Job Search and Resume Writing
Course Introduction
Job Search and Résumé Writing provides students with both traditional and innovative job-search techniques and résumé writing skills required to gain employment in today’s competitive marketplace. The course combines theoretical, how-to information with hands-on practical applications. Students are required to draw on their own experiences to identify work preferences, accomplishments, technical and transferable skills, and to research, organize, and analyze information; and to apply their knowledge in a series of job search preparation and implementation tasks. During the course, students will develop and apply such skills as setting goals, developing job search strategies, using planning and organizing tools, maintaining records, communicating, decision making; and negotiating. This course follows a job search process in which, among many other things, the student is provided with the opportunity to create effective résumés and covering letters using traditional and innovative methods, including social networking, and uploading electronic résumés. Students develop and refine skills in organization, time management and communication. In addition, students will set up a tracking system, create a budget, identify a support system, identify goals, set up a home office, and monitor their time and schedules. In addition to the media, the course is enriched with video presentations that reinforce current job search techniques.
Course Prerequisites
Windows Level 1, Microsoft Word Level 1, Microsoft Excel Level 1, and Introduction to the Internet, or possess equivalent knowledge.
Course Notes
Course manual provided for on-going reference. There is a final exam upon completion of the course. Participants who receive a minimum of 75% as a final mark on this course will receive a certificate.
Course Breakdown
Lesson 1: Labor Market Information; Organize an Effective Job Search; Self-Assessment
Lesson 2: Chronological Résumé Development; Editing, Formatting, and Critiquing – Chronological; Building a Functional Style Résumé; Editing, Formatting, and Critiquing – Functional; Final Steps
Lesson 3: Employment Letters; Electronic Résumés; Portfolios
Lesson 4: The Hidden Job Market; Research; Résumé Delivery
Lesson 5: Interview Preparation; Interview Practice; Managing the Results; Career Management; Summary