The Complete Job Search Handbook

• Skills Assessment
• Resume Writing
• Job Searching Networking
• Interviewing
• Salary Negotiation

Congratulations on making the choice to attend Purdue University North Central. Whether you are just starting your academic career, are close to finishing your degree, or have already graduated, the PNC Office of Career Development is here to help you prepare to find employment in your chosen field.

The Office of Career Development houses both part- and full-time job openings from hundreds of local employers. Whether you are looking for a job to earn money while going to school, seeking an internship to get some real world experience relating to your major, or needing an entry-level position to launch your new career, be sure to register in the on-line job posting and resume referral system using the instructions on page 4 of this booklet.

In addition to job postings and resume referral services, the Office of Career Development also houses current information about every facet of job searching. In addition, this Job Search Handbook has been prepared to help you through the major steps in the job search process – skill assessment, resume writing, networking, and interviewing.

No amount of general information, however, can match the benefits of one-on-one assistance. After you have read through this material, please feel free to make an appointment to work with the staff individually.

Table of Contents

Office of Career Development Services
Instructions for Registering with CCN
Four Year Plan for Career Planning and Job Search

Resume Writing
Scannable Resumes
References
List of Action Verbs
List of Adjectives/Adverbs
Resume Examples
Reference Sheet Example
Cover Letters
General Outline for a Cover Letter
Cover Letter Example
Job Searching
Two Types of Job Markets
Networking
Prospecting
Informational Interviewing
Prospecting/Broadcasting Letter Examples
Interviewing
Preparing an Interview Portfolio
Typically Asked Interview Questions
Questions You May Want to Ask an Interviewer
Salary Questions

PURDUE UNIVERSITY NORTH CENTRAL

Job Listings and Resume Referral The Office of Career Development posts on its on-line system job openings for many different career fields. Students and alumni can register to view job postings and upload their resume to the system to respond via e-mail to employers. Go to www·collegecentral·com/pnc to get started.

Internship Program

If you are a current student, we can provide you with the opportunity to participate in our Internship Program which allows students to earn academic credit while working for an area business in a position within their chosen field.

Interviewing at the West Lafayette Campus

In your last year of classes, you can register with the Office of Career Development to be eligible for interviewing with the hundreds of companies that interview at the West Lafayette campus.

Pro-Partners Mentoring Program

This unique program pairs PNC students preparing to graduate with experience professionals working in their chosen career field for the purpose of developing a professional mentoring relationship. The mentor-protege pairs agree to work together over the course of one academic year, participating in a variety of mentoring activities.

Personalized Assistance

Individualized help with resume and letter writing, interviewing, job searching skills, or any other area of concern is available by appointment.

DISCOVER Career Exploration Program

This free on-line skill and interest inventory is a valuable tool in guiding you to choose the major and occupation best suited for you. Even if you have already chosen a major and occupation, you won’t want to miss the vast amount of information readily available to you. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, contact the Dean of Students Office.

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