Resources for Candidates

Resume Tips

Your resume is an opportunity to make a strong first impression. Gain a competitive advantage by following these tips:

Personal Information

It may seem obvious, but always be sure to include the basics:

• Full name
• Address
• Telephone numbers
• Email address
• Work-related experience, especially as it relates to the required qualifications for the position to which you are applying
• Educational background
• Professional associations

Work History and Qualifications

• Include employment history, starting with the most recent
• Include months and years for all employers/positions
• Provide specific skills, programs, training, and qualifications that highlight your strengths
• Be sure to read the required and desired qualifications and, if applicable, list the specific experiences you have that relate to those qualifications

Format

• Be clear and concise
• Make sure you proofread your resume. It might be a good idea to let someone else review.
• Use headings that are clearly stated (i.e., bold) and easy to interpret

How Positions Are Filled

When a position opens, a company representative searches our files for resumes that contain specific keywords related to the job description. If a resume has the minimum requirements for the open position listed, the company representative may contact the candidate for an interview to discuss the position further.

Interview Tips

The most competitive candidates are scheduled for interviews with a hiring team. These interviews are most often conducted face-to-face or occasionally via video conferencing. A hiring decision is reached by considering the input from all members of the team. The following are tips for a successful interview:

• Show interest by preparing for the interview—research the company/industry, prepare a list of questions, and know your skills, talents, and accomplishments.
• Dress to reflect the image of a business professional.
• Bring multiple copies of your resume and a list of references, and complete the company application neatly and in its entirety.
• Express sincere interest in both the company and the position.
• Practice your own "great responses" with others or in front of a mirror until you appear relaxed and at ease.
• Maintain good eye contact.
• Extend a firm, friendly handshake.
• Give direct responses to questions.
• Use examples of how your skills and abilities would fit the job.
• Express yourself clearly (voice, diction, grammar).
• Exhibit confidence and poise (at ease, calm, relaxed).
• Express a career objective and verbalize an interest in individualized long-term opportunities.
• Show interest in finding a good career opportunity.

The Job Offer

The company representative contacts the candidate who best meets the requirements for the position and offers the job. Once the offer is accepted, the written offer letter will include information such as start date, salary, and benefits. Once the position has been filled, remaining candidates may be contacted for other opportunities.