Learnrevo's Self & Career Guide

8/3/2019 Learnrevo's Self & Career Guide

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PERSONALITy.... 2 DEVELOPING A RESUME...8

ABOUT THE JOB..14 INTERVIEWING SKILLS...11

self&career


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1.personalityTo find a career path that you will find both challenging and satisfying, you must first learn about yourse

* What do you like to do?

* What skills do you have?

* Which skills do you like to use?* What kind of work setting fits best with your personality type?

* What is your personality type??

Personality traits can be interpreted as both positive and negative. For instance, being critical is one of your traitsThis could be a plus if you are an editor of a publishing company, or a meat inspector. It would be a negative ifyou are a supervisor trying to gain rapport with an employee.

Personality InventoryThis assessment will help you better understand your personality traits and their strength. A trait is a characteristicwhich tells you how you will react to new situations or new experiences. Below is a list of personality traits and t

meanings. Read each trait and its meaning, then indicate its strength on the line using the scale below:

0 = if you do not have this trait 1 = if you have this trait to some degree

2 = if you clearly have this trait 3 = if you strongly have this trait

_____ Honesty: Having integrity; and keepingone's promise.

_____ Courtesy: Being thoughtful of others._____ Responsibility: Being accountable for duties; and

actually following through with your duties.

_____ Compatibility: Being in harmony with others,and having the ability to work well with others.

_____ Loyalty: Showing allegiance to people and/orthings; showing devotion to your company,

people or things._____ Enthusiasm : Having a strong affinity towards

people and/or things; to show eagerness and awillingness to work with others or things.

_____ Open-mindedness: Being receptive andinterested in the opinions and ideas of others.

_____ Self-Control: Controlling your own actions andfeelings.

_____ Influence: Motivating or encouraging others._____ Initiative: Starting thoughts and/or actions._____ Adaptability: Making changes when necessary._____ Industriousness: Being consistently active;

getting your work done.

_____ Carefulness: Giving attention to people and/othings; making sure that you do things proper

_____ Self-Reliance: Having trust in self; doing thingyourself and feeling confident about them.

_____ Compassion: Having sympathy and feelingsfor people with problems.

_____ Dedication : Being seriously devoted tocauses and/or goals.

_____ Competitiveness: Striving to win._____ Patience: Being able to wait; taking your

time to do things.

_____ Perfectionism: Trying to achieve the highestpossible degree of excellence.

_____ Courage: Meeting danger or difficulties in spitof fear.

_____ Decisiveness : Making decisions promptlyand definitely.

_____ Drive: Having the energy to get things done._____ Perseverance : Being persistent in

pursuit of tasks._____ Calmness : Being serene._____ Stability: Being constant in responses.


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Just because we are interested in something does not mean that we automatically are good at it. It's a known facthat we are most likely to excel at what we like to do. Think of things you have done in the past where yousucceeded:

Volunteered at the local high school

Wrote a poem that was published Designed a computer program

The following activity will help you focus on your interests. However, this is a simple survey and any othnterests you are aware of should be included as well. For example, if your hobby is collecting coins, you

should include it.

Select only those which truly interest you the most!

Interest SurveyI am interested or like these activities, functions, and career fields...

*Accounting *Freedom *Physical work *Acting

*Gardening *Planning *Administering *Golf*Politics *Advising *Government *Precision work

*Agriculture *Graphic arts *Production *Analyzing*Handling detail *Architecture *Helping People *Reading*Art *History *Religion *Assisting*Improving *Researching *Brainstorming *Physical sciences

*Influencing *Resolving conflict *Building morale *Photography*Business *Inventing *Selling *Challenge*Inventing *Social sciences *Solving problems *Coaching

*Law *Strategy *Communication *Law Enforcement*Supervising *Conceiving ideas *Libraries *Swimming*Consulting *Listening *Teaching *Cooking

*Machine operation *Teamwork *Counseling *Making decisions*Thinking *Creating *Making policy *Translating*Traveling *Designing *Volunteering *Winning*Editing *Engineering *Money *Participating

*Working outdoors *Motivating *Entrepreneur *Mountain climbing*Writing Instructions *Evaluating *Film Watching *Office management

*Finance *Organizing *Designing

Finally, review what you chose then carefully select and circle the top eight interestsfrom those you identified. Oseparate sheet of paper, write what you like and what you dislike about all the skills you listed.

dentifying your values is one of the most important factors in considering your career choices. Vital questions thaneed to be explored include:

Do my values match my interest? Do my values match the work involved in a particular career?

Often times people are disappointed when they find their chosen career does not match with their values. Fornstance, the career may involve long hours (no family time) or does not pay a large salary (no out of town

vacations).There two kinds of values explored here: Work Values and Personal Values. Work values deals with factors that yconsider important to you on the job.


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Work Related ValuesThe following list describes a wide variety of satisfactions that people obtain from their jobs. Look at the definitionof these various satisfactions and rate the degree of importance that you would assign to each, using the scalebelow:1 = Not important at all 2 = Not very important 3 = Reasonably important

4 = Very important in my choice of career

_____ Help Society: Do something to contribute to the betterment of the world I live in._____ Help Others: Be involved in helping other people in a direct way, either individually or in small groups._____ Public Contact: Have a lot of day-to-day contact with people._____ Work with Others: Have close working relationships with a group; work as a team toward common goals._____ Affiliation: Be recognized as a member of a particular organization._____ Friendships: Develop close personal relationships with people as a result of my work activities._____ Competition: Engage in activities which pit my abilities against others where there are clear win-and-lose outcomes._____ Make Decisions: Have the power to decide courses of action, policies, etc._____ Work under Pressure: Work in situations where time pressure is prevalent and/or the quality of my work is judged

critically by supervisors, customers or others._____ Power and Authority: Control the work activities or (partially) the destinies of other people._____ Influence People: Be in a position to change attitudes or opinions of other people._____ Work Alone: Do projects by myself, without any significant amount of contact with others._____ Knowledge: Engage myself in the pursuit of knowledge, truth and understanding._____ Intellectual Status: Be regarded as a person of high intellectual prowess or as one who is an acknowledged

expert" in a given field.

_____ Artistic Creativity: Engage in creative work in any of several art forms._____ Creativity (general): Created new ideas, programs, organizational structures or anything else not following a format

previously developed by others._____ Aesthetics: Be involved in studying or appreciating the beauty of things, ideas, etc._____ Supervision: Have a job in which I am directly responsible for the work done by others._____ Change and Variety: Have work responsibilities which frequently change in their content and settings._____ Precision Work: Work in situations where there is very little tolerance for error._____ Stability: Have a work routine and job duties that are largely predictable and not likely to change over a long

period of time.

_____ Security: Be assured of keeping my job and a reasonable financial reward._____ Fast Pace: Work in circumstances where there is a high pace of activity, work must be done rapidly._____ Recognition: Be recognized for the quality of my work in some visible or public way._____ Excitement : Experience a high degree of (or frequent) excitement in the course of my work._____ Adventure: Have work duties which involve frequent risk-taking._____ Profit, Gain: Have a strong likelihood of accumulating large amounts of money or other material gain._____ Independence: Be able to determine the nature of my work without significant direction from others; not

have to do what others tell me.

_____ Moral Fulfillment: Feel that my work is contributing significantly to a set of moral standards which I feelare very important.

_____ Location: Find a place to live (town, geographical area) which is conducive to my life style and affordsme the opportunity to do the things I enjoy most.

_____ Community: Live in a town or city where I can get involved in community affairs._____ Physical Challenge: Have a job that makes physical demands which I would find rewarding._____ Time Freedom: Have work responsibilities which I can work at according to my own time

schedule; no specific working hours required.

Now choose ten of these Work Values which are the most important to you and circle them. Each of these valuewill be relevant to the career exploration that you will do in later exercises. If you can think of any other work va(desired satisfactions) that are not included in the list above and which are especially important to you, add them tthe ten values you circled by writing them below or on a separate sheet of paper..Personal values are what you consider important to you as a person. Ask yourself what's important to you in you

personal life. For example, recognition in yourself or in others may be important to you. As you are filling out thePersonal Value Survey remember that these things should reflect only your heart-of-heart desires


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Personal Values SurveyI think these things are important to me...

*Ability to influence *Material possessions *Achievement*Adventure *Music *Art

*Availability to my children *Patriotism *Beautiful surroundings*Church participation *Peace of mind *Community participation

*Companionship *Physical challenge *Competitiveness*Creativity *Power *Dance*Education *Reputation *Ethics

*Excitement *Satisfying love relationship *Exercise*Fame *Self-esteem *Family time*Financial comfort *Self-knowledge *Flexibility*Generosity *Sense of control *Loyalty

*Good family relationships *Social status *Happiness*Health *Sports *Helping others*Hobby *Time to yourself *Honesty

*Tolerant attitudes *Humility *Travel*Integrity *Volunteering *Intellectual stimulation*Wealth *Justice *World without discrimination

*Leisure time *Loving and understanding friends *Making the team*_______________________ *___________________ *___________________

Were you able to come up with some personal values not one the list?? Now, narrow down your personal valuethe top 10 values that are important to you and circle them.

Think of anything that you do better than average. These arethe skills you want to present to the employer. Some

examples might be: - organizing and developing projects- good writing skills - ability to remember details

accurately

Skills can be separated into two different groups: transferable

skills and nontransferable skills. Transferable skills are thoseskills that can be used in one job or another. Nontransferable

skills are generally specific to a certain job or type of work.

Transferable skills are broken up into two categories workerand functional skills. These skills can be transferred fromone job to another. Look at everything you do in your life.

Even skills developed in the home (budgeting, child care) or

hobbies (attention to details, organizing) can be transferred"into a work setting.

1) Good worker skills allows you to be flexible to differentjobs.

Example: Accepting responsibilities, Organized, Meetingdeadlines

2) Functional skills are general skills useful in a variety ofjobs. Example: Analyzing data, Managing people, Operating

machinery The Functional Skills survey is divided into threebroad groups. --Data - research, compare, and analyze

--People - patient, tolerant, and listen

--Things - repair, equipment, and machinesAll jobs utilize data, people and things, but most jobs

emphasize one category over others. For example, computsystem analysts work with data, counselors work with peop

and auto mechanics work with cars. As you are checkingyour skills on the survey. Be aware if you checked more

items in one column than the other two. If so you may hava new direction in mapping out your future.

Nontransferable Skills:Technical skills are nontransferable skills that may or may nbe used in other settings.

1) Technical skills apply to a specific job or occupation.Example: Drawing - cartoonistTake a look at the Technical Skills survey list. Don't be

discouraged if you cannot check any of the sample items.Take time now to fill out the Good Workers Skills Survey, t

Functional Skills Survey, and the Technical Skills Survey.


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Good Worker Skills SurveyI posses these skills...

*Absorb stress *Honest *Accept supervision *Identify alternative action*Reliable *Alert *Identify needs *Remember facts*Ambitious *Identify problems *Resourceful *Ask questions*Imaginative *Responsible *Assertive *Independent

*Capable *Industrious *Results oriented *Cheerful

*Intelligent *Self-confident *Complete assignment *Know how to learn*Concerned for others *Leadership *Self-motivated *Considerate*Learn quickly *Sense of humor *Cooperative *Logical*Sensitive *Coordinate *Loyal *Serious

*Creative thinker *Manage time well *Set goals *Deal with ambiguity*Mature *Set priorities *Delegate *Meet deadlines*Sincere *Dependable *Methodical *Spontaneous

*Eager *Modest *Steady *Expressive*Motivated *Strong *Flexible *Open minded*Take responsibility *Follow instructions *Optimistic *Teamwork*Follow through *Organized *Thrifty *Friendly

*Original *Trustworthy *Get along with others *Patient

*Unpretentious *Get things done *Physical strength *Use of common sense*Good attendance *Practical *Versatile *Good listener

*Pride in doing a good job *Well-informed *Good nature *Problem solver*Productive *Willing to learn new *Hard worker *Punctual*Helpful *Realistic *Good sense of directions

Functional Skills SurveyI possess these skills...People Things

*Analyzing *Advising *Adjusting *Calculating *Caring for*Classifying *Confronting others *Building *Collating *Consulting*Comparing *Coordinating *Carrying *Compiling *Counseling

*Composing *Directing *Cutting *Computing *Empathizing*Coordinating *Entertaining *Designing *Copying *Guiding

*Creating *Helping *Driving/Operating *Developing ideas *Influencing others*Evaluating *Informing *Feeding/Offbearing *Examining *Instructing

*Filing *Interpreting procedures *Guiding *Gathering *Leading*Interpreting *Listening *Loading *Investigating *Managing

*Managing money *Mentoring *Monitoring *Observing *Motivating*Organizing *Negotiating *Operating/Controlling*Presenting *Persuading

*Reading *Serving *Preparing *Recording *Speaking*Reporting *Supervising *Regulating *Researching *Supporting

*Sorting *Taking instructions *Repairing *Synthesizing *Teaching

*Transcribing *Training *Stacking *Writing *Treating

Count the skills you have marked on these surveys including those you have added. If more than 10, narrow you

list down to ten skills. Try to pick those that you feel most confident using or enjoy the most. Do not include thosskills you dislike or are uncomfortable using. Write them in the space below. My top 10 Skills:1.__________________________ | 6.__________________________

2.__________________________ | 7.__________________________3.__________________________ | 8.__________________________4.__________________________ | 9.__________________________

5.__________________________ | 10._________________________


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This summary sheet will be useful during your career exploration.

Personality Traits (Write your 5 strongest traits):______________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Interests (Write your 4 top interests):______________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Work Related Values (Write your top 5 values):_______________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________

Personal Values (Write your 5 strongest values):______________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Skills (Write your top 5 skills):_______________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Occupational Profile: (Brief statement of occupational requirementswhich summarizes all of the above. This will be the basic guideline for

evaluating occupations during the Exploration Stage)

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________


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2.Developing A ResumeA resume by definition is a one page, concise piece of self-advertising that is focused on a specific position or job objective.

The resume is designed as an enticement to an employer-- To give them enough information so they can see you have thebasic qualifications for the position, and so they will want to meet with you to discuss your qualifications further in a job

interview. Your resume is a very individual document with it's own special uniqueness that presents your qualifications. Goodresumes are well-organized with a focused employment objective.

What Should A Resume Include?- Identifying data: your name, address, and phone number- Objective (optional): a clear statement (usually 2-4 words) identifying the position you are seeking- Education: list your most current degree/credential first. Include the month and year of graduation, the institution attendedYou may list relevant courses.- Honors: include GPA if 3.0 or higher, graduation with honors, awards, honor societies, dean's list, etc.- Experience: include work-related activities. Describe not only job responsibilities, but what you created, accomplished,achieved, etc. (refer to handout on action verbs)

- Professional Development: completion or plans on taking an exam in your field; i.e. CPA, Actuarial, Civil Engineering, etc.- Special Skills: include skills applicable to your career field; i.e. computer language, fluency in foreign languages, publicspeaking, performing arts, etc.- Activities/Interests: include those activities that demonstrate leadership abilities or cooperation in working with others.- Disclosing a Disability: if you feel the employer would be very likely to hire someone with a disability such as, thegovernment, then find a positive way of disclosing your disability. Ask yourself, will disclosing support my goal of being hiredDisclosure can be addressed either in your cover letter or on your resume. If there is any chance your disability will be viewe

negatively, don't disclose it. In most situations, people should not disclose their disability at this time.

Key Tips for Effective Resume Writing: Limit resume to one page (two pages maximum)

Organize your thoughts by preparing a draft of your

resume Begin the resume with what is important. Prioritize your

resume by listing information your reader will look forfirst.

Begin with your most qualifying experience: If limitedexperience, begin with education.

Use action words to describe work duties

Emphasize specific accomplishments over duties and

responsibilities

Use concrete examples that can be measured: instead ofleadership abilities" be specific as in supervised eight

employees" or conducted workshop on. . ."

Stress your accomplishments

Use the complete page, but keep space between sections

Use bullets, bold type, capital letters, and underlining

Be consistent in capitalization and punctuation

Design your resume to fit the position for which you areapplying. One generic resume will not work for all of the

job openings.

Print resume on white or neutral color preferably on 20

24lb. bond 81/2" x 11.

Do not include names of references

Have others look at your resume to proofread and provid

feedback

Get your resume reproduced professionally (at Kinkos, foexample)

Send references either a copy of your resume or discuss

how your past job duties relate to the job you are seekin

Tips For People With Little Or No Work ExperienceMany tasks have led to the acquirement of marketableskills. Consider the following experiences:

Work on a school paper or yearbook

Intern work for a business

Serving on committees

Coaching sports or tutoring academics

Achieving recognition for an essay or project

Assisting a teacher

Baby-sitting

Helping with lawn care

Leadership in a club

Helping with church activities

Serving on a student government committee


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Action VerbsThe bold words are especially good for pointing out accomplishments

administered, analyzed, assigned, attained, chaired,consolidated, contracted, coordinated, delegated, developed,

directed, evaluated, executed, improved, increased, organized,oversaw, planned, prioritized, produced, recommended,

reviewed, scheduled, strengthened, supervisedn Skillsaddressed, arbitrated, arranged, authored, collaborated,

, corresponded, developed, directed, drafted, edited,enlisted, formulated, influenced, interpreted, lectured,

mediated, moderated, negotiated, persuaded, promoted,publicized, reconciled, recruited , spoke, translated

clarified, collected, critiqued, diagnosed, evaluated, examined,

extracted, identified, inspected, interpreted, interviewed,investigated, organized, reviewed, summarized, surveyed,

systematized assembled, built, calculated, computed, designed, devised,

engineered, fabricated, maintained, operated, overhauled,programmed, remodeled, repaired, solved, upgraded

adapted, advised, clarified, coached, communicated,

coordinated, demystified, developed, enabled, encouraged,

evaluated, explained, facilitated, guided, informed, instructed,

persuaded, set goals, stimulated, trainedFinancial Skillsadministered, allocated, analyzed, appraised, audited, balancebudgeted, calculated, computed, developed, forecasted,

managed, marketed, planned, projected, researchedCreative Skillsacted, conceptualized, created, customized, designed,

developed, directed, established, fashioned, founded, illustrateinitiated, instituted, integrated, introduced, invented, originateperformed, planned, revitalized, shapedHelping Skillassessed, assisted, clarified, coached, counseled, demonstratediagnosed, educated, expedited, facilitated, familiarized, guidemotivated, referred, rehabilitated, representedClerical or Detail Skillsapproved, arranged, catalogued, classified, collected, compiledispatched, executed, generated, implemented, inspected,monitored, operated, organized, prepared, processed,

purchased, recorded, retrieved, screened, specified,systematized, tabulated, validated

Accomplishments:pioneered ,reduced (losses), resolved (problems),

* Overstating one's qualifications* Using the word RESUME" in heading. (It's a waste of space.)

* Listing references on the resume. (Wait for employer to request them.)* Making handwritten corrections

* Putting a date on the resume* Using a title (i.e. Dr., Mr., or Mrs.)* Using a nickname or initials

* Using abbreviations or acronyms (spell it out)

* Using I", instead of beginning with action verbs* Using the category of work experience", this can work against you if you have done mostly volunteer work.Use Professional Experience" or Related Experience"


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Employment is listed starting with the most current job and ending

with the earliest. Dates follow the name of employer, job title, and

a brief description of accomplishments and duties.

Most widely used Interviewers are most familiar with it

Easiest to prepare because format is structured

Can highlight a steady employment history

Reveals employment gaps

Can place emphasis on unrelated or undesirable jobs inapplicant's past experience

Unless carefully constructed, could be difficult to spotimportant information

Does not highlight areas of skills and accomplishments

Used by those who have acquired a variety of skills andachievements through a number of experiences. Allows the

applicant to highlight selected areas which most relate to the jobbeing sought. Information is ranked from the most important to

least important down the page. This ranking is based on

knowledge of the job/employer.

Highlights selected areas which relate most to the job

Can de-emphasize certain areas on a spotty employmentrecord

Is well organized and concise

Can be difficult to write - requires extensive background

work or knowledge of the job employer Need strong related work experience and/or skills

Format does not connect skills/achievements to specificwork situations in the case of multiple employment.

Combines the functional/chronological format. Allows you to

highlight major skills. Displays a continuous record of related workexperience. This style usually lists functions/skills followed by a

listing of employers and dates of employment.

Can be individualized

Spotlights specific experience, achievements/skills

Is clear, concise, and well organized

No standard format

Need strong related work experience and/or skills

Some interviewers are not familiar with this format

For those seeking a position as an accountant. Usually follows thechronological format. The following data is of particular importance:

1. Overall grade point average and GPA in major when 3.

or above.

2. List of specific accounting courses completed with thegrades earned plus courses in progress.

3. Professional development should always include CPA

review course, plans to take the examination and any

other special training in accounting and/or computers.

Education:For applicants seeking a position in education (teachers,

administrators, support services such as counselors, nurses,

librarians). Includes specific information such as:1. Education and Credentials: credential(s) listed with the

most recent first, when and where received, whetherclear or partially fulfilled, and followed by previous

credentials held. Degree(s) listed with the most recent

first, when and where received, your major. Honorsoptional.

2. Professional file: include where the file is located and hoit may be obtained3. Related Experiences: may include field work, internshipsand student teaching assignments and should relate to tdesired position. List most recent first, beginning with

student teaching if no previous teaching experience.

Include your title, where employed and when. Use actioverbs when describing responsibilities. Include grade leve

subjects, and other pertinent information such as class

ethnicity.

Technical:Emphasis on positions related to engineer, computer science, maand physics. The following information is sought:

1. Career Objective or field of interest: should represent yo

current employment objective. Be as specific as you can2. Graduation date

3. Grade point average - if 3.0 or higher4. Major courses &/or special projects

5. Applicable work experience

6. Type of work: full-time, part-time, summer7. Date available

8. Citizenship or visa status: optional

Note: Some of the above information can be listed in a cover let

instead of on your resume.

Creative:Used by those seeking positions in artistic/entertainment fields.

Follow guidelines for all resumes. Emphasis is on effective use of

visual images and color.

Experience is usually described using nouns, e.g. design,layout, production, etc. Not action verbs.

Portfolio and references available upon request.Note: Never let devices/images become so large or powerful tha

they detract from your professional qualifications. Don't make yo

resume 'cute' you want the company to take you seriously.

_______________________________________________________________


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3. Interviewing SkillsDeveloping your interviewing skills is one of the most important self presentation skills you can develop. The interview is

considered the most important step in the employment selection process. During an interview, you have roughly between 4- 60 minutes to convince the interviewer that you are not only qualified for the job, but you are the BEST person for the jo

- Use resources available in career libraries such as the Standard and Poor's Register of Corporations, or Reference Book ofCorporate Management.

- Ask for information about the organization and for a job description when the interview is set up, or go to the companyand pick up the information.

- Find out the type of industry as well as what products or services the company is involved with.and any accommodations needed for you to perform the essential duties.

be prepared to explain why you are seeking this position.Make notes of your skills that match the

job requirements. interview by role-playing with a friend or practice alone in front of a mirror.If you use a wheelchair make sure it is clean and in good repair. The upholstery should not be ripped.

push gloves are used be sure to remove them prior to shaking hands.If you are unfamiliar with the area, you shou

go to the location the day before so you will not get lost the day of your interview and arrive late. Check to see if any speciaaccommodations or assistance will be needed.types of interviews:- Patterned interviews: A structured format in which certain predetermined areas are explored using the questions which ha

been written in advance and that are asked of all interviewees.- Non-directive interview: A flexible format which is more conservational and does not rely on questions in advance.- Group interview: A panel format in which several of the company's staff members alternately ask questions of the applican

after the interview Arrive on time (preferably 15 minutes early). Punctuality is critical, it demonstrates reliability.

Arrive alone leave family and friends at home or outside (dog guides are appropriate).

Be polite and enthusiastic.

Organize your thoughts so you don't ramble.

Be careful not to speak in monotone (or boring) voice.

Be aware of your body language and posture. Fidgeting with your hands, clothes, hair, or cane indicates nervousnessand a lack of confidence.

Bring an extra copy of the original resume you sent to the prospective employer.

Do not monopolize the conversation or you will appear self centered.

Thank the interviewer.

Questions For Information Interviews

What educational background is most appropriate forthis field?

Is additional education beyond a bachelor's degree,training or certification necessary for advancement?

Are there special skills: computer programming, reportwriting, graphics, etc., which would be helpful in this

field?

Are there internships, summer or part-time

employment opportunities that would be useful inpreparing for this field?

Job Description How did you become involved in this field?

What are your responsibilities on the job? What are your biggest challenges on the job?

What do you most enjoy about your work?

What do you least enjoy about your work?

What are the typical day's activities?

What is the typical working environment in this field

What are your co-workers like?

What personal qualities are necessary to succeed in

this field?

What is the current salary range in this profession?

Entry level through executive level?


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Before, during and after the informational interview,write down the following information so you will be able

to refer to it when necessary:

Date of Interview

Name of Contact

Contact's Title Company Name

Company Address

Phone Number/Fax Number

Name of Secretary/Assistant

Topics Discussed (Especially Occupational/Job TitlesSuggested)

Unique Information or Insights

Additional Contact Leads(Name/Title/Company/Phone Number)

Do you have permission to use this contacts' namewhen calling?

Date Thank-You Note Sent

Dates of Follow-up Contact

Remember to write down this informationimmediately after your meeting while it is still fresh in

your mind.

Questions Commonly Asked by Employers1. Tell me about yourself.

2. What are your long-term and short-term career objectives?3. Why are you interested in this particular position?

4. What do you consider to be your greatest strengths andweaknesses?

5. How has your college experience prepared you for acareer?

6. Why should I hire you?

7. What qualifications do you have that make you think youwill be successful?

8. In what ways do you think you can make a contribution to

our company?9. What accomplishment has given you the most satisfaction?

Why?10. How did you choose your major?

11. What college subjects did you like best? Why? Least?

12. Did your grades adequately reflect your full capability?13. Describe your involvement in extracurricular activities.

14. Describe your work experience and relate it to this position.

15. What do you know about our company?16. What two or three things are most important to you in your

job?17. What major problem have you encountered and how did

you deal with it?

18. Why are you interested in joining our company?19. What would you do if happened?

20. What are your salary expectations?

Common Mistakes Made During Interviews1. Poor personal appearance

2. Overaggressive behaviors3. Inability to express information clearly

4. Lack of interest and enthusiasm5. Lack of planning for career; no purpose or goal

6. Nervous, lack of confidence and poise7. Overemphasizing money

8. Unwilling to start at the bottom9. Makes excuses

10. Lack of tact and courtesy

11. Lack of maturity12. Condemns supervisors/superiors

13. No genuine interest in company or job14. Fails to look employer in the eye

15. Sloppy paperwork or forms

16. Little sense of humor17. Fails to express appreciation for employer's time

18. Arrives late to evaluation meeting or interview

19. Fails to ask questions about the position20. Vague responses to questions people make when being

considered for a new position.

Sample Questions to Ask Employers1. Please describe the duties of the job for me.

2. What kinds of assignments might I expect the first six

months on the job?

3. Are salary adjustments geared to the cost of living or jobperformance?4. Does your company encourage further education?

5. How often are performance reviews given?

6. What products (or services) are in the development stagenow?

7. Do you have plans for expansion?8. What are your growth projections for next year?

9. Have you cut your staff in the last three years?

10. How do you feel about creativity and individuality?11. Do you offer flextime?

12. Is your company environmentally conscious? In what way13. In what ways is a career with your company better than

one with your competitors?

14. Is this a new position or am I replacing someone?15. What is the largest single problem facing your staff

(department) now?16. May I talk with the last person who held this position?

17. What is the usual promotional time frame?

18. Does your company offer either single or dual career-tracprograms?

19. What do you like best about your job/company?20. Once the probation period is completed, how much

authority will I have over decisions?

21. Has there been much turnover in this job area?22. Do you fill positions from the outside or promote from

within first?

23. What qualities are you looking for in the candidate who filthis position?

24. What skills are especially important for someone in thisposition?

25. What characteristics do the achievers in this company seem

to share?26. Is there a lot of team/project work?

27. Will I have the opportunity to work on special projects?28.Where does this position fit into the organizational

structure?

29. How much travel, if any, is involved in this position?

30.What is the next course of action? When should I expect thear from you or should I contact you?


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Implementing a career decision involves both long-term goals and short-term goals. Long-term goals are the occupation yohave chosen, including perhaps your ultimate occupational goal. Short-term goals are the steps you must take to reach yourlong-term goal. These goals will have to be continually reevaluated and revised throughout your career. Studies have shown

writing down goals and plans of action increases the likelihood that the goals will be achieved. The following format can beused for both long-term and short-term goals.

1. Describe the goal in concrete terms.2. Requirements for reaching the goal (resources, skills, contacts, etc.).3. Develop a Plan of Action, putting necessary steps in order and including target deadlines (these steps may be the sh

term goals needed to reach a long-term goal).4. Anticipate Obstacles and how to deal with them. Remember to remain flexible.5. Objective Criteria to measure achievement of goal.6. Anticipate Completion Date.7. Share your goal with others who may help and encourage you and hold you accountable to stay on task.

1. Describe your goal in concreteterms:____________________

____________________

____________________

____________________

____________________

____________________

2. Requirements for reaching the goal(resources, skills, contacts, etc.):____________________

____________________

____________________

____________________

____________________

____________________

3. Develop a Plan of Action: Putnecessary steps in order and includetarget deadlines (these steps may bethe short-term goals needed to reach along-term goal).

____________________

____________________

____________________

____________________

____________________

____________________

4. Anticipate Obstacles and how to dealwith them. Obstacles:________________________________________

____________________

____________________

____________________

____________________

5. Develop Objective Criteria tomeasure achievement of goal. Forexample: completing a trainingprogram or degree; making 3 newbusiness contacts; setting up 2interviews, etc.____________________

____________________

____________________

____________________

____________________

____________________

6. Anticipate Completion Date(s):____________________

____________________

________________________________________

____________________

____________________

7. Share your goal with others whomay help and encourage you and holdyou accountable to stay on task.People I will share with are:

________________________________________

____________________

____________________

____________________

____________________


14/1614

4. About the JobA. Employee ExpectationsThere are certain behaviors you can expect from the

company you work for. You can expect your employer to:1. Pay your salary.2. Provide safe working conditions.3. Provide some training related to the specific needs ofyour job.4. Introduce you to your co-workers.5. Explain company policies, rules, and regulations.6. Tell you about changes in your duties, responsibilities,working relationships, rate of pay, vacation schedule, etc.7. Evaluate your work by telling you both the positive andnegative aspects of your performance.

B. Employer Expectations:As a new employee, there are certainbehaviors/characteristics the company will expect fromyou as an employee. Listed below are expectations the

employer will have for you as an employee:1. Initiative: Employers will expect you to complete your own

job and if you haven't been told what to do, look aroundto see what needs to be done and do it.

2. Willingness to Learn: Your employer will expect you tolearn the way things are done in the company.

3. Willingness to Follow Directions: Always follow directionsexactly as you are told.

4. Honesty. Employers will expect you to be honest and totell the truth. Other forms of dishonesty on the job are:

starting work late, leaving work early and stealingcompany property. Stealing time is the most costly formof dishonesty on the job. You steal" time when you come

in late or leave early.5. Dependability. Your employer will expect you to be on the

job every day and on time. If you will be absent or late,you must call your supervisor. If you have an appointment

with your doctor, dentist, etc. let your supervisor know inadvance. Try to make appointments before or after workso you won't loose time from your job.

6. Enthusiasm. The most successful employees are thosewho are enthusiastic about their work.

7. Acceptance of Criticism. Criticism is the way a supervisortells you how they want a job done. You are expected to

improve because of it. Listen and learn from theconstructive criticisms your supervisor will share with you.

Try to see how it can help you become a better worker. ifyou feel the criticism is unfair, try not to lose your temper.

8. Loyalty. Show loyalty to your company.9. Punctuality. Arrive at work on time and don't leave early.10. Dress Appropriately. Dress the way your co-workers do.

11. Ask for further instructions if the task is unclear. Requesclarification if you are unsure how to complete anassignment.

12. Be flexible and accept assignments that may not fall undyour specified job duties, because of time and/or staff

constraints.13. Observe and respect chain of command. Learn what

position each of your co-workers hold in the office andhow their position relates to yours.

When someone offers to help you, accept the assistancepleasantly and with a smile. But don't depend too muchon others because they have their own jobs to do.

If someone asks for your help neversay That is nomy job." It is good to share unpleasant tasks (dutiesbecause sharing is important in working relationship

Also, remember if your work is finished you canoffer to help someone else. Sharing works helps tobuild good relationships. When in doubt, askquestions. Don't hesitate (wait). When you need hel

ask for it. But when you are sure of what you aredoing, do it. People will respond to you if you letthem know you want to learn and want to work.

C. Learning the Corporate CultureThe Corporate Culture of an organization is the set of

unwritten rules that dictate how the organization runs. Aa new employee, rarely will there be someone who will

teach these rules to you. Therefore, it is up to you toobserve and watch the social interactions of your co-workers, to see how things are done in this office."

During your first days at the organization, keep youeyes and ears open and watch to see how the offiruns. You will be evaluated not only for your work

performance, as well as how well you fit" into thecompany's culture.

1. Watch how your co-workers interact with each other. Athere certain cliques (groups) that you can see areformed? Is this an informal atmosphere where the co-

workers are casual and friendly with each other? Or is it

formal atmosphere, that does not tolerate muchsocializing?

2. Watch to see how your co-workers complete theirassignments. Is there a particular format that everyoneappears to follow?

3. Is there a chain of authority that exists depending upon person's position within the company. That is, as a newemployee, are there certain things that you are notsupposed to do" because you would be overstepping yo

boundaries?


15/1615

4. What are your co-workers' attitudes towards thesupervisor (s)? Does the supervisor (s) tend to treat allemployees the same or does it appear that someemployees are given the favored assignments?

5. What type of office politics exist in the workplace? Arethere certain unspoken policies and procedures that arefollowed?

6. Do individuals in the office tend to help one another, or iswork is carried out independently? Is this a competitiveatmosphere, or is the management trying to promote afamily-like" atmosphere and encourage team-work.?

7. Is there a person in the office who can officially orunofficially act as your mentor, and be a person that youcan refer all your questions to, rather than having to askyour supervisor?

Building Work Relationships: Networking/Meeting people is important.

Don't forget you are the new person.

Try to meet people in your work area.

It takes time! So be patient with yourself.

Good co-worker relationships help to give you a positiveimage.

Use caution when sharing personal events in your life

with co-workers.

Try to resolve problems with co-workers on your own.

Don't be surprised if: This job does not satisfy all your personal cravings.

It does not keep you intellectually stimulated every minute.

It does not use all the brains and abilities you think youhave.

It does not guarantee instant expertise.

You are given some mundane chores (Xeroxing, faxing,

etc.)

You don't receive regular feedback.

You rarely see your boss.

On the other hand, you should be able to: Develop related career skills. Have the opportunity for career exploration.

Gain personal satisfaction.

Learn the importance of positive work attitude.

Have the opportunity to practice thinking and observingskills.

Enrich your work experience by remembering and

applying classroom concepts.

Improve your ability to seek and maintain employment.

Getting Along with your Supervisor: Understand that not all supervisors are the same... many

different work styles and temperaments.

Adapt to your supervisor's way of doing things.

Don't be upset if your supervisor has a bad day.

Don't go over your supervisor's head" without permissio

Ask for a few minutes now and then to discuss how you

are doing on the job. Be sure it is a convenient time.

Express your appreciation and satisfaction.

Don't let fear get in the way of a good workingrelationship with your supervisor.

Resolving Conflict: Observe and survey the situation first!

Ask to speak with your supervisor or co-worker. Find an

appropriate time to meet.

Describe the situation in objective, neutral terms. Avoidaccusations or negative remarks. Express your feelingsusing I" statements.

Suggest a change or compromise; remember, your idea

may still not be accepted!

After all this, put the problem aside.

Start on the Right FootTry answering the following questions after you havebeen in the new setting for a few days. If you can get th

answers to these questions, you'll be off to a good start!Whoo Who does what in your work environment?

o To whom are you responsible?

o Who are good sources for special types of information?o Who are the important people?Whato What are your responsibilities?o What specific tasks are you expected to do by yourself,

with co-workers, with your supervisor?

o What, if any office policies should you know? List them

and check with supervisor to clarify, if necessary.Howo How does the work get done?

o Do individuals help one another, or is work carried ourindependently?

o Are you expected to seek instructions frequently, or isyour work reviewed as you work?

o How do you get in touch with the right person in case

you are sick, or some emergency comes up?Whereo Where are important items kept?

o Where can answers be found? (Ask questions about sucdetails. People like to keep newcomers informed.)

o Where do you fit into the organizational chart?Wheno When are deadlines for work assignments?

o When is the appropriate time to ask questions?


16/16

Self & Career Guide (Printable Version)

was compiled by Learnrevo To Contact Us:

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1. http://www.csun.edu/~sp20558/dis/discover.html2. http://www.csun.edu/~sp20558/dis/about.html3. http://www.csun.edu/~sp20558/dis/present.html

4. http://www.csun.edu/~sp20558/dis/identifying.html

5. http://www.csun.edu/~sp20558/dis/acknowledgements.html

Written and Compiled By:

* Terri Goldstein, M.S., CRC,Project Coordinator* Margaret Chun,Project Assistant* Michael Winkler,Graduate Assistant\
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