Before applying for a job or internship, you must develop a concise list of your qualifications in a resume/CV and write a compelling introduction to your professional strengths in a tailored cover letter. Browse the below resources to get started, or take a look at our example resumes or CVs in our resume database for design inspiration.
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) & Resumes:
An applicant tracking system (ATS) is the software that you upload your resume and cover letter to when applying for positions. It is how recruiters manage the hiring process. Check out this video to see what happens when you apply for a job:
Below are some tools that can assist you in making sure your documents are ATS friendly:
JobScan.Co: Assists in optimizing your documents and gives job seekers an instant analysis of how well their documents are tailored to a particular position and how it can be made even better.
PannaScore: Analyzes your documents using algorithms from a job posting to provide a relevance score that evaluates your documents.
An Inside Look at iCIMS ATS Job Applications
For more information on ATS, click here
A professional reference is a recommendation from a person who can vouch for your qualifications for a job. References can include;
The key is picking references who have observed you acting in a productive capacity where you displayed your skills and credentials for employment.
A Reference Page Should: (an example is provided here)
All CV's, cover letters, and resumes uploaded in CORE are reviewed by The Exchange to give feedback on content, formatting, and employer perspective. Please see the steps below detailing how to upload a document for review.
*Not sure where to start? Take a look at the Resource Library for recommended formatting examples
Marian University students have a wealth of resources to hone their interviewing skills. First, you may review the below resources for basic interview preparation. Next, check out Hiration, our virtual interview training platform:
Register with your Marian University account and get started interviewing today. Hiration allows students to browse through pre-loaded interview questions, conducting and reviewing their own web interviews.
1. Schedule a Mock Interview
Schedule an appointment with The Exchange for a mock interview in CORE.
2. Research the Organization
Thoroughly research the organization you're interviewing with and look up your interviewer(s) on LinkedIn.
3. Select an Outfit
Select professional attire for the interview (unless otherwise instructed by your interviewer). Visit our Dress to Impress Closet to take a look at our free, gently used closet of professional clothing.
4. Prepare the Proper Documents
Have a padfolio with copies of your resume and notes to utilize during the interview.
5. Bring Questions
Bring a list of questions for your interview team, about the job requirements, and workplace experience.
6. Arrive Early
Leave extra early and plan to walk in 15 minutes before the interview.
Some employers are unable to meet with applicants in person due to distance or time constraints. Therefore, they call the applicant and have an interview with them over the phone.
Here are some tips on how to make the best of your phone interview:
1. Know When to Take the Call
Sometimes the call comes out of the blue, so if there's a number calling that you're unfamiliar with and you're in the middle of something, don't answer. If it's the interviewer, they will leave a voicemail and you can call back at a more appropriate time.
2. Focus on your Language and Voice
Remember, they can't see your physical engagement, but they can hear it in your voice if you are smiling and confident. Also, it's easy to ramble a little on the phone, so take a deep breath and relax.
3. Be in a Quiet Environment
You don't want background noise or people talking & kids screaming. One great place to set up for a phone interview is in The Exchange. You can reserve a room in our space to ensure a quiet environment.
4. Have the Necessary Information Ready
You do not want to keep the interviewer waiting while fumbling around looking for something. This also shows the interviewer that you're prepared and organized.
5. Focus
Put away any distractions. Turn off any extra electronics, silence distracting app notifications, and place any unnecessary items out of sight,
Have Suitable Surroundings
Dress the Part
Check your Video and Microphone
Have a Back-up Plan
Like phone interviews, some employers use Zoom/Webex/Google Meet interviews as opposed to in-person interviews for the reason of convenience. Luckily, unlike phone interviews, the employer is able to see you. This can work to your advantage, but be sure to prepare yourself and your surroundings.
Etiquette is often defined as a code of “polite conduct and proper behavior”. It refers to the rules that indicate the “proper and polite way to behave” so as to avoid offending or annoying other people.
In a job interview, you will basically be selling yourself. By practicing proper job interview etiquette, you will have greater chances of convincing the interviewer to “buy” you and what you have to offer.
10 Ways to Practice Proper Interview Etiquette:
Show up on time… not late, and not too early (10-15 minutes)
Before entering the room, turn your cell phone off
Make eye contact and SMILE
Be the one to greet first
Let the interviewer finish speaking before you answer questions
Pay attention, and take notes
Bring letters of references, copies of resumes, and samples of work, just in case
Use proper titles when addressing the interviewer
Maintain good posture
Thank the interviewers for their time
Employers are not allowed to ask about aspects of your life/identity that are protected by law: race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. (Source: EEOC)
For additional reading, check out:
Get Involved:
Visit myMU
