Do you…..
- Have a copy of your Learning Style results from the Education Planner.org website in your black binder?
- Have a “One Page Summary” with the results from the OkCareerGuide assessments in your black binder?
- Have a copy of the “6 Career Fields” and cluster information sheet in your black binder?
- Have the printout of a completed “WorkKeys Assignment” in your binder?
- Have the printout of a completed iCAP Planning Document I in your binder?
- Have the printout of a completed iCAP Planning Document II in your binder?
- Have the printout of a completed iCAP Planning Document III in your binder (if this applies to you)?
- Have a copy of your WorkKeys certificate in a sheet protector in your black binder? If not, ask me for your copy.
- Have a certifications section on your resume with “ACT WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate” if you earned a 3 or higher on all three exams?
- Have an Achievements or Honors section and have included “NWTC Student of the Quarter”, “Superintendent’s Leadership Class”, and/or “National Technical Honor Society” if those apply to you?
- Have an Organizations or Activities section on your resume and have the appropriate CareerTech student organization listed such as HOSA, SkillsUSA or BPA?
- Have a copy of your most recent resume in the shared folder I created for you for Career Center 2019 and have it printed and in your black binder after I have approved it?
- Have a completed Cover letter? If not, see the section below regarding cover letters.
- Have a completed Job Application? If not, see the section below regarding downloading and completing a job application.
Next Steps….
- After I have approved each of the items above, download each of the items listed above (in PDF format) into the folder with your name in the Documents folder on the hard drive of your computer. After getting each of the items into PDF format, then log in to your OkCareerGuide account and upload the files into the correct section. Please ask me for assistance.
Cover Letters
Cover letters are important because they tell employers the type of position you’re seeking and exactly how you’re qualified for it. Your cover letter can also explain things that your resume can’t.
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter is a one-page document that, along with your resume, is sent with your job application. A cover letter is your chance to tell a potential employer why you’re the perfect person for the position and how your skills and expertise can add value to the company. The letter should be professional but personable, and serve as a sort of introduction.
A lot of job seekers today wonder if a cover letter is still appropriate to send with your resume—and the answer is yes! Even if an employer doesn’t ask for a cover letter, it couldn’t hurt to send one. In fact, it can help you get someone’s attention in a different way, and it can be a great way to display your enthusiasm for the job and company.
Basic Elements of a Cover Letter
The following should be included in the cover letter:
- Your name and address preferably in the header area of letterhead that resembles or matches your resume.
- Current date.
- Name and address of the person/company you are sending the letter to.
- Greeting – Address your cover letter to the proper person.
- Opening – Write a personable, inviting opening paragraph that notes which position you are applying for and how you learned of the job opening.
- Achievements and Skills – Highlight your past achievements as they relate to the job you’re applying for. Emphasize additional relevant skills and certifications which show you meet the job requirements.
- Closing: Briefly recap your strengths as a candidate, why you want to work for the organization, a call for action or next steps, and your contact information.
Template for writing your cover letters:
Use the same letterhead format you did for your resume if it is attractive which includes the following in a header section of a Microsoft Word document: Your Name, Street Address, City, State Zip Code, Phone Number, Email address. You will NOT type this information as it appears here with just commas separating each element of the header.
Date
Individual’s Name (at the business you are applying to), Job Title (that individual’s job title within the business)
Name of Organization or Company (company where you are applying)
Street Address
City, State Zip Code
Dear Mr./Ms. WhoEver Is Listed Above (if no name is provided please ask me for help):
First Paragraph: State the reason for writing. Name the specific position or type of work for which you’re applying. Mention how you learned of the opening.
Second Paragraph: Explain why you’re interested in working for this employer and specify how you fit this position. Don’t repeat the information on your resume. Include something special or unique about yourself that will benefit the employer. Remember, the reader will consider this an example of your writing skills.
Third Paragraph: Mention that your resume is enclosed and indicate your desire to meet with the employer. You may want to suggest alternate dates and times, or simply advise them of your flexibility to meet. Include day and evening contact information. Include a statement or question that will encourage the reader to respond. Be sure to communicate your plan to follow up. You might state that you’ll be in the area on a certain date and would like to set up a meeting, or you’ll call on a certain date to set up a meeting. Finally, thank the employer for his/her time.
Sincerely,
(Your Signature in blue or black ink)
Your name
Enclosure
Tips and Tricks for Cover Letters
Check out the following resources on how to write a cover letter:
- CareerOneStop.com – Cover Letters
- Glassdoor.com – How to Write a Cover Letter
- Monster.com – Cover Letter Tips
- Balance.com – How to Start a Cover Letter
Cover Letter Examples
Check out the following examples of how to write a cover letter:
- Monster.com – Cover Letter Examples by Industry
- Monster.com – Cover Letter Samples
- TheBalanceCareers.com – Cover Letter Sample for a Resume
- TheBalanceCareers.com – Sample Email Cover Letter Message
Cover Letter Assignment
Search for a job opening that resembles something you may want to pursue once you have completed your career training. Create a PDF file (ask me how) that has the job opening and job description. Drag that PDF file into the file folder I created for you on the Shared Google Drive.
Create a letterhead using Microsoft Word that will be used in writing your cover letters. You will need to provide your contact information within the letterhead. Be creative but professional. Use the header and footer sections of the Microsoft Word document. After creating the letterhead be sure to save it and upload a copy to the Shared Google drive into the folder I created for you.
Create a cover letter for the job opening that you have found for an acceptable career position of your choice.
Be sure to print and then upload your cover letter to the Shared folder on the Google Drive.
Job Applications
If you are a job seeker, you will probably have to fill out one or more application forms. You should know that employers do read the forms, and that the way you prepare the application can make a big difference in getting an interview and being hired for the job.
Be Prepared
Make sure you know the correct names, dates, places and other information you will need. It may be helpful to create a sample application to bring with you when you apply for a job, in case you must fill out an application form on the spot.
Ask If You May Take A Blank Application Home
Filling out the form at home can be easier as you are able to take your time and do a good job. If possible, ask for an extra form, just in case.
Read The Form
Before you start writing, look for instructions that say “use pen only” or that tells you to list information in a certain order.
Be Neat
Type the information if possible. If typing the information is not possible, be sure to use a black pen.
Answer All Questions Completely And Correctly
Know proper dates, addresses and how to spell names and places. Don’t make up answers.
Be Positive
List what you have been doing, not what you haven’t done. For example, if you have been unemployed for a period of time, show the work you have been busy with, such as going to school, managing a household or doing carpentry on your home. If paid experience is not specified, list any volunteer jobs or activities that can show your skill and ability to work.
Be Clear
Know the position title you are applying for and the right salary range. You may have to do some research to find this information. Also, most application forms ask when you will be available to start work. Be prepared to answer this question.
Ask References Beforehand
List people whom you have checked with and who have agreed to give a reference. There are two kinds of references, 1) Character or Friend, 2) Employer. Do not use relatives as references.
Proofread The Application When You Are Finished
Make sure you correct any errors or omissions. Check your spelling. Then, hand it in or mail it. If you are mailing the form, it is a good idea for you to make a copy for yourself and to note the date you sent the application. Also, when mailing an application, be sure to send a cover letter re-stating your interest and qualifications.
Job Application Tips & Tricks
The Balance Careers – Job Application Tips for Teenagers
LiveCareer.com – A Job Seeker’s Guide to Successfully Completing Job Applications
Sample Job Application
Many companies require the applicant to complete a job application in order to be considered as a candidate for that job. Applications may need to be completed online or downloaded then completed using software such as MS Word or Adobe Acrobat. Some applications can be sent electronically while other companies prefer a printed copy. The Best Way to Write a Resume by Job Genius video provides tips for completing a job application. Download the sample job application to your computer. Please ask me for help with using Adobe Acrobat to insert your information into the application. After completing the application upload it to your folder on the Shared Google Drive.