Tips to Getting a Job

Helping you become the new you.

Make sure you can legally be employed.

If you are under the age of 18, make sure to check your state laws regarding employment.
Can you prove eligibility? Eligibility is automatic for U.S. citizens and permanent residents. It can be granted for some visitors with qualifying visas. Be prepared to give proof in the form of a state ID card, driver's license, or work permit.

Assemble your information.

Before you fill out an application, you need to have certain information readily available. This includes but is not limited to: names and addresses of previous employers, dates of employment, references, your contact information, copy of current resume, and educational history. Gathering this information beforehand makes the process go much smoother.

Review your online image.

and to remove any posts that could be viewed negatively by an

employer. This could include posts that are political in nature

or show some type of bias. You can also change your security

settings so that posts and/or your profile remain private.

Develop an "Elevator Pitch".

can use to tell others about yourself. Use your elevator pitch

when networking at job fairs or other job related searches in

which you need to quickly "sell" yourself.

Always have a resume and business card on hand.

keep a copy with your business card on hand at all times. You

never know who or what opportunities you might run into and

being prepared just might land you a job.

You can apply for the same job more than once.

If you notice that a job that you applied for remains open long after you applied, or opens again, try approaching the company once more. You never know what might have happened or will happen. Perhaps there has been restructuring and new members are in charge of hiring or the person who was hired did not work out. Seek out every opportunity.

Know the company you are interviewing with.

Go online and research each company before your your interview to find out their history, core values, and much more. Many times companies will ask you during an interview what you know and like about them. Being prepared with an answer shows you truly have an interest.

Don't talk negative about past employers.

Speaking badly of a former employer makes you look unprofessional. Think prior to your interview about how you will answer questions about these employers. In preparing an answer, try to keep it professional and not personal and steer the conversation in a positive direction like focusing on the things that you learned from the situation.

Don't price yourself out of a job.

When answering questions about salary expectations, try to give broad answers if possible that focus more on your skills and expertise. Take time prior to your interview to research what the salary range might be given your experience if they push for actual numbers.

Tailor your materials to each position.

In an effort to grab an employer's attention, you must take the time to tailor your resume to each employer and it's goals. Review the job description to see what credentials they are looking for and make sure to highlight them in your resume.