Here are some tips for researching a target company:
- Search for the company name online to find their website. Review their "About Us" or "Our Company" pages to learn their mission, history, products/services, leadership team, etc.
- Check the company's social media profiles (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn) to get a sense of their brand and culture.
- Search for news articles about the company to stay informed on recent developments, partnerships, initiatives, etc.
- Look up the company on Google Maps street view to get a feel for their office location and environment.
- Search for the company or executives on LinkedIn to find current/former employees and see what they say about
1. Start with a Resume &
Finish with an Interview
brought to you by
Bruce A. Bennett
Career Coach Corner
December 2, 2019
2. 2
Introduction & Notes for Workshop
Introduction
Professional Career in Media & Marketing Research
MCWN Volunteer & Contractor
Career Coach Corner Blogger, Presenter & Podcaster
General Notes for Today
My contact info is on last slide
Workshop is interactive
Q/A & Parking lot
Red Arrows
Evaluation forms are two sided
Other: Resume to Interview
Comments are helpful
Social Media Revolution
3. 3
Outline for Workshop Today
Resume
Formats, Components, General Points & Mistakes
Cover Letters
Standard Format & Q Style
Applying On-line
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
Break Time – 10 minutes
Interviewing
Preparing by researching company & position
Review the interview process
Q & A examples
Five toughest question videos
Closing the interview
General Do’s and Don’ts
4. 4
Goals for Workshop
Goals
Identify core elements of resume and cover letter
Restate job responsibilities into STARs
Use of Job Boards and Employer ATS
Repeat strengths as STARs for interviewing
Recognize how to respond to Tell Me About Yourself
Investigate and research employers and companies
Know Thyself – Personal Intelligence
8. 8
Not all Resumes are Created Equal
Paradigm for job search changed radically
Seven seconds - really??
One resume does not work
Customize resumes to fit job posting
Keywords from description must be in resume
Detail work experience history by dates
Self Awareness
What do you want?
Five job titles, industry and target companies
Research what skills are needed for those jobs
3 columns, acquired or desired skills, Y/N and what
examples
Catherine Breet Byers suggests 3 simple steps
9. 9
Resume Formats
Chronological
Details work experience history by dates
Functional
Highlights skills and expertise
Blended
Combo of the two
Infographic
Graphic, colorful, & creative
Plain Text
11. 11
Resume Components
Contact information
Name
Address (printed vs. digital)
Phone number (only 1)
Email
LinkedIn URL
Career or Professional Summary
Elevator speech scripted out
Skills, Keywords or Buzzwords and phrases
relevant to industry & skills
Avoid clichés
12. 12
Resume Components
Work Experience
Company
Job Title
Dates (Month/Year)
Description about company and/or URL
Achievements, not duties or responsibilities
Previous performance appraisals helpful
More bullets for current position
STARs or CARs
Situation or Task, Action and Results
Circumstance, Action and Results
13. 13
Resume Components
Quantify or Recognize experience
Maintained accounting records for AR and AP
Managed 1,000+ AR & AP accounts working
directly with the CFO
Answered the phone
Resolved customer issues through inbound calling
system, averaging 60 calls a day
Sold computers and printers to customers
Practiced consultative sales techniques to provide
customers with their hardware & software needs
Managed and supervised 10 staff members
Coached and developed 22 direct reports into
supervisory role positions
14. 14
Resume Components
Accomplishments
Education
College, Seminars, Workshops, Special training
Military Experience
Rank, Duties, Responsibilities, Relevant Experiences
Technical or Computer Skills
Community Activities
Volunteer Experience
15. 15
General Points
White space
Applying on line, stick around to the end
Two pages max?
Font consistency is important
Printed white paper 20#
Recruiter Relates Resume Tips
John Marty Offers More Resume Advice
16. 16
Typical Resume Mistakes
Typos
Objective
References available upon request
ABC’s of references
Providing a Home and Cell phone number
25+ years of experience
Putting a 3 page resume on 2 pages
Distracting formats and/or fonts
Clichés
Responsible for….
Problem solving skills
Detail orientated
19. 19
Fine Tune Your Resume
These websites refine your resume
Match your key skills with job description
Empower you to get past ATS robots
www.jobscan.co
https://theprofessional.me
https://skillsyncer.com/
32. 32
Cover Letters
What function does it serve?
Introduce yourself to the recruiter
State your interest in the position
Relate why you are a good fit
How to write a cover letter
33. 33
Cover Letters
Provides additional means of communication
Gaps in employment
Why Company or position interests you
Relevant experience or industry knowledge
Bullet points to highlight skills
No more than a few paragraphs
4 Sentence Cover Letter
Traditional format
Comparative format
Pain Letter
36. 36
Traditional Cover Letter Example
Dear Ms. Polerecky,
I found the Account Manager Associate position, Job ID3885, through a job search agent I
created on the Ebsco website. My background is a great match with your staffing needs.
The majority of my professional career has been at two companies: Nielsen Media Research and
Synovate. During 2010, I was engaged in civic duties with the Village of Johnsburg and
volunteering at the McHenry County Workforce Network, while continuing my career search.
Additionally, I started conducting training seminars on LinkedIn for networking groups and Harper
College in the latter half of 2010. I started at Lodestar Research in January 2011, but am seeking
full time employment with benefits.
When I started at Synovate, my role was initially defined as a liaison between a recent acquisition
and the parent company. While I was there, I became the brand manager for the Interactive
Opinion Network (ION). The ION product was the premier in-person data collection methodology
used for survey research. I coordinated the processes from working with the programmers to
fielding the studies. I am familiar with basic HTML code and rudimentary SQL queries. The ION
product used Microsoft Access which I have been using for over a decade. Additionally, I was
responsible for the quality assurance of the product.
More recently, I have been at Lodestar Research, a company that focuses on B2B publishing. I
use BPA Worldwide Brand Reports to evaluate B2B publishers as a prospective client. I have
extensive management, operations, client service and relationship building experience that would
benefit Hallmark Data Systems. My experience and skills include:
Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of South Florida.
Early adopter of new technology, software and social media.
Ability to adapt to new challenges and responsibilities.
In depth use of MSOffice 2007 products, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook &
Access to track, analyze and present data.
Outstanding written, verbal, interpersonal, presentation and organizational skills.
If you are looking for a committed team member with strong client service skills and the ability to
multi-task in a fast paced environment, I am the candidate you are seeking to place with your
client. I look forward to discussing how my background is a match for this opportunity and will call
you on March 23 to follow up.
37. 37
Comparative Cover Letter Example
Good Afternoon,
Your advertisement for a Lead Expeditor caught my attention because it seemed an
ideal match to my background and experience in inventory control. Having looked at
your website, it is clear you present medical solutions that improve the lives of both
doctors and patients and I am very excited about the prospect of playing a part in that
role. Let me take this opportunity to present my background in comparison to the job
requirements you have described.
YOUR REQUIREMENTS MY BACKGROUND
Bachelor’s Degree Bachelors Degree in Science
2+ yrs related experience with
leadership
10+ yrs experience with 6+ yrs in a
leadership role
Strong Excel/proficient math
Utilized advanced excel functions
and math on a daily basis
Superior attention to detail
Maintained and monitored delivery
dates for 30K finished goods
Exceptional
communication/adaptable/ strong
sense of urgency
Established direct communication
in urgent situations to ensure
accurate and timely actions
Comparative Cover Letter
39. 39
What is an ATS?
Majority of major companies use an ATS for HR
Human Resource Information System (HRIS)
Software that enables the electronic handling of
HR documentation
Cradle to grave capability
Tracks hiring compliance for company
Taking the human out of Human Resources
40. 40
How Does an ATS Work
Parses your resume into the system
Scans resumes to qualify candidates
Matches keywords in job description
Performs data mining and collecting
Ranks candidates by resumes & responses
Can manage many tasks
Identify top candidates/Reject unqualified
Send applicant emails
Schedule interviews
Onboarding process
Tracks reviews, promotions, terminations
41. 41
Pitfalls of ATS
Many ATS cannot read a PDF, unless
specifically directed to submit a PDF, submit doc
Word Doc not Docx format
Resume templates
Cannot read tables or multiple columns
Cannot read wording in header & footer
Misspelled words are not recognized
42. 42
Pitfalls of ATS
Single column format
Avoid lines and borders
Do not use underline
Do not use Bold or Italics
Left justification
Serif fonts are not accurately read reliably
Sans Serif fonts are better
Arial, Helvetica, Times New Roman
Futura, Gotham, Franklin Gothic, Circular
Size does matter - 11 or 12 pt font is better
Margins of 1 preferred, .75 at the maximum
43. 43
ATS Resume Friendly Tips
Use standard terminology for section titles
Work Experience not Career Achievements
Education not Professional Training
Keyword matches found in job description
Name document for relevant position
BruceBennettManager.doc, not resume.doc
Use full name instead of acronym
Interactive Opinion Network, not ION
59. 59
How to Ace an Interview
Self awareness
Inventory your skills
Strength Finder by Gallup - now CliftonStrengths
SWOT analysis
Preparation
Select 3 to 5 of your key strengths
Use a STAR to illustrate the skill to interviewer
Research company and individuals
Practice
Scripted answers
Mirror or camera
Family, friends or pets
65. 65
Key Strengths - STARs or CARs
Relate a memorable story with your core traits
Customer Service
“Are you calling me a liar” story.
Decision Making
Our equipment in the garage appeared to be the
source of the fire.
Computer Software Adaptability
Became the beta tester for new roll outs of
proprietary programs for regional managers.
Training Staff
Coached and developed 22 direct reports into
supervisory role positions.
66. 66
Research Company and Position
Research the company
Google the company
Company website, news, management team, etc.
Mission statement and/or core values
Check them on LinkedIn
Research the position
Use Indeed or other job boards for similar positions
for key words or skills not covered in their posting
Check salary.com to get range of compensation
LinkedIn Research
Search for interviewer(s) and company
Find details from their profile and LinkedIn page
67. 67
Research Company Exercise
Target company research exercise
Select a target company, e.g. Sage Products
Google the company
Visit company website
LinkedIn
What talking points were discovered?
Mission statement?
Corporate culture?
Management changes?
New product/services launch?
68. 68
Research Position Exercise
Target Position research exercise
Select a position, e.g. CSR, Salesman, Manager
Google the position
Check Indeed website
Check LinkedIn
What common elements were found?
Key skills?
Previous experience?
Education?
Industry experience?
69. 69
Interviewing Situations
Prescreen Phone Interview
Spur of the moment
Prearranged for a scheduled time
Determines your next step in the process
Follow up with F2F interview
Keep your resume on file
F2F Interview
Job Fairs
On Campus recruiting
Company location
70. 70
Interviewing Situations
Video Interviewing
Background & Environment
Practice recording on laptop or tablet
https://www.myinterviewpractice.com/
72. 72
Phone Screen Interview Preparation
Schedule the time rather than spur of the moment
Locate to a distraction free environment
No pets, no TV, no Radio, no computer
Have your cell phone fully charged
Have work history and job description handy
Relate the job’s and your key skills
Stand during the phone interview
Smile while on the call
Take note of interviewer’s name
Have a few questions ready for the interviewer, e.g.
Is position new or replacing someone, i.e. budgeted?
Next steps in the application process
Avoid rambling and/or really long answers
73. 73
Phone Screen Interview Preparation
Schedule the time rather than spur of the moment
Locate to a distraction free environment
No pets, no TV, no Radio, no computer
Have your cell phone fully charged
Have work history and job description handy
Relate the job’s and your key skills
Stand during the phone interview
Smile while on the call
Take note of interviewer’s name
Have a few questions ready for the interviewer, e.g.
Is position new or replacing someone, i.e. budgeted?
Next steps in the application process
Avoid rambling and/or really long answers
74. 74
F2F Interviewing Preparation
Prepare story examples that illustrate skills and
capabilities
Interview practice with family, friends, etc.
Have work history and reference details
ABCs of references
Take several copies of resume
Dress for interview
Over dress rather than under dress
Appropriate for position, e.g. Ad Agency
Research the company and position
Google it
Check them on LinkedIn
Check company’s webpage
75. 75
F2F Interviewing Process
Turn on positives, creative, am quick learner,
relationship builder, etc.
Eye contact
Self on shoulder alter ego (good/bad angel)
Humor ok!?!?
Know the corporate culture
Personal branding - Portfolio
Ideal or dream job
76. 76
Standard Questions
Why did you leave your last job?
What did you learn at your last job?
What level of education did you achieve?
What is your greatest strength?
What have you been doing since being laid off?
Why were you fired?
77. 77
Behavioral Type Questions
How did you handle a difficult situation with a
supervisor?
Give me an example of how you set goals and
achieve them.
Teamwork is important to the position. Give me an
example of your working with a team.
Tell me about how you worked effectively under
pressure.
Relate when you had to enforce a company policy
that you did not agree with personally.
Pamela Skilling Discusses Behavioral Questions
79. 79
Oddball Questions
How much does the earth weigh?
What would you expect to pay for the empty lot next
to our company?
How far away is Alpha Centuri?
What animal or tree would you like to be?
What kind of cookie would you like to be?
What is your spirit animal?
80. 80
Five Tough Questions Videos
John Heaney offers advice for these tough questions
“Tell me about yourself!”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhWq1Q8uGg4&t=2s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MmFuWmzeiDs by Pamela Skillings
“What are your greatest weaknesses?”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhTbeeUtWKs&t=3s
“Why should we hire you?”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yx1_CZTdKAc&t=8s
“Why do you want to work here?”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g619eeLPSi0&t=81s
“Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRURxgW4eBE&t=3s
Search Google and YouTube for additional interview Q & A
81. 81
Do You Have Any Questions For Me?
You better!!
Be prepared with questions to ask the interviewer
A printed list will demonstrate your preparation and
interest in the company and position
Questions can range from evaluations to
management style.
Is Corporate Culture is another potential topic?
Interview Questions MarketTools
Google for other questions to ask the interviewer
82. 82
Interviewing Closing Suggestions
John Heaney suggests to not ask these questions
10 Questions to Never Ask on a Job Interview
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FNW8u1yC4Bg 7 minutes
Don Georgevich advises never ask these questions
NEVER Ask These Questions in a Job Interview
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPRG7_fXe_E 8 minutes
Closing statement?
Elevator speech repeated with knowledge gained
through the interview
Express interest in the job, “I want the job!”
Next steps in candidate selection process
“Can I have your business card?”
Handshake
83. 83
Post Interview Suggestions
Debrief yourself
Keep a journal of interview questions & answers
Rate your answers to learn from interview to
interview
Thank you letter
Personal Thank you card best
Email note is acceptable
Follow up with phone call
Lastly, remember the Challenging interview
84. 84
Interview Do’s
Bring a notebook to take notes
Press your clothes and shine shoes
Be aware of your body posture
Turn off your phone
Be friendly with everyone you meet
Smile
85. 85
Interview Don’ts
Do not be too early or late
Do not answer cell phone or texts
Do not wear perfume or cologne
Do not disparage your previous employer or boss
Do not leave your notebook at home
Do not cross your arms
Do not answer with simple yes or no
Do not fidget
86. 86
Success Stories
Michele N. – Medical
Attended Resume & LinkedIn workshops and gained confidence
Mary M. – Educator
Changed her resume after Resume, CL & ATS workshop and got 9 interviews
Stefanie S. – Pharmacy Technician
Prepared effectively after Winning Interview workshop and was hired
Nick C. – Retail Loss Prevention
Attended all workshops and incorporated learnings to get hired
Samantha B. – Senior Year College Student
Incorporated my recommendations, found on LinkedIn and offered job
I want to add your name to the list!!
87. 87
McHenry County Workforce Network
December Newsletter of Events & Services
McHenry County Workforce Network Website
Personalized Job Search Assistance Services
To sign up, request the professional directly by email
Resume Critique
30-45 minute sessions
Dean Eitel – December 2 and 16
10:00 - 12:00
Email: deitel@depaul.edu
Kathy Hayhurst - December 13
8:30 - 10:45
Email: mcwnkmh@gmail.com
Mock Interviews
60 minute sessions
Kraig Roberts – December 2
8:30 - 10:30
Email: mcwnkraig@gmail.com
Dean Eitel – December 12
12:30 - 2:30
Email: deitel@depaul.edu
88. 88
Upcoming Events
McHenry County Workforce Network
500 Russel Court, Woodstock IL 60098
Getting Started with LinkedIn
Webinar Available on MCWN website
LinkedIn for Your Job Search
December 16, 2019 from 9:00am to 12:00pm
Network to Success Job Club
December 20, 2019 from 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Start with a Resume and Finish with an Interview
January 13, 2020 from 9:00am to 12:00pm
Crystal Lake Public Library
126 W Paddock St, Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Using Social Media in Job Search
Friday January 21, 2020 from 2:30pm – 4:00pm
89. Feel free to follow up or
connect with me on LinkedIn
Contact Info:
Bruce A. Bennett
Mobile: 815-302-9552
Email: BABennett73@gmail.com
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/bruceabennett
Career Coach Corner Blog: http://bruce73.wordpress.com/
Podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/show/b-squared-linkedin