HOW TO WRITE AN EFFECTIVE RESUME Sample resumes will go here. Here are some helpful links to follow to look at various resume samples.  For one-on-one guidance, come in to the Career Cafe, and we will assist you in writing your own. Sample Resumes 1- Adventures in Education.org   Sample Resumes 2- Jobweb.com Sample Resumes 3- VA Tech Career Services   HOW TO COMPLETE A JOB APPLICATION FORM Employers use job applications to screen for qualified people to interview for their job openings.  If your job application does not make a favorable impression, you may not get an interview with an employer.  Make your application neat and complete.  Be sure to print clearly using black or dark blue ink.  It is a good idea to use correction fluid to “white out” any mistakes.  Complete all spaces and be accurate.  Write “NA” for items “not applicable” if you do not think a question applies to you. Have former supervisors’ names and titles, addresses, zip codes, and current telephone numbers.  Be sure the people you provide as references know you are using their names and will speak about you positively.  Even though space on most applications is limited, avoid all but the most common abbreviations.  You want to be sure the potential employer will understand them.  Spell correctly and use proper English; employers value writing skill.  Misspellings and grammatically incorrect sentences give a poor impression of your abilities.  Use action verbs to describe your experiences. Tips for Filling out application forms Be Careful If you are careful about following instructions on your application, an employer will probably think that you may be careful as an employee. Be Neat Type or print clearly so that your application can be read easily.  Use a reliable blue or black pen. Be Certain Before you begin to fill in the blanks, read everything on the application carefully.  If you have questions, be sure to ask someone that will be able to assist you with getting answers.  After you complete the form, read it again to make sure you have answered every question correctly. Be alert If you are nt sure about the meaning of abbreviations used on the form, ask the person  who gave you the form to explain them. Be Complete Answer every question.  If a question does not apply to you, write “NA” for not applicable. Be Correct Watch your spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Be Inclusive Describe all your skills and abilities.  Also, list the kinds of computers, software programming, machinery, equipment, and tools you are able to use. Be Accurate Make sure all information is correct.  Check employment dates, telephone numbers, and addresses for accuracy. Be prepared Take a sample application with you and when you go to apply for a job.  By having all the information about yourself ready ahead of time, you will be able to complete the application completely and accurately. FOLLOWING UP! The Secret to Standing Out! Ok so you dropped of your application or resume, with the job.  They look it over and tell you they’ll give you a call for an interview.  They look it over and tell you the’ll give you a call. Good Work! So now it’s time to wait by the phone until they give you a call for an interview. After all, there’s nothing else you can do, right? THINK AGAIN! Following up is a key part of getting the job, although many people forget about it.  By giving the employer a call to check up on the status of your application, it shows them three very important qualities: That you are responsible That you are considerate That you really do care about getting the job Employers are busy people.  After all, they have a business to run.  Why not make it a little easier for them to keep you on their mind? Tips for following up: Call about 1 to 2 weeks after dropping off the application. Always ask to speak with the person that you spoke with before. (“Hi my name is John.  May I speak with Susan?  I stopped by and spoke with her two weeks ago about a possible job opening as a waiter at Captain Smith’s Seafood Restaurant.”) Be Polite. Speak clearly and slowly.  No slang. Be sure to express again your interest in the job.  Remind them about a good quality you can contribute to their business. ( “Well, Susan, like I mentioned before, I enjoy working with people and I learn very quickly.  I’m also dependable and have always wanted to work in a restaurant.  Captain Smith’s Seafood Restaurant have always been one of my favorite places to eat.  I’d like to talk with you about how I can be  a part of the team.” Thank them again for considering your application.  SENDING A NOTE to the employer really impresses them and let’s them know how serious you are about working for them. If they tell you that they are still reviewing applications, be sure to call them again in about 2 to 3 weeks.  Remember their name! If they say they are no longer hiring, don’t give up.  Remember that many businesses in the mall, restaurants, and other part-time jobs do a lot of hiring year round.  Be sure to keep in contact with them from time to time.