copyright © 2010 delmar, cengage learning. all rights reserved. chapter 48 employment strategies

Copyright © 2010 Delmar, Cengage Learning. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Chapter 48

Employment Strategies


Developing a Strategy

• Attitude and mindset– Self-assessment

– Direct and transferable skills


Developing a Strategy

• Budgetary needs analysis– Determine required income

– Keep diary of all purchases

– Itemize basic expenditures

– Estimate amount of money needed to live on


Job Analysis and Research

• Begins before graduation– Visit or telephone clinics to determine duties of a

medical assistant

– Dress appropriately when visiting

– Consider geographical area where you want to work



• Compile list of potential employers– Yellow pages

– Job expositions

– Internet

– Want ads



• Compile list of potential employers– AAMA/AMT publications

– Program directors and instructors

– Network with externship site personnel

– Employment agencies

– Your personal provider and staff

– Network with previous graduates

– Friends and acquaintances



• Begin research• Use contact tracker to prevent confusion and keep

track of valuable information


Résumé Preparation

• Definition of a résumé

• Uses of résumés

• Résumé specifications– One page long

– One to one and one-half inch margins

– Capitalize major headings



• Résumé specifications– Single space between lines

– Double space between sections

– Use bullet point lists

– Bond stationery 8 1/2 x 11 inches

– Weight between 16 and 25 pounds

– Buff or ivory paper with matching envelope

– Use computer or word processor



• Clear and concise résumés– Short

– Easy to read and understand

– Positive statements

– Do not mislead or exaggerate

– Leave out the word “I”



• Accomplishments– Accomplishment statements

– Power verbs



• References– Variety of references

– How to choose someone as a reference

– Ask permission to use as reference

– References can help you

– Keep in touch with references

– Thank your references



• Accuracy– Proofread

– Eliminate repetition

– Summarize employment prior to 10 years ago


Résumé Styles

• Chronological résumé– Organized with most important information listed first

– Managers take only about 10 seconds to scan a résumé

– Advantages and disadvantages


Résumé Styles

• Functional résumé– Highlights specialty areas of accomplishment and

strengths

– Advantages

• Targeted résumé– Focuses on a clear, specific job target

– Contains career objective

– Adds substance when work experience is minimal


Résumé Styles

• E-résumé– Electronic résumé delivered via e-mail, submitted to

Internet job boards, or placed on Web pages

– Employers posting jobs on their own Web sites generally expect an e-résumé

– Requires special preparation


Résumé Styles

• E-résumé– Text résumé is very versatile

– Use keywords that relate to the position

– Front-load the résumé with key words



• Vital résumé information– Your full name and address

– Your telephone number

– Your education

– Your work experience

– Skills necessary for the job

• Top errors found in resumes


Application/Cover Letters

• To potential employers

• Highlights qualifications and experience

• Enhances résumé


Application/Cover Letters

• Should sell you

• Guidelines to follow

• Information mapping


Completing the Application Form

• Answer every item completely

• Read all directions carefully

• Application organized to suit needs of employer


Completing the Application Form

• Include volunteer or externship experience if possible

• Refer to copy of your résumé, application letter, and reference list


The Interview Process

• Interview definition– Goal of the interviewer and interviewee

• The look of success– Outward appearance

– Project a confident and professional appearance



• Preparing for the interview– Study the organization

– Have available: copy of cover letter, résumé, transcript, recommendation, and any certifications

– Check map for directions or make trip day before interview

– Introduce yourself confidently

– Observe office setting while waiting



• The actual interview– Take your cues from the interviewer

– Sit erect in chair with feet flat on floor

– Be prepared for kinds of questions

– Think before answering questions



• Interviewing the employer– Danger signs

– Questions to ask the interviewer

• Closing the interview– Ask questions about the organization

– Thank interviewer

– Ask about follow-up procedures


Interview Follow-Up

• Follow-up letter– Day or two after interview

– Express interest in organization

– Express being considered for position

• Follow up by telephone– Week after interview

– Tell reason for calling

– Thank person


After You Are Employed

• Advancing your career

• Dealing with difficult people

• Getting a raise


Professionalism

• Display a professional manner and image

• Promote your credential

copyright © 2010 delmar, cengage learning. all rights reserved. chapter 48 employment strategies

Documents