Useful Links
Canada's #1 Online Resume Builder
http://www.resume-now.com/
This website helps users build their resume from scratch. It is a paid service, but allows for one free trial to begin with. The site goes through a step by step process of creating your resume, by asking you a number of different questions. Based on your answers it selects a number of different templates for you to use. For example, if you have a lot of gaps in your employment history, it will provide you with templates that don't show that, or make it as obvious.
This site is targeted toward anyone updating their resume, or creating one from scratch. It is very easy to use, and provides users with professional looking resumes in a very short time. This website was also rated #1 by Job.com and has a number of outstanding reviews from existing customers.
I recommend this site to anyone who struggles with building resumes. It takes all the frustration out of it, and actually makes it an enjoyable process. Furthermore, with the free trial you can get a better view on the different templates available or even create your first resume for free and build on it from there.
List of Interview Questions
http://www.listofinterviewquestions.com/
This website has over 40 interview questions that provide the user with desirable answers, and a number of different tips to answer each question. The site also offers a quick start guide, where you can choose between a tough questions list, a trap questions list, and a general questions list. All of which are real questions that are asked during real interviews.
This site is targeted toward individuals who are preparing for an interview, or who just did an interview and want to know where they went wrong. This site is very easy to you use, and has a wide variety of different questions. The site also has a tab called Interview Advice which directs the users to an article that gives advice on how to deal with stress before an interview.
I have used this site in the past, and found it to be really helpful. Having tips on how to answer the questions is very beneficial as you can understand the thought behind the question. It is important to know what the interviewer is looking for, and this site tells you exactly that.
Modern Manners and Etiquette
http://www.modern-manners-and-etiquette.com/
This website can be used as a reference tool for those working in the workplace. It has all types of information of business etiquette, and manners for various types of events. Some topics include, phone etiquette, workplace manners, travel manners, online manners, social manners, international etiquette, and many more.
This site is targeted toward a large demographic and I feel it would be useful for all graduates looking to enter the workforce. This site is also very easy to use, with several navigation tabs to bring you from one page to the another. It has a very wide variety of information, so it could be a useful tool to refer back to when you are faced with a new opportunity and are not sure what to expect. This site will tell you not only what you can expect, but also what is expected of you at workplace events.
With having knowledge from this website, individuals will learn the talent of interacting well with others, and developing the ability to make long lasting impressions. This site is a great tool to get started with, and to keep in your favourites throughout your working career.
Monster- Common Interview Questions
http://career-advice.monster.ca/job-interview/interview-questions/common-interview-questions-canada/article.aspx
This link is to an article written by Ian Christie who writes about common interview questions that you can expect to hear in an interview. There are five questions, all of which I personally have heard in all the interviews I have participated in. For each question Ian describes the intent of the question, the context of the question, and an appropriate response.
This article is targeted toward anyone preparing for an interview. It is useful for individuals who are looking to understand the meaning behind tricky questions. This article is also very easy to understand and is a quick read to get you started.
With having knowledge of these five common questions, the readers will be already at an advantage because these questions will most likely be asked. The article also has links to other useful articles that will help prepare you for an interview. This article will not give the reader all the answers they are looking for, and additional research is required when preparing for an interview.
Workopolis
http://www.workopolis.com/
Workopolis is one of the fastest growing job search sites in Canada. This website allows users to search for employment by province, job title, and/or by an advanced search option. It has helpful tips on how to create a resume and cover letter, as well as the latest headlines on business news to keep you up to date.
This site is targeted toward individuals who are actively seeking work. The website is very useful and allows users to create an account so they can be notified of new opportunities and post their resume for all employers to see.
This site builds relationships between job seekers and employers. They are continually updating their site and trying to find more ways to make the job hunting process a little easier. I use this site all the time and I find it to be one of the best job searching sites out there. I recommend that users create an account to get the most out of what the site has to offer.
References
Campbell, S. (n.d). Secrets of a Great Resume. Retrieved August 4, 2011 from 1st-Writer.com website: http://www.1st-writer.com/great-resume-secrets.htm
Durham, J. (2010, July). Workplace Do's and Don'ts. Retrieved July 28, 2011 from Work Etiquette website: http://www.worketiquette.co.uk/workplace-dos-and-donts.html
Immen, W. (2010, November 29). Job interviews: Prepare for the right comeback. The Globe and Mail. Retrieved July 28, 2011, from http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/managing/on-the-job/job-interviews-prepare-for-the-right-comeback/article1701664/
Lafreniere, D. (2011, January 31). Why Students Need a Backup Plan for Job Search. The Globe and Mail. Retrieved August 6, 2011, from http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/managing/business-education/why-students-need-a-backup-plan-for-job-search/article1888822/print/
Mork, R. (2011). Five Secrets to Great Cover Letters. Retrieved August 4, 2011 from Life 123 website: http://www.life123.com/career-money/find-a-job/cover-letter/great-cover-letters.shtml
Sullivan, M. (n.d.). Do's and Don'ts for Surviving the Workplace. Retrieved August 5, 2011 from The Punch website: http://www.thepunch.com.au/articles/dos-and-donts-for-the-workplace/asc/
Work Ready Students
The purpose of this blog is to encourage graduates to make the most out of their education, and to give them the valuable resources they need to get started.
Thursday, 28 July 2011
Do's and Don'ts in the Workplace
Once you have landed your dream job, you have to become accustomed to your new surroundings. The facts is, is that you will now be spending most of your time at the office with your colleagues. It is very important that you feel comfortable, but also not too comfortable to the point where you impose on others.
According to the article, Do's and Don'ts for Surviving the Workplace, written by Mykal Sullivan, there are several things people should be aware of when working around others. Mykal, states the following Do's and Don'ts in the workplace:
DO: Keep you desk clutter free, and professional looking. Remember, your desk is a true representation of who you are as a person. As well studies have shown that if two people with the same qualifications were up against each other for a promotion, the one with the cleaner desk will most likely get it.
DONT: Have piles of clutter on your desk, to the point where it takes five minutes to find one thing for your boss. Also don't buy cheap decorations for your desk, as it just looks tacky.
DO: Bring small heater or fan to put under your desk. Be sure to first ask your boss if this is OK.
DONT: Bring anything that will change the temperature so much that the person next to you is affected by it.
DO: Be generous to others, and allow others to borrow stationary supplies if they need to. Work with your colleagues as a team, and not just as an individual. It is important to remember simple things, such as sharing.
DONT: Label everything you have on your desk with your name on it. Don't be impatient when waiting for the photocopier or printer (Sullivan, n.d.).
These do's and don'ts are just a few examples of what you will be faced with in the workplace. The key things to remember are:
If everyone in the workplace treats others with respect, then the office environment can be a very pleasant place. Remember, you will be a member in creating the organizational culture of the company you will be working for. Make it as positive as you can.
According to the article, Do's and Don'ts for Surviving the Workplace, written by Mykal Sullivan, there are several things people should be aware of when working around others. Mykal, states the following Do's and Don'ts in the workplace:

DONT: Have piles of clutter on your desk, to the point where it takes five minutes to find one thing for your boss. Also don't buy cheap decorations for your desk, as it just looks tacky.
DO: Bring small heater or fan to put under your desk. Be sure to first ask your boss if this is OK.
DONT: Bring anything that will change the temperature so much that the person next to you is affected by it.
DO: Be generous to others, and allow others to borrow stationary supplies if they need to. Work with your colleagues as a team, and not just as an individual. It is important to remember simple things, such as sharing.
DONT: Label everything you have on your desk with your name on it. Don't be impatient when waiting for the photocopier or printer (Sullivan, n.d.).
These do's and don'ts are just a few examples of what you will be faced with in the workplace. The key things to remember are:
- Be positive, friendly, and open minded
- Think of others around you
- Don't participate in workplace gossip
- Remember your manners
- Support others
If everyone in the workplace treats others with respect, then the office environment can be a very pleasant place. Remember, you will be a member in creating the organizational culture of the company you will be working for. Make it as positive as you can.
Preparing for an Interview
Preparing for an interview can be a very daunting task and without the proper preparation you will feel even more nervous. Once you hear that you have an interview, start to prepare right away.
According to Wallace Immen of Globe and Mail questions like what your favourite colour is, is a great way to get potential candidates to think on their feet. Immen explains that it would be appropriate to state that you are unsure of the relevance of the question. This shows the interviewer that your head is on the job, and you are very focused (2010). It is alright to not know an answer, but it is important to show that you are serious and driven by this opportunity.
- Research the company
- Practice interview questions
- Call references
- Prepare your outfit
- Compile a couple of questions for the interviewer
Once you have started to prepare, the anxiety of the interview should start to minimize. Furthermore, many people worry more about the unknown of an interview. When worrying about difficult questions that could come up, remember that the interviewer is looking at how quick you are on your feet. Some things you just can't prepare for.
According to Wallace Immen of Globe and Mail questions like what your favourite colour is, is a great way to get potential candidates to think on their feet. Immen explains that it would be appropriate to state that you are unsure of the relevance of the question. This shows the interviewer that your head is on the job, and you are very focused (2010). It is alright to not know an answer, but it is important to show that you are serious and driven by this opportunity.
Apply for Jobs
When applying for jobs it is important to have a focus. Consider all of your potential opportunities and narrow it down by what you think you would enjoy the most, and are the most qualified for. For example, if you are a business student, you should not apply for jobs in nursing.
According to Darren Lafreniere of the Globe and Mail it is important to have both a plan A and a plan B. The workforce is becoming very competitive, and graduates are not only competing against others in their city or province, but also world wide. Employers are looking for candidates to exceed entry level potential, and therefore are demanding a lot more. If plan A is your dream job, keep in mind that it might take a little longer to get that dream job and you might have to settle for a plan B to start (2011).
Settling for a plan B is not the end of the world. Keep in mind that most employers are looking for a couple years of experience. Find something that will give you just that, so you can someday get your dream job.
There are many different sites that assist in the process of looking for a job. The following are popular sites in Canada:
All of these sites allows users to identify the field they are in, and to find jobs anywhere in the country. Remember to keep in mind that when you are applying for jobs, it is important to set goals and create a road map as to where you want to be. Look toward the future and picture where you want to be, and then figure out a strategy on how you are going to get there.
According to Darren Lafreniere of the Globe and Mail it is important to have both a plan A and a plan B. The workforce is becoming very competitive, and graduates are not only competing against others in their city or province, but also world wide. Employers are looking for candidates to exceed entry level potential, and therefore are demanding a lot more. If plan A is your dream job, keep in mind that it might take a little longer to get that dream job and you might have to settle for a plan B to start (2011).
Settling for a plan B is not the end of the world. Keep in mind that most employers are looking for a couple years of experience. Find something that will give you just that, so you can someday get your dream job.
There are many different sites that assist in the process of looking for a job. The following are popular sites in Canada:
- Workopolis
- Job Bank
- Monster
- Wow Jobs
- Simply Hired
All of these sites allows users to identify the field they are in, and to find jobs anywhere in the country. Remember to keep in mind that when you are applying for jobs, it is important to set goals and create a road map as to where you want to be. Look toward the future and picture where you want to be, and then figure out a strategy on how you are going to get there.
Update Resume and Cover Letter
The first step after graduation is to update your resume and cover letter. If you need assistance, Georgian College's support staff are very skilled in this area and will be able to help you create a very appealing resume. Furthermore, do your own research and find out what's most desired by the majority of employers.
According to Sue Campbell who wrote Secrets of a Great Resume, there are five important rules to keep in mind when updating your resume.
1. Don't lie
2. Know your reader
3. Know yourself
4. Include all relevant information
5. Exclude all irrelevant information (n.d.)
Sue's rules for a great resume really do work and should be kept in mind for anyone updating their resume. I know it is very tempting to elaborate or even sometimes state a small lie to make yourself seem more appealing, but if you can't live up to what you say you will not get the job anyway. You should also be fully aware of your audience, and update your resume according to what the job description says. If an employer puts a large emphasis on customer service, then you should incorporate all your experiences in the past working with customers. Futhermore, everything on your resume should be relevant. Only add extra things that show your character if you have room, and if you think it would be of value to the employer.
According to Rachel Mork who wrote Five Secrets to Great Cover Letters, there are five important things to remember when trying to sell yourself through a cover letter.
1. Make the first sentence shine
2. Tell them why they need you
3. Highlight your qualifications
4. Tailor your pitch
5. Use active language (2011)
These five secrets are very important and should be considered when writing up your cover letter. Remember, that a cover letter is your first impression so you better make it a good one. That is why your first sentence should be unique to catch the readers attention. Also highlighting your qualifications, and telling them why they need you is your opportunity to set yourself apart from all the other applicants. Once you have perfected your cover letter, it is tempting to use the same cover letter for every job you apply to. However, that is not the case. You need to customize each cover letter to match the job you are applying for. You want the employer to know that you are enthusiastic and have drive. You can do this by constantly tweaking your cover letter and using active language.
1. Don't lie
2. Know your reader
3. Know yourself
4. Include all relevant information
5. Exclude all irrelevant information (n.d.)
Sue's rules for a great resume really do work and should be kept in mind for anyone updating their resume. I know it is very tempting to elaborate or even sometimes state a small lie to make yourself seem more appealing, but if you can't live up to what you say you will not get the job anyway. You should also be fully aware of your audience, and update your resume according to what the job description says. If an employer puts a large emphasis on customer service, then you should incorporate all your experiences in the past working with customers. Futhermore, everything on your resume should be relevant. Only add extra things that show your character if you have room, and if you think it would be of value to the employer.
According to Rachel Mork who wrote Five Secrets to Great Cover Letters, there are five important things to remember when trying to sell yourself through a cover letter.
1. Make the first sentence shine
2. Tell them why they need you
3. Highlight your qualifications
4. Tailor your pitch
5. Use active language (2011)
These five secrets are very important and should be considered when writing up your cover letter. Remember, that a cover letter is your first impression so you better make it a good one. That is why your first sentence should be unique to catch the readers attention. Also highlighting your qualifications, and telling them why they need you is your opportunity to set yourself apart from all the other applicants. Once you have perfected your cover letter, it is tempting to use the same cover letter for every job you apply to. However, that is not the case. You need to customize each cover letter to match the job you are applying for. You want the employer to know that you are enthusiastic and have drive. You can do this by constantly tweaking your cover letter and using active language.
Entering the Workforce After College
Graduating College is a very exciting time. Many people feel relieved, and are happy that all their hard work has finally paid off. However, that is not the case. Graduates still need to find jobs and become active employees in the workforce. This website will give readers knowledge of the necessary steps that should be taken after finishing school.
- Update you resume and cover letter
- Apply for jobs
- Prepare for interviews
- Do's and don'ts in the workplace
Furthermore, this website will give detailed information on all four topics and will provide useful links to assist in the job search process.
The purpose of this website is to inform students and graduates of the many possibilities within the working world. This is a time to get excited and prove to yourself that all your hard work really did pay off.
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