• Entering the Workforce 

    Resume Writing

    No matter what you plan to do after graduation, you will need to know how to communicate effectively.  One of the most important ways that you will communicate is through the job application process.  Knowing how to write a cover letter and resume are necessary skills for advancement in any vocation.  Remember that a resume won’t get you a job, but it will get you an interview.

    There is no “right” way of creating a resume.  Be unique and allow your personality to show, but remember to be professional at all times.  Use a font that is professional and easy to read.  When describing your work and related experiences, use action words, such as “aided,” “demonstrated,” “monitored,” and “utilized.” Also, use short phrases to describe your experiences, not complete sentences.  If you need to provide references, ask for permission before you use someone’s name and information.  Finally, have several people proofread your resume for spelling, formatting, and grammatical errors.  Feel free to use the resume tool NJCAN to format your resume.

    If you are required to print your resume use ‘resume paper’.  Resume paper is heavier, colored, and may even have a granite or marble design.

      

    Cover Letter

    Before a prospective employer reads your resume and application, they will read your cover letter. Cover letters are an important part of your application package, as they spark interest and make the employer want to read your resume.  More than just what is on the resume, your cover letter is more personable and should link together your skills and how they will be of benefit to the employer.

    Be sure that the cover letter is addressed to whoever is responsible for hiring new employees.  Cover letters are generally three paragraphs.  Paragraph one is used to tell the employer why you are writing. Paragraph two is your opportunity to sell your product, which is yourself!  Describe how your skills and experiences relate to the requirements of the position that you are applying for.  Paragraph three describes the next step, which is an interview.

     

    The Interview

    Now that you have made it past the cover letter and resume stage, you are ready for the interview.  Relax. Take a deep breath.  It’s normal and expected that you are nervous, and the best way to deal with anxiety is to be prepared.  By following these tips, you will be well on your way to your new job!

    • A strong handshake, good posture, eye contact, and professional dress are important
    • Be sure that you know a lot about the employer: what is your prospective employer in charge of, how large is the company, how long has the company been around, who are the top individuals in the company, and any current or local issues that pertain to the company.
    • Don’t appear to be a know-it-all. You’re trying to get a job, not re-structure the organization!
    • The most important thing that you can do is to be yourself Be relaxed, but enthusiastic.  Remember: whoever interviews you sat in the same seat that you’re sitting in at some point!

     

     Sample Interview Questions You May Be Asked:

    • Tell me a little bit about yourself
    • Why did you choose this field to work in?
    • What are some of your strengths? Your weaknesses?
    • I see on your resume that you worked at               .  Can you tell me a little about what you did there?
    • Tell me about a difficult time in your life and how you handled that situation.
    • What kind of leadership roles have you had, and what have you learned from them?
    • What made you interested in our company?
    • What are your career goals OR where do you see yourself in 10 years?
    • What will you bring to our company?
    • Why should we hire you?

     

    Follow Up Letter

    A follow up letter, or thank you note, is important.  Sending a note after your interview is an added element that may help your employment opportunities.  Even if you do not get the job that you applied for, a thank you letter may help keep your name fresh in the employer’s mind.  Remember to make the note personalized to your interview.

     

    CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

     

    CAREER INFORMATION LINKS:

    Monster Board Career Hub

    America’s Job Bank

    SnagAJob.com

    Job Corp

     

    VOCATIONAL ADULT PROGRAMS:

    • Cape May County Technical High School www.capemaytech.com
      • Call 465-4161 ex 681 for the adult post-secondary programs
    • Atlantic County Institute of Technology https://www.acitech.org/cms/
      • Check the website for programs offered or call 625-2249 for more information
    • Atlantic County Community College http://www.atlantic.edu/(Many opportunities for vocational certificate programs)
      • Call (609) 343-4900 for more information
    • Cumberland County College http://www.cccnj.edu/(Many opportunities for vocational certificate programs)
      • Call (267) 284-5000 for more information
    • Camden County College https://www.camdencc.edu/(Has three campuses – Blackwood, Camden, and Cherry Hill – providing accessible and affordable education, including vocational certificate programs)
      • Call (856) 227-7200 for more information