The Prof's Job Skills!

RESUMES!

2009-08-08T10:14:00.000-07:00

RESUMES

What is a Resume?
The resume is a selling tool that outlines your skills and experiences so an employer can see, at a glance, how you can contribute to the employer’s workplace.
Your resume has to sell you in short order. While you may have all the requirements for a particular position, your resume is a failure if the employer does not instantly come to the conclusion that you “have what it takes.” The first hurdle your resume has to pass—whether it ends up in the “consider file” or the “reject file” may take less than thirty seconds!

The most effective resumes are clearly focused on a specific job title and address the employer’s stated requirements for the position. The more you know about the duties and skills required for the job—and organize your resume around these points—the more effective the resume.
You will need information to write a good resume. Not just information about jobs you’ve held in the past, but also information to select the most relevant accomplishments, skills, and experiences for THIS postion. The more you know about the employer and the position, the more you can tailor your resume to fit the job. YES…each time you apply for a position, it may be necessary to tweak your resume to fit the specific position for which you are applying!
WHAT IS THE RIGHT RESUME FOR ME?
Chronological
Definition: The chronological resume is organized by job titles with the most recent position listed first.
Employer Rating: Employers tend to prefer the chronological resume because the format lists prior positions beginning with the must current. Employers perceive this resume style as fact-based and easily skimmed.
Works Best For: For job seekers with solid experience and a logical job history, the chronological resume is the most effective. Career changers and those who lace formal on-the-job experience (like new graduates) find this resume the most difficult to write.
Example of Chronological Resume:
[Street Address], [City, ST ZIP Code]•[phone]•[e-mail]

[Your Name]

Objective
[Describe your career goal or ideal job.]

Experience
[Dates of Employment] [Company Name]
[City, ST]

[Job Title]
 [Job responsibility/achievement]
 [Job responsibility/achievement]
 [Job responsibility/achievement]

[Dates of Employment] [Company Name]
[City, ST]

[Job Title]
 [Job responsibility/achievement]
 [Job responsibility/achievement]
 [Job responsibility/achievement]

[Dates of Employment] [Company Name]
[City, ST]

[Job Title]
 [Job responsibility/achievement]
 [Job responsibility/achievement]
 [Job responsibility/achievement]

[Dates of Employment] [Company Name]
[City, ST]

[Job Title]
 [Job responsibility/achievement]
 [Job responsibility/achievement]
 [Job responsibility/achievement]

Education
[Dates of Attendance] [School Name]
[City, ST]

[Degree Obtained]
 [Special award/accomplishment or degree minor]

References
References are available on request.

Functional
Definition:
The functional resume rearranges employment history into sections that highlight areas of skill and accomplishment.
Employer Rating: Some employers dislike functional resumes IF they find it difficult to match up skills with actual job titles, level of responsibility and dates of experience. You can, and SHOULD, avoid or minimize this objection by including the company name in the “bullet” describing each accomplishment.
For example:
• Program Coordination: Coordinated the logistics of opening two SUNSHINE RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT CENTERS, which included the hiring and training of staff, supervising the set-up of the physical plant, and developing programs.
• Oversaw the computerization of the KALLIKO CLINIC accounting unit from initial planning through successful implementation, with no disruption in services.
If you want to take advantage of the benefits of a functional resume, you MUST make it EASY for employers to visualize your overall chronological work history and link your accomplishment statements to it. NEVER omit at least a bare-bones chronological listing of your work experience, in your functional resume.
Works Best For: The functional resume might be thought of as a “problem solving” format. The functional resume gives you latitude to “make sense” of your work history and match up skills and accomplishments that might not be obvious to the employer in a traditional chronological format. If any of the descriptions below apply to you, you may want to investigate the functional format:
• You have a “mixed bag” work history; no clear thread uniting positions held
• You are a new graduate or entering the workforce
• You must show how the skills youhave used in the past (in volunteer or coursework) apply to the job you are seeking.
• Your job titles, such as “Administrative Assistant” or Marketing Coordinator,” do not clearly reflect the level of skills you used.
• You are making a career change—either changing industry (from Hospitals to Pharmaceuticals) or changing occupation (from Manufacturing Technician to Sales Representative)
Example of Functional Resume:
[Your Name]

[Street Address], [City, ST ZIP Code]

[phone]

[e-mail]

Summary • Demonstrated achiever with exceptional knowledge of international markets, business practices, and trade regulations.
• Strong marketing and finance background combined with fluency in several languages, including “Advanced Level” U.S. State Department certification in Russian Language Reading Comprehension.
• Skilled at learning new concepts quickly, working well under pressure, and communicating ideas clearly and effectively.
• Extensive computer training, including knowledge of multiple networking environments and business software packages.
• Enthusiastic and experienced in overseas travel.

Education Masters Degree in Russian & East European Studies
Oak Tree University, Washington, D.C. 2000
B.A. Degree in Foreign Languages
Elm College, Coral Gables, FL
Concentration in Russian, Spanish, French, & Italian; graduated cum laude with 3.8 G.P.A. 1998
Completion of Intensive Language Training Program
Maple Grove Institute, London, England
1999
Career History & Accomplishments
Assistant to the Director of Business Development, Fabrikam, Inc.
• Worked directly with Director of Business Development and Director of Strategic planning of this large, publicly-traded provider of home healthcare services.
• Researched and wrote marketing, financial, and feasibility reports concerning new business acquisitions and acquisition prospects.
• Played key role in preparing a successful $5 million federal grant proposal to provide the company’s home therapy products to rural U.S. areas.
• Prepared corporate financial reports and service contracts for the CFO. 2004
Russian and East European Coordinator, A. Datum Corporation
• Held key responsibility in this small import/export company for helping facilitate trade deals with former Soviet Union and Eastern European countries.
• Served as interpreter and translator for Vice President in major business negotiations. Reviewed company compliance with all applicable customs laws and procedures.
• Initiated multiple overseas joint ventures and served as liaison for foreign customers on business in the U.S. 2003
Administrative Assistant to the Vice President, Contoso, Ltd.
• Handled administrative functions for the Vice President of the Executive Car Lease Program, a sales division catering primarily to the diplomatic community and the federal government.
• Assisted in preparing contracts and sales proposals for customers.
• Established reports to track products throughout the United States and develop further customer contacts for Contoso, Ltd.
2001-2002
Memberships & Affiliations
• Founding member of the Former Soviet Union Florida Chamber of Commerce
• Member, American Association for Advancement of Slavic Studies
• Member, World Affairs Council
Copyright © 1997 by the McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

Curriculum Vitae
Definition: a detailed, lengthy and structured listing of education,, publications, projects, awards and work history. a curriculum vitae for a mid-career candidate may be as long as twenty pages.
Employer Rating: Rather than a resume, a curriculum vitae (often called a “C.V.” or a “Vita”) is required for certain positions: educators and scientists most commonly.
Works Best For: Job seekers with extensive academic and professional credentials applying for positions in education or research. Check with an advisor or others in your field if you are unsure whether a C.V. or a resume is expected.
Example of Curriculum Vitae:
[Your Name]
[Street Address], [City, ST ZIP Code]
[phone]
[e-mail]

“...exceptionally energetic and enthusiastic teacher...projects a charisma that captures the imagination of students...demonstrated excellent classroom management skill...”
Simon Pearson
former administrator

“...business background in technology was supportive to the use of videos and computers in the class...She volunteered for cooperative opportunities in the media center and helped teachers to accommodate computers...I recommend her with the highest regard...”
Aidan Delaney
2nd Grade Teacher
New York City Schools

“...deeply involved in learning about the educational state-of-the-art, investigating research and designing instructional materials...I look forward to the time when Diane will bring her love of children, enthusiasm, initiative, and intelligence into her own classroom.”
Monica Brink, Ed.D.
“My ability to motivate students and share a love of learning fosters a successful classroom environment. ...I would welcome becoming part of ‘the village that raises the child’ in your district.”
Jenny Lysaker
Professional Profile
Eager to bring elementary students into the twenty-first century using a unique combination of education experience coupled with ten years’ business background in computer systems management.
• Hold Masters Degree in Elementary Education and Bachelors Degree in Computer Science.
• Experienced in use of the Internet and educational software.
• Dedicated to enthusiastic and dynamic teaching as a means of creating and nurturing a lifelong love of knowledge in children.

Education, Honors, and Certifications
M.S. Elementary Education
Elm College, Flushing, NY. 1995
Bachelor of Science Computer Science
Fir Tree University, Hempstead, NY. 1984
Kappa Delta Pi Honor Society Member

Provisional Certifications
NY State Elementary Education. 1995
NY State Business Education. 1995
Key Qualifications
Certified in Elementary (K-6) and Business Education
Plan and instruct each subject area using wide variety of teaching aids, motivational and implementation strategies to engage students in active learning.
Incorporate learning modality principles into classroom and individual instruction. Develop and conduct inter-grade activities. Utilize Heath automated math management system.
Implement technological approaches to subject material. Research educational resources on the Internet. Assist with information retrieval.
Experienced Computer Educator
Designed and conducted various faculty and student workshops for training in word processing and spreadsheet software. Instructed corporate personnel in use of word processing, desktop publishing, and drafting programs for conversion from manual typesetting and drafting to computer assisted methods.
Computer Skills
• Software (IBM and MAC environments): Microsoft Windows® and DOS, WordPerfect, Lotus123, Microsoft Word, PageMaker, AutoCAD, Books in Print, Baker & Taylor Links, Bibbase
• Working knowledge of the Internet
• System installations and debugging; terminal/printer operations

Employment
Professional Development in Education
• Substitute Teacher, K thru High School, April 1995 to present
• Graduate Advisor, Education Dept., October 1995 to present
Elm College, Flushing, NY
• Workshop Presenter, November 1995
First combined International Reading Association Regional Conference, Nashville, TN
• Information Services Assistant, May 1994 to August 1995
Elm College, Flushing, NY
• Student Teacher, September to December 1994
Fir Tree Elementary, Flushing, NY
Computer Related Training Positions
• Workshop Presenter, February, 1995
Maple High School, East Islip, NY
• Graduate Assistant, August 1993 to May 1994
Elm College, Flushing, NY
• Software Engineer, 1989 to 1991
Trey Research, Smithtown, NY
Corporate Computer Systems Management
• Systems Manager, 1987 to 1989
A. Datum Corporation, Bohemia, NY
• Software Quality Assurance Engineer, 1986 to 1987
Fabrikam, Inc., Smithtown, NY
• Staff Administrator, Executive Department, 1984 to 1986
The Telephone Company, Brooklyn, NY
• Student Director/Assistant, Computer Science Lab, 1981 to 1984
Fir Tree University, Hempstead, NY

Professional Affiliations
International Reading Association
Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development

Day 4: Setting Goals and Objectives

2009-08-02T10:23:00.000-07:00

When seeking a new job, or launching a new business/career, goal planning is essential to your success. The following guide to goal planning will assist you in developing strategies to set your goals and objectives to achieve your desired results.

GOAL PLANNING INSTRUCTIONS:

Goals should always be:
S – Specific
M – Measurable
A – Achievable
R – Realistic
T – Time Bound

1. Goal/Objective. Briefly describe each goal/objective and when the goal/objective should be met or accomplished. For example, Goal: Research XYZ, ABC and DEF companies today.
2. Measurement. How will the goal/objective be evaluated? (Use qualitative measures which are descriptive of actions.) For example: The research I have done included: Downloading Company Mission Statements, and Fiscal Projections for next year. Telephone interviewing a member of the department I would like to work in. Locating employee/competitor blogs about the company.
3. Determine the mportance of each goal/objective accomplished. Rank the goal as:

Essential, Important, or Desirable as follows:

Essential – required for job search
Important – helpful for job search
Desirable – asset for job search

Now, write down your GOALS/OBJECTIVES for today and for the rest of this week:

Description:

Measurement:

Rate byImportance:

Essential Important Desirable

Develop a portfolio of goals/objectives, by company and learn your facts! When going for the initial, and hopefully, subsequent interviews, you will show that you have a good handle on the company to which you are applying.

Day 3; Self Evaluation, continued.

2009-07-30T11:51:00.000-07:00

Understanding Skill Sets
What skills do you possess? Many employers are interested in two very important skill sets: computers and people. Take the following self assessment survey to see how you match up:
Computer/People-Management Skills Assessment
Use this form to document your skills inventory. It is helpful for you to keep a skills inventory and update it as you increase your skills. Then you will have this information readily available when you need to update your resume, respond to inquiries at interviews, and give an accurate picture of your skill level at salary reviews. You can also use it to start a skills development plan.
Modify this form to create your own custom skill inventory. It presents several ways that you can list and measure your skills. Not all of the skills listed in the inventory will apply to you. In addition, you will want to add your particular skills.

Desktop Computer Skills

Skills for using a computer to produce research, business reports, presentations, correspondence, resumes, and other forms of communications.

Evaluate your skill level to identify areas you can work on.

For each of the following, determine if you are:
1)Power User
2)Highly Skilled
3)Adequate
4)Marginal

File Management ____

Internet ____

Microsoft Windows _____

Navigation _____

Applications
List specific software applications that you know how to use:

Database
Word Processing
Spread-sheets
Presenta-tions
Graphics
Research
Other
Other
Other

After filling out the Desktop Computer Skills form above, describe in detail, just how capable you really are with each skill. Determine how and why it may be a useful skill to have, and how you think in might help you in the future.

Computer Skills--Would I hire me with this skill?

Ask yourself the following questions for each of the following skills listed:

On a scale of 1 – 10 (1 being the lowest, 10 the highest), how useful is this skill? How can I use this skill to build towards my future?

Word Processing

Data Base

Spreadsheets

Graphics

Research

Okay, so now that I've answered these questions, just what are these skills, and why are they important?

(The following definitions have been taken from Wikipedia):

Word Processing: “Use of a computer program or a dedicated hardware and software package to write, edit, format, and print a document. Text is most commonly entered using a keyboard similar to a typewriter's.
Word processors have various functions that allow a person to revise text without retyping an entire document. As the text is entered or after it has been retrieved, sections ranging from words and sentences to paragraphs and pages can be moved, copied, deleted, altered, and added to while displayed. As word processors have become more sophisticated, such functions as word counting, spell checking, footnoting, and index generation have been added. In addition, a document's format—type size, line spacing, margins, page length, and the like—usually can be easily altered. To aid in these alterations, the text is displayed as it will appear when printed with indented paragraphs and lists, multiple columns, tables, etc; this is called a what-you-see-is-what-you-get (WYSIWYG) display.”
Data Base: “A set of related files that is created and managed by a database management system (DBMS). Today, DBMSs can manage any form of data including text, images, sound and video. Database and file structures are always determined by the software. As far as the hardware is concerned, it's all bits and bytes.”
Software that simulates a paper spreadsheet (worksheet) in which columns of numbers are summed for budgets and plans. It appears on screen as a matrix of rows and columns, the intersections of which are called "cells." The cells are filled with (1) labels, (2) numeric values or (3) formulas.

Labels are descriptive text such as "Rent" and "Gross Sales." Values are the actual numeric data, and formulas command the spreadsheet to do the calculations; for example, SUM CELLS A5 TO A10
The Formulas
Formulas are the spreadsheet's magic, and they are easy to create. You click a cell and then press the key (+, -, etc.) of the arithmetic operation that affects it. For example, the creation of a formula might be "the contents of this cell PLUS the contents of this cell DIVIDED BY the contents of this cell."

The Ripple Effect
After numbers are added or changed, the formulas recalculate the data automatically or with the press of a key. Since the contents of any cell can be calculated with or copied to any other cell, a total of one column can be used as a detail item in another column. For example, the total from a column of expense items can be carried over to a summary column showing all expenses. If the contents of a cell in the detail column changes, its column total changes, which is then copied to the summary column, and the summary total changes.

.
Graphic Design:
The term graphic design can refer to a number of artistic and professional disciplines which focus on visual communication and presentation. Various methods are used to create and combine symbols, images and/or words to create a visual representation of ideas and messages. A graphic designer may use typograp and page layout techniques to produce the final result. Graphic design often refers to both the process (designing) by which the communication is created and the products (designs) which are generated.
Common uses of graphic design include magazines, advertisements, product packaging and web design. For example, a product package might include a logo or other artwork, organized text and pure design elements such as shapes and color which unify the piece. Composition is one of the most important features of graphic design especially when using pre-existing materials or diverse elements.
Applications
From road signs to technical schematics, from interoffice memorandums to reference manuals, graphic design enhances transfer of knowledge. Readability is enhanced by improving the visual presentation of text.
Design can also aid in selling a product or idea through effective visual communication. It is applied to products and elements of company identity like logos, colors, and text. Together these are defined as branding. Branding has increasingly become important in the range of services offered by many graphic designers, alongside corporate identity, and the terms are often used interchangeably.
Textbooks are designed to present subjects such as geography, science, and math. These publications have layouts which illustrate theories and diagrams. Graphic design is also applied to layout and formatting of educational material to make the information more accessible and more readily understandable.
Graphic design is applied in the entertainment industry in decoration, scenery, and visual story telling. Other examples of design for entertainment purposes include novels, comic books, opening credits and closing credits in film, and programs and props on stage.
From scientific journals to news reporting, the presentation of opinion and facts is often improved with graphics and thoughtful compositions of visual information - known as information design. Newspapers, magazines, blogs, television and film documentaries may use graphic design to inform and entertain. With the advent of the web, Information designers with experience in interactive tools such as Adobe Flash and Photoshop are increasingly being used to illustrate the background to news stories.
Some other graphics programs include:
Bryce, Canvas, CorelDraw,Dimensions,,Director/Shockwave, Dreamweaver, Fireworks, Flash, Framemaker, Freehand, FrontPage, Gimp, Golive, Illustrator, InDesign, Infini-D, Live Motions Pagemaker, Painter, Paint Shop Pro, Poser, QuarkXpress, Ray Dream, Shockwave/Director, Streamline, and SWiSH.
Skills
A graphic design project may involve the stylization and presentation of existing text and either preexisting imagery or images developed by the graphic designer. For example, a newspaper story begins with the journalists and photojournalists and then becomes the graphic designer's job to organize the page into a reasonable layout and determine if any other graphic elements should be required. In a magazine article or advertisement, often the graphic designer or art director will commission photographers or illustrators to create original pieces just to be incorporated into the design layout. Contemporary design practice has been extended to the modern computer, for example in the use of WYSIWYG user interfaces, often referred to as interactive design or multimedia design.
Research:

Research is an activity based on intellectual investigation and aimed at discovering, interpreting, and revising human knowledge on different aspects of the world. Research can use the scientific method, but need not do so.

Scientific research relies on the application of the scientific method, a harnessing of curiosity. This research provides scientific information and theories for the explanation of the nature and the properties of humans. It makes practical applications possible. Scientific research is funded by public authorities, by charitable organizations and by private groups, including many companies. Scientific research can be subdivided into different classifications.

Scientific research utilizes mathematical and experimental techniques employed in the natural sciences. Many empirical sciences, especially the social sciences, use mathematical tools borrowed from probability theory and statistics, together with such outgrowths of these as decision theory, game theory, utility theory, and operations research. Philosophers of science have addressed general methodological problems, such as the nature of scientific explanation and the justification of induction.

Historical research is embodied in the historical method. The historical method comprises the sources and guidelines by which historians use primary sources and other evidence to research and then to write history. Historical research includes the use of history guidelines commonly used by historians in their work, under the headings of external criticism, internal criticism, and synthesis.

The term research is also used to describe an entire collection of information about a particular subject.

.
Internet research is the practice of using the internet for research. To the extent that the Internet is widely and readily accessible to hundreds of millions of people in many parts of the world, it can provide practically instant information on most topics, and is having a profound impact on the way in which ideas are formed and knowledge is created.

Research is a broad term. Here, it is used to mean "looking something up (on the Web)". It includes any activity where a topic is identified, and an effort is made to actively gather information for the purpose of furthering understanding. Common applications of Internet research include personal research on a particular subject (something mentioned on the news, a health problem, etc), students doing research for academic projects and papers, and journalists and other writers researching stories.

Compared to the Internet, print physically limits access to information. A book has to be identified then actually obtained. On the Net, the Web can be searched, and typically hundreds or thousands of pages can be found with some relation to the topic, within seconds. In addition, e-mail (including mailing lists), online discussion forums (aka message boards, BBS's), and other personal communication facilities (blogging, IRC, newsgropus, etc.), can provide direct access to experts and other individuals with relevant interests and knowledge. However, difficulties persist in verifying a writer's credentials, and therefore the accuracy or pertinence of the information.

It should be noted that thousands of books and other print publications have been made available online that would be extremely difficult to locate otherwise, including out of print books and classic literature, and textbooks that would be much less accessible in their printed form.

Credibility While the Internet contains a virtually-unlimited wealth of information not found in traditional resources, this abundance also may hinder research. Anyone can make a website for little or no cost and publish to the world. This bypasses the usual publishing channels and allows opinions to be expressed which may not be credible. Traditional sources may be considered more authoritative on the whole by some for this reason. On the other hand, this widespread publishing ability gives nearly-immediate access to the myriad views of both the average person and the professional world without the limited scope or bias which may be found in books and newscasts.

Day 2; Self Evaluation, continued.

2009-07-27T14:24:00.000-07:00

Based on Day 1's Self Evaluation Blog, please fill out the following:

Current Line of Work:

Line of Work I am Pursuing:

What I Hope to be Doing 1 Year From Now:

Has the profile I just developed fit this plan?:

Now, think about your life, your family, your concerns about the future of your employment.
Then fill out the following chart:

1) I think that I fit into the _____ category because (please be specific):

2) I don’t think that I fit into the _____ category because (please be specific):

3) What have I learned about myself from this exercise, and what can I do to change?
I HAVE LEARNED:

I WISH TO CHANGE:

Additional thoughts and ideas for possible changes:

The Career Interests Game

Welcome to the Career Interests Game! This is a game designed to help you match your interests and skills with similar careers. It can help you begin thinking about how your personality will fit in with specific work environments and careers. Come play along and see what happens!

This exercise is based on Dr. John Holland's theory that people and work environments can be loosely classified into six different groups. Different peoples' personalities may find different environments more to their liking. While you may have some interests in and similarities to several of the six groups, you may be attracted primarily to two or three of the areas. These two or three letters are your Holland Code.

Imagine walking into a room in which the six groups of people below are already interacting. Read the descriptions of each group and list the group you would be drawn to first, then your second choice, and finally your third choice.

For example, if you choose R then E and then S you would most resemble the Realistic type, somewhat less resemble the Enterprising type, and resemble the Social type even less. The types that are not in your code are the types you resemble least of all. Most people, and most jobs, are some combination of two or three of the Holland interest areas.

REALISTIC = R

People who have athletic or mechanical ability, prefer to work with objects, machine, tools, plants or animals, or to be outdoors

INVESTIGATIVE = I

People who like to observe, learn, investigate, analyze, evaluate or solve problems.

ARTISTIC = A

People who have artistic, innovating or intuitional abilities and like to work in unstructured situations using their imagination and creativity.

SOCIAL = S

People who like to work with people to enlighten, inform, help, train, or cure them, or are skilled with words.

ENTERTAINING = E

People who like to work with people, influencing, persuading, performing, leading or managing for organizational goals or economic gain

CONVENTIONAL = C

People who like to work with data, have clerical or numerical ability, carry out tasks in detail or follow through on others' instructions

This RIASEC model of occupations is the copyrighted work of Dr. John L. Holland, and his publisher, Psychological Assessment Resources, Inc. (PAR).

For the following 3 questions, select one or more, up to three:
I MOST resemble: R I A S E C

I SORT OF resemble: R I A S E C

I don’t really resemble: R I A S E C all that much.

Why do you think you’ve made those choices?

Now that you’ve determined the Holland type(s) you are, read through the following to see if your idea(s) for the type of work you want to do, coincide with your results.

*Note: I am not a psychologist, nor is this test a total validation of the Holland measure, it is strictly an an indication of your interests, and it points to possibilities or potential for you.

REALISTIC
The "Do-ers"

ARE YOU:
practical
athletic
straightforward/frank
mechanically inclined
a nature lover
thrifty
curious about the physical world
stable
concrete
reserved
self-controlled
independent
ambitious
systematic
persistent

CAN YOU:
fix electrical things
solve electrical problems
pitch a tent
play a sport
read a blueprint
plant a garden
operate tools and machinery

DO YOU LIKE TO:
tinker with machines/vehicles
work outdoors
use your hands
be physically active
build things
tend/train animals
work on electronic equipment

HOBBIES:
Refinishing furniture
Growing plants/flowers
Playing sports
Hunting/fishing
Woodworking
Coaching team sports
Building models
Repairing cars, equipment, etc.
Target shooting
Landscaping
Taking exercise classes

CAREER POSSIBILITIES (HOLLAND CODE)
Aerospace Physiologist (RSE)
Air-Conditioning Mechanics (RIE)
Aircraft Mechanic (RIE)
Appliance Mechanics (RIE)
Aquaculturist (REI)
Architectural Drafter (RCI)
Automobile Body Repairer (RIE)
Automotive Engineer (RIE)
Automobile Mechanic (RIE)
Baker/Chef (RSE)
Bookbinder (RES)
Bricklayer (RSE)
Busdriver (RES)
Butcher (RSE)
Carpenter (RCI)
Cement Worker and Terrazzo Worker (REC)
Compositor (RSI)
Construcion Worker (REC)
Corrections Officer (RES)
Dental Assistant (RES)
Dental Laboratory Technician (REC)
Dental Technician (REI)
Diesel Mechanic (REI)
Drafter (RCI)
Electrical Engineer (RIE)
Electrician (REI)
Electroplater (R)
Excercise Careers (RES)
Farm Equipment Manager (RES)
Farmer (RIS)
Farm Manager (RES)
Firefighter (RES)
Fish Hatchery Manager (RES)
Floral Designer (RAE)
Forester (RIS)
Furnace Installer (RES)
Geodetic Surveyor (RIE)
Glazier (RES)
Groundskeeper (RCE)
Industrial Supervisor (REI)
Instrument Repair and Maintainence (RIE)
Jeweler (REC)
Laboratory Technician (RIE)
Line Installer (RSE)
Logger (RES)
Machinist (RIE)
Maintenance Repairer (RES)
Mechanical Engineer (RIS)
Metallurgical Technician (RIS)
Oceanographer (RIE)
Optician (REI)
Painter (RES)
Petroleum Engineer (RIE)
Plumber (REI)
Practical Nurse (RSE)
Printing Press Operator (REI)
Property Manager (RES)
Quality Control Manager (RSE)
Radio/T.V. Repair (REI)
Radiochemist (IRE)
Sailor (REC)
Sheet Metal Worker (R)
Structural Steelworker (REI)
Tailor (RES)
Tool and Die Maker (RIE)
Truck Driver (RSE)
Upholsterer (RCS)
Watchmaker (REC)
Water Quality Specialist (REI)
Welder (RES)
Woodworking (RAE)

INVESTIGATIVE
The "Thinkers"

ARE YOU:)
inquisitive
analytical
scientific
observant
precise
scholarly
cautious
intellectually self-confident
introspective
reserved
broad-minded
independent
logical
complex
curious

CAN YOU
think abstractly
solve math problems
understand scientific theories
do complex calculations
use a microscope or computer
interpret formulas

DO YOU LIKE TO
explore a variety of ideas
use computers
work independently
perform lab experiments
read scientific or technical journals
analyze data
deal with abstractions
do research
be challenged

HOBBIES
Book club
Astronomy
Crossword puzzles/board games
Preservation of endangered species
Computers
Visiting museums
Collecting rocks, stamps, coins, etc.
Amateur Radio
Recreational flying

CAREER POSSIBILITIES(Holland Code):
Actuary (ISE)
Agronomist (IRS)
Anesthesiologist (IRS)
Anthropologist (IRE)
Archeologist (IRE)
Biochemist (IRE)
Biologist (ISR)
Cardiopulmonary Technician (IRE)
Cartographer (IRE)
Chemical Engineer (IRE)
Chemical Technician (IRE)
Chemist (IRE)
Chiropractor (ISR)
Civil Engineer (IRS)
Computer Engineer (IRC)
Computer Programmer (IRC)
Computer Systems Analyst (IER)
Dentist (ISR)
Ecologist (IRE)
Economist (ISA)
Electrical Engineer (IRE)
Geographer (IRE)
Geologist (IRE)
Hazardous Waste Technician (IRS)
Horticulturist (IRS)
Industrial Arts Teacher (IER)
Management Consultant (ICR)
Marketing Research Analyst (IAS)
Mathematician (IER)
Medical Lab Technologist (IRE)
Medical Technologist (ISA)
Meteorologist (IRS)
Nurse Practitioner (ISA)
Pharmacist (IES)
Physician, General Practice (ISE)
Physician Assistant (ISA)
Psychologist (ISA)
Research Analyst (IRC)
Software Engineer (IRE)
Statistician (IRE)
Technical Writer (IRS)
Veteranarian (IRS)
Web Site Developer (IRE)

ARTISTIC
The "Creators"

Are You
creative
intuitive
imaginative
innovative
unconventional
emotional
independent
expressive
original
introspective
impulsive
sensitive
courageous
open
complicated
idealistic
nonconforming

CAN YOU
sketch, draw, paint
play a musical instrument
write stories, poetry, music
sing, act, dance
design fashions or interiors

DO YOU LIKE TO
attend concerts, theatres, art exhibits
read fiction, plays, and poetry
work on crafts
take photographs
express yourself creatively
deal with ambiguous ideas

HOBBIES
Photography
Performing
Writing stories, poems, etc.
Desktop publishing
Sewing
Taking dance lessons
Visiting art museums
Designing sets for plays
Travel
Playing a musical instrument
Homemade crafts
Painting
Speaking foreign languages

CAREER POSSIBILITIES(Holland Code):
Actor/Actress (AES)
Advertising Art Director (AES)
Advertising Manager (ASE)
Architect (AIR)
Clothing/Fashion Designer (ASR)
Copywriter (ASI)
Dancer (AES)
Choreographer (AER)
Drama Teacher (ASE)
English Teacher (ASE)
Fashion Illustrator (ASR)
Furniture Designer (AES)
Graphic Designer (AES)
Interior Designer (AES)
Journalist/Reporter (ASE)
Landscape Architect (AIR)
Medical Illustrator (AIE)
Museum Curator (AES)
Music Teacher (AES)
Photographer (AES)
Writers/Editors (ASI)

SOCIAL
The "Helpers"

ARE YOU
friendly
helpful
idealistic
insightful
outgoing
understanding
cooperative
generous
responsible
forgiving
patient
empathic
kind
persuasive

CAN YOU
teach/train others
express yourself clearly
lead a group discussion
mediate disputes
plan and supervise an activity
cooperate well with others

DO YOU LIKE TO
work in groups
help people with problems
participate in meetings
do volunteer work
work with young people
play team sports
serve others

HOBBIES
Volunteering with social action groups
Writing letters
Joining campus or community organizations
Helping others with personal concerns
Meeting new friends
Attending sporting events
Caring for children
Religious activities
Going to parties
Playing team sports

CAREER POSSIBILITIES(Holland Code):
Air Traffic Controler (SER)
Athletic Trainer (SRE)
Chaplain (SAI)
City Manager (SEC)
College Professor (SEI)
Community Planner (SEA)
Counseling Psychologist (SIA)
Counselor/Therapist (SAE)
Cosmetologist (SEA)
Cruise Director (SAE)
Dental Hygienist (SAI)
Detective (SER)
Dietician (SIE)
Elementary School Teacher (SEC)
Executive House Keeper (SCE)
Family and Consumer Scientist (SAE)
Hairstylist (SER)
High School Teacher (SAE)
Historian (SEI)
Home Economist (SEA)
Home Economics Teacher (SAE)
Homemaker (S)
Hospital Administrator (SER)
Ind./Organizational Psychologist (SEI)
Insurance Claims Examiner (SIE)
Librarian (SAI)
Mail Carrier (SRC)
Medical Assistant (SCR)
Medical Record Administrator (SIE)
Minister (SAI)
Priest(SAI)
Rabbi(SAI)
Nurse/Midwife (SIR)
Occupational Therapist (SRE)
Paralegal (SCE)
Park Naturalist (SEI)
Personnel Recruiter (SEC)
Personnel, Training, and Labor Relations Specialist(SEC)
Physical Therapist (SIE)
Physical Therapy Aide (SIR)
Police Officer (SER)
Preschool Worker (SEA)
Professional Athlete (SRC)
Probation and Parole Officer (SIE)
Public Health Educator (SEA)
Radiological Technologist (SRI)
Real Estate Appraiser (SCE)
Recreation Director (SER)
Recreational Therapist (SEC)
Registered Nurse (SIA)
Relocation Counselor (SAE)
Retirement Counselor (SAE)
School Counselor (SAE)
School Principal-Administrator(SEI)
Secondary School Teacher(SAE)
Social Worker (SEA)
Sociologist(SIA)
Special Education Teacher (SEC)
Speech Pathologist (SAI)
Teacher's Aid (SIC)
Business Teacher(SAE)
Ticket Agent (SCE)
Vocational Agricultural Teacher(SEC)
Vocational-Rehab. Counselor(SEC)
X-Ray Technician (SRI)

ENTERPRISING
The "Persuaders"

ARE YOU:
self-confident
assertive
sociable
persuasive
enthusiastic
energetic
adventurous
popular
impulsive
ambitious
inquisitive
agreeable
talkative
extroverted
spontaneous
optimistic

CAN YOU:
initiate projects
convince people to do things your way
sell things or promote ideas
give talks or speeches
organize activities
lead a group
persuade others

DO YOU LIKE TO:
make decisions affecting others
be elected to office
win a leadership or sales award
start your own service or business
campaign politically
meet important people
have power or status

HOBBIES:
Discussing Politics
Reading Business Journals
Watching the Stock Market
Attending Meetings and Conferences
Selling Products
Leading Campus of Community Organizations
Operating a Home Business

CAREER POSSIBILITIES(Holland Code):
Advertising, marketing, and
public relations managers (ESA)
Advertising Sales Representative (ESR)
Automobile Sales Worker (ESR)
Financial Planner (ESR)
Barber/Hairdresser (ESR)
Bartender (ERC)
Benefits Manager (ESA)
Financial Manager (ESA)
Buyer (ESA)
Computer Operator (ESI)
Cook/Chef (ESR)
Credit Analyst (EAS)
Credit Manager (ERS)
Dental Assistant (E)
Educational/Training Manager (EIS)
Educational Administrator (ESA)
Emergency Medical Technician (ESI)
Flight Attendant (ESA)
Food Service Manager (ESI)
Foreign Service Officer (ESA)
Funeral Director (ESR)
Health Services Manager (ECR)
Hotel Manager (ESR)
Housekeeper (ESR)
Industrial Engineer (EIR)
Insurance Adjuster (ESR)
Insurance Agent (ECS)
Interpreter (ESA)
Journalism (EAS)
Lawyer/Attorney (ESA)
Manufaturer's Representative (ESA)
Office Manager (ESR)
Public Relations Representative (EAS)
Real Estate Agent (ESR)
Restaurant Manager (EAS)
Retail Sales Person (ESR)
Retail Store Manager (ESR)
Sales Manager (ESA)
Sales Representative (ERS)
Social Service Director (ESA)
Stockbroker (ESI)
Tax Accountant (ECS)
Traffic Clerks (ESC)
Travel Agent (ECS)
Urban Planner (ESI)

CONVENTIONAL
The "Organizers"

ARE YOU:
well-organized
accurate
numerically inclined
methodical
conscientious
efficient
conforming
orderly
practical
thrifty
systematic
structured
polite
ambitious
obedient
persistent

CAN YOU:
work well within a system
do a lot of paper work in a short time
keep accurate records
use a computer terminal
write effective business letters

DO YOU LIKE TO:
follow clearly defined procedures
use data processing equipment
work with numbers
type or take shorthand
be responsible for details
collect or organize things

HOBBIES:
Collecting memorabilia
Arranging and organizing household or workshop, etc.
Playing computer or card games
Collecting any related objects
Keeping club or family records and files
Reading home magazines
Studying tax laws
Practicing Clutter's Last Stand
Writing family history

CAREER POSSIBILITIES(Holland Code):
Abstractor (CSI)
Accountant (CSE)
Accounting Clerk and Bookkeeper (CSR)
Administrative Assistant (ESC)
Bank Teller (CSE)
Budget Analyst (CER)
Building Inspector (CSE)
Business Teacher (CSE)
Cashier (CSE)
Catalog Librarian (CSE)
Clerk (CSE)
Computer Operator (CSR)
Cost Accountant (CES)
Court Reporter (CSE)
Customs Inspector (CEI)
Data processing worker (CRI)
Electronic Mail Technician (CSR)
File Clerk (CSE)
Financial Analyst (CSI)
Insurance Adjuster (CSE)
Insurance Underwriter (CSE)
Internal Auditor (ICR)
Key Punch Operator (CSE)
Kindergarten Teacher (CSE)
Legal Secretary (CSA)
Library Assistant (CSE)
Medical Records Technician (CSE)
Medical Secretary (CES)
Safety Inspector (RCS)
Service Station Attendent (CER)
Tax Consultant (CES)
Telephone Operator (CSE)
Typist (CES)

Now that you’ve seen the areas of employment that might interest you most, think about what you need to do to get from here (today) to there (sometime in the near or not so near future).
Do you need more education? Do you need to increase your current skills? Do you have skills from your recent position(s) that can be applied to a new field? This is what you must now figure out before you can begin to shape your future.

Notes:

Day 1; Self Evaluation

2009-07-26T11:50:00.000-07:00

Now That I’m Looking For A Job—What Do I Want To Be When I Grow Up??

I need a job. I need to prepare for my future. What do I want to be when I grow up? That’s a question that you may have started thinking about recently. Do you have a clear-cut plan? Have you determined your strategies? Do you find yourself leaning towards another area outside your comfort zone or field of expertise?

Is your chosen field unavailable to you? Has the economy really crashed your world? Do you need to do something—anything to re-adjust your career future?

The path to reaching your future goals begins right now, right here with small steps, each building upon one another! This blog will allow you to explore options, make decisions, determine your future, and, more importantly, teach you how to get there!

Whether you are seeking a long-term goal, just looking to get by for now, or in the midst of changing jobs or careers, this book will provide you with the skill-sets, tactics, techniques, and empowerment to achieve any and all of your goals. You will find each step in your quest towards your future can and will count towards that end.

Whatever the reason you have come to this blog, the important thing to know is that this can be a major stepping stone in your career. Any and every experience you have or have had goes into creating you. You are, therefore, quite unique, and that very uniqueness allows you to offer current and/or future employers something different from the rest of the potential employees.

Taking the sum of all of your experiences, from your first and early jobs, educational background, current job, industry knowledge, to clubs, volunteering, internships, group activities, scouting, all will make a difference in the way you are viewed by possible employers—now and in the future.

This workbook will not give you the educational credentials which may be required for certain professions, nor will it provide you with too much in the way of technical or mechanical expertise; however, it will teach you HOW TO BECOME THE BEST REPRESENTATION OF YOU to any and all future employers!

Chapter 1 –Self Assessment—The First Steps

What is Self-Assessment? Self-Assessment is the process of collecting and analyzing all of the relevant information about a very complex subject – YOU. You need to look at your education, work experience, skills, interest, work values and personality traits. You also need the courage to face your weaknesses, fears and dislikes.

By taking various self-assessment test instruments, it will help you define the position for which you are best suited. With an average of 10 to 15 job/career changes in most peoples’ lifetimes, career planning is now an on-going process, to be repeated over and over again. This process involves conducting a realistic self-assessment.

There are basically 2 steps to the self-assessment process:

1. Defining who you are internally.

2. Using that information to search for an external fit with the job market

To assist you in your determination of how you can best begin to know yourself, within what environment you are most comfortable, your future goals, your interactions with others, the following assessment instruments have been included in this chapter:

· Personality & Attitudes

· Skills & Achievements

· Personal Career Profile

These instruments will give you an idea of how you are seen by others. You may be surprised by how you are perceived; however, if your answers give you an indication of the image you portray, then this can surely assist you to either make some changes, if necessary, or consider jobs and/or careers that would suit who you are. All of us are, of course, happiest and most fulfilled when we are comfortable within our work environment.

The answers to these questions should reflect who you are no…not who you were in the past, nor who you aspire to be in the future. It’s only 10 simple questions, so grab a pencil!

Questions	Answers	My Letter Response
1. When do you feel your best?	a. In the morning b. During the afternoon/early evening c. Late at night
2. You usually walk	a. Fairly fast, with long steps b. Fairly fast, with short, quick steps c. Less fast head up, looking the world in the face d. Less fast, head down e. Very slowly
3. When talking to people you	a. Stand with your arms folded. b. Have your hands clasped c. Have one or both your hands on your hips d. Touch or push the person to whom you are talking
4. When relaxing, you sit with	a. Your knees bent with your legs neatly side by side b. Your legs crossed c. Your legs stretched out and straight d. One leg curled under you
5. When something really amuses you, you react with	a. A big, appreciative laugh b. A laugh, but not a loud one c. A quiet chuckle d. A sheepish smile
6. Wen you go to a party or social gathering you	a. Make a loud entrance so everyone notices you b. Make a quiet entrance so only a few people notice you c. Make the quietest entrance, trying to stay unnoticed.
7. You’re working very hard, concentrating hard, and you’re interrupted. Do you	a. Welcome the break b. Feel extremely irritated c. Vary between these two extremes
8. Which of the following colors do you like the most?	a. Red or orange b. Black c. Yellow or light blue d. Green e. Dark blue or purple f. White g. Brown or gray
9. When you are in bed at night, in those last few moments before going to sleep, you lie	a. Stretched out on your back b. Stretched out face down on your stomach c. On your side, slightly curled d. With your head on one arm e. With your head under the covers
10. You often dream that you are	a. Falling b. Fighting or struggling c. Searching for something or somebody d. Flying or floating e. You usually have dreamless sleep f. Your dreams are always pleasant

Circle the Point values for each response:

Question	(a)	(b)	(c)	(d)	(e)	(f)	(g)
1.	2	4	6
2.	6	4	7	2	1
3.	4	2	5	7	6
4.	4	6	2	1
5.	6	4	3	5	2
6.	6	4	2
7.	6	2	4
8.	6	7	5	4	3	2	1
9.	7	6	4	2	1
10.	4	2	3	5	6	1

Now add your total number of points:

My Points

Over 60 points: Others see you as somebody they should “handle with care.” You’re seen as vain, self-centered, and as extremely dominant. Others may admire you, wishing they could be more like you, but don’t always trust you, hesitating to become too deeply involved with you.

51 to 60 points: Others see you as an exciting, highly volatile, rather impulsive personality; a natural leader, who’s quick to make decisions, though not always the right ones. They see you as adventuresome, someone who will try anything once; someone who takes changes and enjoys adventure. They enjoy being in your company because of the excitement you radiate.

41 to 50 points: Others see you as a fresh, lively, charming, amusing, practical and always interesting; someone who’s constantly in the center of attention, but sufficiently well-balanced not to let it go to your head. They also see you as kind, considerate, and understanding; someone who’ll always cheer them up and help them out.

31 to 40 points: Others see you as sensible, cautious, careful and practical. They see you as clever, gifted or talented, but modest. Not a person who makes friends too quickly or easily, but someone who’s extremely loyal to friends you do make and who expects the same loyalty in return. Those who really get to know you realize it takes a lot to shake your trust in your friends, but equally that it takes you a long time to get over it if that trust is ever broken.

21 to 30 points: Your friends see you as painstaking and fussy. They see you as very cautious, extremely careful—a slow and steady plodder. It would really surprise them if you ever did something impulsively or on the spur of the moment, expecting you to examine everything carefully from every angle and then, usually decide against it. They think this reaction is caused partly by your careful nature.

Under 21 points: People think you are shy, nervous, and indecisive--someone who needs looking after, who always wants someone else to make the decisions and who doesn’t want to get involved with anyone or anything. They see you as a worrier who always sees problems that don’t exist. Some people think you’re boring. Only those who know you well know that you are not.

Self-Evaluation:

After taking this assessment instrument, think about the category within which you fall. Does it ring true? Are you as described? Jot down your thoughts and why you agree or disagree with the assessment:

Agree—Why?

Disagree—Why?

Point One, (please state):

Point Two, (please state):

Point Three, (please state):

Point Four, (please state):

Point Five, (please state):

Point Six, (please state):

Point Seven, (please state):

Point Eight, (please state):