL MENTORING ORGANIZATIONS
Applying
There a numerous methods to apply for a job. Be sure to carefully review the job posting and follow the directions for applying. Typically applicants apply by submitting their resume (and don't forget the cover letter!), through an online application system and/or completing an job application form.
JOB APPLICATIONS
When you apply for a job you are typically asked to complete an employment application. You may be asked to complete a job application even if you have already submitted a resume and cover letter. That way, the employer has a record of your personal and employment history, verified and signed by the applicant.
ARTICLES
Interviewing
Preparing for a job interview can be very stressful. With the proper research, and practicing ahead of time, you can be ready for any interview. Entering into any interview can sometimes be scary, but remember to relax and to just be yourself. Your positive attributes would be a great addition to the company.
UPDATE - SPRING 2012 - A NEW FREE INTERVIEW TOOL IS AVAILABLE - PERFECT INTERVIEW! See below for details!
Perfect Interview™ is an interactive multimedia interviewing system that allows students to practice their interviewing skills. It is a self service system that simulates a real interview. This 24/7 service is available anywhere with an internet connection and a computer with a webcam and microphone.
Students can practice mock interviews over and over again. They experience different types of questions by interviewers, view sample responses, and find out why various types of questions are asked. And the best tool is the ability for students to record their own responses to the questions then view and critique their responses. Students can not only listen to their responses but also see their posture, body language and eye content – all important components and confidence builders of interviewing.
Easy Set Up:
- Go to http://www.perfectinterview.com/sdmesa
- Click “Create Account”
- Fill in requested information.
- Check “I have read and agree to the Terms and Conditions”
- Click “Create My Account”
- Check your email to obtain your username, password and website location to login.
- Get started!
System Requirements: For best results use a computer with a web camera and microphone. Perfect Interview is best viewed with Microsoft Internet Explorer.
This service is provided through a federal Perkins funds.
Follow Up
Following up after the interview separates the amateurs from the pros. View the follow-up as an opportunity to demonstrate your commitment and expertise and set yourself apart from the other candidates!
Send a Thank You note or email.
- By sending a thank-you note, you show your interviewer common courtesy and respect.
- So few job applicants send thank-you notes that you automatically stand out if you do.
- A thank-you note gives you an opportunity to reiterate points you made during your interview.
- A thank-you note lets you make points you forgot to make in your interview.
- A thank-you note demonstrates your written communication skills
ARTICLE
Unemployed?
Do you need medical assistance while unemployed and looking for work? Medi-Cal might be the answer for you. It is free to apply. Visit the Medi-Cal website for more information.
Career Collection in the LRC
The LRC Career Collection provides a wealth of books, ebooks, articles, publications, databases and DVD on almost every career topic.
Just use the Super Search Tool on the Library's home page to access the entire collection.
Click here for quick search of career databases and resources.
