CAREER
PACKET
New Life Worship Center
RESOURCE MINISTRY
REFERENCE
Not to be used or duplicated without written permission
JOB SEARCH
Most employers have websites you can log on to apply for employment.
The more popular job boards are:
www.monster.com
www.careerbuilder.com
www.usajobs.com
When applying for a job online you may be required to register with the
employer’s website. Be sure to keep your username and password in a
safe place.
RESUMES
No one resume works for all employers. It’s important that you tailor your
resume to fit the position which you are applying. Create your core resume
then add additional skill sets you have that the job description mentions.
It’s ok to you have two pages to your resume if you have extensive
professional experience. If your experience is limited, keep your resume to
one page.
Proofread your resume then have someone else proof read it. Many times
our eyes deceive us into thinking we have spelled everything correctly.
Use action words when describing your experience and job tasks.
No two resumes are alike. For this reason, it is important you format your
resume to focus on your particular skills, education and qualifications.
Outlined below are the typical components of a resume. You may or may not
need to include each area within your resume.
Identification
Include name, address, home or cell number and email address. Do not use a
work phone number. Be sure that all of your contact information is appropriate
for use by the potential employer and that you are checking it regularly.
Objective
Provide basic information about what type of position you are seeking. Be clear
and concise. Keep it simple and broad enough not to rule out any opportunities
that might interest you. Focus on what you have to offer the employer, not
what you are looking to gain from the position.
Highlight of Qualifications
Provide a quick reference of your strengths. Briefly state your achievements
and the range of your experience. Use a bulleted formatted or a brief narrative.
If you use bulleted lines, use no more than 4 or 5. Focus on tangible skills, avoid
the soft/generic skills.
Education
List all institutions where you received a degree or obtained relevant training.
List the name of the organization, city, state, degree (full name) or training
received and when you obtained it. Additional honors or coursework may be
included in this section. GPA can be included if over a 3.0. If you financed your
education by working, this is an appropriate place to include it.
Licenses or Certification
This is important if it is a required component of your field. List full name of the
certification or license and when they were obtained. If it is in process it is
appropriate to list them and indicate that they are “pending” or “applied for”
and when you anticipate receiving the approval.
Experience
Describe your employment, internships, co-ops, clinicals, practicums, field
experiences, and volunteer jobs in this section. Use reverse chronological
order. Include start and end dates (month and year), name of organization,
location (city, state), position title, description of duties, accomplishments, and
skills developed. Include action words and quantify information when possible.
Skills
Focus on tangible skills that you have used in the past. Common skills include
computer/technical skills or language skills. Avoid including the softer skills
such as communication, leadership, etc. Save those for the cover letter or
interview.
Essential Components of Resumes
Volunteer Work, Extracurricular Activities, or Professional Memberships
List any career-related activities or those activities where you developed
transferable skills. Focus on those activities that you were most involved in or
where you held leadership positions.
Honors or Awards
Avoid listing every award received. Focus on those that are significant and
relevant. If the name of the award does not explain its significance, include a
very brief explanation of what the award was based upon.
References
Create a separate sheet, with your contact information, for references. Only
give them when requested. “References available upon request” is not
necessary. List the name, contact information, and connection to each
reference. Include only professional references. Always ask your references for
permission to include them.
Communication/
People Skills
Addressed
Advertised
Arranged
Authored
Clarified
Collaborated
Communicated
Composed
Condensed
Conferred
Consulted
Contacted
Conveyed
Convinced
Corresponded
Defined
Developed
Directed
Drafted
Edited
Elicited
Enlisted
Explained
Expressed
Formulated
Furnished
Incorporated
Influenced
Interacted
Interpreted
Interviewed
Involved
Joined
Judged
Lectured
Communication/
People Skills
Listened
Marketed
Mediated
Moderated
Negotiated
Observed
Outlined
Participated
Persuaded
Presented
Promoted
Proposed
Publicized
Reconciled
Recruited
Referred
Reinforced
Reported
Resolved
Responded
Solicited
Specified
Spoke
Suggested
Summarized
Synthesized
Translated
Wrote
Creative Skills
Acted
Adapted
Began
Combined
Composed
Conceptualized
Condensed
Created
Customized
Designed
Developed
Directed
Displayed
Drew
Entertained
Established
Fashioned
Formulated
Founded
Illustrated
Initiated
Instituted
Integrated
Introduced
Invented
Modeled
Modified
Originated
Performed
Photographed
Planned
Revised
Revitalized
Shaped
Solved
Data/
Financial Skills
Administered
Adjusted
Allocated
Analyzed
Appraised
Assessed
Audited
Balanced
Budgeted
Calculated
Computed
Conserved
Corrected
Determined
Developed
Estimated
Forecasted
Managed
Marketed
Measured
Netted
Planned
Prepared
Programmed
Projected
Qualified
Reconciled
Reduced
Researched
Retrieved
Helping Skills
Adapted
Advocated
Aided
Answered
Arranged
Assessed
Assisted
Clarified
Coached
Collaborated
Contributed
Cooperated
Counseled
Demonstrated
Diagnosed
Educated
Encouraged
Ensured
Expedited
Facilitated
Familiarized
Furthered
Guided
Helped
Insured
Intervened
Motivated
Prevented
Provided
Referred
Rehabilitated
Represented
Resolved
Simplified
Supplied
Supported
Action Words for Resume and Cover letter
Management/
Leadership Skills
Administered
Analyzed
Appointed
Approved
Assigned
Attained
Authorized
Consolidated
Contracted
Controlled
Converted
Coordinated
Delegated
Developed
Directed
Eliminated
Emphasized
Enhanced
Established
Executed
Generated
Handled
Headed
Hired
Hosted
Improved
Incorporated
Increased
Initiated
Inspected
Instituted
Led
Managed
Merged
Motivated
Management/
Leadership Skills
Navigated
Organized
Originated
Overhauled
Oversaw
Planned
Presided
Prioritized
Produced
Recommended
Reorganized
Replaced
Restored
Reviewed
Scheduled
Secured
Selected
Streamlined
Strengthened
Supervised
Terminated
Organizational
Skills
Approved
Arranged
Catalogued
Categorized
Charted
Classified
Coded
Collected
Compiled
Corrected
Corresponded
Distributed
Executed
Filed
Generated
Incorporated
Inspected
Logged
Maintained
Monitored
Obtained
Operated
Ordered
Organized
Prepared
Processed
Provided
Purchased
Recorded
Registered
Reserved
Responded
Reviewed
Routed
Scheduled
Action Words for Resume and Cover letter
Research Skills
Analyzed
Clarified
Collected
Compared
Conducted
Critiqued
Detected
Determined
Diagnosed
Evaluated
Examined
Experimented
Explored
Extracted
Formulated
Gathered
Inspected
Interviewed
Invented
Investigated
Located
Measured
Organized
Researched
Reviewed
Searched
Solved
Summarized
Surveyed
Systematized
Tested
Teaching Skills
Adapted
Advised
Clarified
Coached
Communicated
Conducted
Coordinated
Critiqued
Developed
Enabled
Encouraged
Evaluated
Explained
Facilitated
Focused
Guided
Individualized
Informed
Instilled
Instructed
Motivated
Persuaded
Simulated
Stimulated
Taught
Tested
Trained
Transmitted
Tutored
Technical Skills
Adapted
Applied
Assembled
Built
Calculated
Computed
Conserved
Constructed
Converted
Debugged
Designed
Determined
Developed
Engineered
Fabricated
Fortified
Installed
Maintained
Operated
Overhauled
Printed
Programmed
Rectified
Regulated
Remodeled
Repaired
Replaced
Restored
Solved
Specialized
Standardized
Studied
Upgraded
Utilized
Action Words for Resume and Cover letter
SAMPLE RESUME-FOR REFERENCE ONLY
Denise Kochert
111 Bonaventure Place
Locust Grove, GA 30248
(412) 555-8137
_____________________
Objective
A challenging position as an administrative assistant at a growth-oriented firm, which will allow me to
both further utilize my skills and acquire new abilities.
Skills
- Typing: 80wpm
- Strong analytical and organizational skills.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, phone manner, and office etiquette
- Software: All Windows operating systems, Microsoft Word, Excel, WordPerfect.
Experience
1998 – Present
Administrative Assistant
Watts Pharmaceuticals, Atlanta, GA
- Handled all official company correspondence
- Upgraded office filing system
- Typed all company documents
- Created a computerized customer database
- Typed all company correspondence.
- Responsible for new employee training
1994 – 1998
Administrative Assistant
Martitta Chamber of Commerce, Martitta, GA
- Organized the Annual Marietta Chamber Gala
- Typed all company documents
- Responsible for production of company's bi-monthly newsletter
- Answered phones and met with public to answer questions
Education
Hagerstown Business College, Hagerstown, MD
A.A., Business Operations
SAMPLE RESUME-FOR REFERENCE ONLY
SAMPLE RESUME-FOR REFERENCE ONLY
Janet Saunders
728 LaBarron St.
Portsmouth, NH 00210
(921) 555-8825
Objective
Seeking a position as a data entry clerk with a strong, forward thinking company.
Summary of Qualifications
Over ten years of related experience. Familiar with a variety of software including WordPerfect Office,
Microsoft Office, Lotus 1-2-3, FoxPro, and Excel. Proficient in web development with various programs
including HTML coding, HotMetal Pro, DreamWeaver, Cold Fusion.
Employment History
CTI Systems, Portsmouth, NH
Receptionist/Data Entry, 1998 - Present
Verified accuracy of data, compiled spreadsheets by combining data from various systems.
Concord Art Supplies, Concord, NH
Customer Service Representative, 1994 - 1998
Prepared daily sales orders and invoices. Handled sales calls and follow ups to pursue and develop new
accounts. Managed a marketing budget of $5000 per month
Education
A.A., Business Administration, 1994
Concord Community College, Concord, NH
SAMPLE RESUME-FOR REFERENCE ONLY
Jose A. Adelo
1525 Jackson Street, City, NY 11111
555-555-555
email: [email protected]
OBJECTIVE
To obtain a position where I can maximize my multilayer of management skills, quality assurance,
program development, training experience, customer service and a successful track record in the Blood
Banking care environment.
SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS
Results-oriented, high-energy, hands-on professional, with a successful record of accomplishments in the
blood banking, training and communication transmission industries. Experience in phlebotomy, blood
banking industry, training, quality assurance and customer service with focus on providing the recipient
with the highest quality blood product, fully compliant with FDA cGMP, Code of Federal Regulations,
AABB accreditation and California state laws. Major strengths include strong leadership, excellent
communication skills, competent, strong team player, attention to detail, dutiful respect for compliance in
all regulated environment and supervisory skills including hiring, termination, scheduling, training,
payroll and other administrative tasks. Thorough knowledge of current manufacturing practices and a
clear vision to accomplish the company goals. Computer and Internet literate.
PROFESSIONAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Program/Project Manager
Facilitated educational projects successfully over the past two years for Northern California blood centers, a FDA
regulated manufacturing environment, as pertaining to cGMP, CFR’s, CA state and American Association of Blood
Bank (AABB) regulations and assure compliance with 22 organization quality systems.
Provided daily operational review/quality control of education accountability as it relates to imposed government
regulatory requirements in a medical environment.
Assisted other team members in veni-punctures, donor reaction care and providing licensed staffing an extension in
their duties by managing the blood services regulations documentation (BSD’s) while assigned to the self-contained
blood mobile unit (SCU).
Successfully supervised contract support for six AT&T Broadband systems located in the Bay Area. Provided
customer intervention/resolution, training in telephony and customer care, Manpower Scheduling, Quality Control,
Payroll and special projects/plant extensions and evaluations to ensure proper end-of-line and demarkcation signal.
Reduced employee turnovers, introduced two-way communication to field employees, enhanced employee
appearance and spearheaded the implementation of employee (health) benefits.
EDUCATION
Associate of Art, Administration of Justice, San Jose University, San Jose, CA
NCTI Certified, CATV System Technician, Denver, CO
SAMPLE RESUME-FOR REFERENCE ONLY
Kristen Taylor Allen
123 Paradise Way
Smooth Sailing, CA 12345-6789
Home: (123) 555-0221
Work: (123) 555-9083
OBJECTIVE
Administrative support position in a major marketing division; to use and develop my
clerical, organizational, and planning experience.
EXPERIENCE
Kept extensive, detailed records on several market-research projects at one time.
Edited, composed, and word-processed all documents for these and for several others
in development.
Used responses to generate a $1.5 million ad campaign which resulted in $5.5 million
in new business.
ORGANIZATIONAL
During extensive cutbacks and start of closure of bank's marketing department,
reconfigured department for optimal operations.
Helped create market research projects, restructured duties in department to
accommodate each project.
PLANNING
Suggested and implemented hire of research associates, data analysts, and other
specialists.
Developed flex-time schedule for work to maximize use of office space during research
projects.
EMPLOYMENT
1995-Present - Bilksteal Bankshares, Administrative Aide
1992-1995 - Pack Advertising, Market Researcher
1989-1992 - Quick Markets, Payroll Director
SKILLS
Proficient on Hewlett-Packard D2-4000 Data Processor. Use Windows PC, Macintosh,
Lotus, and other specialized programs. Learn quickly. Solve problems efficiently.
EDUCATION
South Virginia Community College, Associate in Secretarial Science, 1968, Cum Laude.
American Banking Institute Coursework, 1977-1980.
Southside University, courses in computer graphics and organizational behavior, 1989-
1991.
SAMPLE RESUME-FOR REFERENCE ONLY
NAME IN CAPS
Address: Home Phone: Cell Phone:
Email:
OBJECTIVE
To obtain a Management position where I can maximize my years of sales and staff training
and development, program creation and implementation, and quality assurance experience.
Training Coordinator & Service Manager
J. Bucks Restaurants, St. Louis, MO
December 2004-Present
Created, developed and implemented a New Store Opening Training Program used for
all new locations
Worked directly with company partners to ensure that new and existing locations
adhered to standard operating procedures
Responsible for recruiting, managing, training, and scheduling of the entire Front of
the House staff
Successfully executing sales initiative programs to achieve the Top Sales in the
company
Exceeding restaurant financial objectives and effectively utilizing cash control
procedures to prevent profit loss
Strategic forecasting sales trends and forecasting resulting in lowering labor costs by
2%
Service Leader
Chili’s Grill & Bar, Atlanta, GA
May 2001-November 2004
Successful project planning and management of nearly 20 new store openings in less
than three years
Co-Managed the Service Training team of the Southeastern Region States exceeding
organizational labor goals
Trained, developed, and implemented company service procedures to ensure
excellence in Customer Service and staff training
Balanced budgets, coordinated travel, managed labor goals, and distributed per diems
for the entire training team, (including Service and Kitchen Trainers)
Customer Service Supervisor
New Horizons CLC, Atlanta, GA
September 1999-December 2001
Responsible for updating evaluation of scores of the instructor team within the Lotus
database
Handling day-today operations of the front office. Accountable for cash, check, and
credit card transactions and interacting with 500+ internal and external customers
Managed multiple deadlines for classroom certificates, computerized testing
schedules, and daily attendance reports
EDUCATION
Mass Media Arts/Public Relations
SAMPLE RESUME-FOR REFERENCE ONLY
Clark Atlanta University-Atlanta, GA
NAME IN CAPS
Address:
Home Phone: Cell Phone:
E-mail address:
Objective
Business Development position marketing and selling emerging products and services.
Profile
Over 10 years experience in technical sales accounts management.
Ability to direct complex projects from concept to fully operational status.
Results-oriented individual with strong leadership capabilities.
Organized, highly motivated, and detail-directed problem solver.
Proven ability to build and develop client relationships.
Education
B.S., Kelley School of Business, Finance, Indiana University
Telecommunication Systems Technical Training School, U.S. Air Force
Relevant Experience & Accomplishments
Program Management
2006 Most Improved “Supplier of the Year” Award, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana for
GM Supply.
32% sales growth in first year 2006, Proctor & Gamble for GM Supply.
Developed marketing program which resulted in five new accounts 2006 for GM Supply.
Organized and managed global account team with annualized gross sales of $7 million for MCI
Communications.
Developed and negotiated Global Service Agreements securing over $20 million in contracted
revenue for MCI Communications.
Formulated Indiana Branch data training program which increased sales by 20% statewide.
Exceeded sales target plan for three consecutive years with over 200% performance in 2001,
2002 and 2003.
Technical Skills
Effective communicator with exceptional writing and interpersonal skills.
Ability to grasp things quickly, analyze complex information and provide solutions for
customers both short and long term.
Team player and reputation for quality, assertiveness, flexibility and professionalism.
Successfully refined and implemented customer projects reducing costs and increasing
productivity.
SAMPLE RESUME-FOR REFERENCE ONLY
Employment
Industrial Sales Representative, GM Supply Company, Indianapolis, IN
Commodity manager for abrasives, cutting tools, electronic
components, hand tools, mill goods, bearings, power transmission and
packaging supplies.
Accountable for acquisition, growth and maintenance of customer
accounts.
Exceeded expectations of company.
May 2006-present
Integrated Solutions Executive , SBC Global Services, Indianapolis, IN
Analyzed and consulted for customer premise equipment and network
requirements for sales, maintenance and retention.
Technical consultation for Cisco and Nortel communications
equipment.
Responsible for network architecture design and business application
support.
Feb 2005-Nov 2005
Global Account Manager, MCI Communications, Indianapolis, IN
Delivered leadership and strategic account management for
supporting largest Global Accounts in Indianapolis market.
Analyzed, designed and implemented mission critical communication
networks in support of customer’s business requirements.
9 years of success, globally planning and directing activities that
supported enterprise network infrastructure requirements.
Promoted from various technical sales support positions
Dec 1985-Jan 2004
Skills
High level of computer expertise and competence, Word, Excel, Powerpoint
Continuous improvement mindset
Strong analysis skills and attention to detail
Ability to work in fast paced environment and handle multiple tasks
Positive conflict management skills
Honors & Awards
Top 5% Global Sales, Chairman Inner Circle Award
Top 5% National Sales, Presidents Club Award
Top 10% National Service, Masters Award
United States Air Force Leadership Award
Name Address
Home Phone
Cell Phone
E-Mail:
Resume of (Name)
Objective: To continue a career in “hands-on,” Custodial Leadership in
an established and growing organization, or school district, in the
Indianapolis area due to relocation to Indianapolis, from Pennsylvania.
Work Experience
Lead Custodian
8/2000 - Present Upper Moreland school District, Upper Moreland, PA
Training and supervision of custodial employees
Maintenance and cleaning of assigned school sites
Residential Aide
11/1994 - 8/2002 Willow Lake Assisted-Living, Willow Grove PA, PA
Assisted residents in daily life functions: bathing, dressing, feeding, walking
Education
1/2005 - 5/2006 Upper Moreland School District, Upper Moreland, PA
HAZMAT Certification
Awarded for scoring the highest test score in the union, on product
knowledge.
1/2000 - 2/2002 Philadelphia Community College, Philadelphia, PA
Computer Science Courses and General Basic Requirement Courses
GPA 4.0
9/1984 – 6/1988 Martin Luther King, Jr. High School, Philadelphia, PA
General Studies Diploma
Will bring references and Criminal History background check to
interviews.
SAMPLE RESUME-FOR REFERENCE ONLY
COVER LETTERS
How to write a cover letter
Contact Information
The first section of your cover letter should include information on how the employer can contact you. If you have
contact information for the employer, include that. Otherwise, just list your information.
Your Name, Your Address with City, State and Zip Code, Your phone number, your email address
Date
Employer Contact Information
Name
Title
Company
Address
City, State, Zip Code
Salutation
Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name:
First Paragraph:
The first paragraph of your letter should include information on why you are writing. Mention the position you are
applying for. Include the name of a mutual contact, if you have one. Be clear and concise regarding your request.
Middle Paragraphs:
The next section of your cover letter should describe what you have to offer the employer. Convince the reader
that they should grant the interview or appointment you requested in the first paragraph. Make strong
connections between your abilities and their needs. Mention specifically how your skills and experience match the
job you are applying for. Remember, you are interpreting your resume, not repeating it. Try to support each
statement you make with a piece of evidence. Use several shorter paragraphs or bullets rather than one large
block of text.
Final Paragraph:
Conclude your cover letter by thanking the employer for considering you for the position. Include information on
how you will follow-up. State that you will do so and indicate when (one week's time is typical). You may want to
reduce the time between sending out your resume and follow up if you fax or e-mail it.
Complimentary Close:
Respectfully yours,
Signature:
Handwritten Signature (for a mailed letter)
Typed Signature
1090 Peachtree Lane, #4
Atlanta, GA 30303
404/555-3030
Ms. Judy Sumner
Atlanta Board of Education
45 Peachtree Blvd.
Atlanta, GA 30303
Dear Ms. Sumner,
Perhaps I am the "multi-talented teacher" you seek in your "Multi-Talented Teacher"
advertisement in today's Atlanta Constitution. I'm a versatile teacher, ready to
substitute, if necessary, as early as next week. I have the solid teaching experience you
specify as well as the strong computer skills you desire.
I am presently affiliated with a highly regarded private elementary school. Mr. Craig, the
headmaster, will certainly give you a good reference. The details of your advertisement
suggest to me that the position will involve many of the same responsibilities that I am
currently performing.
In addition to the planning, administration, and student-parent counseling duties I
highlight in my resume, please note that I have a master's degree as well as a teaching
certificate from the state of Georgia.
Knowing how frantic you must be without a fifth grade teacher, I will call you in a few
days. Or if you agree upon reviewing my letter and resume that I am the teacher you
need, call me at the home number listed above, or at 555-7327 during business hours.
Thanking you most sincerely for your time and consideration.
Cordially,
Maria Plazza-Smith
SAMPLE COVER LETTER
Department of Human Resources
Davida Darwin
1900 Cassiopeia Avenue
Cockeysville, MD 21030
Re: Posting 101 Associate Director II
Dear Ms. Darwin:
When I read your ad for an Associate Director II on the Marylandworks job site, I couldn’t help noticing
how well your requirements align with my experience, education, skills, and background.
While my enclosed resume provides a good overview of my strengths and achievements, I have also
listed some of your specific requirements for the position and my applicable skills:
You require: I offer:
Ability to coordinate and oversee the work
of subordinates.
Experience in supervising 25 office employees and
ensuring staff efficiency as a public-health program
director.
The analytical skills to perform needs
assessments, evaluate current programs,
and initiate changes or adjustments to
current systems and improve operations.
Success in having brought order out of chaos at an inner-
city health clinic and vastly improving processes there.
Problem-solving and decision-making
abilities.
Success in solving numerous problems at inner-city clinic,
such as reducing number of emergency and drug-seeking
patients; lobbying for HIV-information dissemination; and
increasing number of patients that could be given routine
care.
Interpersonal and communication skills that
promote ability to serve as a liaison and
resource.
Significant experience giving presentations, speaking
persuasively, and interacting successfully with diverse
individuals.
Since my experience and expertise fit your requirements so closely, I am clearly one of the people you’ll
want to see. I plan to contact you to follow up on this letter and see if we can arrange a meeting. In the
meantime, please feel free to call me at my home number listed above. I look forward to our meeting.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Bonnie Ellisberg
SAMPLE COVER LETTER
110 First Street
Alexandria, VA 22306
(802) 555-5544
Mr. Henry Fouche
Best Plans Publicity, Inc.
800 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10022
Dear Mr. Fouche,
Nancy Jones of Green & Associates Advertising, suggested I contact you regarding the
possible public relations opening in your firm.
As an editor/writer for Alexandria's city magazine, I've developed my talent and
experience as a public relations writer. Because the staff is very small, I've worn a
number of hats, including: developing the editorial format and individual story concepts,
writing numerous articles, editing copy, laying out the magazine, and supervising
production.
Prior to my current position, I was highly involved in the public relations industry,
working for Jones & Jones, where I prepared numerous press releases and media
guides, as well as managing several major direct mail campaigns.
My high degree of motivation has been recognized by my previous employers who have
quickly promoted me to positions of greater responsibility. I was promoted from
assistant editor to editor of Alexandria Monthly after only five months.
I am eager to talk with you about the contribution I could make to your firm. I will call you
the week of April 25th to see if we can find a mutual time and date to get together and
discuss the possibility.
Your consideration is greatly appreciated.
Cordially,
Mary Davison
SAMPLE COVER LETTER
INTERVIEWING
GUIDELINE FOR WOMEN'S INTERVIEW ATTIRE
Select a skirted suit, pantsuit or conservatively tailored dress that draws the eye to your face.
Skirts are traditionally knee-length but those slightly shorter or longer are also acceptable.
Select blouses or sweaters that provide visual interest, but avoid transparent, tight fit, or have low
necklines, revealing waistlines or details that detract from your face as a focal point. Typically,
arms are covered at least to the biceps and often to the wrist.
Always wear hose to interviews. Wear plain-style, non-patterned hosiery and select colors that
flatter your coloring. For traditional industries, wear a neutral color. For other industries, you may
choose to wear hose that coordinates with your skirt. Carry an extra pair in case of runs.
Perfume should never be strong. A fragrance can cause an allergic reaction or offend the
interviewer. When in doubt, do not wear perfume.
Use natural-looking makeup and clear nail polish. This keeps the focus on the interview.
Do not carry a purse with a briefcase. Choose one or the other.
Wear flat shoes or low pumps in colors that avoid making your feet a focal point. Be sure that
they are clean and polished. Avoid shoes that hinder walking fast. This lowers credibility. Avoid
open-toed shoes since associated with social agendas.
Add accessories to express your personality and accentuate your best features. A scarf or
necklace is an effective way to focus on your face. Keep it simple!
Women in general wear too many accessories at the same time such as earrings, necklaces, and
rings. These can accentuate your personality and can be an asset if worn in moderation. Avoid
dangling earrings and wear no more than one ring per hand and a dress watch. Be sure all
jewelry focuses on the face.
Learn how to tie scarves by visiting the Fashion Mall.
GUIDELINES FOR MEN'S INTERVIEW ATTIRE
Wear a matching suit in navy, black or gray (pinstripe or solid) or wear a navy blazer and gray
dress slacks. They serve as a visual background that draws the eye to the face.
Wear white or a light blue dress shirt that contrasts with the jacket and/or tie. Typically, arms
should be covered to the wrist. Exposing arms by rolling up your sleeves is interpreted as less
powerful and is less formal.
A (silk or silk-like) tie should coordinate with the jacket and pant but choose one that strongly
contrasts with the color of your shirt; selecting subtle or simple patterns enhances credibility.
Socks should be calf-length or above the calf. Choose natural-fiber blends that allow a flow of air
and do not hold in perspiration and heat. Choose colors such as dark blue, black or gray.
Wear conservative, clean, and polished shoes.
Select lace-up (not slip-on) dress shoes. The color should be dark or blend with pant.
Select a leather belt that visually blends or matches your shoes.
A short hair cut and no facial hair is expected.
Minimize jewelry. Avoid a necklace. Wear no more than one ring per hand and a dress watch. Be
sure all jewelry supports a focus on the face.
A full-length coat can be worn over your suit; avoid casual coats.
Cologne should never be strong. A fragrance can cause an allergic reaction or offend the
interviewer. When in doubt, do not wear cologne.
Your briefcase is part of visual effect; consider a simple portfolio as an effective substitute, and try
to select a color that supports your visual effect.
Learn how to tie men’s four in hand and half Windsor knots by visiting HiWay Net.
Here are some dress for success examples:
Here are some dress for success examples:
Don’ts for Interviewing
1. Do not look like you are going to a party, stay away from bright colors, first impressions are
lasting impressions
2. Do not wear gowdy jewelry
3. Do not wear high heels over 3 inches
4. Do not ask about salary on the first interview
5. Do not use slang when speaking to the interviewer
6. Do not arrive for your interview at the scheduled time, arrive at least 15 minutes early. Arriving
on time is considered late
7. Do not lie about your work experience or education
8. Do not appear to be shy, timid, or inferior
9. Do not speak bad of current or previous employers
10. Do not give negative responses about yourself even if asked to tell something negative about
yourself, turn negative into a positive, example ( I am too neat, I like order, I am too detailed
oriented)
11. Do not be afraid to ask questions of the interviewer when asked by the interviewer if you have
questions
12. Do not leave interview without asking for the job or to come back for second if second interview
is part of the hiring process
Do’s for Interviewing
1. Do wear attire that is conservative, basic colors ( black, blue, tan, brown)
2. Do for ladies wear skirts that are at the knee or below the knee
3. Do for men wear white shirts and simple pattern ties, if you do not own white shirt or tie
substitute with white polo
4. Do extend your hand first to shake the interviewers hand and thank interviewer for the
opportunity to interview for the position
5. Do wait for the interviewer to invite you to sit down before sitting
6. Do Maintain good eye contact throughout the interviewing process
7. Do answer questions truthfully and thoroughly
8. Do properly prepare for your interview
9. Do research the company that you are interviewing with
10. Do have questions prepared to ask interviewer
11. Do arrive for your interview 15 minutes prior to scheduled time
12. Do bring documentation and awards with you to support statements regarding
accomplishments achieved
13. Do prepare a brag book place in book ( letters of recommendations, awards, certificates of
certification)
14. Do prepare a business plan and present it during your interview
15. Do close and ask the interviewer for the job
THANK YOU
LETTERS
You should always follow up your interview with a thank you letter to the
person(s) whom you interviewed with. The Thank You letter should be
sent within one business day of the interview regardless if you think the
interview went well or not.
7 Apple Court
Eugene, OR 97401
503-555-0303
Mr. Archie Weatherby
California Investments, Inc.
25 Sacramento Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
Dear Mr. Weatherby,
Thank you for taking the time to discuss the insurance broker position at California
Investments, Inc., with me. After meeting with you and observing the company's
operations, I am further convinced that my background and skills coincide well with your
needs.
I really appreciate that you took so much time to acquaint me with the company. It is no
wonder that California Investments retains its employees for so long. I feel I could learn
a great deal from you and would certainly enjoy working with you.
In addition to my qualifications and experience, I will bring excellent work habits and
judgment to this position. With the countless demands on your time, I am sure that you
require people who can be trusted to carry out their responsibilities with minimal
supervision.
I look forward, Mr. Weatherby, to hearing from you concerning your hiring decision.
Again, thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
John Oakley
SAMPLE THANK YOU LETTER
7 Apple Court
Eugene, OR 97401
503-555-0303
Dr. David Kresgee
Great Fault Labs
5 Main Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
Dear Dr. Kresgee:
I'd like to thank you for talking with me about the research- assistant position in your
seismology lab. I truly appreciate all the time and care you took in telling me about the
job and learning more about me.
I'm so pleased that you agree that my senior research project in seismology provides
me with excellent experience for this position. I am eager to bring my passion for
seismology to the research-assistant position, and I am convinced the knowledge and
experience I've already cultivated make me the best researcher for the job.
I very much look forward to learning of your decision soon. Please feel free to contact
me if you need more information about my qualifications.
Thank you again for the exhilarating interview.
Sincerely,
John Oakley
SAMPLE THANK YOU LETTER
3420 Last Tree Lane
DeLand, FL 32720
386-555-0345
Mr. Gary Barnett
Aerial Communications, Inc.
3407 W. MLK Jr. Blvd.
Tampa, FL 33607
Dear Mr. Barnett,
Thank you for taking the time to meet with me at the Central Florida Career Fair today. I
certainly appreciate your time and attention in the midst of so many students seeking
jobs.
You were extremely thorough in explaining Aerial's customer service and marketing
trainee program. Now that I have a better idea of what the position entails, I am even
more sure that I would be an asset to your team and to Aerial.
My solid education from Stetson University's Marketing Department and the fact that I
have worked my way through college show a work ethic and determination, two
qualities you said were important to success at Aerial.
I look forward to an opportunity to visit Aerial's Tampa office and speak to you further
about the trainee program. I will contact you next week to arrange an appointment.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Rebecca Leddyfern
SAMPLE THANK YOU LETTER
This Career Packet was created using various online resources. No one listed in
the packet is a member of New Life Worship Center or affiliated with New Life
Worship Center or its ministry members. Please do not use or duplicate this
Career Packet without the written permission of the Resource Ministry. In
addition, no information within this packet is intended to guarantee you an
interview or job. Nor should information be duplicated in its current wording as it
will constitute plagiarism.