Graduate Career Guide

210 University Center 731.881.7712 | career@utm.edu

UTM.EDU/CAREERS @UTMCAREER

2

GRADUATE CAREER GUIDE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

MARKET YOURSELF

EXECUTE YOUR JOB SEARCH

Resume Writing ................................................................3—7 Cover Letter Writing .............................................................. 8 Personal Branding .................................................................. 9 LinkedIn Profile ...................................................................... 9 Networking ............................................................................ 9

Job Search Strategies ........................................................... 10 How to Work Career Fairs ................................................... 11

LAND A JOB

Interview Strategies ............................................................. 12 Interview Types .................................................................... 13 Dress for Success ................................................................. 13 Professional Behavior .......................................................... 14

START YOUR CAREER

Budgeting ............................................................................. 15 Salary Negotiations .............................................................. 15 Adulting ................................................................................ 16

Congratulations on your upcoming

graduation! You have worked diligently to

achieve this goal, and we are pleased to

provide this Career Guide to you to aid in

your transition from college to your next

adventure, whether it is a job or graduate/

professional school.

This guide is a resource of examples and

recommended steps to help you strategically

prepare for this transition.

There are additional resources on the CPAD

website (www.utm.edu/careers), and any of

these topics can also be addressed in one-on-

one appointments with our staff, Monday

through Friday, 8 a.m.—5 p.m.

Schedule in-person, phone or Zoom

appointments by calling the office.

CAREER PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT 210 Boling University Center | 731.881.7712

@utmcareer

UTM.EDU/CAREER

CAREER EXPLORATION

− Career counseling − What can I do with this major? − Assessments

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

− Career coaching − Resume/cover letter critiques − Mock interviews − Free professional photo headshots − Networking/branding strategies

GRADUATE SCHOOL RESOURCES

− Website resources − Advising − Career fairs

JOB SEARCH RESOURCES

− Handshake (internship, part- and full-time job postings) − CareerShift − GoinGlobal − Career fairs and on-campus interviews − Workshops − Specialized job search strategies

WORKSHOP TOPICS

− Establish Brand with Networking & LinkedIn − Resume Writing Strategies − Job Search Strategies − How to Work Career Fair − Increasing Comfort with Professional Attire & Etiquette − Salary Negotiations − Personal Finance

3

RESUME WRITING TIPS

Captain Skyhawk Martin, TN 38237

123.123.1234 |Skyhawk@ut.utm.edu

CAPTAIN SKYHAWK Martin, TN 38237 | 123.123.1234 | skyhawk@ut.utm.edu

CAPTAIN SKYHAWK 123.123.1234 |Skyhawk@ut.utm.edu

linkedin.com/in/skyhawk

HEADERS

− Include full name, email and phone number.

− Name will be bolded 18—22 pt. font.

− Content will be 10.5—12 pt. font.

− Include City, ST and zip code.

− Use personal or school email (not work) - it should be professional, including your name, not hobbies or nicknames.

− Include link to portfolio, professional website or LinkedIn if applicable.

− Excellent communicator easily building rapport and presenting to diverse groups

− Attentive writer trained in journalistic and professional writing styles − Motivated contributor able to meet goals independently or as a team − Organized problem solver with a strong attention to detail

SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS

− List in 3—5 bullets the experience, successes, personal traits and skills you offer an employer.

− Align content directly with job description to encourage employer to read your entire resume.

− Do not lie, exaggerate or misrepresent yourself.

− Energetic graduate seeking Public Relations Assistant position − Innovative thinker with strong problem-solving and analytical skills − Strong communicator (verbal and written), experienced in technical

writing, blogging and presenting − Technologically savvy; proficient in using marketing via social media

University of Tennessee at Martin; Martin, TN Bachelor of Arts, English; May 20XX

− Marketing Minor − GPA: 3.85 | Dean’s List: Six (6) consecutive semesters

Study Abroad; Seoul, South Korea | June 20XX – July 20XX

EDUCATION − Include school name, location, degree and

graduation month and year.

− List present to past (if applicable).

− Include GPA if 3.0 or above.

− Include the following unless there are more than 3—if so, create separate sections:

− Awards, honors and scholarships

− Education abroad experience

− Special training, certifications or workshops

University of Tennessee at Martin; Martin, TN | Bachelor of Arts; May 20xx

− English Major | Advertising Minor − GPA: 3.80/4.00

Dyersburg State Community College; Dyersburg, TN Associate of Science, General Studies; May 20xx

A resume is a brief summary of your skills, competencies and past successes that allows prospective employers to evaluate you as a fit for their organization. It also allows them to assess if you possess relevant skills and experience to be successful in a given position. A document that is easy to read quickly, free of grammatical and spelling errors and directly aligns with the position of interest, will gain more attention. Use active language that communicates outcomes. Remember…resumes gain interviews...not job offers.

4

Dream Employer; New York, NY Account Intern, June 20XX – present

− Interact with management to understand key account roles and responsibilities

− Analyze digital advertising trends to project future look of Exxon and Mobil stations

− Prepare client proposal presentation with Prezi and won Best Presentation Award out of 25 interns

RESUME WRITING TIPS

EXPERIENCE − List experience present to past.

− Include employer, city, state, title and dates held position.

− Use consistent formatting throughout.

− Start each bullet with an action verb that communicates a related skill (see Action Verb list on p.5).

− Quantify outcomes when possible.

− Focus on successes, not tasks completed.

− Do not include supervisor contact information.

We Are Hip Inc.; Nashville, TN Sales Manager; Summers Breaks 20XX & 20XX − Supervised five (5) sales clerks, resulting in 100% employee retention − Initiated reward program for clerks, resulting in increased sales − Maintained budget, inventory and payroll (over $100,000)

There are optional sections depending on career goals—and include the following:

− Activities / Leadership − Key Skills (computer, foreign languages) − Certifications − Research − Honors

− Include activities that demonstrate job-related or leadership skills.

− Include career-related organizations.

− Do not include organizations of little or no interaction—be prepared to talk about involvement in an interview.

ADDITIONAL SECTIONS TECHNICAL SKILLS Design: Proficient in Adobe Photoshop, InDesign and Illustrator Social Media: Proficient in Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Hootsuite

CAMPUS LEADERSHIP

Social Sorority: Member, 20XX – present; Vice President, 20XX – 20XX Office of Admissions: Student Recruiter, 20XX – present Student Government Association: Senator, 20XX – present Public Relations Student Society of America: Secretary, 20XX – 20XX

Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers: Member, 20XX – present Social Fraternity: Treasurer, 20XX – present; Member, 20XX – present Campus Ministry: Member, 20XX – present Habitat for Humanity: Volunteer (120 hours), May 20XX

REFERENCES Mr. John Doe (Advisor) Weakley County Press 235 S Lindell St | Martin, TN 38237 johndoe@wcp.com | 731.587.3144 (office)

− Do not list “Available upon request” on resume.

− Prepare a separate page that lists 3 to 5 references using resume header.

− Always obtain permission to list people.

− Keep references informed of the positions you are pursuing.

FirstName LastName: Title, Company

− 123 Address | City, ST ##### − 123.123.1234 (cell) | email@abc.com “Student Name is a professional in every sense of the word. She possesses both strong writing and presentation skills.”

http://www.iise.org/

5

ACTION VERBS

addressed advertised arbitrated arranged articulated authored clarified collaborated communicated composed conferred consulted contacted conveyed convinced corresponded debated defined described developed directed discussed

drafted edited elicited enlisted explained expressed formulated furnished incorporated influenced interacted interpreted interviewed involved joined judged lectured listened marketed mediated moderated negotiated

observed outlined participated persuaded presented proposed publicized reconciled recruited referred reinforced reported resolved responded solicited spoke summarized synthesized translated wrote

COMMUNICATION

accommodated

achieved approved arranged catalogued categorized charted classified coded collected compiled corrected corresponded distributed filed generated implemented incorporated

inspected logged maintained monitored obtained operated ordered prepared processed provided purchased recorded registered reserved responded reviewed routed scheduled

screened served set-up submitted supplied standardized systematized updated validated verified

ORGANIZATION LEADERSHIP

administered analyzed appointed approved assigned attained authorized chaired considered consolidated contracted controlled converted coordinated decided delegated developed directed eliminated

emphasized enforced enhanced established executed generated handled headed hired hosted improved implemented increased initiated inspected instituted managed merged motivated

organized originated overhauled oversaw planned presided prioritized produced recommended replaced restored scheduled secured selected streamlined strengthened supervised terminated transformed

FINANCIAL /DATA TECHNICAL

RESEARCH

administered adjusted allocated analyzed appraised assessed audited balanced budgeted calculated

computed conserved corrected determined developed estimated measured planned prepared programmed

projected reconciled reduced researched retrieved

adapted applied assembled built calculated computed conserved constructed converted designed

determined developed engineered maintained manufactured operated overhauled printed programmed regulated

remodeled repaired replaced restored solved specialized standardized studied upgraded utilized

analyzed clarified collected compared conducted critiqued detected determined diagnosed evaluated examined experimented explored extracted formulated gathered identified

inspected interpreted interviewed invented investigated located measured organized researched reviewed searched solved summarized surveyed systematized tested

CREATIVE HELPING

TEACHING

acted adapted began combined composed conceptualized condensed created customized designed developed directed displayed drew entertained established fashioned

formulated illustrated initiated instituted integrated introduced invented modeled modified originated performed photographed planned revised revitalized shaped

adapted advocated aided answered arranged assessed cared for clarified coached collaborated contributed cooperated counseled demonstrated diagnosed educated encouraged ensured

expedited facilitated familiarized furthered guided insured intervened motivated prevented procured provided rehabilitated represented resolved simplified supplied supported volunteered

adapted advised clarified coached communicate conducted coordinated critiqued developed enabled

encouraged evaluated explained facilitated focused guided individualized informed instilled instructed

motivated persuaded simulated stimulated taught tested trained transmitted tutored

6

SAMPLE RESUMES

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http://www.iise.org/

7

SAMPLE RESUMES

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8

COVER LETTERS

− Be specific. Address it to a person. Call the company to ask to whom the letter should be addressed or use CareerShift, LinkedIn or alumni to identify a contact.

− Edit EVERY letter. Align with a specific position. Show that you have researched the company and position.

− Sincerity. Show enthusiasm and interest in the position. State how you are the specific fit for the position and that you want to work for the organization.

− Don’t restate resume. Don’t rewrite resume in paragraph form. Expand on successes listed in resume with mini-stories that show your personality and approach to demonstrating skills.

− Be confident. Avoid “qualifiers” such as “I think, feel or believe” when describing qualifications and fit with the company. Instead, state confidently that you have demonstrated a skill or trait in the past.

− Summarize. This isn’t your entire story—just enough relevant information to convince the reader to read your resume and invite you to interview.

− I/My Disease. Strive to start no more than one paragraph per letter and no more than one sentence per paragraph with I or my. The rhythm of an I/My heavy cover letter lulls the reader into boredom, and they miss your unique offerings.

Captain Skyhawk Martin, TN 38237 | 123.123.1234 | Skyhawk@ut.utm.edu

May 20, 20XX FirstName LastName Director, Personnel Department We Have Lots of Money, Incorporated Martin, TN 38237 Dear Mr./Ms. LastName: (address letter to person or title who would read)

Introductory Paragraph: Shar applicable personal traits and skills to gain the reader’s attention. Name the position or type of work for which you are applying, and mention where you learned of the position or organization. Give specific dates if you have had conversations with a person, and include this personal reference.

Body: The next one or two paragraphs are your sales pitch. Explain why you are interested and how you best fit this position. “Tease” the reader enough to read your resume by sharing how you have used skills or competencies in the past that align with the position.

Closing Paragraph: Be short and to the point. Indicate what steps you would like to happen next. Passive Approach: Directs employer to make the next move, “I look forward to hearing from you.” Active Approach: Allows you to initiate contact with the employer, “I will contact you on xyz date to verify that you have received my complete application and answer any questions you have about my qualifications.” If you say you will contact them, do! Finally, thank the employer for his or her time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Sign name in blue or black ink

FirstName LastName

Header should match resume header

Date followed by 1 to 2 blank lines

Personalized address, followed by 1 blank line

Salutation, followed by colon and 1 blank line

Letter is single spaced, left justified with 1 space between paragraphs

Closing, followed by 3 blank lines

Do not sign if attaching to an email

9

PERSONAL BRAND | NETWORKING

Your personal brand begins when an employer receives your resume. It continues when they Google you, inquire about you to their network, call your references and is solidified when they meet you in person. Does the employer “meet” the same person every time?

Your personal brand is highly influenced by your online

presence. What an employer finds when they Google you

communicates your professional (or lack thereof) potential

and fit to prospective employers.

LinkedIn is a great space to purposefully build your online presence. It is a hub for prospective employees and recruiters to interact professionally. Jobvite reports the following about LinkedIn recruiting:

95% of recruiters surveyed indicated they use LinkedIn to actively search for candidates. 95% of recruiters indicated they use LinkedIn as a way to contact potential hires. 93% indicated they use LinkedIn to vet candidates before an interview (only 32% on Facebook). 93% of those surveyed indicated they used LinkedIn to keep tabs on prospective hires. 92% of those interviewed said they regularly post jobs to LinkedIn. 79% of recruiters use LinkedIn to actually hire new employees (26% on Facebook, 14% on Twitter). Follow these tips to complete your profile to 100% and have a strong and effective presence on LinkedIn.

− Customize LinkedIn URL. Set your LinkedIn profile to “public” and create a unique URL that may be included on your resume: linkedin.com/in/JohnSmith

− Upload professional photo. This high quality image should be of you alone and in attire that aligns you with field of interest. No selfies, cropped picture of you with others or pixilated images. Your profile is 7x more likely to be viewed with an image.

− Align headline with career goals. The default headline is your most recent title. Replace with keywords relevant to your field of interest that are likely to be searched.

− Update contact information. Include a professional email address. Don’t include physical address or phone number.

− Highlight Education. Include major(s) and minor(s), courses and study abroad. Share GPA, honors and awards. Remove high school info unless incredibly relevant.

− Develop professional summary. This statement describes your qualifications and goals through keyword-rich bullets that align you with jobs of interest. You may list specialties after bullets.

− Fill “Skills & Expertise” with keywords. View job descriptions, O*Net (onetonline.org) and profiles of people who have the kind of roles you seek to identify relevant keywords.

− Share your work. Attach writing samples, design work, presentations, etc. Unlike your resume, you get to tell AND show your successes on your LinkedIn profile.

− Update your status. Post regularly, mentioning projects, articles you’re reading or event attendance.

− Connect. Join industry groups, volunteer organizations and professional associations of interest.

− Network. Follow the UT Martin page to identify UT Martin alumni with whom you would like to network. There are almost 19,000 alumni registered.

− Collect diverse recommendations. Strive to have at least one recommendation for each position. Those from direct supervisors are most significant.

− Edit. There should be NO grammatical or spelling errors.

− Use linkedin.com/university. These helpful tutorials and tips will help you use LinkedIn more effectively.

Networking. Networking helps you gain knowledge of specific jobs/careers and make contacts for referrals in the job search process. Your network is everyone you know, a giant web, tying each contact to another. It includes people from the following three categories: 1) Personal includes family, friends and mentors. 2) Pro-Personal includes professors, advisors, classmates and alumni. 3) Professional includes corporate recruiters, internship supervisors, industry professionals and alumni. A meeting can be as casual as “May I ask you a few questions about how you got into ______?” to arranging an appointment.

Informational Interviews. These conversations can guide your career choice as you gain more realistic insight into your career area of interest and network with professionals. It should help you develop career-related contacts and evaluate the environment as a fit for your career goals. It is not a direct job-seeking method but helps you increase your network and enhance your brand.

10

JOB SEARCH STRATEGIES

The job search process takes time and is a lot of hard work. To maximize your time and energy, utilize both online and in-person methods to purposefully identify opportunities and companies that align with your personality, skills, interests and values. Then, take the time to update your documents and brand to effectively market your skills, education and experiences.

START LOOKING HERE

− Handshake | myUTMartin portal − CareerShift | myUTMartin portal − LinkedIn | linkedin.com − UT Alumni Career Center | utaaconnect.com/career − Career & Internship Fair (offered fall and spring) − UT Martin faculty and advisors − Friends and family

HANDSHAKE

Access Handshake through your myUTMartin portal to complete your profile and upload your resume and allow recruiters to seek you out for job/internship opportunities. Keep your profile updated so you won’t miss out on exciting and career-enhancing opportunities.

Get Started

− Login to Handshake. − Upload a document. Consider making your resume

public for employers to see. (CPAD reviews all resumes to ensure that you are effectively marketing yourself to employers. The approval process can take up to 72 business hours.)

− Complete your profile. Check that the pre-loaded information is correct. Pay especially close attention to your major and GPA (if included). If you find any errors, contact CPAD.

− Decide whether to make your profile public or private. A public profile can be seen by approved employers. You can edit your public profile settings, hiding your GPA, for example.

− If you make your profile private, it can only be seen by you and CPAD staff. You can switch your privacy status at any time.

− The more information you add to your profile, the easier it will be for employers to find you and to make decisions about whether or not you might be a good fit for their available job opportunities.

SEARCH FOR JOBS

− Use filters to look for companies and jobs of interest. Save searches so finding relevant employers and jobs will be faster in the future.

− Follow jobs and employers of interest.

Request an Appointment

− Call CPAD at 731.881.7712 to request an appointment with an available staff member.

Find Events & Information Sessions

In the upper left-hand menu click on “Events” for Information Sessions and career workshops and on “Fairs” for career and internship fairs.

For additional support, review these articles and videos in

the KNOWLEDGE BASE (http://bit.ly/HANDSHAKEHELP)

CAREERSHIFT

Search for jobs, contacts and company information in this powerful search engine that will help make your job search more efficient. Save searches and receive updates daily or weekly. Access via myUTMartin portal.

CAPTAIN’S CLOSET

If you need professional attire, please reach out to CPAD at 731.881.7712 . Students and alumni may access the clothes closet to find business professional and casual clothing options to use for networking and the job search. Items are free for you to keep.

UT ALUMNI CAREER SERVICES

For post-graduate job search needs, you may also utilize the robust resources offered by the UT Alumni Career Services: utaaconnect.com/career

SAFEGUARD YOUR ONLINE JOB SEARCH

We strongly encourage you to educate yourself about

potential scammers. CPAD takes several precautions when

approving organizations to recruit at UT Martin, but you

should exercise caution when working with organizations.

Review the Spot Fraudulent Job Postings Tip Sheet on our

website before starting your job search. If you suspect a

Handshake position is fraudulent, please send an email to

kechols3@utm.edu immediately.

https://joinhandshake.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/categories/202711128-Student-Alumnihttp://bit.ly/HANDSHAKEHELPhttps://www.utm.edu/departments/careers/_pdfs/Tip%20Sheet%20Fraud%20Jobs.pdfmailto:dmiles@utm.edu

11

HOW TO WORK CAREER FAIRS

Career events are opportunities to network with company and organization representatives and potentially apply for jobs and internships. Here are some expectations of career fair attendees:

− Wear business professional attire .* − Bring resumes in a portfolio; avoid carrying bulky bag(s). − Don’t smell—no smoking, perfume or cologne. − Brush your teeth and bring mints (if needed) but no gum. − Eat a snack prior to avoid distractions caused by hunger. − Know your schedule as some recruiters plan interviews. − For UT Martin Career & Internship Fair, register via

Handshake (myUTMartin portal).

Market your academic training as well as your skills and competencies. Review the majors being recruited, but also be prepared to introduce yourself to all employers. Share how you have demonstrated the following and inquire how you could be an asset to their organization:

− Critical Thinking/Problem Solving − Oral/Written Communications − Teamwork/Collaboration − Information Technology Application − Leadership − Professionalism/Work Ethic − Career Management − Global/Intercultural Fluency

Resource: naceweb.org/knowledge/career-readiness-competencies.aspx

PREPARE TO TALK WITH EMPLOYERS

You do not want this to be you: “Hi, I’m Jane Doe. What does your company do?” You want to impress recruiters with your knowledge of their company, available positions and communicate your fit. Research career event attendees via Handshake or CareerShift.

PREPARE WHAT YOU WILL SAY

Prepare an “Elevator Speech,” a 30-60 second introduction of yourself that you share with recruiters. The plan is to…

− Introduce yourself, making eye contact with a smile. − Offer a firm hand shake and a resume. − Tell what sort of employment you seek. − Summarize relevant education, experience and skills. − Close by reiterating your interest and asking questions.

Thank the recruiter, ask for business card and leave. Do not manipulate their time by talking about personal life. Stick to relevant details. Conduct personal research to develop meaningful questions to ask.

USE YOUR TIME WISELY

− Come early as some recruiters leave the event early. − Do not travel with friends. Be an individual. − Know with whom you want to talk first. − Wait your turn, do not interrupt other students. − Network with other recruiters. Do not miss opportunities. − Ask for a business card from each recruiter with whom

you visit.

FOLLOW UP

− After the event, send personalized emails to thank recruiters for their time and ask any follow-up questions.

− Attach your resume to the message. − Mail a handwritten thank you as well. − Check to see if the company (not the individual) has a

LinkedIn and/or Twitter profile and follow it.

CAREER FAIR TIPS

− Dress as you would for a formal interview. − Greet recruiters with firm handshake and maintain

eye contact. − Prepare an elevator speech. − Prepare informed questions to ask. − Stand and travel to tables alone. − Keep an open mind; approach lesser known companies. − Have a sense of humor and be personable. − Bring a portfolio to hold resumes, business cards, etc. − Ask how to learn of upcoming opportunities. − Ask what the next step is. − Ask for a business card so that you can follow-up.

THINGS TO AVOID AT CAREER FAIR

− Don’t be afraid. Recruiters are excited to meet you. − Don’t pretend you’re interested in a company if you’re

not or schedule an appointment you won’t keep. − Don’t overstate your abilities—share your abilities in a

convincing, honest manner. − Don’t monopolize the recruiter’s time; make a positive

impression, gather information and move on. − Don’t ask questions about salary or complain about past

jobs, bosses, classes or professors. − Don’t toss your resume on the table. Take the time to

market yourself. − Don’t insert yourself into a conversation a recruiter is

having with another student. Wait your turn. * See note about Captain’s Closet on p. 10.

12

INTERVIEW STRATEGIES

Interviews are how employers evaluate you as a fit for their organization and determine if you possess the needed skills to perform in a given position. Interviews are how you communicate your interest in the position and show that you possess the skills you mentioned in your resume. It’s where you demonstrate that your personal traits align with the organization’s culture.

BEFORE YOU INTERVIEW

Research the company/position. − Company websites − Alumni − Information sessions − Handshake, CareerShift, LinkedIn, GlassDoor

Know yourself. − Your strengths, accomplishments and weaknesses − Your story and career goals − Why you should be hired

Prepare to tell them about yourself in relation to the position/organization. “Tell me about yourself” doesn’t mean share your autobiography.

Prepare to ask and answer questions with stories that use facts and specific examples.

Prepare an appropriate outfit.* Have it cleaned and make sure shoes and belt match and are in good condition.

Practice your initial greeting and handshake. Bring extra copies of your resume (printed on quality

paper) as well as something to write with and on. Prepare to give references and to release transcript. Determine travel time. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early.

Upon arrival, use a mirror to check hair, lipstick on teeth, missing buttons, collar, etc.

Schedule a mock interview for a formal “dress rehearsal” with CPAD. There are sample questions in the Interview Strategies tip sheet on our website.

DURING INTERVIEW

− Answer all questions asked. If a question has three parts, your response should as well.

− Do NOT talk about salary and benefits during the interview, unless the employer brings it up first. See Salary Negotiation tips on p. 15.

INTERVIEW WRAP-UP

− Obtain a business card from each interviewer. − State your interest in the position and ask for the job. − Write thank you letters immediately after interviews.

BEHAVIORAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

Recruiters use behavioral-based questions to probe your past behavior in jobs, classrooms, group projects and activities. Listen to the question to identify what quality or skill they are evaluating.

STAR Method

The STAR Method is an effective strategy to answer behavioral-based questions. When asked this type of question, utilize the following steps:

− Situation: Briefly outline background information to frame the situation.

− Task: Briefly narrate what you were trying to accomplish.

− Action: Give example of how you utilized relevant skills and qualities to resolve the situation/achieve goal/task.

− Result: Briefly summarize the positive outcome.

ILLEGAL QUESTIONS

Federal, state and local laws regulate the questions a prospective employer can ask. An employer’s questions, whether on the job application, in the interview or during the testing process, must relate to the job you are seeking. For the employer, the focus must be: “What do I need to know to decide whether this person can perform the functions of this job?”

If asked an illegal question, you have three options:

Answer the question, but keep in mind you are giving unrelated job information, and you may be giving the “wrong” answer, which could harm your chances.

Refuse to answer, which is well within your rights. Depending on how you phrase your refusal, you run the risk of appearing uncooperative or confrontational.

Examine the question for its intent and respond with an answer as it might apply to the job. This is typically the best way to go. Here are two examples:

Q: Are you a U.S. citizen? A: I am authorized to work in the United States.

Q: Who is going to take care of your children when you have to travel for the job?

A: I can meet the travel and work schedule that this job requires.

Resource: jobweb.com/resources/library/Interviews/Handling_Illegal_46_02.htm

* See note about Captain’s Closet on p. 10.

13

INTERVIEW TYPES

BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL

This attire is a professional workplace staple. Assume, unless otherwise stated, that this is preferred.

− Conservative dark colored suit (matching top/bottom)

− Pressed dress shirt/blouse − Closed toe, polished shoes − Socks/hosiery (conservative) − Hair styled and cleanly shaven

BUSINESS CASUAL

Business casual is typical for many offices and work events. However, guidelines vary by work culture. When in doubt, ask someone familiar with the office or event.

− More colorful shirts/blouses − Golf shirts − Khaki pants and similar fabrics − Loafers, flats and boots

GENERAL NOTES

Take your attire cues from peers who are respected in the office. In general, keep cologne, perfume and accessories to a minimum. As a rule, the later the event, the more formal the attire. Still have questions—read the employee handbook or ask.

Learn about Captain’s Closet on p. 10.

TELEPHONE

− Because you lack visible feedback, pay close attention to your tone, speech patterns and speed.

− Smile while talking. It actually charges your voice with the positivity you would give in person.

− Silence is ok—though it may feel that it lasts an eternity. Envision the employer taking notes as if you are in person when a pause follows your answer.

− Use a land line or a reliable location. You are invited to schedule a time to use CPAD for an interview.

− Much like a video conference call, strive to limit the risk of noise or visual distractions.

− Have a cup of water, your resume and any prepared questions nearby.

VIDEO CONFERENCE

− This is a growing trend in recruiting; so be prepared.

− Dress as if it were in person. Yes, that includes pants and shoes. Clothes set the tone.

− Limit noise or visual distractions. Interview in front of a blank space if possible, and send roommates and household pets away.

− Look into the camera. As tempting as it may be to look at the screen while talking, look into the camera, that is the “eye” you should be attempting to make contact with.

− Use an Ethernet cable. Avoid using Wi-Fi as connection issues might reflect poorly upon you. If you get a bad connection, ask to redial.

− CPAD offers quiet interview rooms that you can schedule a time to use. You may use our equipment as well. Call 731.881.7712 to take advantage of this resource.

IN PERSON

− Make eye contact. This shows that you are listening and trying to connect when you are speaking.

− If you face a panel interview, start and end an answer with the person who asked the question, but make eye contact with all other members throughout your answer. Don’t only look at the highest ranking person or the one who offers the most encouraging body language and positive feedback.

− Seeing the interviewer take notes is not a bad thing. Notes are typically a tool to help them remember something you said for later debate.

− Be overdressed vs. underdressed. It is much easier to scale back an outfit than to upscale it. Confirm dress expectations well in advance.

DRESS FOR SUCCESS

14

PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR

GENERAL TIPS

− Use titles (Mr., Ms., Dr., etc.), until instructed otherwise. − Introduce yourself with a smile and eye contact. − Introduce colleagues by title and last name. − Have a firm handshake but avoid death grips. − Arrive on time (5 to 15 minutes early). − Develop a meeting agenda if you are leading. − Do not use profanity or tell off-colored jokes. − Do not engage in office gossip. − Bring a positive attitude and leave drama at home.

PHONE COMMUNICATION

Do…

− Answer with a professional greeting. − Respond in a timely matter to voicemail. − Turn off phone during meetings or at restaurants.

Don’t…

− Have an unprofessional voicemail. − Neglect to check your voicemail. − Use company phone for personal business.

EMAIL COMMUNICATION

Do…

− Set-up an automatic reply when out of the office. − Include compelling subject line. − Use proper grammar, spelling and punctuation. − Create professional signature. − Confirm attachment is attached if intended. − Keep it short, simple and professional.

Don’t…

− Use text speech, emojis, etc. − Send when angry. − Include quotes and/or print warnings in signature.

SOCIAL MEDIA COMMUNICATION

Do…

− Use social media to network. − Use to stay informed of trends in field. − Remember that what is posted is there forever.

Don’t…

− Talk negatively about colleagues or employer. − Break office policy. − Share anything considered private to workplace. − Share everything about yourself.

DINING ETIQUETTE

Do…

− Pass food counterclockwise (to the right). − Pass salt and pepper together. − Use piece of bread to scoop difficult foods, not fingers. − Place napkin in lap (it should not be worn as bib). − Wait on host to begin eating. − Leave a 15 to 20% tip if responsible for paying bill.

Don’t…

− Order complex or messy foods (or eat with hands). − Season food before tasting. − Ask for a to-go box. − Double dip from community dips. − Offer for others to sample your food or vice versa. − Order the most expensive thing on the menu. − Do not get intoxicated at work functions.

PLACE SETTING − If unsure, use cutlery from outside in. − When finished, place silverware on plate lying 10 to 4. − Between bites place utensils on plate. − Drinks are to the right of your plate, bread to the left.

Tip: Make the “ok” sign, your left hand makes a “b” for bread, your right hand makes a “d” for drink.

REMEMBER

How you conduct yourself and treat others in a business or dining setting speaks strongly of your professionalism. Be respectful to everyone, no matter their title.

15

BUDGETING & SALARY NEGOTIATIONS

BUDGETING

Before you start spending, create a budget and establish an emergency savings account of at least $1000. (Ideally, save at least three months’ salary.) To get started, document where you spend money for two months. In the third month, budget every dollar so you know where money went at the end of the month. Don’t forget to budget for unexpected expenses and saving for “toys” you’ve dreamt of owning. Here is a sample budget:

SAMPLE BUDGET

Donations

Emergency Savings

Investment Savings

Student Loan(s)

Mortgage/Rent* (repairs)

Electricity

Water

Trash

Phone/Data Plan

Cable/Satellite

Internet/Wireless Connection

Newspaper/Subscriptions

Car Payment* (repairs)

Insurance (car, home, rental, etc.)

Life Insurance

Memberships (gym, etc.)

Gas*

Groceries*

Clothing*

Dry Cleaning

Entertainment

Hair/Make-up

Gifts

Vacation

Medical

Miscellaneous

Take Home Pay +

Total Expenses -

+

*Pay for these first and then take care of the others. It doesn’t make sense to pay off your credit card if you can’t eat dinner or get to work.

KNOW YOUR VALUE/RESEARCH

Many entry-level jobs have fixed, non-negotiable starting salaries, but you will not get more unless you ask. Your ability to negotiate within the set range depends on your

qualifications and information gathered through research. Understand your bargaining power: assess your worth, identify special skills, recognize what you bring to the relationship and analyze the competition.

− Evaluate how much you need to earn to live. − Find out what your skills and experience are worth. − Research salary averages for various occupations: O*Net,

Occupational Outlook Handbook and NACE salary survey. − Investigate cost of living based on employment location:

salary.com, homefair.com, usacitylink.com. − Develop a salary range (not too broad) with a high, low

and middle range. − Examine company’s hiring history.

KNOW WHEN TO NEGOTIATE

Ideally, negotiate after an offer is made. Discussing salary before the offer may screen you out of the job if your requirements are too high or lock you into a low salary.

− When asked about salary requirements during an interview, indicate a range, not a dollar amount.

− On an application, indicate “open” or “negotiable” under salary requirements. Under salary history, indicate “competitive” unless it asks for a specific amount.

− When dealing with recruiters or employment agencies, be honest about your expectations and salary history.

WHEN EMPLOYER MAKES OFFER

Counter with a researched, non-emotional response and desired range. They will respond with what they are able or not able to offer. Employers will not usually rescind an original offer as a result of a counter offer. The employer should return with a response that meets your needs; otherwise they will share why they are unwilling to do so.

NEGOTIATE BEYOND SALARY

Consider negotiating other things: bonuses, salary reviews (timing, basis and percentage), pension plans/retirement, profit sharing plans, tuition reimbursement, employee discount, company car, expense accounts, stock options, relocation/moving expenses, professional memberships, certifications and sign-on bonuses.

THE FINAL OFFER

Take time to evaluate the offer. One to two days is usually acceptable. Ensure you are clear on your duties. Get the offer in writing. Then, send a thank you letter outlining your understanding of the offer, your enthusiasm about starting and your appreciation for their decision to hire you.

16

PURCHASE INSURANCE

Insurance is a way to transfer risk. You should have insurance as some losses could bankrupt you. Research the following types of insurance:

Homeowners/Rent Auto Health Disability Life Insurance

EXPLORE RETIREMENT & INVESTMENTS

It is advantageous to plan for the future and to start early. Here are the different types of retirement plans (always do your research on any updates on laws):

IRA Roth IRA SEPP 401K, 403B and 457

There are many ways to invest money and plan for retirement; make sure you do your research. Here are different types of investments:

Money Markets Single Stocks Bonds Mutual Funds Rental Real Estate Annuities Commodities and Futures

Resources: daveramsey.com; InvestorEducation.org; JumpStart.org; moneytalks.ucr.edu; ncee.net; nefe. org; ssa.gov; younginvestor.com/teens

NAVIGATE OFFICE BEHAVIOR

Keep your office clean and evaluate if it is appropriate to have personal items in your work environment. In general, keep your work space neat. Do not leave old food or candy wrappers lying around. Create a filing or organization system…we all organize our space differently, but have some sort of system that works for you. If personal items are allowed, make sure that they are appropriate and do not include potentially offensive material.

Email. Communicate professionally, not with text speak (no emojis). Always include a subject line and address the person by name and include your name and/or signature in the closing. Proofread before you send, and check that attachments are attached. Respond within 36 hours.

Phone. Create a professional voice mail message (consider your personal one as well). When leaving a succinct message (less than two minutes), state your name and phone number twice.

Introduce Yourself. Look people in the eyes, smile and extend your hand for a firm handshake. Practice an introduction that is 15 to 30 seconds long.

BUILD A SOCIAL LIFE IN A NEW PLACE

− Join professional organizations. − Find an alumni group in your area. − Apply for a young leaders program. − Join service clubs and organizations or volunteer. − Visit and/or join a religious group. − Join a gym or a club sport team. − Take classes: cooking, gardening, dance, golf, etc.

Be careful to not build social life around co-workers as you want to maintain a professional relationship with them. That does not mean you can’t see them after hours. Dinner after hours is okay; partying late into the night is not.

STAY HEALTHY

Find a time of day that you can commit to exercise. Gyms don’t tend to be as busy between 4:30 and 6:00 a.m. Find a park with a walk/jog trail where you can walk for free. If all else fails, take the stairs instead of the elevator and park farther away in the parking lot.

Take your lunch to work to save money and control contents. Nutritionists suggest eating six small meals a day. Eat breakfast and take two small snacks (almonds, low fat yogurt, cottage cheese, veggies, fruit, etc.) for morning and afternoon. Replace sodas with water. If you choose to drink alcohol, you should drink no more than two glasses of wine, beer or mixed drinks a day.

Resources: health.gov; 4women.gov; healthfinder.gov; healthywomen.org; nimh.nih.gov; mayoclinic.com; diet.ivillage.com/healthcalc

SUCCEED ON THE JOB

NACE’s Job Choices describes the first year in a new job as a “separate and distinct career stage” – a time when you aren’t a college student, but you aren’t yet respected as a professional. There are different rules to follow during this “breaking-in stage.” Take time to figure out how to “establish yourself, learn the way ‘things are done’ and figure out what you need to do to earn credibility and respect.” Learn the culture and unspoken rules of the organization. Keep your eyes and ears open and your mouth shut until you understand the company. It is only then that your ideas will have true impact and respect.

− Be the first one to the office. − Avoid office politics and gossiping. − Gracefully mourn the loss of Spring Break. − Continue to meet new people. Take classes or pursue another degree. Resource: Job Choices 2006, NACE

ADULTING