Communication: Resumes to Thank Yous

1. Communication: Resumes to Thank Yous Bernadette Lopez& Krista Benson, M.A. Eastern Washington University Career Services

2. Resumes and Cover Letters • Proofed, error-free documents • Professionally-appropriate email • Appropriate phone message • Cover letter written to the organization • Email signatures • Internet presence

3. Professional Emails • Write a clear subject line that actually summarizes what you are looking for. • Address the individual in the email, and remember to call that person by their full name unless you know differently. • Punctuate. Capitalize appropriately. Use complete words and sentences; this is not texting. Check your spelling. • Be nice and thank me for answering. • Sign your full name and give what ever information needed to respond.

4. Professional Writing Correspondence

5. Networking Communication: Why network? • Networking is the most effective job search method • Requires time and effort, but reaps great rewards • At least 60% - some report even higher statistics - of all jobs are found by networking

6. Networking is • An opportunity to give and receive information • The possibility of building key relationships • A way to achieve mutual goals and objectives • Networking is not • A chance to monopolize time • To “show up” others • The place to pressure people into something • A commitment or obligation • About free food and drink

7. Networking & Job Searching It’s all about relationships. • Make a list of everyone you know – and people they know • Sign up for an alumni mentoring program • Join chapter of a professional society that relates to your career choice • Volunteer at a local museum, theater, homeless shelter – anywhere that remotely relates to your field of study • Speak to company representatives at career fairs, even if you’re not ready to look for a job • Attend company information sessions at your college • Schedule informational interviews • Be courteous in your conversations, send thank you notes • Be aware of companies that you want to work for – check their websites

8. What to say? • Identify 2 or 3 strengths with specific situations • Have 2 or 3 talking points related to the company • Appropriate conversation • Avoid: religion / politics / money Two questions often asked in networking functions • “What sort of job are you looking for?” • “Tell me about yourself” • Be sure to know key points about your: • Background • Education • Accomplishments • Personality • Industry • Job

9. Professional Writing Correspondence

10. Online Social Networking Sites • Inland Northwest Launch Pad • http://www.launchpadinw.com/ • LinkedIn • http://www.linkedin.com/ • Facebook • http://facebook.com

11. Seattle-Area Resources • http://www.iloveseattle.org/ • http://www.atlist.org/organizations/professional-organization/washington/seattle • http://ewucareerguide.wikispaces.com/ • http://www.ewu.edu/eagleaxis/ • Search for Jobs (EagleAXIS Search & NACELink) • Job Blasts • Sign up for Career Counseling Appointments (Can be done over the phone, via Skype, or using webcams)

12. References Career Center, Mount Holyoke College (2005) Christa Stream, Enterprise Rent-A-Car (2009) Job Choices Magazine, National Association of Colleges and Employers (2009) http://www.about.com http://www.entrepreneur.com http://www.merriam-webster.com https://www.naceweb.org http://www.quintcareers.com/ http://scienceblogs.com/sciencewoman/2009/01/how_to_write_clear_emails_to_y.php

13. Career Services Contact Information Go to www.ewu.edu/careerservices for more info Key contacts/advisors: Krista Benson, kbenson@ewu.edu, 509-359-6364 Bernadette Lopez, blopez@ewu.edu, 509-359-2221 Romeal Watson, rjwatson@ewu.edu, 509-359-4637 Sign up for appointments at www.ewu.edu/eagleaxis