Career Resource Guide

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CareerResourceGuideWhat you need to know to be a well prepared candidate& have a successful internship or job search

As a Northwestern Mutual Financial Representative youcan make a difference in people’s lives and fulfill yourpotential. Opportunities await.Amy DowdDirector of Recruiting andDevelopment4215 Edison Lakes PkwyMishawakanm-indy.com05-3040 2012 Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI (NM) (life and disability insurance, annuities) and its subsidiaries. NorthwesternMutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (securities), a subsidiary of NM, broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, and member of FINRA and SIPC. Staff members are associated with the local office listed aboveand support Representatives. Products and services referenced are offered and sold only by appropriately licensed individuals.

We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the sponsorswho helped make this publication possible. Thank you!Northwestern Mutual Financial Network-IndianaPlatinum SponsorIU South Bend Alumni AssociationGold SponsorKADA Partnership - McDonald’sSponsorThe Career Services Office (CSO)atIU South BendTo schedule an appointment:(574) 520-4425sbcareer@iusb.eduMission:The Career Services Office supports and empowers students and alumni in their careerdevelopment as they make career decisions, develop job search strategies, pursue experientialopportunities, and secure employment. Further, we promote faculty involvement in the careerdevelopment process through collaborative relationships and classroom presentations.Services We OfferGain Experience with an InternshipChoosing a Major ProgramInternships provide you with theopportunity to explore a potential careerfield, develop skills, expand knowledge, andintegrate classroom theory with real-lifeexperiences. Professional level experiencesand challenges improve your marketabilityupon graduation.Are you undecided about your major orthinking of changing your major? The CSOassists with self-exploration and choosing anacademic major. Receive career counseling,take career assessments, and search forspecific career information to make a wellinformed decision about your career path.Search for a JobCSO EventsThe CSO assists you with the job searchprocess. Whether you are looking for résuméassistance or honing your interviewing skills,an appointment with our Career Counselorcan get you moving in the right direction.Each semester the CSO sponsors eventsthat support you in choosing a major, gettingan internship and landing a job including theAcademic Majors Fair, Etiquette Dinner, andCareer and Internship Fairs.

Table ofContentsGetting Started. 1Before You Begin.Example Graduation Timeline.Example Job Search Timeline.Example of Effective Job Search Documents.Notes.12345Cover Letters. 7Basic Structure of Cover Letters. 8Additional Tips. 9Interest or Inquiry Cover Letter . . .10Application Cover Letter.11Salary Requirements and Salary Histories.12Notes.13Résumés. . . 15Résumé Headings.15Format Your Résumé.18Chronological Résumé. . .19Functional Résumé.20Combination Résumé.21Résumé Myths.22Résumé Review.23The Winning Résumé!.23Scanned or Uploaded Résumés.23Action Verbs . . .24Résumé Quiz.26Five Tips To Help You Make The Most Of Your References.27Notes.28Interview Skills. 29Interview Preparation.30Day of the Interview.33During the Interview.34After the Interview.35Notes.36Networking Skills. 37Building Your Network.37Networking / Contact Tree.40A Networking Letter (or E-mail).41Notes.42Appendix. 43Reference Sheet.43Sample Inquiry Cover Letter.44Sample Chronological Résumé.45Sample Résumé.46Sample Résumé.47Sample Thank You E-mail.48

Getting StartedOver the span of your life, you may find yourself repeating the job search processseveral times since most people will change positions several times throughouttheir working lives. Learning and adapting job search skills will provide you with a lifelongability to effectively maneuver through the job search process.Before You BeginJob Search Basics Determine your objectives Develop effective documents Extend your career network Interview Preparation Interview and afterwardEvaluation of Job OffersOnce you have received a job offer, you mustevaluate the offer and determine if the positionwill be a good fit for you. Are the position and employer compatiblewith your values and interests? Are you prepared to reject the offer if theposition is wrong for you? Does the salary meet your requirements?Handling Job Search RejectionRejection is a natural part of the job searchprocess. You will not obtain a 100%, or even50%, success rate with employers. Keep in mindthe factors influencing the employer’s decisionmaking. The number of résumés received,specific candidate experience, and networkingall play a large role in the selection process.It is easy to become snagged by the notionthat a job rejection equates to a personalrejection; however, consider that perhaps youwere not an ideal fit for the employer. It isnormal and okay to feel hurt and frustrated,but refocus your energy on maintaining your jobsearch and keeping a positive mental attitude.About NetworkingNetworking is about building and maintaining relationships. Inthis case, your network will help you tap into the hidden job market.This can feel like an uphill battle until you identify yourconnections with the world of work. At first, networking can seemunnatural as the thought of rejection sends most people into a panic.However, preparing yourself in advance can alleviate the paralyzingeffects associated with networking.

IExample Graduation Timelinedeally, your job search process begins before you have even graduatedIdentify career interestsIdentify strengths and job skillsAttend career fairs and otherCSO eventsSix Months toGraduationObtain an internshipFind jobs online and through friends,family, professors and colleaguesDevelop a résumé and cover letterFind references:professors, old supervisorsAsk for letters of recommendationUse CSO servicesSchedule job interviews and followup all interviewsThree Months toGraduationApply to jobs and follow upall applicationsContinue to networkIf a good job comes along, accept it!Study for finalsGraduationTake pride in your accomplishmentAfterGraduationIf needed, continue to apply forjobs, schedule interviews andfollow up on everythingComplete any term projectsUpdate your résumé to reflectyour new degreeMake sure you have income now thatyou are out of school (even if it meansstaying with your college restaurant job)Adapted fromJob Search Tips and Job Timeline for New Grads. Career Explorer.com. Retrieved February, 18, 2013 from http://www.campusexplorer.com2Career Resource Guide

Getting StartedAExample Job Search Timelineposition opens and the employer begins accepting applicationsYou submit your résumé3 Months toEmployment2 Months toEmploymentYou have a phone interviewYou have in-person interviewsEmployer conducts a reference checkand then a background checkYou receive a job offerYou resign your current jobSomeone in your network tells youabout a jobEmployer begins résumé reviewYou send a thank you e-mail1 Month toEmploymentYou send a thank you note3 Weeks toEmployment2 Weeks toEmploymentYou accept the job offer and beginsalary and benefit negotiationsStart your new careerCareer Resource Guide3

EffectiveExample ofJob Search DocumentsJob search documents can include not only résumés and cover letters, but also portfolios, thankyou notes, acceptance letters, and any additional documents related to the job search. This guidebookwill assist you in the development of effective documents that will assist in marketing your skills andabilities to potential employers. The CSO has several resources to assist you including: CSO website Workshops Individual appointments Check the Career Events websitefor a list of upcoming CSO events;careerevents.iusb.eduT aylor L. B arrett , J r .222 Park Court Elkhart, IN 46516 (574) 555-5555 tbarrett@iusb.eduSeptember 24, 2012George Kuta, CoordinatorHuman ResourcesSt. Joseph County Probate Court1000 S. Michigan St.South Bend, IN 46601T aylor L. B arrett , J r .222 Park Court Elkhart, IN 46516 (574) 555-5555 tbarrett@iusb.eduSummary ofQualificationsDear Mr. Kuta:Exceptional interpersonal communication skills, both written and verbalExcellent organizational, analytical and problem-solving skillsOver 7 years of experience working with and mentoring at risk youth10 years of experience of maintaining confidentiality of medical, civil, and researchdocumentsEducationIndiana University South BendMay 2012Bachelor of Science, Major: Criminal JusticeAncilla CollegeJune 2002Associate of Science, Major: Physical SciencesDonaldson, IndianaConcentration: ChemistryWork ExperienceWhile working at Madison Center, I developed a passion to assist our local at-risk youthin achieving personal goals and becoming contributing members of the community andsociety. Additionally, while interning at the Northern District of Indiana Federal CommunityDefenders, Inc., I had the opportunity to grasp the impact we all have as civil servants.Therefore, I look forward to the opportunity to apply my knowledge, skills and abilities frommy education and professional work experience to assist the Juvenile Justice Center in achievingits goals.Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.Sincerely,Taylor L. Barrett, Jr.Taylor L. Barrett, Jr.Lab Assistant/Lab TechnicianDec. 2003 – July 2004 and Sept. 2008 – June 20010St. Joseph County Court Substance Abuse ProgramSouth Bend, IN Labeled and logged specimens Created and distributed positive test reports for utilization in individual case files andtreatment plans Maintained confidential client files and all case notesTaylorL.(UDS)Barrett, Jr. Witnessed and answered individual inquiries regarding urinary drugscreens Bridged gap from client to case worker about alcohol abuse history 222 Park Court Processed client files utilizing the Wintox computer programElkhart, IN 46516Applications TechnicianThe Lebermuth Company Operated a Density and Refractive Index Meter (DR 40) Maintained and troubleshoot the Petro Lab Company Mini Flash Point Machine Data entry into the in house BPCS computer program Combined Aromatic Chemicals and Essential Oils to create fragrance Optimized fragrance in candle, fuel, hair care, and soap applicationsWhile browsing the Juvenile Justice Center website, I was excited to learn about the ElectronicMonitoring/Day Reporting Officer opportunity within the Monitoring Home DetentionProgram. I have enclosed my résumé for your review for this position.Upon review of my résumé, I am confident you will find my skills and experience to be anexcellent complement for your Electronic Monitoring/Day Reporting Officer position. I wouldwelcome the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications in an interview at your earliestconvenience. Should you have questions or need additional information please contact me at(574) 555-5555 or tbarrett@iusb.edu.Legal Program Administrative InternMarch 2011 – June 2011Northern District of Indiana Federal Community Defenders, Inc.South Bend, IN Served subpoenas and notified defense witnesses of court appearances Prepared legal documents for individual hearings Communicated with staff attorneys, paralegals, and investigator in regard to cases Compiled and summarized substantive information on statutes Interviewed expert and fact witnesses and coordinated testimony Collected, organized and evaluated evidence and exhibitsT hank Y ouRE: Electronic Monitoring/Day Reporting OfficerEnclosures: RésuméReferencesSept. 2005 – May 2007Mishawaka, INGeorge Kuta, CoordinatorHuman ResourcesSt. Joseph County Probate Court1000 S. Michigan St.South Bend, IN 46601Taylor L. Barrett, Jr.4Career Resource Guide

NotesGetting StartedCareer Resource Guide5

Find a Job or Internship atIUSBCareerswww.iusbcareers.comJob and Internship SearchingRésumé ReferralWith IUSBCareers, you can search:IUSBCareers allows you to uploadand publish your résumé to variousrésumé books including the generalrésumé book, job fair résumé books,and the national résumé book. Youcan also upload targeted résumésand cover letters to apply for specificpositions online. Transcripts, writingsamples, and other job search-relatedmaterials can be uploaded as well.yy Full-time, part-time andtemporary positionsyy Internship opportunitiesyy Work study opportunities on andoff campusyy Local, regional, national andinternational jobsThe job and internship searchfunctions also allow you to apply forpositions online, save opportunities tofolders for quick and easy access, andview recommended positions basedupon profile information.Career Services & EventsEmployer ProfilesView upcoming IU South BendCareer Services events includingworkshops, and information tables.In addition, view local and nationalcareer fairs, workshops, and othercareer-related events.Search for local and national employerprofiles by name, city, and/orindustry. Employer profiles includea brief overview of the company,industry, web site, current job/internship positions, events, andcontact information.All IU South Bend Students Have an IUSBCareers Account!Learn how to take advantage of this instrumental tool by visitng our websitecareers.iusb.eduIf you experience any trouble, contact the CSO bycalling (574) 520-4425 or e-mailing sbcareer@iusb.edu.We are happy to help.Community members are welcome to use IUSBCareers. Create anaccount by going to IUSBCareers and following the Register prompts.

Cover LettersAcover letter is an introduction of your interests, skills, and abilities to anemployer based upon their company’s employment needs. Cover letters servemany purposes including: Letting the employer know which position you are applying for Highlighting your relevant skills and experience Clarifying information your résumé cannot portray (career changes, gaps in employmenthistory, etc.) Functioning as acareer objective (whichis recommended asa section on yourrésumé for ‘résuméonly’ applications) Providing the employera snapshot of yourpersonalityT aylor L. B arrett , J r .222 Park Court Elkhart, IN 46516 (574) 555-5555 tbarrett@iusb.eduSeptember 24, 2012George Kuta, CoordinatorHuman ResourcesSt. Joseph County Probate Court1000 S. Michigan St.South Bend, IN 46601RE: Electronic Monitoring/Day Reporting OfficerDear Mr. Kuta:Cover letters shouldaccompany every résuméthat is sent for a positionor possible positions. Evenwhen a cover letter is notspecifically requested, sendone if possible. In fact, fewemployers will seriouslyconsider a résumé thatis not accompanied by acover letter; therefore, aneffective cover letter must beincorporated into your jobsearch strategy to increaseyour chances of being invitedfor an interview.While browsing the Juvenile Justice Center website, I was excited to learn about the ElectronicMonitoring/Day Reporting Officer opportunity within the Monitoring Home DetentionProgram. I have enclosed my résumé for your review for this position.While working at Madison Center, I developed a passion to assist our local at-risk youthin achieving personal goals and becoming contributing members of the community andsociety. Additionally, while interning at the Northern District of Indiana Federal CommunityDefenders, Inc., I had the opportunity to grasp the impact we all have as civil servants.Therefore, I look forward to the opportunity to apply my knowledge, skills and abilities frommy education and professional work experience to assist the Juvenile Justice Center in achievingits goals.Upon review of my résumé, I am confident you will find my skills and experience to be anexcellent complement for your Electronic Monitoring/Day Reporting Officer position. I wouldwelcome the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications in an interview at your earliestconvenience. Should you have questions or need additional information please contact me at(574) 555-5555 or tbarrett@iusb.edu.Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.Sincerely,Taylor L. Barrett, Jr.Taylor L. Barrett, Jr.Enclosures:RésuméReferences

Basic StructureofCover LettersAlthough there are two different types of cover letters, interest/inquiry and application, thestructure for both is basically the same, however the wording is different. Three basic paragraphsshould be incorporated into your cover letter, with additional paragraphs as needed.First‑name Middle‑initial Last‑nameand contact information should be in a header that matches your résuméApril 3, 2013Mr./Ms. First Name Last Name, TitleCompany NameAddressCity, State ZipRE: XYZ POSITIONDear Mr./Ms. Last Name:Opening paragraph: State why you are writing, identify the position for which youwould like to be considered, and indicate how you heard of the position. If you aresending a letter of interest which is not in response to a specific job opening, simplyindicate the type of work you are seeking. Be specific. (1 - 2 sentences)Middle paragraph(s): (4 - 5 sentences) Your goal here is to show how you can beuseful to this particular organization. Describe what strengths you have to offer thisemployer. You might use one of the following approaches: Mentoring Adolescents and Youth: Provided xxx for at-risk adolescents and youthfor the Texas Youth Commission Illustrate the relationship between your skills and experience and the position forwhich you are applying Describe your previous accomplishments as they relate to the position Identify three reasons for the employer to consider you for the position State why you want to work for their organization Education (degree and courses), past experiences (directly or indirectly related),skills (hard and soft), any other qualifications that are relevant to the positionClosing paragraph: (2 - 3 sentences) Refer the reader to your enclosed résumé foradditional information. End your letter by clarifying what will happen next and howthey can most easily reach you. You might say, “I look forward to meeting with youto discuss my qualifications in more detail. Please contact me at (xxx) xxx-xxxx or e-mail to arrange an interview time.”Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you in thenear future.Sincerely,Your SignatureFirst‑name Middle‑initial Last‑name8Career Resource Guide

Additional TipsAudit Staff AccountantCrowe Horwath LLPJob Function:AccountingSalary Range:CompetitiveDesired Start Date:October 2, 2013Description:Are you looking to start your career in the right direction witha nationally recognized public accounting and consultingfirm? Staff Accountants at Crowe may work in the externalaudit, internal audit, or risk consulting areas of the firm.Responsibilities may include:Research the employer to determine how you will fit theposition and organization’s culture Do not copy the position description word–for–word, but usekey words and terms from the position advertisement Analyze your own background and highlight skills andexperiences that relate to the position In addition to yourself, have the CSO, friends and familymembers proofread the letter before sending Format your cover letter and references to match and beconsistent with your résumé style Address your cover letter to a specific person rather thanHuman Resources or Personnel, if possible Audit, review, and compilation of financial statements Assistance in the preparation of financial statements andapplication of GAAP Advising clients with routine accounting functions Maintaining relationships with key client personnel Consulting with management of large organizations Providing internal control, process consulting and internalaudit services Assisting in Sarbanes-Oxley and other compliance relatedprojects. Participating in special reviews relating to mergers,acquisitions, and the sale of businesses.In addition, staff will have diverse opportunities to work as ateam member in a variety of industries on both domestic andinternational client engagements.We provide our professionals with the appropriate level oftraining, opportunities and support enabling them to take onadditional responsibilities and encounter a broader range ofexperiences earlier in their careers. In short, we believe thatCrowe is truly The Unique Alternative to the Big Four . Seldomdo you get the chance to join a firm where you can make adifference. Join us and experience a career with an impact!Location 1:Elkhart, IndianaLocation 2:South Bend, IndianaPosition Type:Required)Full-time (DegreeDesired Start Date:September 2, 2013Qualifications:Applicants should meet the following qualifications: Outstanding academic performance in one of followingpreferred majors or similar background: Accounting Strong academic credentials – Minimum major andcumulative GPA of 3.0 required. Minimum major andcumulative GPA of 3.2 preferred Proficient with Excel Relevant work experience (e.g. internships, summerpositions, school jobs) Accounting majors are required to meet 150 credit hoursby start date (before beginning full-time employment) Demonstrated leadership, problem solving, and strongverbal and written communication skills Ability to prioritize tasks and work on multipleassignments Ability to work both independently and in a teamenvironment with professionals of all levels Desire to travel Available to work/travel evenings or weekends(Saturday and/or Sunday) – Car may be required totravel to client siteRequired Documents:Hayden D Martin109 N Washington Pl, South Bend, IN 46617Home: (574) 555-2508hdmartin@hotmail.comSeptember 19, 2012Skyler DavisDirector of RecruitingCrowe Horwath LLP330 E Jefferson BlvdSouth Bend, IN 46601RE: Audit Staff AccountantDear Ms. Davis:I am applying for the Audit Staff Accountant position posted through the IU South Bend CareerServices Office. My father, Thomas Martin, spent his career with Crowe, Chizek, and Associates.As I grew up in South Bend, it was natural to associate starting a career in accounting with Crowe.Many times I found myself looking at the campus off Jefferson Blvd and thinking “I want to workthere one day.” That day can finally be now.Though my cumulative GPA at IU South Bend was 3.368, my GPA during my final three yearsand 109 credit hours was 3.703. Throughout my college career, I led numerous successful teamsthrough group projects in classes in accounting, finance, and management information systems.I was recognized on the Dean’s List five times and in Who’s Who Among Students in AmericanUniversities and Colleges 2012-2013. However, my successes in college are only part of thefoundation of my future accounting career. I have worked with four different accounting softwarepackages including extensive use of Microsoft Dynamics GP ERP as well as have extensiveexperience in the formatting and use of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access. As the purchasing agentat Modern Kitchen Distributors, I was responsible for all order entry and purchase order creation.I negotiated better pricing with long time vendors and found new products for the company tosell. This position required frequent interaction with both internal and external partners to solvesourcing needs and product availability issues. Finally, this position was responsible for allinventory management and answered directly to the company president.You will find my résumé attached for your inspection. I would greatly appreciate the chance fora personal interview to further discuss the start of my accounting career with Crowe Horwath andhow I can impact and contribute to your organization. The best ways to reach me are either byphone at (574) 555-2508 or by e-mail at hdmartin@hotmail.com.Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you in the near future.Sincerely,Résumé, Cover Letter, TranscriptPosted On:Cover Letters Hayden D MartinJul 29, 2012Applications Accepted Until:Sep 19, 2012Screening CriteriaDegree Level(s):Bachelors, MastersMinimum GPA:3.0Hayden D MartinEnclosure: RésuméCareer Resource Guide9

InterestorInquiry Cover LetterAn interest or inquiry cover letter is sent to investigate possible job or internship opportunities.In this type of cover letter, you will need to state how you found out about the organization, whyyou are sending them your résumé and indicate if you received a referral from someone withinthe organization. It is important to follow up these types of cover letters within two weeks with atelephone call since you will most likely not receive any response, especially if no positions exist.Dakota Gonzalez58482 Cedar Rd Goshen, IN 46528Cell: 574-555-5555dakotagonzalez@gmail.comJanuary 15, 2013Jamie AndersonHuman Resources Director1st Source Bank100 N Michigan St.South Bend, IN 46601Dear Ms. Anderson,As a long time customer, I have been impressed by the quality of service I have consistentlyreceived from 1st Source Bank. I have recently graduated from Indiana University South Bendand would like to build my career with a quality organization like 1st Source Bank.I received my Bachelor of Science in Business with concentrations in Accounting and Financefrom Indiana University South Bend in December. I developed my skills in finance whileserving as Treasurer and then Vice President of the Finance Student Association. My internshipexperiences furthered my skills and interest in the finance industry. 1st Source Bank‘s #25ranking in Forbes list of America’s Best Banks as well as local recognition and awards indicatethat 1st Source Bank is the kind of professional organization I wish to join.Would you be available for a brief meeting to discuss possible entry level positions? I will callyour office next week to arrange a time. If you have questions regarding my résumé or anything else about myself please call me at 574-555-5555 or e-mail me atdakotagonzalez@gmail.com.Thank you for taking the time to review my résumé. I look forward to speaking with you soon.Sincerely,Dakota GonzalezDakota Gonzalez10Career Resource Guide

Application Cover LetterAn application cover letter is sent in response to an advertisement for a job or internshipopportunity. In this type of letter, you will need to indicate how you found out about theposition and relate your skills and experience to the specific position. As with the interest/inquiry cover letter, it is vital to follow up with the employer within two weeks to ascertainyour application status.March 14, 2013Dear Ms. Nelson,Ms. Mary Lou NelsonI am applying for the Staff Accountant position thatwas posted on IUSBCareers.com this week. Theposition fits well with my education, experience,and caree

KADA Partnership - McDonald’s Sponsor The Career ServiCeS OffiCe (CSO) aT iU SOUTh Bend To schedule an appointment: (574) 520-4425 sbcareer@iusb.edu Mission: The Career Services Office supports and empowers students and alumni in their career development as they make career deci

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