Marketing Yourself and Finding a Job
As you gather your materials in anticipation of applying for positions or school, you may need to establish credentials or order transcripts. Contact the schools you attended to learn how to obtain these documents. Consider contacting a career professional on your campus to help you through these important steps.
Resumes
A resume is needed in most job searches so it is important that you have the best one possible. It is a summary of who you are and what you have to offer and should show a potential employer that you are qualified for the position. The links below will give you some general information on how to develop a resume:
- Resume Development: A Step by Step Guide
- Creating Your Resume
- What to Include On Your Resume
- Improving Your Resume
- How to Use A Resume
- Tips on Submitting Your Resume Electronically
- Sample Resumes (From Monster.com)
Your final resume is a reflection of you and should be unique. However, using a template may be a good way to start organizing your personal information:
References A list of people who can talk about your work experience is often a supplement to a resume. These guidelines include how to select and communicate with your references.
Portfolios
Some employers may require a portfolio in addition to or instead of a resume. Traditional portfolios include 3-ring binders or a large file folder with work samples. Electronic portfolios include work samples, files, pictures and links and are on the Internet.The resource below will help you learn more about portfolios:
- Career Portfolio Tutorial (From the University of Victoria)
- Preparing a Portfolio (From Florida State University)
- Electronic Portfolios (eFolio Minnesota)
Cover Letters
A cover letter is a companion document to your resume and should answer the question "Why should I hire this person?" The resources below provide tips on what to include in a cover letter and guidelines on how to write one:
Workshops and seminars are a valuable tool to help you explore the different areas of the GPS LifePlan. Your campus may or may not offer workshops or seminars, check with your GPS LifePlan coordinator.
