How We Can Help 2Our Website and Resources 3Career Development: A Lifelong Process 4Informational Interviewing and Networking 5Timeline for Career Planning 6Career Exploration Portal 7What Employers Want 8CareerPoint Online System 9Application Materials 10Action Verbs 11Resume Writing 12References 13Cover Letter Writing 14Tailoring Your Materials 15Graduate and Professional Studies 16Preparing for an Interview 17Interview Tips 18Post-Interview 19Social Media and Your Career 20Job Fair Preparation 21UW-Stevens Point Sponsored Job Fairs/Career Fairs 22

Career Services OfficeRoom 201 Student Services Center

UW-Stevens Point, Stevens Point, WI 54481

Phone: 715-346-3226Email: career@uwsp.edu

Hours:Mon–Fri 7:45 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Drop in:Thursday 1-4 p.m.

Table of Contents

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Institution.

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is a tobacco-free campus.

2015-2016

Career Planning Guide

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Our mission is to provide comprehensive career/life planning and job search services linking education and the world of work for UW-Stevens Point students and alumni.

We can provide assistance along your career journey through the following opportunities:• One-on-one meetings with Career Services staff• Tools to explore your interests, skills, and values• Online resources and our website • Outreach events and presentations across campus• Job/career fairs and on-campus recruiting

Career Exploration • Take assessments to explore your skills, interests, and values• Learn about different potential fields and use CareerOneStop• Utilize our Career Exploration Portal, CareerLocker and other resources• Find ways to get involved

Finding Internships and Jobs • Utilize CareerPoint to search for postings• Attend job/career fairs• Search internationally using GoinGlobal

And More…• Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn• See where recent graduates are working with our follow-up studies • Check out our website for more resources

Graduate and Professional Studies• Search for program information• Find resources for graduate exams

Job Search Preparation• Create a resume and write a cover letter• Practice interviewing including using InterviewStream• Research employers, relocation, and salary information

We provide service to all current UW-Stevens Point students, recent graduates, and alumni. Below is an overview of our services to utilize throughout your career journey.

How We Can Help

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Go to our website to find more information about our services and resources. Below is an overview of some of our major resources. Also be sure to check out: • Our Career Exploration Portal• Our follow-up study to see what recent grads are doing• Our social media sites (Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest)• Our calendar of our upcoming events

CareerPoint- Search database for jobs and internships- See page 15 for instructions on how to set up your account and use the site

CareerLocker- Education and career planning tool- Take online self-assesments that can link to potential occupations- Search information on 700+ occupations as well as graduate school - Learn how to budget and find financial resources- Find tips on creating a resume and other job search materials

GoinGlobal- Find information on employers in the U.S. or around the world - Find country and city specific information - Search job and internship postings- Find sample resumes based on your fields of interest and geographical locations

Glassdoor Access- Research companies and organizations- Find information on salary and interviews from those who have interviewed with

or worked for the company or organization

InterviewStream - Create an account - Complete mock interviews to practice your interviewing skills- Share videos of your interview for others to provide feedback- Use from any computer with webcam or come to the Career Services Office

Career Videos- Watch videos on job search topics and careers

Resources available on our website

Our Website and Resources

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These questions are all a part of your career journey and career development process. You must begin with strong decision making. Consider the following as you start your journey:

Career Development: A Lifelong Process

Who am I? Where am I going?

How am I going to get there?

Your Skills, Personality and InterestsCareer Assessments A series of questions that provide you with possible career options. Utilize CareerLocker to conduct self assesments or contact Career Services to take both the Myers/Briggs Type Indicator (personality) and Campbell Interest and Skill Survey.

Academic and Career Goals Create Connections When linked together, your academic and career goals can increase your focus and commitment to your education.

Research Look into the careers that are of interest to you. Visit our website to find: - Career Exploration Portal What Can I Do with this Major? Occupational Outlook Handbook (research types of careers) UW Help (career, major, and other resources) - CareerLocker - Follow-up studies of UW-Stevens Point graduates

Ways to Get InvolvedJob Shadow The length of this experience may vary, but it is a way for you to learn from professionals in a particular occupation. You shadow an employee for a set period of time to learn more about what their daily work entails.

Volunteer The Portage County United Way Volunteer Center has a database to find opportunities. Volunteering is a great way to give back and gain experience!

Join Clubs and Organizations Check out the Student Organization Database for opportunities on campus. Look for areas related to your personal and career interests.

Part-time Jobs and Internships This is another great way to gain experience and get exposed to a field of your interest with a short-term commitment.

Hands-on experience is a great way to start your career journey.

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Informational Interviewing and NetworkingNetworking is a crucial component of the career journey. It helps you from the time you start exploring your options and continues to serve you when you are looking for your next job.

Use your networks• Consider who you already know• Your network is always bigger than you think • Find anyone whose current or previous employment interests you • Be open to new ideas, it is impossible to know every career that exists

Where to look • Use LinkedIn to join groups that align with your interests,

search for alums, members of organizations and find professional associations

• Use other forms of social media • Look for alums working in your areas of interest

Conducting an Informational Interview • Find someone you would like to learn from in a field

that relates to your interests.• Send them an email or call to ask if they would be

willing to give you 15-20 minutes of their time to talk with you about what they do and how they have reached their current position.

• Create a list of questions to ask your interviewee.• The goal is to learn as much as you can about

potential fields or jobs that interest you, not ask someone to hire you.

• Don’t be shy. People like talking about themselves and the worst that can happen is they say “no.”

• Keep track of who you talk with, where they work, what you talked about. This process could lead to people you will keep in your network and follow up with in the future.

• Be safe – meet in a public place when meeting with anyone you don’t know well.

• Send a thank-you note to your interviewer.

Friends

CareerOpportunityCareer

Opportunity

CareerOpportunity

Previous Employer

Facebook

Google +Twitter

LinkedIn

Family

Classmates

Faculty/Staff

Alums

You

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Timeline for Career Planning

FIRST YEAR - Increase self awarenessp Familiarize yourself with our office; research the Career Exploration Portal and register in CareerLockerp Learn more about yourself; take career assessments to identify your values, interests, skills and strengths.p Test your interests by choosing courses that relate to to them or take a career exploration class.p Pursue summer work, volunteer experiences, or a part-time job that relates to your major or interests.p Begin recording activities and experiences (paid and unpaid) to build your resume.p Become familiar with student organizations and other resources on campus to assist you.

SECOND YEAR - Explore majors and career alternativesp Declare your academic major if you have not already done so. If you are still undecided or cannot meet

or maintain the academic requirements of your preferred major, explore other options through the Student Academic Advising Center.

p Identify at least two career interest areas. Meet with your adviser or career counselor to begin the process of relating your skills, interests and values to your choice of a major and future career.

p Begin to identify what is important to you in a job (work values). Collect data on related career options and typical starting salaries (CareerLocker and the Occupational Outlook Handbook).

p Conduct 2-3 informational interviews in your field(s) of interest and arrange a “job shadowing” experience.

THIRD YEAR - Gain relevant experiencep Create a profile in CareerPoint (our online system); search for internships, career events or interviews.p Attend workshops sponsored by our staff; create a resume.p Research graduate schools if planning on attending and take appropriate entrance exams.p Start preparing a portfolio of work samples to highlight your experience and skills.p Pinpoint the type of industry or organization in which you would like to work and identify a few geographic

locations.p List at least five occupational titles appropriate to your interests and abilities. Identify the level of education

and skills necessary to attain your employment or career goals.p Establish a professional presence on LinkedIn social networking site; acquire interview attire.p Conduct a mock interview using lnterviewStream; attend job fairs.p Experience the first of several internships or relevant work experiences for pre-career training and to test out

your field of interest.

FOURTH YEAR - Prepare for a career or graduate/professional school

p Seek leadership or supervisory opportunities during work experiences or activities. Network and continue associations with mentors and faculty in your chosen academic area(s).

p Meet with your career counselor to strategize an action plan and update your resume; be sure to upload your resume in CareerPoint and continue to monitor CareerPoint for opportunities.

p Be proactive and reactive in your job search. Use multiple sources, develop lists and establish a good recordkeeping system.

p Actively participate in job fairs, interviews, or apply to graduate/professional schools.p Send thank-you letters or emails to every person who interviews you.p Complete the Career Services Graduate Survey to inform us of your plans following graduation.

Career planning starts in your first year of school. To be prepared for life after graduation, there are steps you should take now, even though graduation may seem a long way off.

Career assessments are a quick way to gain insight into your career options.

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Career Exploration PortalIn order for you to make good decisions related to choosing academic majors, minors, courses and career options, it is important to consider a wide variety of career/life issues. Through assisting students over the years, we have developed a list of essential websites to help you in this process. By providing links to these sites from a single Web page, it is our goal to make it easy for you to begin your research. We encourage you to utilize our Career Exploration Portal from our home page.

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What Employers Want

Consider gaining experience through:Internships Academic departments coordinate for-credit internships. Find the list of contacts on our website. CareerPoint is your source for internship postings.Job shadowingStudent organizationsSummer and part-time jobs Student Involvement and Employment Office can help.Volunteer experiences

60 percent of employers would like to see students with internship or co-op experiences.

Source: National Association of Colleges and Employers (2014). Job Outlook 2015.

Leadership 77.8%

abiLity to work as a team 77.8%

written communication 73.4%

probLem-soLving skiLLs 70.9%

strong work ethic 70.4%

anaLyticaL/quantitative skiLLs 68%

technicaL skiLLs 67.5%

verbaL communication skiLLs 67%

initiative 66.5%

computer skiLLs 62.6%

FLexibiLity & adaptabiLity 62.1%

interpersonaL skiLLs 60.6%

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CareerPoint Online System CareerPoint is our resource to link you with employers and employment information. You can explore possible careers, look for positions, see our office events and workshops, and even schedule interviews with employers.

Job/Internship Search • Search for temporary/seasonal work, internships, and career-level positions• Create saved searches to quickly view jobs matching your criteria• Receive emails when jobs are posted• See current or historical data (current and past postings)

Employer Directory• More than 5000 employers in our database from around the U.S.• Find recruiter contact information• Find company websites • Search by organization name or location

Interview Schedules • Check to see when recruiters will be visiting campus• Upload a resume to participate in on-campus interviews • Access will be granted once your profile is complete and activated

Career Events and Workshops• Find dates, times, and locations of career programs, fairs and employer information sessions• Elect to receive emails when new events are posted

My Account All currently enrolled UW-Stevens Point students have an account ready for them to access. To personalize your account: • Complete your profile • Upload resumes and cover letters (optional) • Choose whether to allow employers to view your information

You can see any employers that are connected to your social network on CareerPoint

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Application Materials

Resumes are subjective. All fields and employers have slightly different opinions on what to include. See page 18 for an overview of resumes.

Cover letters often accompany your submitted application and resume. They provide an opportunity to stand out to the employer. See page 20 for a sample.

Thank you notes should always be sent after an interview. See sample on page 28.

A future employer may request a list of references once you are offered an interview. See sample on page 19.

Some design or creative based fields may request a sampling of your work. This may appear in a printed portfolio, online portfolio or personal website.

Materials you may need to prepare for your job or internship search:

Resumes

Cover Letter

Reference

Portfolio

Formatting Tips and Creating Your Brand:• Be consistent. Use similar fonts and formatting across all your materials. • Be original. Don’t use templates. Looking at other resumes is a great way to get ideas, but create

your own format in MS Word.• Be concise. What employers want will vary by field, but typically 1-2 page resumes are preferred. • Be detail oriented. Proofread to remove any spelling or grammatical errors.• Be well organized. Determine what is most important to the employer and highlight skills and

phrases that are mentioned in the position descriptions and will stand out.

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Action Verbs

Skills are incorporated throughout your resume, cover letter, interviews, and the entire career journey. Use this list when writing your materials, or considering skills to gain, or how to market yourself.

addressed, authored, collaborated, corresponded, developed, drafted, edited, enlisted, formulated, influenced, interpreted, lectured, mediated, moderated, negotiated, persuaded, promoted, publicized, reconciled, recruited, reported, spoke, submitted, translated, wrote

acted, composed, conceptualized, created, designed, displayed, entertained, established, fashioned, founded, illustrated, initiated, instituted, integrated, introduced, invented, originated, performed, revitalized, shaped

approved, arranged, catalogued, classified, compiled, dispatched, generated, implemented, inspected, monitored, organized, prepared, processed, purchased, recorded, retrieved, screened, specified, tabulated, validated

allocated, analyzed, appraised, audited, balanced, budgeted, calculated, forecasted, managed, marketed, measured, projected, researched, transferred

assessed, coached, counseled, demonstrated, diagnosed, educated, expedited, facilitated, familiarized, guided, referred, represented, served

administered, assigned, attained, chaired, contracted, consolidated, coordinated, delegated, developed, directed, executed, improved, increased, oversaw, planned, prioritized, produced, recommended, scheduled, selected, strengthened, supervised

collected, critiqued, defined, examined, extracted, identified, interviewed, investigated, reviewed, summarized, surveyed

adapted, advised, clarified, communicated, developed, directed, enabled, encouraged, evaluated, explained, informed, initiated, inspired, instructed, mentored, motivated, stimulated

assembled, built, computed, devised, engineered, fabricated, maintained, operated, overhauled, programmed, remodeled, repaired, solved, tested, trained, upgraded

Communication:

Creative:

Detail:

Financial:

Helping:

Management:

Research:

Teaching:

Technical:

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Your resume is a fact-based marketing document providing a potential employer with the most relevant information about your background and skills for the position you are seeking. The primary purpose of this document is to obtain an interview. Employers will spend less than 20 seconds skimming your resume to determine if your candidacy is worth further consideration, so your presentation is crucial. There are three basic types of resumes – Chronological, Functional and Combination. Select the one that will best present your qualifications.

Your resume needs to be:• Concise - 1-2 pages (references may be on a separate

page)• Relevant - the content is pertinent to the position for

which you are applying• Well-organized – the headings used reflect the content

of the sections and the order of the sections are logical• Easy to skim – written using fragments or phrases rather

than complete sentences, and bulleted lists are used to selectively highlight important information

• Visually attractive - margins are consistent, tabs are used to line up information, white space and text are balanced, the font used is easy to read

• Correct - spellchecked and proofed by at least one other person to correct mistakes, and verify that all information provided is up-to-date and accurate

Before starting/updating your resume, review lots of job postings in your field of interest. This serves to: 1) get information on the qualifications or skills being

sought by employers 2) identify the keywords associated with the types of

positions.

Use this information to determine which parts of your background to emphasize as being most relevant, and to build the keywords into your descriptions whenever possible.

Also think carefully about how to highlight your accomplishments. Use numbers to quantify or qualify how many, how often or how much was involved. List ways you saved, earned or managed money. Give examples of where you saved or effectively managed time. Be specific and factual.

Save your resume in multiple formats to make submitting it easier. Typically you will email a PDF copy, and upload a MS Word document, but always carefully review and follow any directions given by the employer.

Visit the Career Services website for a resume writing checklist, sample resumes, and links to resources with additional information.

Resume Writing

Note: Many employers use applicant tracking systems to manage the resumes submitted to their organizations and they search for keywords to identify the best qualified candidates.

Peppermint Patty101 Alphabet StreetStevens Point, WI 54481715-555-1234ppatty@internetprovider.com

CERTIFICATIONS Elementary Education and Mathematics Ages 6–13

EDUCATION Bachelor of Science degree: May, xxxx University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP), Stevens Point, WI Major: Elementary Education (72-777) Minor: Mathematics (72-400)

STUDENT TEACHING Middle School Mathematics Teacher, XYZ Middle School, Vegas, WI April - June xxxx

• Served in an inner-city magnet school teaching classes in general math, pre-algebra, and algebra• Taught multiple lessons of Everyday Mathematics to sixth graders• Developed a variety of teaching and classroom management strategies to reach a wide array of student learning styles• Designed, maintained and posted weekly electronic progress charts• Communicated regularly with parents/guardians and worked on an IEP team

• Participated in professional development programs concerning at-risk students, multi-aged groups, and building/maintaining a climate of respect

Fourth Grade Teacher, Alpha School, Stevens Point, WI January - March xxxx• Effectively used portfolios in assessing and tracking student develop-ment• Successfully taught Sitton Spelling, Writing Process/6+1 Traits, Reading Workshop and TRIBES activity• Initiated a student Technology Center• Actively participated in parent-teacher conferences, Fun Fair, and PTOThird Grade Practicum Teacher, McDonald School, Park Ridge, WI October - December xxxx• Taught students vocabulary, reading, and social studies• Instructed science and simple machines unit using LEGO DACTA• Adapted lessons for three English Language Learners

RELATED EMPLOYMENT Park and Recreation Summer Leader, The Tree House, Smallville, WI Summers xxxx – xxxx

• Supervised daily activities of 24 children aged 5-12• Planned and taught hands-on activities involving arts & crafts, science experiments, and adventure education• Developed a Discovery Center for learning, reading, and sharing

VOLUMTEER ACTIVITY April - June xxxx

• College Days for Kids, UWSP, Ste-vens Point, WI

• T-Ball league coach, Waupaca, WI Sunday school teacher, St. Pointer

Church, Amherst, WI• Latchkey Afterschool Program

teacher, McDonald School, Park Ridge, WI

SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATION• Experienced in leading and super-

vising technology activities• Strong background in alternative

education• Skilled in working in multi-ethnic

settings with a wide age range of stu-dents

• Extensive background in team building through experiential edu-cation activities

• Interested in coaching or advising student groups

REFERENCES Conan O’Brien Cooperating TeacherAlpha Elementary School715 Alpha StreetStevens Point, WI 54481School: 715-555-0000Cell: 715-555-1111

Marge Simpson Cooperating TeacherXYZ Middle School911 Kash BoulevardVegas, WI 50000School: 715-555-2222Home: 715-555-3333

Michelle Obama PrincipalMcDonald Elementary School555 Latchkey AvenuePark Ridge, WI 54777Home: 715-555-4444Email: mobama@mcd.k12.wi.us

RELATED EMPLOYMENT

Park and Recreation Summer Leader

The Tree House, Smallville, WI

Summers xxxx – xxxx

• Supervised daily activities of 24 children aged

5-12• Planned and taught hands-on activities

involving arts & crafts, science experiments,

and adventure education

• Developed a Discovery Center for learning,

reading, and sharing

CERTIFICATIONS

Elementary Education and Mathematics

Ages 6–13

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science degree: May, xxxx

University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP), Stevens Point, WI

Major: Elementary Education (72-777)

Minor: Mathematics (72-400)

Peppermint Patty

101 Alphabet Street

Stevens Point, WI 54481

715-555-1234

ppatty@internetprovider.com

EXPERIENCE

Middle School Mathematics Teacher

XYZ Middle School, Vegas, WI

April - June xxxx

Fourth Grade Teacher

Alpha School, Stevens Point, WI

January - March xxxx

Third Grade Practicum Teacher

McDonald School, Park Ridge, WI

October - December xxxx

• Served in an inner-city magnet school teaching classes in general math,

pre-algebra, and algebra

• Taught multiple lessons of Everyday Mathematics to sixth graders

• Developed a variety of teaching and classroom management strategies to

reach a wide array of student learning styles

• Designed, maintained and posted weekly electronic progress charts

• Communicated regularly with parents/guardians and worked on an IEP

team• Participated in professional development programs concerning at-risk stu-

dents, multi-aged groups, and building/maintaining a climate of respect

• Effectively used portfolios in assessing and tracking student development

• Successfully taught Sitton Spelling, Writing Process/6+1 Traits, Reading

Workshop and TRIBES activity

• Initiated a student Technology Center

• Actively participated in parent-teacher conferences, Fun Fair, and PTO

• Taught students vocabulary, reading, and social studies

• Instructed science and simple machines unit using LEGO DACTA

• Adapted lessons for three English Language Learners

STUDENT TEACHING

VOLUMTEER ACTIVITY

April - June xxxx

• College Days for Kids, UWSP, Stevens Point, WI

• T-Ball league coach, Waupaca, WI

Sunday school teacher, St. Pointer Church, Amherst, WI

• Latchkey Afterschool Program teacher, McDonald School,

Park Ridge, WI

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ReferencesBelow is a sample of how to create a references page. Depending on your field it may be necessary to include these with your resume. In some fields references will not be requested until you have interviewed.

Finding and Securing References:• Professional references can be found in a variety of ways. A former supervisor or employer may be a

reference. A faculty member or staff member you work with on campus may be a reference. • As you gain new experiences and take new positions, whether as a volunteer, in a student

organization, or in a paid position, consider people who may serve as references. Stay in contact with those people you think may be strong references for you in the future.

• Consider the position for which you are applying, what skills are necessary, and who can best discuss your previous experiences related to those skills.

• Ask those you are considering to use as a reference if they are able to give you a positive and enthusiastic reference. Ensure they will be available and easy to contact during the time your potential employer may want to give them a call.

• Give your references as much advance notice as possible. Do not ask them to be a reference after you have already submitted their name, do that before submitting your application.

• Inform your references about the position you are applying for as well as what you are hoping they will share about you. Consider providing them a copy of your resume (or other submitted materials) as well as the position description. You can even give them a list of skills or experiences you would like them to highlight. This will make their job easier, and ensure the employer is learning about your most relevant skills.

ALISON  TAYLOR  2112  N.  Clark  Street,  Stevens  Point,  WI  54481  

323-254-8421  •  alisontay@uwsp.edu  

REFERENCES  

Susan  Smith    Camp  Director,  Tween  Peaks  Camp  1462  Maple  Drive  Gunnison,  CO,  68312  632-549-8751  ssmith@tpeaks.com  

Emily  Bradley    Director  of  Student  Activities,  Student  Government  Advisor  1108  Fremont  Street  UWSP,  Stevens  Point,  WI  54481  715-­‐346-­‐3226  ebradley@uwsp.edu    

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ALISON  TAYLOR  2112  N.  Clark  Street,  Stevens  Point,  WI  54481  

323-254-8421  •  alisontay@uwsp.edu  

September  2,  2014  

Ms.  Bethany  Allen  Regional  Manager  XYZ  Corporation  5678  Corporate  Drive  Anytown,  WI  55632  

Dear  Ms.  Allen:  

Please  accept  my  application  for  the  Management  Trainee  position  with  XYZ  Corporation.  I  was  excited  to  see  the  description  posted  on  the  UWe Stevens  Point  CareerPoint  System,  due  to  my  previous  experience  job  shadowing  your  Stevens  Point  Store  Manager,  Jane  Doe.  I  highly  respect  the  dedication  of  your  employees  and  the  active  portrayal  of  the  company’s  mission  in  their  daily  work.    

You  will  notice  that  my  educational  background  and  experiences  closely  match  the  values  and  skills  sought  by  your  organization.  Some  highlights  of  my  qualifications  related  to  the  position  include:    

• Bachelor  of  Science  degree  in  Business  with  a  Management  emphasis• Self motivation  and  ability  to  consistently  meet  and  exceed  goals  when  working  individually  and  as  a

member  of  a  team• Supervisory  and  training  roles  throughout  four  years  of  college

During  my  time  as  the  Communications  and  Public  Relations  Chair  for  the  Student  Government  Association,  I  took  the  initiative  to  implement  surveys  to  determine  the  effectiveness  of  our  committee’s  work.    I  delegated  tasks  between  a  10-member  team,  and  as  a  result  increased  our  social  media  following  and  marketing  presence  on  campus.  Your  employees’  enthusiasm,  energy,  and  knowledge  attract  me  to  work  for  your  organization.    I  would  like  to  add  my  positive  attitude  and  customer service-focused  work  ethic  to  your  workforce.    

Attached  is  my  resume  further  detailing  my  experiences.  I  look  forward  to  talking  with  you  about  this  opportunity  and  will  follow  up  with  you  next  week  to  ensure  my  materials  were  received.  If  you  have  any  questions  or  would  like  to  contact  me,  I  can  be  reached  by  phone  323-254-8421  or  email  alisontay@uwsp.edu.  Thank  you  for  your  time  and  consideration.    

Sincerely,  

Alison  Taylor  

Enclosure    

Contact Info: You can use the header from your resume or use block formatting.

Address the letter: Be sure to include the date you are writing. Address the letter to the employer or staff responsible for applications. Call human resources if you don’t have a name.

Intro: Include name of position, where you found the listing. Can include short statement of why you like the company.

Body: Explain what qualifies you. Select several skills from the job description and demonstrate you have them. Expand upon what draws you to the employer and what you will bring.

Signature: Sign your name. You can scan in your signature on electronic versions. “Enclosure” signifies you are including other materials.

Final: Mention your resume and provide an action plan and contact information.

Other Tips:• DON’T REPEAT: The cover letter is a chance to expand upon experiences/skills, not re-list your

resume• TELL A STORY: Consider what experiences you have and make it interesting to read, you don’t

want your letter to sound exactly like everyone else’s• BE CONCISE: You cannot include everything, so choose what is most important for the employer

to know• TAILOR IT: Don’t write the same exact letter for each company. Consider the reasons you are

attracted to them

Cover Letter Writing

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Tailoring Your MaterialsIt is important to target your materials to the position you want. Applying for jobs within the same field, or with the same title can still mean adjusting your materials.

Below is a job description highlighted to demonstrate how you might tailor your materials based on what the employer provides:

Job Description: • Support digital marketing efforts with research, project planning, trend and results analysis

• Create content for client social media programs

• Write various communications including new releases, story pitches, client memos, etc.

• Develop and maintain media database, editorial calendars and media placements

• Monitor media for advertising and PR client opportunities that are on strategy

• Attend, participate and take notes in client related strategy, creative and brainstorming sessions

• Perform various client services and public relations administrative duties

Qualifications:

• Career-minded student in advertising, public relations, marketing or related field

• Sophomore status or higher

• Strong verbal and written communication skills (writing sample required at interview)

• Web-savvy researcher

• Organized and detail driven

• Ability to manage multiple ongoing projects

• Social media and Microsoft Office proficiency

• Ingenuity and curiosity

• An after-it personality with dedication to getting the job done

(Job description pulled from actual CareerPoint posting)

SkillsLook for skill verbs used in the job description and insert them into your resume or cover letter

Technical AbilityIdentify technical skills required for the job and how you can express your related experience

Personal TraitsThese are good to consider when portraying yourself in materials as well as during in-person interactions

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Graduate and Professional Studies • Why do I want to go to graduate school? • Am I motivated by personal or professional reasons? • What are my career goals?• What will I specialize in? • What are my areas of interest?• Do I have the motivation for another 2-7 years of school?• Do I have the necessary financial resources or financial

plan?• Do I need work experience prior to pursuing graduate

school?

• Admission requirements• Cost/availability of financial aid• Geographic location• Size of program/department/school• Quality of faculty• Faculty/Student ratio• Quality of facilities• Housing options• Program type-part/full time• Attrition and placement rates• Focus of program (research vs. applied work)

• Application deadlines vary by program• Applications typically include: References Personal Statement / Statement of Purpose Entrance exam scores Resume • Contact your references early and provide them with the

materials you plan to submit to help them write about you. Provide all necessary deadlines and instructions.

• Begin studying for exams (GRE, MCAT, LSAT, GMAT) well in advance. Visit our website for resources and visit the UW-Steven Point Testing Services (3rd floor Delzell Hall)

• Research a variety of programs based on the criteria you have chosen. Another great resource to visit is www.petersons.com.

• Talk with your current faculty for advice.• Contact department chairs or program coordinators of those

schools that interest you to get more information. • Consider visiting campus and meet with faculty, students

and graduate advisers.

Ask yourself:

To help in your research and search process, create a list of criteria that are important to you. Consider:

The application process begins 12-18 months before you would like to begin classes.

Research and prepare:

Choosing a graduate school entails finding a program that matches your academic interests, personal preferences and needs.

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Preparing for an Interview

It is rare that you will know what questions you are going to be asked in an interview. Instead of focusing on the answers to specific questions, focus on what you want the employer to know about you.

STAR/SPAR Technique for Answering Questions

Example Q: Tell me about a time when you worked with a difficult person.

A: During my internship I was collaborating with a full-time staff member to update our database.

This co-worker was always behind on deadlines, but as the intern I couldn’t just tell them they

weren’t doing their job. I created a schedule and sent reminders to this co-worker. I made sure my

supervisor knew about my approach to the situation and in the end, my co-worker was much better

about completing tasks on time and my supervisor was happy I was able to solve the problem

myself.

Research• Review the job description and employer’s website • Learn as much as possible about: major products or services, customer base,

mission, size of the organization, employees, locations, competitors, names of key members of the organization, industry news, etc.

Review Your Skills • Create a list of the skills you want to highlight that relate to the position• Brainstorm examples of experiences (jobs, internships, volunteering, classes,

clubs) that demonstrate your skills • Consider your strengths and weaknesses and how you would explain them to an

employer

Practice and Prepare• Create a list of at least 3-5 questions you would like to ask the employer• Review your notes on the employer and your skills/experiences • Don’t be afraid to be yourself. Allow your personality and interests to show

through, and consider what you would share about your interests or hobbies when asked

123

Situation

Task/Problem

Action

Result

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Interview Tips

Phone interviews are especially common for first round interviews or if traveling would normally be required. Be sure to:• Check your cell service where you plan to do the interview.• Have the phone number of the interviewer on hand in case you get

disconnected.• Recognize that it is hard to perceive emotion over the phone. You may not

feel as confident because you can’t see the interviewer’s response. • Organize your notes. It is okay to have things in front of you for a phone

interview, but you don’t want them to be a distraction or cause you to be less prepared to answer questions.

• Know whether the employer is calling you or you are calling the employer.

In-person interviews Be sure to:• Check the location of your interview and have directions ready.• Give yourself plenty of time to arrive about 5-10 minutes early.• Remember the name of the person you have been in contact with in case

you have to ask for them when you arrive. Also have their phone number handy in case you need to contact them.

• Be kind to everyone that day, you never know who you will meet and how they are connected to your future position.

• Dress professionally and have copies of your resume or any other requested materials ready.

• Have a portfolio or notepad with you. Do not carry a large bag, purse or backpack.

• Shake hands firmly and make eye contact with everyone you meet.

Skype or video interviews Be sure to:• Check your Internet connection prior to starting. • Be ready early so you aren’t scrambling to the screen.• Consider what will be in the frame. Choose a space that will not be

distracting for you or the interviewers and looks professional. • Expect that there may be video delay. It is okay to ask politely for the

interviewer to repeat themself. • Check time zones to ensure you have the correct start time.

Practice! Use our resource InterviewStream to record and review yourself practicing. You can customize your interview or use pre-recorded questions. Use your computer, download the InterviewStream Go app for iPad, or schedule to come into our office.

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Send a handwritten thank you note or email after your interview. If possible, send one to all your interviewers, or ask that your note be forwarded to all staff you hope to address.

Post Interview

Following Your Interview:Take time to review the interview process - Compare the job description to what you were told by employees - Consider what you learned about the work environment - Consider what went well and what you could improve upon and make note for future interviewsComplete any next steps requested by employer Consider if the position is a good fit for you - Consider those you would be working with, who your supervisor would be, and how you would fit into the atmosphere of the workplace - Does the organization align with what you would like to be doing? - Do your skills align well with the position? - Will you be challenged and learn new things in the position?

Dear (name of person)

Thank you so much for allowing me to interview for the (name of job) position. I enjoyed meeting the staff in the office and I can see the mission of your company in the work you are all doing. Thank you again for the opportunity, and I hope to hear from you soon.

Sincerely,

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Social media is a convenient resource to meet professionals working in your fields of interest to build your network. It can also help to do research on companies or trends in your future industries. Take time to find what forms of social media provide you with the most helpful information. There likely will not be one tool that serves as your perfect connector both socially and professionally. Consider setting aside time to utilize social media for your personal time as well as professional development. You may be surprised that your personal and professional connections or interests overlap more than expected. Stay up-to-date on your online presence. Check your privacy settings often and even “Google” yourself to see what is out there.

Social Media and Your Career

LinkedIn• Create an account at www.linkedin.com• Input information from your resume about your skills and experiences• LinkedIn will suggest connections for you based on your profile• Search for other professionals as well as groups based on your interests• Join the UW-Stevens Point Career Services Group and UW-Stevens Point Alumni Group

Twitter• This is not only a place for personal updates; consider following organizations or

professionals in your areas of interests• Look for and even consider tweeting articles relevant to your interests • Imagine your future employer is reading everything you tweet

Facebook • Whether you use Facebook for personal or professional connections, be appropriate.

Even with privacy settings, you want to be posting things you would be willing to have your future employer find

• Consider joining groups or following pages that relate to your personal and professional interests

• Like the UW-Stevens Point Career Services page

YouTube• You can find TEDTalks, videos about organizations, and many other resources

related to exploring your interests on your career journey• Great place for watching funny or helpful videos, but be sure there are no personal

videos you wouldn’t want your employer to see

Google Plus and Much More• Google Hangout and other tools like Skype are a great way to connect and do

informational interviews• Utilize any form of social media to build your network, explore your interests, and

promote a positive personal image • Also follow us on Pinterest and Instagram

Social media can help you connect and learn more about fields of interest.

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Job Fair Preparation

Reasons to Attend• Practice speaking with employers and selling your skills and experiences• Learn about potential companies or organizations you may have an interest in for future employment

and make contact with recruiters• Potentially submit your resume to companies that are looking to fill positions

Before the Fair • Check website or contact event organizer to see who will be attending the fair. See if the employers

match your interest areas• Create a prioritized list of those employers you would like to speak with at the fair• Research the employers you would like to speak with• Know their mission or goals/purpose of the organization• Be aware of current initiatives, projects, programs• Check to see if the organization has been mentioned in the media • Prepare questions to ask the recruiters• Develop a marketing pitch (“elevator speech”) to discuss what you bring as a potential employee• Bring multiple copies of your resume and carry a portfolio, folder or briefcase• Bring a pen and paper to take any notes from your conversations • Dress professionally

During the Fair• Stay focused on the employers you planned to meet. It is okay to add others to the list, but be sure to

meet your top choices• Smile, make eye contact, provide a firm handshake to make good first impressions• Don’t speak negatively about any interactions, you never know who is listening• Ask each recruiter for a business card, or collect contact information• Ask about next steps if you are interested in applying for positions

After the Fair • Review any notes you took during the fair • Consider what organizations or opportunities you may be interested in pursuing further • What skills and interest areas do you have and how do they align?• Did you like what you learned about the organization?• Send an email or note to the recruiters you spoke with to thank them for their time and follow up if you

plan to apply for an open position

Prepare pertinent questions to ask employers, and be prepared to answer questions about your goals, work experience, grades, etc.

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UW-Stevens Point Sponsored Job/Career Fairs

Fall Job FairTuesday, September 8, 2015Dreyfus University Center - Laird Room(Part-time employment opportunities in this area)

Paper Science and Engineering Career Fair Thursday, October 8, 2015Dreyfus University Center – Laird Room(Intern, co-op and career-level opportunities specifically for UW-Stevens Point Paper Science and Engineering students)

Graduate School Virtual Fair Thursday, October 29, 2015(Online event connecting students with grad/professional programs throughout the US)

Natural Resources Career FairThursday, February 11, 2016Dreyfus University Center - Laird Room(Intern, summer and career-level opportunities in natural resources/science fields)

Summer Camp and Recreation FairTuesday, February 16, 2016Dreyfus University Center - Laird Room(Summer employment with camps, water parks and recreational facilities throughout the region)

Central Wisconsin Collegiate Job FairTuesday, February 23, 2016Dreyfus University Center - Laird Room(Intern and career-level opportunities throughout Wisconsin and elsewhere)

Wisconsin Educational Recruitment Fair (WERF) Tuesday, April 12, 2016 Monona Terrace - Madison, Wis.(Teaching opportunities with both Wisconsin and out-of-state school districts)

Summer Job Fair Tuesday, April 19, 2016Dreyfus University Center - Laird Room(Summer employment opportunities throughout Wisconsin and elsewhere)

Find additional details for these events and additional job/career fairs and related events open to UW-Stevens Point students on the Career Services home page

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