24 Chapter 1 Exploring Careers
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
posts an ad for the job opening online. They may ask for a résumé to be
sent via e-mail or posted to a website.
To create an electronic résumé, save your résumé as “text only” without
any formatting. Then review the fi le to make sure lines and headers break
properly. Be sure to keep your formatted résumé saved in a separate fi le.
Employers may use electronic résumé fi les to search for key terms
that match their descriptions of an ideal job candidate. This simple format
makes the search easier for employers. It also makes it easier for key
terms to be matched in your résumé so you come to the employers’
attention.
Portfolio
A portfolio is an organized collection of your best and most creative
work. It should give a balanced view of who you are as a potential
employee. A portfolio provides a visible way to demonstrate your skills
and achievements to those who might want to hire you, 1-11.
Contents of the portfolio will vary, but should always include a copy
of your résumé and any letters of recommendation. Keep your portfolio
up-to-date. Add new items and replace others to make the portfolio
relate to the requirements of the job you are seeking. Carefully label and
date everything you include, and display the items neatly.
During job interviews, offer the employer an opportunity to review
your portfolio. Be prepared to discuss any item included, highlighting
only the main points. Always take your portfolio with you when you
leave an interview.
Cover Message
Your fi rst contact with a potential employer will likely be a cover
message. A cover message is a letter that introduces yourself and your
résumé. You can make
a lasting impression, so
make sure your letter
is neat. Use a standard
format and font, and be
sure to check spelling and
punctuation. Consider
having one or two
people proofread your
letter and recommend
improvements. Make
sure it is free of mistakes.
Always include your
résumé with your cover
message.
The letter should be
brief, positive, and to the
Living Living
Green Green
When applying for a job,
consider applying online.
Many potential employers
allow applicants to apply
online. This saves paper
and postage costs.
Personal Portfolio Personal Portfolio
Include a copy of your résumé and as many of these items as
possible.
•
Transcript of completed courses
•
National and state test results
•
Recognitions and letters of recommendations
•
Career/technical training records
•
Evidence of involvement in extracurricular activities
•
Outstanding school papers and projects
•
Samples of graphs, charts, computer-assisted designs (CAD), or
brochures produced by you using a computer
•
Photos, newspaper clippings, web pages, videos, and other
documentation of completed projects
1-11
Start preparing your
portfolio now. Compiling
your portfolio over
time will make it easier
to document your
achievements.