Job Search, Résumés, and Portfolios

Steps for Searching for a Job:

  • Decide on desired job characteristics.
  • Determine areas open to compromise.
  • Gather and organize necessary information.
  • Create application documents (résumé, reference list, cover letter, portfolio).
  • Identify search methods.
  • Choose businesses to contact and research them.
  • Contact businesses.
  • Schedule an interview.
  • Follow up after applying; continue searching.

Résumé

  • A résumé is a written summary of experience, skills, and achievements related to the job being sought.
  • Should read like a sales brochure.
  • Key ingredients of a successful Résumé:
    • Use active language, avoid buzzwords.
    • Showcase accomplishments with quantifiable data.
    • Include professional references.
    • Use white space with headings and section breaks.
    • Keep it concise (one to two pages).
    • Edit and proofread.

Video Résumés:

  • 1 to 3 minutes in length.
  • Ensure clear audio and video quality.
  • Dress professionally with a non-distracting background.
  • Speak clearly and edit mistakes.
  • Cover introduction, objectives, experience, accomplishments, skills, education, and a closing summary.
  • Practice before recording.

Multimedia Résumés:

  • Include photos, work samples, videos, or a personal website.
  • Showcase skills, interests, experience, and passion to sell to employers.

Portfolio:

  • A portfolio displays an applicant's finest efforts.
  • Include:
    • Full name, address, phone number
    • Career objectives
    • A brief description of the contents
  • Samples that highlight the applicant's best talents.

Résumé Tips:

  • Include name, address, phone number, and email.
  • Keep it short and to the point.
  • Format:
    • Name
    • Address
    • Contact Information
    • Objective
    • Qualifications
    • Experience
    • Education
    • Special Skills/Training/Certifications
    • References (or "available upon request")