Career Handbook - Brookdale Community College · Through resume writing assistance, interview...

Career Handbook

Brookdale Community College

Career & Leadership Development

Sarah McElroy, Director

Susan Tencer, Senior Office Assistant

Lynn Eyerman, Career Services Representative

Anne La Porta, Assistant Director

Jill Donovan, Assistant Director

Jennifer Winn, Career & Leadership Development Representative

1 [email protected], 732-224-2792, www.brookdalecc.edu/career, Lincroft Campus, MAC 105

2017-2018 Career & Leadership Development Handbook

Introduction

Career and Leadership Development is a full service department that assists and engages students in

the development of the skills and experiences needed to obtain future career goals. Through resume

writing assistance, interview skills workshops, job fairs, guest speakers, career days, and the

opportunity for one-on-one consultations with one of our Career and Leadership Development

professionals, students can gain the skills and connections needed for future career and employment

success. Brookdale’s nationally recognized society of student leadership and success is also managed

in our office.

Our Mission

Career & Leadership Development at Brookdale Community College supports the College’s mission by

engaging, educating, and empowering students to excel in their chosen career fields and by “providing

a comprehensive array of quality, affordable educational choices leading to transfer and career

opportunities”. Career & Leadership Development accomplishes this through offering a variety of

programs and services to current students and alumni to assist them in reaching their career goals.

Partnerships and collaborative efforts are developed with faculty, staff, alumni, employers and

community organizations to help students explore various career, leadership, experiential, and

employment opportunities.

Location & Contact Information

MAC 105, 765 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ, 07738

Phone (732) 224-2792, Fax (732) 224-2580

[email protected]

www.brookdalecc.edu/current-students/career-services/

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.brookdalecc.edu/career


Table of Contents

Introduction…………………………………………………………………………………………………..………………1

Meet our Team………………………………………………………………………………………...........................3

Programs/Services for Our Students……….…….…………………………………………………………..…….4

Self Reflection: Identity…………………………………………………………………….………...………………….5

Self Reflection: Values……...………………..……………………………………………….……….…………………6

Self Reflection: Strengths………..…………………………………………………………….………....................7

Self Reflection: Interests…………………………………………………………………………………………………8

Self-Reflection: Work Preferences……………..…………………………………………………….…………......8

Action Plan……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….9-10

Starting your resume: Brainstorm………………………………………………………………….................. 11

Starting your resume: Action Verbs………………………………………………………………………………..12

Resume Samples………………………………………………………………………………………………………13-16

Resume Tips & Tricks……………………………………………………………………………………………………17

Cover Letter ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………18-19

Thank you Letter………….………………………………………………………………………………………….20-21

Reference Etiquette………………………………………………………………………………………………………22

Internship and Job Searching………………………………………………………………………….................23

Interview Tips & Tricks………………………………………………………………………..............................24

Interview Styles………………………………………………………………………………………........................25

Networking………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….26

Professional Etiquette…………………………………………………………………………………………………..27

List of Brookdale Resources………………………………………………………………………………………….28

List of Online Resources……………………………………………………………………………………………….29




Meet our Team!

Sarah McElroy, Director/NSLS Chapter Co-Advisor, [email protected] Sarah McElroy is the director of Career and Leadership Development and is pursuing a doctoral degree in Community College Leadership. Sarah has worked at Brookdale for the past 8 years and her extensive experience in Career and Leadership Development and administration includes developing new programming and working collaboratively with faculty, students, and staff to help students achieve their long-term goals.

Words to live by: "The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. He is the one that gets the people to do the greatest things." -- Ronald Reagan

Jill Donovan, Assistant Director/NSLS Chapter Co-Advisor, Liaison to Business & Social Science Institute/NSLS Chapter Co-Advisor, [email protected] Jill is currently an Assistant Director of the Career and Leadership Development office. Over the course of her 15 year career at Brookdale, Jill has been involved in counseling, teaching, managing Student Life programming, and most recently, and assisting students in a Career and Leadership Development capacity. Jill has become a proponent and resident expert in leadership development and advises the National Society of Leadership and Success at Brookdale.

Words to live by: A goal without a plan is just a wish” - Antoine de Saint-Exupery Anne La Porta, Assistant Director, Liaison to Business & Social Science Institute/Education Field Placement Coordinator, [email protected] Anne La Porta is currently an Assistant Director of Career & Leadership Development, and has worked for Brookdale Community College for seven years and has tremendous experience in career coaching and life-long learning. Previous to her time at Brookdale, Anne worked with both adolescent and adult learners as a career placement coordinator and coach. Anne currently assists students in coordinating and facilitating field experience placements. She also teaches and develops and implements career programming and workshops for the general student population.

Words to live by: “Believe you can and you are halfway there” - Theodore Roosevelt Susan Tencer, Senior Office Assistant, [email protected] Susan has worked at Brookdale Community College since 2007 and has grown her skill-set to include providing exemplary customer service and supporting programs and personnel in a higher education environment. Susan has worked within the Business and Science Institute in addition to her role as a Senior Office Assistant in the Career and Leadership Development Department.

Words to live by: “Everything happens for a reason. That reason causes change. Sometimes it hurts. Sometimes it’s hard. But in the end it’s all for the best.”

Jen Winn, Career & Leadership Development Representative, [email protected] Jen joined the Career & Leadership Development office in 2015 as a graduate intern and now works part-time as an associate supporting students and programming. Jen is responsible for developing employee partnerships, meeting with students one-on-one, and implementing career readiness programming. Jen’s former career on Wall Street was in business analysis and operations management.

Words to live by: “Don’t give up. Don’t ever give up”- Jimmy Valvano










Programs/Services

Service Description

Career Assessments

Set up an appointment with a representative to explore your strengths,

interests, and the career tracks that may best suit your personality.

Resume Writing Assistance &

Review

Receive individualized resume review by our staff that specializes in your

major of interest.

Interview Skills Training

Attend one of our workshops or schedule a one-on-one appointment with our

staff to practice your interview skills and techniques that will assist you in

landing an internship, part-time, or full-time position.

Internship Preparation & Search

Internships are one of the most valuable experiences during your college

career. Meet with a representative to begin the search process, tailor your

resume, and secure an internship opportunity.

Service-Learning Assistance

This is an excellent way to grow, give back, and add valuable experience to your

resume. Our office will assist you in the service learning requirement process

and ensuring your hours are reflected on your transcript.

Student Employment

If you are eligible to work on campus, our office will assist you in the

placement process. Schedule an appointment with Career and Leadership

Development to identify your work-study options.

Education Field Experience

Education majors who need to find a school district to complete their

observation hours should meet with a representative in our department to

assist with this process.

Job Search Assistance & Online

Job/Internship Database

Meet with a representative to gain access to our online database, where

thousands of local employers post jobs and internships. Learn more about the

job search process by meeting one-on-one or attending one of our workshops.

One-on-One Appointments Our door is always open for drop-in appointments and to schedule a future

meeting with our team of professionals.

Career Fairs Career and Leadership Development coordinates career fairs throughout the

year. Check our online calendar of events for specific dates.

Employer Partnerships &

Networking Opportunities

It is our commitment to establish partnerships with our local community of

employers in order to connect our current students with future internship and

job opportunities.

National Society of Leadership &

Success

For eligible students, The National Society of Leadership and Success offers

countless opportunities to develop leadership skills and participate in a variety

of workshops and events.

Alumni Services As an alumni, you can meet with our representatives for resume and interview

assistance, utilize the job/internship database, and attend our career fairs!




KNOW YOURSELF!

Identity, Strengths, Values, Interests, and Work Preferences

It may sound silly but you need to know who YOU are before you can begin to create a career goal. It is

never too early to begin the career exploration process. You may already be on your way to

determining your career path. If not, start now!

Take the time to self-reflect! Understanding your identity, strengths, values, and work

preferences is imperative to finding your career path. Tap into the resources that Brookdale

Community College offers to help you determine your career interests.

Make an appointment with Career and Leadership Development or an academic advisor.

Take a career and personality assessment. You will be amazed at how much insight these tools

can provide.

What is identity? Your identity is the characteristics that will always be a part of you. It is important

to be comfortable and confident in your identity and to understand how your identity may shape your

future career aspirations. It is also important to understand which parts of your identity impact you

more than others! Fill out the chart below with as many factors of your identity that you’d like (i.e.

gender, sexual orientation, religion, race, ethnicity, culture, etc.).

My Identities

IDENTITY

Identity 1 Identiry 2 Identity 3 Identity 4




VALUES

What is important to you in a lifestyle and a career? Make a list of the things that mean the most to

you. Choose from some of the values listed below or identify your own. This is an integral part of

understanding what type of work environment best suits you!

My Values

Abundance Working alone Knowledge

Hospitality Financial security Leadership

Helping others Excitement Mindfulness

Flexibility Independence Motivation

Responsibility Improving society Organization

Working with Others Impact Order




STRENGTHS

Would you categorize yourself as a “people person”? Are you good with numbers? Do you have

technical skills? Do you enjoy speaking in front of a group of people? Are you goal orientated and/or

hard working? Do you like to lead a group?

We all have a set of skills that can be viewed as strengths. Take some time to address what you are

competent in at this point. Looking back on this list at the end of your time at Brookdale Community

College, you will be able to add to this list.

My Top 5 Strengths

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Things I would like to someday list as a strength

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.




INTERESTS

Brainstorm your Current Interests

Sometimes our interests align with the careers we choose. For example, you may love animals and

taking care of pets. While this may not mean you want to be a veterinarian, you may find yourself

gravitating toward a helping profession.

List some of your interests and try not to leave any out. When you meet with a Career & Leadership

Development professional, be sure to bring these brainstorming exercises with you to review.

Interest How long have you

had this interest?

Activities that you are

involved in because of this

interest

Work Preferences

Imagine what your ideal workday would look like. Would it be outside? Would it be in your own

store? Would it be in a city? Would it be similar every day or different every day? Would it include

traveling? Would it be around young children? Would it be in a hospital or a small office?

Record some of your thoughts on your preferred work place. All of these thoughts are important to

understand as we choose our careers!

Work Place

Preference Detail

Describe why this characteristic is appealing to you




My Action Plan

First Semester

Visit Career & Leadership Development and discover what services are available

Identify personal and professional values, interests, and skills through a career assessment

Research majors using the College Catalog and explore the “What Can I Do With This

Major” tool

Get involved with a student organization

Search for volunteer opportunities

Talk with people in your field of interest

Begin to work on your resume

If you’re looking for part-time employment, search the College Central Network job

database for jobs on and off campus

View our events calendar and attend career and leadership development workshops

Second Semester

Visit Career & Leadership Development to connect with the services we offer

Continue to update your resume (meet one-on-one or attend a resume workshop!)

Develop relationships with faculty by visiting their office hours and speaking to them after

class—you'll need letters of recommendation before you know it!

Research trends and salary expectations for your career

Consider a leadership role in a student organization

Volunteer!

Network with employers by attending our Internship & Career Fair with your resume

If you plan to transfer, begin to explore your options

If you’re looking for part-time employment, search the College Central Network job

database for jobs on and off campus





Third Semester

Visit Career & Leadership Development to further explore your career and internship

opportunities

Take on a leadership role on campus

Continue to update your resume

Learn how to network effectively, create a LinkedIn profile, and interview successfully

Find available internships and part-time employment using the College Central Network

job database

If you plan to transfer, finalize your options

Obtain a meaningful internship related to your major or career interest - the sooner you

start looking the better


Fourth Semester & Beyond

Visit Career & Leadership Development to continue to update your skills

Obtain a meaningful internship related to your major or career interest - the sooner you

start looking the better

Solidify your relationships with faculty and talk to them about letters of recommendation

Research trends and salary expectations for your career

Finalize job application materials (resume, cover letter, and references) and have them

reviewed by our office

Network with employers by attending our Internship & Career Fair with your reviewed

resume

Prepare for interviews

Alumni Services

Keep in mind that even after you graduate or transfer from Brookdale Community College,

you are still able to access many of our programs and services! You can meet with a

representative for a resume review, interview skill-building, career goal-setting, and the use of

our online job and internship database (www.collegecentral.com/brookdalecc). This is a great

place to look for a full time, part time, or volunteer position!



http://www.collegecentral.com/brookdalecc


Starting Your Resume: Brainstorm!

Every great resume begins with a personal brainstorming session. Write down your work experiences,

volunteer experiences, clubs and organizations you’ve been involved in, skills (technical, languages,

etc.), awards you received, and any other significant experience you think is worth highlighting for a

future employer. Stuck? Make an appointment with Career and Leadership Development for a one-

on-one session to get started. Use the following space to record your experiences.

1) Education

2) Work Experiences

3) Volunteer Experiences

4) Club/Organizations

5) Skills/Awards/Accomplishments




Action Verbs

Next, find a format that you like. There are examples included in this guide book. Find a format

online and emulate it. When describing your job functions, you will use action verbs. Action verbs

clearly define your responsibilities. Make sure to use strong action verbs! Below are examples to use.

MANAGEMENT COMMUNICATION ADMINISTRATIVE

Administered Improved Analyzed Increased Assigned Organized Attained Oversaw Chaired Planned Contracted Prioritized Consolidated Produced Coordinated Recommended Delegated Reviewed Developed Scheduled Directed Strengthened Evaluated Supervised Executed

Addressed Interpreted Arbitrated Influenced Arranged Lectured Authored Mediated Corresponded Moderated Developed Motivated Directed Negotiated Drafted Persuaded Edited Promoted Enlisted Publicized Formulated Reconciled Spoke Recruited Translated

Approved Operated Arranged Organized Catalogued Prepared Classified Processed Collected Purchased Compiled Recorded Dispatched Retrieved Executed Screened Generated Specified Implemented Systematized Inspected Tabulated Monitored Validated

RESEARCH TECHNICAL TEACHING

Clarified Inspected Collaborated Identified Collected Interpreted Critiqued Interviewed Determined Investigated Diagnosed Organized Evaluated Reviewed Examined Summarized Extracted Surveyed Systematized

Assembled Fabricated Built Maintained Calculated Operated Computed Overhauled Created Programmed Designed Remodeled Devised Repaired Diagnosed Solved Engineered Trained Upgraded

Adapted Evaluated Advised Enabled Clarified Encouraged Coached Explained Communicated Facilitated Coordinated Guided Developed Informed Initiated Instructed Persuaded Stimulated

FINANCIAL CREATIVE HELPING

Administered Computed Allocated Calculated Analyzed Developed Appraised Forecasted Audited Managed Balanced Marketed Budgeted Planned Projected Researched

Conceptualized Instituted Created Illustrated Designed Integrated Developed Introduced Directed Invented Established Originated Fashioned Performed Founded Planned Revitalized Shaped

Assessed Educated Assisted Expedited Clarified Facilitated Coached Familiarized Counseled Guided Demonstrated Rehabilitated Diagnosed Represented




Sample Resumes

Below are samples that can be used as a benchmark for your own unique resume. Find a style that you

like and stick with it for your first draft. Always be willing to revise and adjust. Bring to Career &

Leadership Development so that we can review it with you and give you helpful suggestions!

Beth Business

5 Business Blvd. Lincroft, NJ 07738 (555) 555‐5555 email: [email protected]

______________________________________________________________________________

OBJECTIVE: To obtain an internship in Accounting.

SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS

Over 3 years of customer service experience

Strong educational background in Accounting and Business.

Bilingual in Spanish and English

EDUCATION

Brookdale Community College, Lincroft, NJ Associate Degree in Accounting, May 2012 Cumulative GPA: 3.2

ACCOUNTING COURSE PROJECT

Managerial Accounting, Community College, Spring 2011

Researched cost determination, cost control, performance evaluations, and techniques for analyzing information for planning and decision-making.

Studied financial information as presented for internal management purposes.

Wrote a 5-page paper on performance evaluations for an imaginary accounting firm.

WORK EXPERIENCE

Cashier, Community College Bookstore, Lincroft, NJ, Fall 2010-Present

Provide customer service to Bookstore patrons.

Assist customers with inquiries regarding book locations, book orders, and other bookstore items.

Utilize the cash register on a daily basis for cash and credit card transactions. COMMUNITY SERVICE EXPERIENCE

Volunteer, Boys & Girls Club of Mo.Co., Red Bank, NJ Spring 2011

Assist the administrative office with cost analysis and program review for recreational activities.

Assist with various recreational activities for a group of about 25 children ages 8-16.

Promote a positive and comfortable environment for the children.

AFFILIATIONS

Community College Business Club, Fall 2011

SKILLS

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and QuickBooks




Helen Health 5 Healthy Blvd. Lincroft, NJ 07738 (555) 555‐5555 email: [email protected]

OBJECTIVE

Obtain hands-on experience in the field of Respiratory Therapy.

EDUCATION

Some Community College, Lancurt, NJ

Associate Degree in Respiratory Therapy, May 2012

Cumulative GPA: 3.5

RESPIRATORY COURSE PROJECT

Fundamental Skills in Respiratory Care, Some Community College, Fall 2010

Researched various lung and breathing issues such as: Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis, Cystic

Fibrosis, COPD, Emphysema, and Lung Cancer.

Learned proper procedures for suctioning, venting, and checking patient blood for arterial

gases.

Utilized laboratory equipment to understand proper sterilization procedures.

Learned humidity and aerosol therapy techniques, pharmacology, oxygen therapy, intermittent

positive pressure, and bronchial clearance techniques during laboratory study.

WORK EXPERIENCE

Soccer Referee, Township Youth Association, Freezehold, NJ, 2005‐Present

Apply the rules of the game appropriately.

Maintain an environment of security and stability on the playing field.

Assist students with asthma on proper breathing techniques and utilization of inhalers.

Camp Counselor, Girl Scouts of America, Freezehold, NJ, Summer 2010

Supervised the safety and needs of a group of 10‐12 fifth graders; served as mentor.

Taught activities to enhance social and problem‐solving skills.

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE

Volunteer, Children’s Center, Lanecraft, NJ, February 2011

Researched and created an hour lesson plan on unhealthy and healthy breathing habits for 10

children aged 6-12.

Utilized pictures, videos, and activities for the children to understand the concept behind

“healthy breathing”.

AFFILIATIONS

American Association for Respiratory Care, Spring 2011

SKILLS

Microsoft Office Suite




Heather Human Services 5 Independence Blvd. Lincroft, NJ 07738 (555) 555‐5555 email: [email protected]

OBJECTIVE Obtain an internship at a non-profit organization.

EDUCATION Brookdale Community College, Lincroft, NJ

Associate of Applied Science in Human Services, May 2012

Cumulative GPA: 3.1

COURSE PROJECT Research Paper - Theories of Personality

Brookdale Human Services Department, Fall 2010

Researched multiple personality theories in the field of psychology utilizing print and online materials

and resources, specifically focusing upon Psychodynamic Theories.

Completed a 12-page paper on Sigmund Freud’s Psychodynamic Theory, discussing history and

rationale of the theory, as well as current practices.

WORK EXPERIENCE Soccer Referee

Freehold Township Youth Association, Freehold, NJ, 2005‐Present


Maintain an environment of security and stability on the playing field.

Camp Counselor

Boy Scouts of America, Farmingdale, NJ, Summer 2010


Taught activities to enhance social and problem‐solving skills.

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE Volunteer

Boys & Girls Club of Monmouth County, Red Bank, NJ Spring 2011

Assist with various recreational activities for a group of about 25 children ages 8-16.

Promote a positive and comfortable environment for the children.

AFFILIATIONS Brookdale Community College Psychology Club

SKILLS Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.




Larry Law 5 Lawful Blvd. Lincroft, NJ 07738 (555) 555‐5555 email: [email protected]

OBJECTIVE Obtain an internship in the field of criminal justice. EDUCATION Brookdale Community College, Lincroft, NJ Associate Degree in Criminal Justice, May 2012 COURSE PROJECT Police Role in Community, Brookdale Community College, Fall 2010

Researched innovations in policing, from Team Policing to Community Policing.

Utilized online and print resources, as well as face-to-face interviews to complete a 10-page analysis of the police role in the United States.

WORK EXPERIENCE

Soccer Referee, Freehold Township Youth Association, Freehold, NJ, 2005‐Present


Maintain an environment of security and stability on the playing field. Camp Counselor, Boy Scouts of America, Farmingdale, NJ, Summer 2010


Taught activities to enhance social and problem‐solving skills. VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE Volunteer, Freehold Township Police Dept., Freehold, NJ, Fall 2010

Observed daily duties of Police Officers.

Completed several “ride-alongs” with Officers and was able to observe procedures and policies.

Assisted with data entry and administrative tasks. AFFILIATIONS Brookdale Criminal Justice Club, Spring 2011 SKILLS Microsoft Office Suite




Resume Tips & Tricks

Your resume should market YOU, your skills and your experiences. Promote and personalize your resume by considering the following:

Content

Include an objective or summary section, highlighting your skill set, occupation or industry.

Include any knowledge of Foreign Language: basic, proficient, or fluent.

Include any Course Projects, Research Projects or Course-Work that is related to your chosen career or job.

Use industry specific language and list any specific technology you know for your field.

Describe your experiences working in teams or independently.

Include Community Service/Volunteer Experiences as well as Leadership Experiences.

Describe the skills you’ve gained through your experiences concisely but specifically; include numbers if possible (age range of children, number of customers served, etc.).

Make sure that each of your experiences includes your Job Title, Employer Name, City, State, and dates of experience.

Always describe experiences in the using strong action verbs (see verb list) in the first person, but don’t use personal pronouns (me, my, or I).

If your experience was in the past, use past tense verbs. If your experience is happening now, use present tense verbs.

High School education should not appear on your resume after your first semester of college.

DO NOT include: age, gender, marital status, national origin, health status, or references on your resume.

Format

Make sure your resume is free from errors, check for grammar, spelling errors, and typos!

Try to fill one page with experiences and information, 2 pages is for students with extensive experience (include “your name, page 2” at the top of the second page if necessary).

Font size should be between 10-12. Your name can be bigger at the top!

Font should be Times New Roman, Georgia, Calibri, Arial, etc. Make sure it is easy to read.

Margins should be between ½ inch to 1 inch.

Include accurate contact information: Name, address, cell phone number, and email address (ensure that your voicemail message and email address are professional!).

List your experiences in reverse chronological order (most recent first).

Maintain consistent formatting throughout the resume.

Check that you do not have a blank page at the end of your resume. Delete it if so!

Try not to use a template, they are difficult to personalize!




The Cover Letter

The traditional hard copy cover letter delivered in the mail has been replaced to some extent with an

introductory email with an attached resume. When reaching out to an employer for the first time,

consider your email as your cover letter. The content and structure of the traditional cover letter

guidelines remain intact. It is important to adhere to similar guidelines when reaching out to future

employers and/or internship sites. Below is an example of what should be captured in a cover letter

and/or cover letter email. Note: When using an email as a cover letter, be sure to use an appropriate

Subject Header.

Email Subject Line Examples

BCC Career Fair Follow up, Interested in Employment Opportunity Response to Ad Posted on BCC’s Job Portal Website Qualified Candidate for Position XYZ Posted on Indeed.com

Cover Letter Format Your Present Address City, State, ZIP Code Date Name of Contact Person Title, Employer Street Address City, State, ZIP Code Dear Mr. or Mrs…… Paragraph 1: Describe why you are writing. Mention the name of the position you are applying for or the area you are hoping to working. If there is a specific job opening, mention it. If someone within the company or another reference recommended the position to you, mention that person. Briefly describe your current role (a student, alumni, currently working in the field, etc.). Paragraph 2 +: This paragraph is where you highlight the qualifications that you think will benefit the employer and make you an ideal candidate for the position or company. Mention related experiences in this paragraph, in addition to any other skills that make you an ideal candidate. Concluding Paragraph: This is your closing and where you will mention that you resume is attached and that you would like to be contacted for an interview. Close by offering thanks and appreciation for the employer’s time. Sincerely, Your handwritten signature Type your name




Cover Letter Example

8 Communication Road Paramus, NJ 07000 April 27, 2016 Mr. Public Relations Director of Marketing and Public Relations XYZ Public Relations Firm, Inc. Philadelphia, PA 11111 Dear Mr. Relations: I am writing to apply for the Public Relations Assistant position at XYZ Public Relations, Inc. As I prepare to graduate with a degree in Communication Studies, a minor in Marketing, and related internships, I am confident that my background and skills will enable me to actively contribute to XYZ. The classes I completed at Brookdale Community College have provided me with knowledge of community relations, public relations, and marketing, and through them I have developed strong skills in public speaking, debating, and writing. During my internship experiences, I worked on various public relations initiatives, promotional campaigns, and grassroots marketing efforts. During the Summer of 2015, through a public relations internship at MSG Network, I demonstrated responsibility, organizational abilities, and an understanding of corporate culture while compiling daily news clippings into packets that were used throughout the company and creating a weekly newsletter, utilizing Microsoft Publisher. In addition, I developed a strong knowledge of media outlets, while writing advances and summaries for popular network television shows for distribution to the media. Through this opportunity I also developed a strong understanding of the sports industry. Prior to this internship, I interned in the Marketing department at mtvU, a member of the MTV network. During this time, I managed college contests and promotions from planning to implementation, gaining knowledge and understanding of the execution of marketing and promotional campaigns. My background in communications and marketing, along with my leadership and organizational skills and strong work ethic make me an ideal candidate for the Public Relations Assistant position at XYZ Public Relations Firm. I look forward to an interview to further discuss my qualifications. I will follow up with you in three weeks. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely

Mary Kate Sinatra




Thank You Letter

A follow-up thank you letter is just as important as the cover letter! Don’t miss the opportunity to

officially thank the interview directly. A thank you letter should also briefly reiterate your skill set and

qualifications for the job. If there was something crucial you may have missed stating during the

interview, include it in the thank you letter.

Your Present Address City, State, ZIP Code Date Name of Contact Person Title, Employer Street Address City, State, ZIP Code Dear Mr. or Mrs…… Paragraph 1: Give thanks! This is your opportunity to personally thank the interviewer for their time and consideration for the position you are applying for. Be specific in this section; There is a very good chance the interviewer saw many candidates for the same position you are applying for. Paragraph 2: Discuss why you are looking forward to working at XYZ company. Reiterate why you are an ideal fit for the job and draw a connection from the interview. Mention a common interest or experience you spoke of with the interviewer! Finally, describe what you may have learned during the interview process and how your skill set will benefit XYZ company. Paragraph 3: Thank the employer once again for their time and consideration. Indicate that you are available for follow up questions and/or a second interview. Sincerely, Your handwritten signature Type your name




Thank you Letter Example 8 Communication Road Paramus, NJ 07000 April 27, 2016 Mr. Public Relations Director of Marketing and Public Relations XYZ Public Relations Firm, Inc. Philadelphia, PA 11111 Dear Mr. Relations: Thank you for the opportunity to interview for the Public Relations Assistant position at XYZ Public Relations, Inc. The position we spoke of appears to be a great match for my current skill set. I hope to have the opportunity to make an impact at XYZ Public Relations and work specifically in the sports sector, as we had discussed. I enjoyed discussing our mutual admiration for public speaking and community relations. I also understand your current need for strong organization and communication skills in your next hire. While we discussed my summer job experiences in marketing, I wanted to mention that the coursework I completed at Brookdale Community College has also given me a solid foundation in public relations. I have developed strong skills in public speaking, debating, and writing from these classes. During my internship experiences, I worked on various public relations initiatives, promotional campaigns, and grassroots marketing efforts. Thank you once again for the opportunity to interview me and discuss this job opportunity. I look forward hearing from you. Sincerely,

Mary Kate Sinatra




References Etiquette When the time comes, an employer will ask to see your references. It is not necessary to provide references until they are requested. Be sure to reach out to former or current employers, professors and/or colleagues before you include them on a reference list. Your list should be clear and concise and include the preferred contact information of the reference. If the reference has a title or credentials, be sure to include them. A sample list is below. Sample Reference List

Your Name

Address

City, State Zip

Phone

Cell Phone

Email

References

Jane Doe

Assistant Director, XYZ Company

Address

City, State Zip

Phone

Email

John Doe

Manager, XYZ Company

Address

City, State Zip

Phone

Email

Michael Jones Assistant Professor, Brookdale Community College Address City, State, Zip Phone Email




Internship & Job Searching An internship is an academic program that allows you to apply classroom theories and skills in a real work experience. Internship/externships can be credit bearing or non-credit bearing. An internship is supervised by faculty and provides on-the-job experiences that will prepare you for professional employment after graduation. When you have decided to complete an internship or are ready for the job search, our department can assist you in reaching these goals. To start, check out our online resources and make an appointment with a Career and Leadership Development professional. Landing an internship and receiving credit for it requires a one-on-one meeting with our staff. Our staff will guide you on how to locate an internship or job. Register on our online job and internship database to get started.

The Interview

Ready to land a job or internship? We can help you get ready for the interview process and feel

comfortable with the various interview styles you may come across.

Schedule a one-on-one meeting with a Career and Leadership Development professional to review

interview questions, professionalism and clarification on the 7 deciding factors of first

impressions. Plan to attend one of our interview skills and professionalism workshops.

WWW.BROOKDALECC.EDU/CAREER

Go to the “Information for students” tab Click on the collegecentral.com tab and register

According to US News and World Report (2017), first impressions during the

interview process are based on 7 things:

(1) Arrival time (Be early)

(2) Attire (Be professional)

(3) Body language (Be confident)

(4) Communication Style (Be articulate)

(5) Preparedness (Bring copies of your resume)

(6) Enthusiasm (Show your interest)

(7) Qualifications (Show how you are the perfect candidate)




Interview Tips & Tricks

Get plenty of sleep.

Bring 5 copies of your resume to the interview

Arrive 10-15 minutes early!

Your interview starts the minute you walk in the building! Greet and act professional

with everyone you encounter.

Be sure to have questions for the interviewer.

Smile, make eye contact, and give a firm handshake!

Always ask for business cards and make a point of following up after the interview.

Practice, Practice, Practice. Many interviews start with the general question, “Tell me

about yourself”. Be prepared on how to answer this and write your own 30-second elevator

speech. Stuck? We can help. Write down three thoughts:

The Elevator Speech

What you are right now (a part-time or full-time Brookdale student, an international student

with a background in xyz, etc.)

What general skills you have related to the job you are interviewing for (i.e. I am a math major

and have developed a strong skill set and passion for corporate accounting). In other words,

what are your strengths and how can they be leveraged at the company you are interviewing for?

Where you see yourself in terms of the position you are interested in.

Now put it all together! Practice saying 1, 2, and 3 in a fluid way. Does it make sense? Does it

flow? Practice with a friend or meet with one of our Career and Leadership Development

Professionals to walk you through how to prepare he best introduction for your interview.




Interview Styles-Know what you are walking into!

It is appropriate to ask an employer what type of interview they plan to use for your meeting. Meet

with a Career and Leadership Development professional to discuss the specific interview formats you

may encounter. Interview formats include behavioral interviews, technical interviews, case

interviews, small or large group interviews, and more. Understand what type of interview you may

encounter….and prepare!

Interview Style What to expect

Traditional or Resume Based

Interview

An interviewer will ask you to expand on the

information that is presented on your resume. There is

a level of fact-checking and direct questioning based on

the resume that is presented to the interviewer.

Interviewers are assessing your knowledge and

expertise in this type of interview.

Behavioral Interview

Interviewers will ask questions that will prompt you to

speak about experiences in the past and how you

handled them in order to ascertain how you will handle

scenarios in the future. In this interview you may hear a

question beginning with “Tell me about a time when…”

Typical scenarios can include:

You handled a difficult situation

You met a long term goal

You dealt with a difficult person

Case Interviews

While this interview technique is less common, it will be

helpful to know if this type of interview is coming your

way. Here, interviewers will provide you with a problem

or “case” and you are tasked with coming up with a

solution using critical thinking and problem solving

skills.

Small or large

Group Interviews

Know your audience! Some interviews are one-on-one

while others are in a group setting. Being prepared for

more than one interviewer is essential. Have multiple

copies of your resume and be sure to shake everyone’s

hand when arriving.




Networking

What does it mean to network? What tools can you use to begin the networking process? How can you

develop a network to help in the job search process?

There are countless ways to network in today’s world to gain an edge in career readiness, job

searching, and ultimately in landing the position you are interested in. Meet with a Career and

Leadership Development professional to discuss the power of tools like LinkedIn and attend our many

workshops on networking and how to land the job you want.

How do I develop a network?

Networking starts with personal connections and branches out to a variety of resources available to

every individual. It’s up to you to start your network and rely on all resources available to grow it.

Where to start

Begin a list of those individuals and online tools

that you can utilize to network. Is there someone

that you would like to meet with to expand your

network? (Record those thoughts here)

Friends, family and

acquaintances

Social networking websites

Professional networking

websites

Survey’s reveal that

approximately 85%

of all jobs are filled

via networking.




Professional Etiquette

What does it mean to be professional in the workplace?

Every industry has its own set of standards of professionalism. Professionalism can include

everything from dressing for success to communicating appropriately with colleagues, peers, and

clients. It includes having a strong knowledge base of your industry, and working hard every day.

It is imperative to know the etiquette of your future industry. Visit our website and online

calendar for future workshops on professionalism in the sector you are interested in. Attend one

of our guest speaker presentations and learn first-hand what it means to be professional in your

future career.

Professional Email Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts

Do…. Don’t…

Be mindful that others could view your email.

While your email may be sent to one person, it

can (and most likely will) be forwarded.

Use CAPS or multiple exclamation points to

get your point across. It translates as yelling,

which is never professional.

Use a professional salutation. Avoid

salutations like Hi!, or Yo! or Hey!). Use Emoji’s.

Proofread your email. While spelling and

grammar checks can catch mistakes, they do

not catch them all.

Forget to sign your name and include contact

information below your name.

Stay calm. Avoid sending an email when you

are angry or otherwise emotional. Create a

draft email and come back to it later, or make

a phone call if your response is personal and

confidential.

“Reply All” when responding to one

professional. While you may be included on a

larger email, your response is to the individual,

not the larger group.




Brookdale Resources

Brookdale offers several departments, programs, and services to assist you with your engagement here

at the College. Below is a list of Brookdale resources that will help you along the way.

Brookdale Resources What it can lead to

Career & Leadership Development

The Career and Leadership Development website provides

information on our staff, upcoming events, online resources,

resume tips and examples, and more. Sign up here to receive

our emails regarding upcoming events.

Counseling/Advising at Brookdale

Speak with a counselor about any personal issues that you’d

like to discuss. Speak with an advisor about your course

schedule and requirements to graduate. Counseling and

Advising is located upstairs in the CAR Building. Contact them

for more info!

Student Life & Activities

Brookdale has over 50 clubs and organizations on campus that

you can join! Meet students in your major or with similar

interests and engage in social and co-curricular activities!

International Education Center

Want to study abroad or learn more about another culture?

Visit this department to learn more about the amazing study

abroad opportunities that Brookdale offers. Interested in

meeting students from other cultures? Brookdale hosts

hundreds of international students per semester, go out and

meet them!

Athletics

If you are interested in joining a sport team or an intramural

team here at Brookdale, our Athletics Department can help!

Contact them for opportunities, try-out schedules, and more

information!




https://www.brookdalecc.edu/counseling/

https://www.brookdalecc.edu/student-life-activities/

https://www.brookdalecc.edu/international/

http://brookdaleathletics.com/landing/index


Online Resources

Our department also connects to several helpful online resources to assist you with your career search.

Schedule an appointment with a Career & Leadership Development professional to understand how

these resources can assist you.

External Resource What it can lead to

ONET Search careers, typical salary information, and education and

training requirements to start a career.

LinkedIn Online professional networking and job search site.

College Central Create a student profile, download your resume, and start your

internship or job search!

Buzz File A list of employers by state.

Glass Door Company profile information, interview descriptions, and salary

reports.

Learn How To Become General career information and links.

Occupational Outlook Handbook

The Occupational Outlook Handbook is maintained by the US

Department of Labor and gives detailed information about training

needed, expected earnings, and more.

Internships.com

Search for internships by state. (A Career and Leadership

Development Professional must approve all internships completed

through Brookdale).

USA Jobs Want to work for the US Government? Utilize this website for

government job postings and careers.

Work Force Recruitment Program

The WRP is a recruitment and referral program that connects federal

and private sector employers nationwide with highly motivated

college students and recent graduates with disabilities who are eager

to prove their abilities in the workplace through summer or

permanent jobs.



https://www.onetonline.org/

https://www.collegecentral.com/brookdalecc/

http://www.buzzfile.com/Major/Employers-by-Major

https://www.glassdoor.com/index.htm

http://www.learnhowtobecome.org/career-resource-center/internship-resources/

https://www.bls.gov/ooh/

http://www.internships.com/

https://www.usajobs.gov/

https://wrp.gov/LoginPre.do?method=login

Career Handbook - Brookdale Community College · Through resume writing assistance, interview...

Documents

Transcript of Career Handbook - Brookdale Community College · Through resume writing assistance, interview...