Unfinished Work

The following students need to complete the work listed:

10:00 – 10:45 am

1. Domynik – resume, cover letter, envelope and job application
2. Timothy – job application
3. Tate – job application
4. Tristan – job application
5. Trent – resume, cover letter, envelope and job application
6. Norman – 16 Personalities Quiz, VJS 16 Personalities Assignment, resume, cover letter, envelope, and job application
7. Stephanie – WorkKeys assignment, resume, cover letter, envelope and job application
8. Trevor – 16 Personalities Quiz, VJS 16 Personalities Assignment, WorkKeys tests and assignment, and job application

2:15 – 3:00 pm

1. Conner – WorkKeys assignment (tasks), resume, cover letter, envelope and job application
2. Dawson – WorkKeys assignment (tasks), resume (work experiences and references), cover letter (at least 3 sentences in 2nd paragraph), envelope, and job application
3. Weston – VJS 16 Personalities Assignment, WorkKeys assignment, resume, cover letter corrections, envelope and job application
4. Braxton – job application
5. Axton – 16 Personalities Quiz, VJS 16 Personalities Assignment, cover letter and envelope
6. Landon – job application
7. Cole – job application

Cover Letters

At this point we have researched careers or clusters you may be interested in as well as created a resume and job application.

So at this point we are actually ready to:

1. Find one job opening in a career area you may be interested in upon completion of your training.
2. Create a cover letter
3. Create an envelope

Step 1:

Find a job opening that you may be interested in currently or in the future.  You can either print the information and put the printout in your notebook or you may copy and paste the information into a Google Doc that you create in the Google Drive folder I created for you.  This step is necessary in case you do not complete the assignment today and need the information next week or in the future.

Step 2:

Write a cover letter in which you are pretending you will use to apply for a job.  More information regarding the format of a cover letter is included below.

Step 3:

A professional looking envelope should be used to mail correspondence to a potential employer.  Instead of using Google Docs, we will use MS Word for this task.  Please ask me for help printing the envelope. You will need your cover letter open before I assist you.

Introduction to 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.

Introduction to 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.

Online Applications

When completing an online application, be sure to check to see if the application can be saved and completed at a later time or if you have to complete the application within one sitting (such as Great Salt Plains Health requires).

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. Some companies will allow you to put “see attached resume” on the application if you are also able to send or attach a resume. Do not put “see attached resume” just because you don’t want to complete the form!  Answer the questions on the form.  If a question does not pertain to you it is acceptable to put “Not Applicable” or “N/A” but do not leave any questions unanswered.  Be sure to read the job description and application process and complete all required elements.  Be HONEST with all answers on the application!

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.  If you have a specific required salary range be sure to include it.  “Negotiable” is an acceptable answer if that is the case.

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.

Additional Tips

Do NOT ask what the salary is when picking up or asking for an application!! That is a total turn off for some employers.  That will eventually be discussed in the interview process.  If you are going in person to inquire about an application, be sure to dress appropriately!  Do not show up in casual wear because you never know if they will just immediately call you in to visit about the position! This is your first chance to make a first impression!

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 –  Auto Tech

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 and print the Osborns Automotive Application – Technician (or ask Mrs. Frascht for a copy) and then complete application.

If you need ideas for five words that may describe you, check out the following websites:

• https://novoresume.com/career-blog/words-to-describe-yourself
• https://status.net/articles/195-positive-words-describe-examples/
• https://zety.com/blog/words-to-describe-yourself