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A Career & Resumé Guide
by Keith Finkelstein

All Pages © 1995 by DigiScape

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Table of Contents


About This Career & Resumé Guide

This Career & Resumé Guide was designed with you, the job-hunter, in mind. Whether your hunt is for a career change, a way to do your own thing, more money, or less stress, this material is for you. Whether you are 60 years old and offering more than 40 years experience, or you're 16 and looking for your very first job, this book is for you. It is for all of us who have to earn a living.

The purpose and the contents of what follows is based upon personal learning and experience, professional studies, and application of fundamental principles which always work, always hold true. As a personal and personnel motivation counselor, I have been a catalyst in the lives of many people who have found their success. This material reflects the concepts of people such as Richard N. Bolles, author of What Color is Your Parachute, Arbie M. Dale, author of Change Your Job - Change Your Life, and my personal experience as a professional career strategist and business writer. My goal was to organize and condense this vital material into a quick study and a checklist to help you pilot your way to a fulfilling career.

This guide will help you put together a plan, because to win you must have a plan. To formulate your plan you must identify your skills, decide what you want to do and where you want to do it. After you have a plan, you must go for it. You must maintain good self-esteem, acquire a support system, and network to compete in today's job-hunt arena. Once you have a plan and the personal tools you need to build your career, you will need to market yourself.

Personnel placement experts generally agree that:

The portion of this text directed to your resumé is intended to help you produce your personal presentation . The importance of your resumé as the key to opening doors is greater than ever before, and because your resumé sends subliminal as well as direct messages, you must truly understand its value and place in your plan. This book will help you to create effective advertising for yourself.

This material was not written as a replacement to the works listed in the Suggested Reading chapter of this guide or any of the other great works devoted to personal and professional development. It is not the last word, but it is sound. I guarantee that you will benefit from the fundamental principles outlined in this guide, but you have to apply them to make them work.


Keith Finkelstein, December, 1995

Job-Hunting Tools

Less than 15 percent of available jobs are advertised. Employers have a constant influx of applications which eliminates the need for advertising for new employees. Therefore, the best way to become employed is to find yourself an employer, submit a resumé and follow-up with that employer on a regular basis. In this way, you'll be considered for openings before they are advertised, simultaneously indicating to the employer that you're hungry to work for him/her. This guide is designed to help you develop job leads and initiate an aggressive self-marketing campaign.

Resumé Facts

FACT:
Most employers demand a resumé before accepting any application, no matter what the job or pay!
FACT:
The interviewer hasn't the time to read the hundreds of applications received. So, for the FIRST CUT he/she skims them, giving them about 10 seconds each. To make the first cut your resumé must therefore be SKIMMABLE.
FACT:
For the next step, or SECOND CUT, the employer will give the remaining resumés 3-5 minutes. For this reading, the resumé MUST SELL YOU.
FACT:
The physical appearance of your resumé is IMPORTANT. It is the employer's first impression of you. From the moment your resumé slides out of the envelope, you are sending the prospective employer direct and subliminal messages about who and what you are. You cannot risk losing any edge with a sloppy looking or poorly written resumé.
FACT:
A resumé is a JOB HUNTING TOOL. Just as a master craftsman buys a quality tool and keeps it in shape, you should have a good resumé and keep it up to date.
FACT:
In job hunting, the resumé is your introduction. If the introduction fails, the job is lost. It is therefore imperative that your resumé be the best you can get.

Careful! You May Not Want To Write Your Own Resumé

Any professional writer would quickly nod in agreement that to write about a subject effectively, you have to be objective. You have to see the many facts and figures that describe your experiences for what they really are; a unique pattern of choices and accomplishments that qualify you for a number of jobs; the ones you're thinking about and probably others as well. Another reason that a good resumé is difficult to write yourself is because resumé writing is like any other writing job; to do it properly you must employ all the skills of the professional writer (researching, analyzing, organizing, writing, rewriting, and editing). Let alone abilities in layout, typing, and printing.

But isn't a resumé just a list of where and when you've worked or earned credits?

Your resumé can be just a list. Many are. But in today's frenzied job market, your resumé could have scores or even hundreds of competitors. Somehow, it must stand out in the crowd. The reality is that many apply and yet few are interviewed.

To compete today, your resumé needs to be much more than a list. To do its job of getting you noticed, remembered, and called in for that all important interview, it must not only inform, it must also SELL!

Your resumé, its accompanying cover letter and addenda, are marketing tools you use to sell your abilities and experience to prospective employers. That's why having a professional writer do the job makes such good sense. Your writer is going to be able to see you objectively. Your writer will be uninhibited and creative in presenting your qualifications. A professional writer is expert in the use of language and printed format to accomplish the objective; communicating with clarity and style to the employer you want to reach.

Who Needs A Professionally Written Resumé?

These days, anyone who can use a competitive edge. Students or recent graduates, recently retired or short-time military, anyone unemployed for any reason, or any ambitious person seeking career advancement. Virtually anyone and everyone seeking to market themselves successfully as an employee or as a consultant.

Someone out there is looking just for you! However, people won't hire you if they don't know that you exist. The resumé is only 15 percent of the job-getting process, BUT, if you don't take the initiative and get those resumés out there working for you, NOTHING WILL HAPPEN. The following approach makes more contacts faster and paves the way for good interviews (which makes it all happen).

Addendum Pages: The Other Necessary Self-Marketing Tools

Cover Letters

Whenever possible, present your resumé in person. Often, however, this is not possible; especially when you're trying to relocate to another area or are engaged in a very broad job search. In either case, you are likely to encounter the need for a cover letter (sometimes called a letter of application or letter of introduction). Whatever you call it, it is standard protocol to submit a cover letter with your resumé. One may also be used (in certain cases) in person to help get past the secretary in personnel. It is acceptable to use a generic cover letter for cold mailings (when you want to get on file for future consideration), but it is essential to write a specific cover letter for all known, specific opportunities. Several things must be kept in mind:

The cover letter should contain three main paragraphs, consisting of the following information:

Opening Paragraph

Explain how or from whom you learned about the opportunity and identify the specific position you are applying for.

Summary of Skills

Briefly explain what qualifies you for the position you are seeking. Include a general description of experience, education, and perhaps a personal trait or two. Respond to an advertisement's listing of required skills directly.

Closing Paragraph

Make a direct request for an interview and indicate the enclosure of your resum� and other addenda.

References

Two approaches to submitting references:

1) Up front, along with your resumé
Most resumés have "References available upon request" typed at the bottom. This is perfectly acceptable. However, including a references page along with your resumé submission helps to make you stand out from all the rest; a subliminal push saying to the prospective employer Hey, check me out.
2) As a close to an interview
Very often an employer will request references. Even if he/she doesn't, it makes a great close to an interview; "Thank you for seeing me, Mr/Ms .........., and please feel free to verify my qualifications through my references."

Do not include references on a one-page resumé use that space to talk about you. On multi-page executive-level resumés or curriculum vitae, references should be a separate page. Also, your present employer needn't be contacted until mutual interest has been established with your prospective new employer.

Salary History

This is a necessary evil. When an employer requests a salary history, you must submit one or risk losing an interview because you couldn't follow instructions. Obviously, you don't want this information on your resumé because it may limit your salary potential. In the case of an executive resumé, the salary history should be a separate page when included in the presentation.

NOTE:
An attractive salary history -- one which shows growth throughout your career -- can be a very important and powerful part of your presentation (your salary history is your true track record of success, if it's a good one, take advantage of it.) Also, you have every right to expect a 15-20 percent pay increase in a lateral move (when you're bringing your expertise to another employer), especially if you've accrued seniority and other perks with your present employer. Your salary history will help define who you are.

Personalized Letterhead (Stationery)

There is no better way to maintain a professional image. All your cover letters, follow-ups, etc. should be on the same letterhead for uniform appearance. This puts you a cut above the rest of the applicants.


What To Do With Your Resume Once You've Got It

Spend some time researching which firms have the need for a person with your qualifications and those you would like to work for.

Do Your Homework

Find out the basic facts about employers, large and small. Check the library for business directories to get specific names and addresses. Read annual reports. Talk to people who work at companies which interest you. Keep track of your search. Be methodical. The more you know about a company or organization, the more effective you will be in the interview.

Identify a Key Person

Address your resumé to a live human being by name whenever possible. Make some phone calls. Find out the name of the decision maker, the person who can hire you. Don't be bashful about going to the top. Whenever possible, do not address your resumé to the Personnel Department.

Fine Tune the Cover Letter

Add a specific job title after the company's address and before the salutation (re: Production Manager position, etc.). Write a PS across the bottom (mentioning a mutual friend, reminding them that you've met, saying that you're answering an ad in a particular publication). Anything to personalize it further. Hand written memos, notes, PSs on a formal presentation can be extremely effective -- don't hesitate to add handwritten info on a typed page. For out-of-town employers, mention when you will be in their area for an interview.

Send It Out Flat

Use a 9" X 12" envelope rather than a business sized envelope so your resumé is unfolded, fresh looking.

Dealing with Application Forms

Many employers request you complete one, even if you're submitting a resumé. You will usually fill in the application form at the employer's place of business, so have your data at hand. Complete the application in ink and write legibly. Typing is best if you have access to the equipment.

Job applications often ask questions that may not be answered on your resumé. Fill out the application completely, however, it is usually OK to write "See Resumé" in the blank if your resumé answers the question. Submitting your resumé with the application presents a more distinctive and aggressive picture of you and your abilities.

Applying for Government Positions

Most city, county, state, or Federal agencies require their own application forms be filled out (i.e. the Standard Form 171 for Federal employment). The approach for filling out these applications is completely different than a resumé. Resumés are overviews of who you are; they should be designed to get you an interview. The SF-171 and other government applications are what you actually get hired from. Usually reviewed by a panel, applications of this nature must be highly detailed and completely accurate. Typed applications will get preference over hand written materials, and as always, neatness counts 100 percent. Unless specifically instructed not to, it is usually worth while to submit your resumé along with a government application form.

Follow-up After Submission of Resumé

Don't just sit around waiting. Allow a resumé at least 3-4 days to arrive and be read -- long enough to get there, but not long enough to cool off -- then call. Say who you are and then ask when they want to see you. If they didn't get your resumé, or can't find it, send another.

Another good strategy is to send a follow-up letter and resumé every two weeks until you get a response. Remember, nobody intentionally hires quitters. Persistence pays off. Companies have created positions for people who demonstrate the ability and tenacity to follow-through.

In a highly competitive employment market, the person who achieves the highest level of recognition and communicates a hungry attitude has the best chance for employment. Diligent follow-up is one of the most effective ways to draw attention to yourself as less than 1 in 300 persons take the time to do so. You should use a follow-up letter in these instances:

Post-Interview Thank-You Letters

Each interview opens the possibility for some good results. Your follow-up letter should capitalize on every positive development and compensate for any missed opportunities or negative elements. To write this kind of letter effectively you must make careful notes immediately after your meeting on what happened in the interview.

Make and USE an interview form for this purpose. In particular, note:

Remember, less than 1 in 300 applicants do this, so your letter is certain to get some extra attention. Make good notes after the interview, noting items that seemed of special concern to the employer. Use these notes when you write your follow-up letter; it lets the employer know you were paying attention. Take this opportunity to mention special qualifications you forgot to mention during the interview and to reiterate your interest in the position.

General Principles for Thank-You Letters

Constructing Your Thank-You Letters

(INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH)...

I enjoyed our recent conversation regarding the possibility of my coming to work for you as a (______________). We discussed the (_____________)'s job description and responsibilities. As I mentioned, this job description is very close to the one I had at my last employer and exceeds the minimum job specifications I require in order to be challenged by my work.

RELATE TO NEEDS (2nd PARAGRAPH)...

Another similarity is the territory I would be responsible for. I've spent the last four years calling on commercial accounts in most geographic locations where I've been assigned. I could hit the ground running.

NEW INFORMATION (3rd PARAGRAPH)...

I don't believe I mentioned that (_________) and I know I could employ these same skills for your company (etc., etc., etc.). (Remember: use open-ended statements.)

CALL FOR ACTION (CLOSING PARAGRAPH)...

As you can see, I am really interested and feel well qualified for the (_____________) position. If you require any more information, I will provide it to you. I look forward to talking with you again.

Keep Notes

Make a log book with at least one page for each organization you are targeting for employment. (Paper is cheap, but lack of information can be costly.) The job-getting process can take months (even years with many large orprestige companies). Keeping track of your progress can pay off big time once you do get that all-important interview.

Interview forms should be prepared for each company targeted. Complete a pre-interview to assure that you do your homework prior to the company visit.

The post-interview form is equally important because it gives you a system for effective follow-up. KEEP YOUR INTERVIEW NOTES CURRENT with dates, names, and the nature of your conversations.

Dealing with the Form Letter

Earlier, I briefly discussed the extended period of time it can take to get an interview or job with a large organization. A first response from major organizations usually comes in the form of a generic letter or post card from personnel and reads something like:

We have received your resumé and request for employment and have reviewed you qualifications. At this time we do not have any openings available, but we are impressed with your qualifications. We will keep your resumé on file for six months... (etc. etc. etc.)

At the risk of sounding cynical, I will tell you what you already suspect; the chances of your resumé remaining actively on file with an organization are nil unless YOU KEEP THAT FILE ACTIVE. It is imperative that you follow up. Send a thank-you letter to the person who sent you the form letter. State that you will keep them updated as to any changes in your career status (change of name, address, telephone, job, etc.). Any excuse at all to send an updated resumé (with appropriate cover letter reminding them that you are on file) should be seized upon. Don't forget to notate all updating correspondence in your career-search log.

Remember, persistence pays off. Show a company that you have the tenacity to follow up and follow through and they will keep your file active. Then, when you finally do get that interview, and they open your file and see a series of updated resumés and associated correspondence, YOU WILL BE THE PERSON THEY HAVE BEEN LOOKING FOR!

Quality, Not Quantity

The most effective job search strategy is a quality search, not a quantity search. Sending 25 resumés to 25 companies will usually be a waste of postage and time. Instead, target five or six companies and go for them with both barrels. Following the procedures outlined in this guide will ensure your success as a job-hunter.


The On-Going Job Search

Once you have a good job it is easier to find a great job.

Unemployment carries a stigma which is hard to overcome. Even if you were the top producing sales representative for a Fortune 500 company, but are currently unemployed, a prospective employer is going to wonder what's wrong with you. Therefore your resumé should always read ...To Present in its chronology or employment history section.

On your way to the perfect job you may have to take an interim position. Any position is usually better than no job at present, even if it's on your resumé for only a short period of time. An interim position can also reinforce your responsible nature and/or attitude to get ahead.

Career Insurance

Stay in the job market... Stay in the job market... Stay in the job market...

I cannot stress this enough if you really want to climb that ladder. I call it CAREER INSURANCE! Send out 20-25 resumés every year. Go on five or six good job interviews every year. You're not going to make all the money you can make unless you know what you're worth... You're not going to work in the best possible environment unless you find it... And remember... ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN TO YOUR JOB!!! Companies go out of business, companies get bought and sold with new managers and personnel being brought in to replace the un-needed managers and personnel of the bought-out company, sales territories get cut in half (especially if YOU made too much money last year), personality conflicts can develop (the single biggest reason people leave employment), etc., etc., etc. Just think about some of the horror stories you've heard... Get the picture?

Keep your resumé current and keep it in circulation. You can negotiate a job and turn it down, go back six months later and renegotiate. What you are doing is keeping your feelers out, making contacts, building a network, covering your _ _ _.

To help illustrate one of the advantages of staying in the job market, here's a scenario that anyone can relate to: Bob goes to his employer and asks for a raise...

(Bob)
"Uh, boss, my car is broken down and the rent just went up. I've been with you for over a year now. How about a raise?"
(Boss)
"Gee, sorry, Bob, but I'm paying you all I can afford right now. Maybe after the first of the year."

END OF DISCUSSION!!!

On the other hand, Charlie has stayed in the job market, gone on some interviews, and has RECEIVED SOME JOB OFFERS. Charlie goes to his employer (could be Bob's boss, too) and asks for a raise...

(Charlie)
"Boss, I've had an offer up the street for $5,000 a year more than I'm making here... Let's talk!"

You can bet Charlie's employer is going to sit down and talk. If Charlie's boss doesn't want to come across with more money, better perks, a promotion, etc., Charlie HAS AN OPTION. Is the picture getting clearer now?

Reducing Lead Time

As a rule of thumb it takes one month per ten-thousand dollars of income to secure a suitable job. If you wish to earn $30,000 a year, it will take three months... $50,000 a year, five months, etc. By keeping your resumé circulating you reduce this lead time substantially.

Your Mindset

With a current position on your resumé, and your resumé in constant circulation, your mindset should be that you're not looking for a job; rather, you are exploring career opportunities. This mindset, or attitude, will greatly increase your self-confidence -- a factor which will directly improve your performance in the interview, on the job, and in your personal life as well.

The Law of Supply and Demand

The Law of Supply and Demand dictates that when something (or someone) is in demand, it is worth more than something that is not in demand. By staying in the job market -- going on interviews, getting job offers, etc. -- you increase the demand for YOU. When you are in demand YOU ARE WORTH MORE! Yes, it's that simple.


Researching Companies & Organizations

The Informational Interview

An informational interview is a good way to explore possible careers. First identify a field you would like to know more about. Then look through the yellow pages or classified ads, or think of an office whose business you are familiar with. Call and:

  1. Identify yourself

  2. Say that you are a student in a career planning course and would like to speak to someone in reference to this particular occupation.

  3. Could he/she spare 15 minutes for a few questions?

Hints:


Tip:
Do take your resumé with you. Anything can happen!

Questions You Should Ask

General Occupational/Job Description

Personal Factors

Preparation

Opportunities


Interviewing Skills

Now that your resumé (15 percent of the job-getting process) has done its thing, you face the next 35 percent of the process, the interview, where you (the remaining 50 percent of the process) put it all on the line. This section deals with the interview and is designed to help you not only be ready to interview, but to actually be in control of the interview. There are only so many questions, both direct and abstract, that can be asked about you and your experience. Work on the material presented here and you will consistently interview well. Remember, you don't flunk an interview by failing to answer any ONE question, you fail an interview by being grossly UNPREPARED.

Attitudes and Behaviors

There are many things an employer looks for in an employee. The following is a list of these things. In the course of an interview it may be wise to emphasize those things that apply to you. You might be able to casually drop them in the interview if the opportunity arises, if not, you can use some of these in your concluding remarks.

Employers Favor An Employee Who...

Preparing for the Interview

During the Interview

Questions You Will Probably Be Asked

The purpose of the following list of questions is not to provide you with pat answers (there are none), but to acquaint you with the usual and off-the-wall inquiries that you will receive in an interview. Only you know the answers to questions directly related to your experience and background; once again, be honest. As for the off-the-wall questions; once you become familiar with these, you won't be taken by surprise. Remember, your poise and how clearly you answer an abstract question may be used by the interviewer to determine how well you stand up in possible panic situations on the job.

Some Questions You Should Ask

The following questions are a sample of what you have every right to ask, depending upon the type of position you are applying for. Remember, you are interviewing the company as much as they are interviewing you. But BE GENTLE!

If you are applying to a large company, it is likely that your interview will take place in a personnel office by someone who may only have a cursory knowledge of your job skills. As early as possible in the interview, ask to meet the person who would be supervising you or taking advantage of your skills, and ask to see the environment you would be working in.

An Interview Check-List


Resumé Writing

As I stated in my introduction, this text is designed to help you put together your resumés in collaboration with a professional writer. None- the-less, I'm certain that many people are compelled to write and produce their own curriculum vita. The material in this and the following section should be helpful to you either way you decide to go; it represents the latest thinking in resumé science and art. Review Some Facts About The Resume in the first chapter -- and keep this additional fact in mind...

Your resumé is not a piece of paper about you.

Your resumé is you on paper.

Format and Style

In this text, format means the physical layout and appearance of the product (i.e., margin and tab settings, line spacing, etc.). Style refers to content related matters such as chronological vs. functional, and grammar, punctuation and the use of personal pronouns, buzz words, etc.

Choosing a format is, for the most part, a matter of personal preference. My primary suggestion is to keep a clean look by using a minimum of tab settings. Too many different indentations can interrupt eye-flow, slowing down the scanning process.

The style of your resumé, however, is a more complicated matter. Since the resumé is a reflection of an individual, and individuals vary endlessly, there is no best style. Any given individual may also find advantages in different styles based upon the scope of the job search and how many different career objectives he or she is pursuing.

Resumés on the Internet

The increasing use of resumé data bases complicates the issue of style even further. More and more prospective employers are surfing the net for current resumés, in virtually all career fields, as a means of reducing their human resource costs while at the same time improving their access to potential employees.

Buzz Words, Job Related Summary Statements, Miscellaneous Ideas

The material provided in this section is taken from Summaries of Qualifications I have used over the years that have produced excellent results for my clients. Feel free to use these with whatever changes you need to make to suit your purpose. It should help you make your resumé and career related correspondence more dynamic.

Summaries Of Qualifications / Synopsis Statements

Business Administration and Management

Administration/Management
Screening, hiring, training, and disciplining employees... Budget administration, monitoring expenditures, inventory control, and purchasing equipment and supplies... Coordinating office functions... Preparing/reviewing documents: contracts, proposals, bids, etc... Implementing or establishing policies and procedures... Maintaining pertinent records... Assessing needs and establishing work priorities... Assuring compliance with company regulations and established practices...
Administration
Able to evaluate, initiate, and implement policies and procedures... Screen, hire, train, and discipline employees and evaluate performance... Knowledgeable in OSHA, EEOC, and other agencies/regulations... Can prepare or review documents: contracts, proposals, bids, etc... Ensure compliance with company policy and established practices...
Management
Operate well in wide span of control - can direct a variety of line/staff managers and personnel... Monitor expenditures and maintain pertinent records... Assess needs and establish work priorities... Train and schedule personnel... Control inventory, purchase equipment and supplies... Assure compliance with regulations...
Office Management
Establishing policies and procedures for office staff and record-keeping... Assessing needs and establishing work priorities... Purchasing equipment and supplies... Hiring, training, and supervision...
Purchasing
Assessing needs and setting up purchasing systems and procedures... Conducting market surveys to determine best sources of supply... Establishing good communication lines with vendors... Soliciting bids and negotiating contracts... Follow-up on deliveries... Negotiating best possible terms for quality merchandise...
Financial Management
Strategic planning and budgeting... Mergers and acquisitions... Micro-macro economics... Capital formation and SEC reporting... Banking relations and cash management... Management information systems... Operational/financial auditing...
Accounting
Knowledgeable in full range of accounting functions including: international accounting; consolidations; analyses and reconciliations; taxes; payroll; customer billing; vendor payables; cash disbursements; internal control of cash transactions; multi-corporation books; fixed assets depreciation scheduling; and converting manual systems to computer...
Credit & Collections
Extensive background in running credit checks on businesses and individuals... Credit authorizations... Assertive collection of accounts/leases due... Collection of accounts past-due... Making recommendations for assignment of collections... Updating client/leasee records...
Contracts Administration
Soliciting bids, conducting pre-bid conferences, and opening, reviewing and awarding bids... Pre-work conferences and briefings... Monitoring contract progress... Determining work completed for pay or job-cost accounting... Ensuring compliance with labor laws, pricing proprieties, plans and specifications...
Quality Assurance
Performing and directing all quality assurance activities associated with products manufacturing... Maintaining close working relationships with QA representatives, and collecting/disseminating appropriate daily data, forms, shift log sheets, etc... Compiling quality assurance data for reports, charts, records, and/or presentations, and maintaining computerized and hard-copy filing system... Use of word processors to write a variety of correspondence: letters, endorsements, memoranda, reports and tabular materials... Acting as timekeeper, and processing/validating time and attendance records... Requisitioning supplies, publications, reproduction services, and office equipment...
EEO Compliance
Investigate charges of discriminatory employment practices (filed under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended by The Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1972)... Analyze complaints and determine the direction of investigation... Develop outlines or plans of inquiry to obtain specific facts... Interview charging party(ies) and prepare affidavits recounting charges... Interview respondents and apprise them of the charges against them... Meet with company officials, employee groups, and labor union officers to gather additional evidence and data... Visit facilities to review personnel records, policies, and practices, and to observe environments in which alleged discriminatory acts occurred... Knowledgeable in employment procedures, labor laws, agency rules, regulations, established guidelines, and precedent cases... Have developed and maintained a productive relationship with State and local government, unions, industry, trade, business, and civic officials... Strong public speaker to groups and organizations, providing information concerning the role of EEOC...

Food & Beverage, Hospitality, Food Service Management

Hotel Services/Sales
Introducing and managing programs designed to increase ADR and OR... Assessing needs of guests... Developing new convention/party business... Assuring guest satisfaction...
Restaurant/Food & Beverage Operations
Scheduling and coordinating functions for restaurants including assessing needs in relation to projected volumes... Purchasing foods, liquor and beverages... Developing budgets and negotiating contracts... Setting up and maintaining financial controls... Coordinating service to ensure quality and maximum coverage... Establishing and ensuring conformance with cleanliness, security, quality, and other standards and procedures...
Restaurant/Food & Beverage Personnel
Developing methods for improving quality of service through selection of personnel and standardization of training procedures... Training programs for all levels through managers... Assessing organizational needs in terms of cost-efficiency and effective operations... Planning and implementing personnel procedures for optimum utilization of facilities and staff...
Restaurant/Food & Beverage Public Relations/Marketing
Planning and implementing methods for creating positive public image... Generating business by direct contact and personal rapport with organizations and individuals... Utilizing communications skills in motivating people to achieve objectives... Heavy involvement in planning methods for satisfying guests and customers including services such as conventions, banquets, and large dinner parties... Solving customer problems and ensuring good relations...
Food & Beverage Management
Offering extensive, highly successful experience in the food and beverage service industry, reinforced by keen administrative, organizational, and detail/follow through competencies... Knowledgeable in placement of displays and overall shelf appearance for maximum appeal and exposure... Determining placement of stock in relation to traffic... Storage of perishables... Monitoring balance between stock availability and need... Planning special promotions and sales... Inventory management... Organizing work schedules... Screening, hiring, and training personnel... Able to learn new styles of cooking and competent in creating and maintaining clean, healthy work environment... Implementing new menus and recipes... Assuring customer satisfaction...

Corporate Communications/Public Relations

Corporate Communications
Skilled at conducting public affairs programs, community relations programs, and internal/external information programs... Broadcast and print media relations... Capable of effectively researching, preparing, and disseminating information to the public to create a positive image... Strong public speaker...
Editing/Writing
Expert in production of all types of written materials and publications... Directing/supervising research and reporting staff... Editing reading-grade-level to suit target audience... Tactful liaison with authors/writers in explaining and justifying major language or organizational changes in their material... Preparation of camera-ready copy-art... Training junior editors/writers on style, formats, etc...

Marketing/Sales

Sales
Assessing needs of customer... Planning effective demonstrations for highlighting advantages of a particular product or service... Increasing sales with established customers through introduction of new product lines... Developing new business... Follow-up on product delivery and use... Assuring customer satisfaction... Closing...
Sales Management
Analyzing annual needs, creating forecasts, setting quotas and planning budgets... Recruiting, hiring, and training new sales personnel... Knowledgeable in OSHA, EEOC, and other agencies/regulations... Can prepare or review documents: contracts, proposals, bids, etc... Implementing motivational programs and counseling sales personnel in areas of weakness... Planning promotional campaigns... Monitoring expense accounts... Assuring conformance of all activities with company policies and established practices...
Technical Sales
Knowledgeable and experienced in sales of electronic and mechanical equipment, components, and systems... Training customers and providing customer support...
Marketing
Conducting analyses of potential areas for new development... Monitoring competition to assure appropriate pricing... Planning advertising promotions... Creating new packaging designs... Planning new images and selecting appropriate media for marketing... Research... Data collection...
Retail Management
Determining needs and establishing schedule priorities... Inventory control... Security monitoring... Sales record-keeping... Stock allocation... Fixturization... Planning budgets... Screening, hiring, training, and discipline of employees... Ensuring conformance of all activities with company policies and established practices... Assuring customer satisfaction...
Merchandising
Maintaining appropriate balance between display stock and inventory... Planning attractive displays... Determining placement of products in relation to traffic...
Travel Agent
Promoting sales of tours, cruises, travel packages, etc.... Developing packages and promotional campaigns... Public presentations to community groups and companies... Mailouts... Customer relations... Office management and administration... Maintaining pertinent records... Billing... Planning travel itineraries for individuals or large groups... Implementing procedures for international transportation of equipment and live animals... Negotiating lodging and transportation arrangements... Helping clients with questions on passports and entry/exit visas...
Importing Operations
Thorough knowledge of import regulations... Conducting business via Telex and International Letters of Credit... International Rates of Exchange... Import finance and law... Exceptional skills in buying/trading goods and services at all levels of industry from individual artisans to major manufacturers... Good communication skills with people of diverse backgrounds and cultures... Experienced traveler world wide and willing to travel as required...
Product Development/Marketing
Developing new designs according to market demand... Coordinating specifications with domestic and overseas manufacturers... Creating necessary art work and fact sheets to aid in product sales...
Institutional Trading
Trading mortgage back securities (FNMA, FHLMC, GNMA), Treasuries, Municipals, Euro Dollars, and CD's to savings and loans, banks, pension funds, and life insurance companies... Obtaining new accounts through cold calling... Maintaining a national account base...
Institutional Mortgage Trading
Selling mortgage back securities, residential and commercial loans in the secondary market... Developing national account base including banks, savings and loans, pension funds, and life insurance companies... Attending National Conferences to maintain good public relations with accounts and to recruit new accounts...

Personnel/Human Resources Development/Counseling

Instructor/Trainer
Planning and conducting classroom or in-service training programs... Writing performance objectives... Pre/post testing of personnel... Assessing skill levels... Selecting prepared materials and planning methods for evaluation in relation to general training objectives... Interfacing with technical staff to create effective training curricula...
Counseling
Assessing individual's needs and offering options for positive behavior and individual growth... Utilizing techniques including role playing, gestalt, transactional analysis, and behavior modification... Can provide crisis intervention, referral services, and follow-up... Capable of administering and/or teaching courses ranging from remedial to complex technical curricula...

Science/Technology/Medicine

Production Control
Assessing needs and planning schedules... Setting up machines and equipment... Analyzing production flow to determine most effective setup and utilization of personnel and materials... Monitoring production to assure quality standards of final product... Ensuring conformance to safety procedures...
Industrial Engineering
Excellent experience in managing technicians and engineers in industrial, commercial, and institutional applications including computers, electronics, communications equipments and plant management.... Contract administration, bid estimating and preparation... Job Cost accounting... life cycle cost and energy use analysis... Technical service for sales support... Strong problem solving and troubleshooting skills...
Diet Therapy
Experienced in all aspects of institutional/medical food service, diet planning, and nutritional medicine... Establishing production controls and standards concerning quantity and quality of foods... Assuring sanitation conditions... Interfacing with medical staff to ensure proper menus and therapeutic diets... Dietary rounds to patients to determine food preferences and satisfaction... Conducting initial consultations and follow-up with patients and recording chart data...
Computer Sciences
Analyzing, selecting, or designing high-level programs for business and technology... Writing user manuals in simple, easy to understand language... Designing and setting up systems hardware based upon long term growth goals... PC networking and mainframe interfacing... Selecting and purchasing equipment... Programming Quality Assurance... Using computers for data management, analysis, forecasting, and communications... Supervising and training personnel in use of computers and peripheral equipment...
Pharmacy Specialist
Qualified to compound, label, and dispense prescription and non-prescription drugs... Interpreting prescriptions for accuracy, and to determine content and any possible incompatibility... Safeguarding chemicals, biologicals, and controlled substances and ensuring their proper storage... Mixing intravenous admixture solutions... Filling unit dose medication orders... Performing general pharmacy tasks, using and maintaining pharmacy equipment, and stocking/rotating supplies...
Oral Surgery Technician
IV Certified... Skilled in the latest Osteotomy and Maxillofacial Surgery room techniques... Ability to explain complicated pre-operative and postoperative instructions to patients at a level of easy understanding...
General Dentistry Technician
Assisting in Four-Handed dentistry techniques... Radiographic Spectroline/X-Rays... Biopsies, extractions, fillings, prophylaxis, etc... Preventive dentistry counseling to increase patient awareness of proper oral hygiene...
Medical Office Administration
Using computers for data management... Maintaining files and records... Setting appointments... Purchasing equipment and supplies... Good patient contact/relations manners...
Respiratory Therapy Director
Responding to all codes and providing patient care... In-service trainer, administrator, and supervisor... Quality Control/Quality Assurance - inspecting all work performed by staff, reviewing or developing procedure manuals and practices, writing and evaluating staff performance reviews... Can provide valuable budgetary input, order equipment and supplies, and control inventory... Will nurture team spirit and maintain a highly professional working environment...
Medical/Surgical Nursing
Managing the care of patients on Medical/Surgical floor... Maintaining, monitoring, and implementing safe blood transfusions, IV therapy; dressing changes; medications by mouth, IV, IM; insulin injections... Assessing patients' status, monitoring for changes in condition and contacting the physician... Transcribing M.D.'s orders and charting on all patients... Accepting responsibility for additional patients when necessary.... Implementing and monitoring Heparin, TPN, and chemotherapy pumps... Assisting at Code 30's and providing post-mortum care...

Trades/Clerical

Administrative Assistance
Planning travel itineraries, arranging lodging for meetings/conventions... Setting up and managing daily schedules, appointments, etc... Balancing checkbooks, maintaining paperwork and the general ambience of executive offices in a professional and productive fashion...
Bookkeeping
Knowledgeable in full range of bookkeeping functions including: P & L and balance sheets; AR/AP; cash disbursements; coding; posting and checking invoices, purchase and sales ledgers, general ledger; journal entries for input into computer; updating journals; preparation of management fees; bank reconciliations; internal control of cash transactions; multi-corporation books; and converting manual systems to computer...
Clerical Skills
Word-processing and typewriting... Transcriptions... Excellent telephone techniques and client contact skills... Strong writing skills... Researching... Use and maintenance of all modern automated office equipment...
Quality Control/Quality Assurance
Inspecting all work performed in shop or in the field for compliance with plans and specifications... Analyzing processes and establishing best inspection procedures... Fully knowledgeable in industry standards, applicable MIL-Specs, and use of precision measuring instruments, gauges, and tests equipment... Documenting and reporting inspection processes as per required procedures... Maintaining appropriate files and records of inspections...
Inventory/Warehouse Operations
Experience in large scale warehousing, storage, and distribution operations... Planning and managing materials handling systems... Setting up and maintaining files for a wide variety of items... Expert in the handling and storage requirements of perishables, explosives, and caustic materials... Ensuring safety and security... Performing and managing inventory audits and accounting procedures...
Maintenance Management
Troubleshooting equipment, building, and grounds... Inspecting for wear-and-tear, corrosion, etc... Quality Control and safety inspections... Negotiating contracts, and scheduling and supervising repairs, replacements, and renovations... Good rapport with government and building officials to expedite permits, licenses, etc... In depth knowledge of HVAC, electronic controls, electrical and mechanical systems...
Construction Engineering
Extensive experience in commercial construction... Knowledgeable in plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and troubleshooting and assessing these building components...
Heavy Equipment
Trained and skilled in the safe operation of conventional and hydraulic cranes, loaders, dozers, graders, backhoes, trenchers, heavy trucks, and an assortment of special purpose construction equipment...
Erector
Experienced in erecting steel towers, antennas, radar and communications structures, underground conduits, aerial and buried cable systems, and conventional construction methods... Highly skilled with all types of hand and power tools including gauges and test equipment associated with guy wire rigging and tension on aerial structures... Able to maintain vehicles, equipment and tools in a neat and organized manner... Competent "monkey man" and willing to perform high-climbing work... Reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics, and specifications...
Construction Related Skills
Reading and interpreting plans and specifications... Setting up and using instrument levels, theodolites, and construction lasers... Planning and laying out jobs, supervising crews on site... Ensuring compliance with plans, specifications, OSHA and safety requirements, and established good practice...
Painter
Experienced in all aspects of painting for residential, commercial, and industrial applications... Using and maintaining professional tools and equipment such as airless applicators... Interpreting plans and specifications including MIL-Specs, and providing Quality Assurance... Experienced in all categories of surface preparation including sandblasting, sanding, and chemical treatments... Background includes custom mixing and selection of coatings for varied environmental requirements...
Aircraft Mechanic
Carrying out comprehensive repairs and maintenance, and performing routine maintenance, inspection, removal, and installation of all components... Experienced with airframe and control surfaces, power plants, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, electrical systems, fuel systems and fuel bladders, wheels, brakes, and landing gear, and flight controls... Qualified in all ground operations including flagging aircraft, fueling (including pressurized fuel tanks), servicing liquid oxygen, starting aircraft with auxiliary power units... Setting up and maintaining technical libraries... Ensuring compliance with safety and established operating procedures...
Electronics Technician
Offering training and experience in troubleshooting and repair of advanced electronic equipment to the component level... Reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics, and specifications... Utilization of digital testing and calibration equipment... Setting up shops, benches, and mobile repair facilities... Interfacing with design engineers and other technical staff on complex systems... Setting up and maintaining technical libraries and parts departments... Providing technical support to sales staff and after-sale support to customers...
Installer
Installing, modifying, removing, or relocating electronics and fiber-optic equipment, cables and associated racks, conduits and terminals... Pre-installation material inventories... Fabricating, assembling, connecting wired and fiber-optic components and sub-assemblies in accordance with standard installation practices... Serviceability checks... Commissioning equipment, tuning, adjusting and aligning to obtain maximum operating efficiency... Maintaining shop and mobile test equipment, tools, and safety devices in proper working condition...

Personal Data/Personal Attributes

Personal Strengths
Neat, professional appearance and demeanor... Highly creative and adaptable to a variety of people and situations... Work independently and meet deadlines... Able to nurture and direct team spirit and effort... Strong organizational, planning, interpersonal, and communications skills... Pay attention to details, yet can follow-through to goal... Highly motivated, reliable, confident, and committed to professional standards of performance...
Special Strengths
Strong communication skills in inter-relating with people -- subordinates, superiors, and customers alike... Ability to manage a great variety of tasks and responsibilities simultaneously and effectively; to motivate personnel to perform at top efficiency levels; to assess needs and establish work priorities; and to exercise prudent judgment in decision-making areas... Career reflects hard work, reliability, competence, and confidence underscored by personal commitment and performance...

Suggested Reading For Job-Seekers/Career Changers

WHAT COLOR IS YOUR PARACHUTE?
Richard N. Bolles
THREE BOXES OF LIFE - AND HOW TO GET OUT OF THEM
Richard N. Bolles
QUICK JOB-HUNTING MAP
Richard N. Bolles
MAKING VOCATIONAL CHOICES: A THEORY OF CAREERS
John L. Holland
WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE WITH MY LIFE?
John Crystal and Richard N. Bolles
IF YOU DON'T KNOW WHERE YOU'RE GOING, YOU'LL PROBABLY END UP SOMEWHERE ELSE
D.P. Campbell
TRANSITIONS - MAKING SENSE OF LIFE'S CHANGES
William Bridges
SEASONS OF A MAN'S LIFE
Daniel Levinson
ADULTHOOD
Erik H. Erikson
PASSAGES
Gail Sheehy
PATHFINDERS
Gail Sheehy
WHO'S HIRING WHO
Richard Lathrop
CHANGE YOUR JOB - CHANGE YOUR LIFE
Arbie M. Dale
DICTIONARY OF OCCUPATIONAL TITLES
U.S. Department of Labor
OCCUPATIONAL OUTLOOK HANDBOOK
U.S. Department of Labor
PULLING YOUR OWN STRINGS
Dr. Wayne Dyer
MOVING UP
Eli Djeddah


Keith Finkelstein, 12/26/95


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