Career Advising by Barbara Larsen to Reflect You

Career and Job Search Guidance

Barb Larsen has held a variety of positions over the years including marketing, sales, customer service, training and development, and career advisor. She is well equipped to assist YOU in your career path, whether it be figuring out what you really want to do, advice in changing careers, or tips in finding employment if you’ve lost your job. Barb has experienced a job loss and is well prepared to assist others in finding that “right” career. Barb's experience includes speaking to over 3,000 university students and giving over 95 career-related presentations annually.

Resume and Cover Letter Assistance

Remember, the “resume” gets you the job interview, the “interview” gets you the job. Your resume and cover letter must shine! Barb has advised hundreds of individuals in resume and cover letter writing. Your resume needs to:

  • Present a positive image
  • Describe qualifications and experience
  • Provide framework for an interview
  • Leave employer with a lasting impression
  • Reflect YOU!

A resume should outline your experience, educational background, volunteer/community activities, accomplishments, skills, and contact information.

A cover letter should always accompany your job application. Your cover letter has the opportunity to “sell yourself” while the resume more purposefully “describes” your skills, experience, etc. Cover letters should:

  • Reveal purpose and interest in the application. Identify the position and source.
  • Outline your strongest qualifications that match the position requirements. This is called “customizing” your letter to the job you are applying for. Provide evidence of related experience and accomplishments.
  • Describe an action plan, request an interview, or follow up possibilities.
  • Summarize your qualifications and express appreciation for their consideration.
  • Answer two “why” questions:
    • “Why” do you want to work there?
    • “Why” should they hire you?

Interview Preparation

This boils down to a few points:
  • Research. What do you know about the organization? Do your homework!
  • Prepare. Practice practice practice! Prepare strong answers for interview questions, including answers to “behavior-based” questions. They will ask these!
  • Professional dress. Have you heard this one, “you never get another chance to make a 1st impression!”
  • Follow up. Prepare thank you’s, follow up with an agreed upon schedule, etc.

Networking!

Have you heard that 80% of the jobs come from networking? Don’t ignore this factor. Job searching is really about networking, contacting people you know, and those you don’t know. Many jobs aren’t ever advertised. Learn the skill of networking! Barb can give you suggestions on this, and the “clues” of proper networking. It’s all about relationships!