Why Prepare?

Its a jungle out there..

Competition is strong, and the way we present ourselves is under closer examination more than ever before.

Preparing for Work

Positive Thinking start your preparation for work now, by developing a positive attitude about life. Getting Started Obtain literature, read books on career advice, find out who your local employers are. Complete career awareness assessments to determine what you may be good at. Leisure interests activities and interests outside of your studies may help direct you into a career.

Defining your Ideal Job

Eight Factors to consider: Which skills do you want to use? What special knowledge do you have? What kind of people do you want to work with? What kind of work environment do you prefer? Where do you want your next job to be? How much money do you want to make? How much responsibility are you willing to accept? What things are important to you?

Creating a Powerful Resume and Cover Letter

Why is a Resume so Important?

Organizes your thoughts. Helps you recognize skills and interests. Makes you feel good about yourself. Markets your functional skills better. Turns your education into a career reality. Helps you achieve your goals.

What Can a Resume Help You Do?

Apply for summer and part-time jobs Apply for colleges and for scholarships Apply for internships Find mentors Get References Apply for community service Distribute at job fairs Network

Creating your Resume

Your Contact Information Your Goal or Objective Education and Academics Skills Honors and Awards Activities Workshops, Seminars and Related Programs Internships, Work-Study Programs and Tech Prep Programs Service-Learning and Volunteer Experiences Work Experience

Cover Letter Goals

Makes employers want to look at your resume Gets potential employers interested in you. Impresses them with your experience and skills related to a job opening. Shows your interest in their company and customers. Shows that you are dependable, professional and determined Asks for an interview or indicates the job seekers follow-up plan.

Creating The Cover Letter

Your name & address Date Contact Persons Name and Address Salutation Opening Paragraph Middle Paragraphs Contact Information and Closing

Opening Paragraph
(Attention and Interest)
Classified Advertisement
I read your advertisement in the Chicago Tribune for a Hostess on Sept. 28, 2002

Unsolicited Mailing
I would like to apply for a position as a Hostess with Prime Rib Depot. I am seeking a summer position where I can use my communications skills and work with the public.

The Internet
I am sending my enclosed resume as an application for the Hostess position with your company. I found the opening listed on your Web site. I am seeking a position where I can use my communications skills and work with the public.

Referral
I was referred to you by Mike Thomas, who is my neighbor. He tells me that you frequently hire dependable, hard working high school seniors at your restaurant. Currently, I am seeking a summer internship where I can use my communications skills and work with the public.

The Middle Paragraphs

(Desire)

#1 - Summary of your background and critical skills (hard skills) to show you are a match for the position.
As my resume indicates, I am active in the culinary arts program and the school caf at my high school. I recently was the silver medal winner at the state Student Invitational. I maintain a 3.0 average and worked 10 hours per week during the school year.

#2 A persuasive paragraph with a few soft skills.

If you are seeking a dependable, hard-working, and friendly young person to work as a hostess for the summer, I would like to be considered.

Info about you Date

Jennifer Dean 3135 High Low Road Hilltop, IL, 69504 December, 3, 2002 Ms. Jane Howard General Manager Prime Rib Depot 344 Center Street Chicago, IL 60554 Dear Ms. Howard, I was referred to you by my neighbor, Tom Williams, who told me about your restaurant. I will be graduating from Stamford High School in May and would like to be considered for a hostess position. I will have competed ProStart, a culinary and restaurant management program, and am skilled in food preparation and customer service. My work history includes part time positions at fast food restaurants as well as a hostess at a casual diner. If you are interested in hiring a dependable, hard-working,and friendly young person to work this summer, I would like to be considered.

Contact Person
Salutation

Opening Paragraph

Middle Paragraphs

Contact Information and closing

I am available afternoons at (000) 000-000 after 4 p.m. I will be available for an interview at your convenience. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely, Jennifer Dean Enclosure: Resume

Filling out an Application Form

Follow Directions. Dont leave any blanks. Be neat. Be prepared. Provide positive information about yourself. Avoid negative information about yourself.

Over to You
Prepare a Resume and a Cover Letter applying for a job / summer internship (to a company of your choice)