In this activity, I'll go through the steps that I believe are important when applying for a job or career. I chose this topic simply because among others, I'm in college and preparing to enter the workforce. By following some of these steps, I'm hoping that it will somehow benefit someone, or maybe even myself.
Young adults and/or college students would be the primary focus because we're the ones that are fresh out into the workforce or presently looking for long-term careers. I think about how nice it would be to have someone there to guide me every step of the way or one that would create an outline for me to follow, when it comes to being successful in the workforce or at the workplace. So while creating these steps, these are a couple of the ideas that I'll keep in mind.
When job searching , it becomes very helpful if you have some surrounding resources or someone that's relevant to help you. Four helpful hints to get you started might include:
*Talking with a career/college advisor
In my opinion, this option is very helpful because it helps guide you in which ever direction you wish to go. From recent experience, I'm able to say that my career advisor, for example, has been a significant help. When it came to editing my resume, job searching, searching for internships, and receiving general information about what to look forward to in the workforce & its employers, she became a primary source. I also appreciated her help & dedication because it made the process easier knowing that I had someone, who was very knowledgeable, there to guide me.
*Resumes
Creating a resume makes it easier when it comes to the actual applying. I found that some employers would rather a person e-mail his/her resume over filling out an application. And there are others that may want you to do both. In my opinion, creating resumes makes it much easier to review candidates for a job and, sometimes, it gives the employer more information than a basic application would. And with an appropriate written resume, it gives a person's accurate work experience & skills that he/she is capable of doing. And the more information that you're capable of doing or that stands out, the greater chance you'll have of landing your dream job.
*Online Job Searches
There are also online job searches, like http://www.monster.com/ or http://www.careerbuilder.com/, that are sometimes helpful when it comes to searching for a job. Most of the time, it may not be anything that he/she wants to make permanent, but it's definitely something to get you started. When I started searching for my first job, Career Builder became one of the first places to start my search. I figured it was quick, easy, and I had instant access to the application. And the best part is, I had finally got my first job! There is also another very helpful site that provides tips for finding a job, keeping your job and building/editing your resume. http://www.illinoisworknet.com/ allows you to job search while learning & maintaining helpful tools to help on your way to the workforce, like training programs that will help to prepare you for the job you want. Just remember that job searching doesn't always have to be boring; as long as you make the best of it. And it makes it even better if you're searching for a job that you'll love doing. My advice would be to try and imagine your future doing something that you love & maintaining that job in a way that you feel comfortable.
Application: Even though there are a variety of jobs that offer you the option of sending in your resume,most jobs still require most applicants to fill out applications. When filling out a job application you should:
1. Be honest
Proving to an possible employer that you're an honest person & employee will definitely put you a step ahead when applying for the job.
2.Handwriting does Count!
Completing a application in your best handwriting does stand out to employers. Having nice& neat writing lets him/her know that you're serious about the job offering & also about how you complete your work.
The Calling/Interview
For some people, including me, this might be the most exciting part of the job searching process. I say this because in most cases, if you're called in for an interview, you most likely have the job. But before you get too excited, there are about 4 steps that even I try to follow before walking into an interview.
1. Dress to Impress
From past experience & advice, I've learned that when you dress appropriately it makes you look prepared and professional. When hiring, employers are always looking for people who will represent their company appropriately & effectively.
2.Confidence is the Key!
Sometimes, interviews can be very intimidating. But one thing that I always remember is that I'm there for one reason---because I want the job. And even though this step may be tough, I know that it brings me one step closer to where I aim to be. When I'm asked questions, I try my best to answer honestly & with confidence. And keeping a smile on your face gives the employer a better impression of you, because your smile, in my opinion, gives off a positive energy.
3.Eye Contact
Making good eye contact with the interviewer shows that you are paying attention. When he/she is able to let small things distract them, like a text message, the employer/interviewer is able to sense trouble right away!
4. Be on Time!!!!
When searching for employees, employers consider being punctual as being a top priority. If you're not able to be on time for the interview, how will you ever be on time for work everyday?
5. Your Calls can Wait!
Turn your cell phone off! Personally, I'd consider this to be one of the most distracting things during an interview. Could you imagine the interviewer in the midst of asking a question and all of sudden the nastiest ring tone ever rings loud & clear. When this happens, it doesn't make the situation look good and it doesn't make you look professional.
For every interview that I've had, I have continuously followed these steps, which have led me to receiving the jobs that I've wanted. I'm not able to guarantee that these steps will get you your dream job after your first interview, but I can guarantee that they certainly do help. Employers seek out to hire good employees who are dependable and at the workplace to do his/her job. In my opinion, the steps mentioned above are definitely helpful for future reference when it comes to the beginning stages to finding your career.
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