For your convenience the information listed below is available for download by clicking here.
When constructing a resume you must identify the job target (better known as career objective/goal). The job target lays the foundation for the skills, employment history, education, awards/certificates, clubs/organizations, and hobbies that are specific to the job applied for; and let the employer know how you could perform the job.
Tips:
- Employers are looking for people who know what they want
- A professional resume (updated, typed, with no grammatical errors and typos) sets you apart from other applicants who don’t have one
- A resume should always have a good cover letter
When writing a good cover letter it should be addressed properly (name/title) to the person hiring, it should be brief, not exceed more than two paragraphs, it should include the position you are applying for, and it should include specific skills that relate to the job. Include any knowledge of the company, identify a unique skill or talent that sets you apart from other applicants, avoid generic phrases such as “seeking a position with a company for employment”, and always include current contact information.
Tips:
- Think of the cover letter as a short personal letter to the person who will receive your resume
- A cover letter is an additional opportunity to grab the employers attention
- Not all positions require a cover letter however, when you provide one it’s impressive.
A good reference is someone that you have known at least a year, not related to you (friend, pastor, co-worker, teacher, etc.), and someone who has witnessed and or knows of your abilities, skills, and character. Before using your reference you must ask permission. Be sure that they will give you a good reference and discuss in detail what information you would like for them to share about you. A reference sheet should consist of at least three references with their full name, address, phone number, occupation, and what relationship to you.
It is very important to always demonstrate appropriate body language. It can be something as simple as how you enter or exit the building, how you sit, how you stand, or how you walk. How you carry yourself speaks louder than words. Always express yourself clearly and always use proper Standard English.
It is very important to be prepared for logical questions you may be asked in the interview. Always know exactly what job you are applying for. Be prepared to tell the interviewer what jobs you have held, and why you left. Take the time to find out as much as you can about the company incase you’re asked. Be prepared to tell the employer what type of salary you are asking for. If asked, be prepared to let the employer know what your future goals are as it pertains to their company.
There are times when the interviewer will ask you if you have had any job challenges in the past that were difficult and how you handled it. It is very important to let the employer know that every job challenge is an opportunity to grow and gain greater skills an work experience. Never give a new employer the impression that you can’t handle whatever challenges your new job may present.
Every participant is required to complete a master application. The master application is a training component that helps the participant to gather employment history, skills and qualifications, education, and references. So when applying for jobs in person, or via on line/internet, all information is available. Every job seeker should have a copy of their master application in their job search folder.
A positive attitude will take you a long way. Employers are always looking for future employees with a great attitude. Great attitudes will lift the spirits and moral of the company and potentially give co-workers a greater inspiration and motivation to strive harder in their current positions.
Job targeting helps you to map out your job search plan; and is the perfect way to target the best jobs based on your skills, experience, strengths, and interest.
Tip: Keeping yourself aware of current market trends will allow you to plan for the future; and to get the education/training needed for the careers that are on the rise.
Application sessions allow the job seeker to meet personally or in group sessions with the company recruiter: to discuss, ask questions and receive information about the job opportunity.
The East Oakland Youth Development Center host two (2) annual job fairs a year; Spring Break and the Fall Job fair season (November).
Our list of employers include long standing partners who attend our annual Spring and Fall job fairs, application/information sessions, and ultimately depend on our expertise in referring excellent clients.
Being a person of integrity (honesty) gives your co-workers the assurance that they can trust your judgment, advice, and direction. When you display good character it tells your co-workers that you have good moral standards.
Communication skills are very important and vital to the overall success of daily tasks and special events. When your co-worker knows that you are willing, ready, and able to support them, the team excels and everyone wins.
We offer a strong professional training etiquette component in the job training program that includes: being organized, informative, detailed, diligent/consistent, efficient, flexible, courteous, resourceful, accountable, responsible, and hard working. In addition, we emphasize the importance of having good character and personal integrity.
Balancing work and personal responsibilities can be accomplished by maintaining a consistent daily routine that includes: spouse and family/friend support, child care, and an overall healthy lifestyle.
It is very important to know the federal and state labor laws that protect both workers and employers. There are also important child labor laws for persons 18 and under that every parent should know.
It is very important to know what your job position requires. The job description is the overview of the job responsibilities. It describes your duties in detail and gives you daily instruction.
As you learn your job responsibilities it is important to do your very best at all times. Follow employment and regulations (safety) rules, learn appropriate job vocabulary, be aware of proper and improper job behavior, and when you’re not sure of a specific job duty ask for direction from your supervisor or boss.