Resume Building and Job Searching

Class

from How Libraries Stack Up: 2010

After this class, you will be able to:

Find an online resume builder and create an online resume.

Search for jobs using online job search tools.

Use these tools independently when you leave this session.

Find resources to help job hunters located in your neighborhoods.

Have you checked out our new Especially for Job

Searchers link?!?

Link is located on the Chicago Public Library website’s home page.

Especially for Job Searchers Learn about different careers.

Take self assessment tests, aptitude tests, and practice exams.

Learn about volunteer opportunities. Find links to various job listings posted on

websites. Learn how to research employers and get tips on

job interviews. Get tips on writing resumes and cover letters.

Before you begin your search make sure you have...

An email address A list of your past work experience

(Try to limit it to the past ten years) A mock paper resume

Time and patience

Writing a Resume at CPL

Option 1: Microsoft Word

Pluses• Easiest way to format a

resume• Clean copies for printing• Total Control

  Minuses

• Not available at the branches

• Must have some idea how to format a resume

Option 2: Google Docs and ZohoWriter

Pluses• Can be used from any computer

with the Internet. • Counter-intuitively easy • Different file types• Can use for cover letters

Minuses• Must have an email address• Must know how to write a resume• Formatting can be tricky• Unable to print without sending it to

you email account.

docs.google.com

zohowriter.com

Option 3: The Online Resume Builder

Pluses• Available anywhere with Internet

access • Guidance on how to write a resume• Automatically formats resumes• Downloadable in different file formats

 Minuses

• Must have an email address• Formatting options are limited• Some are pay sites

emurse.com, CareerCoach.com, Pay sites

eMurse.com

Create, share, and store your resume online for free. Use the resume builder and have a new resume in minutes.

Requires you to register for free. You need an email address to register

You can save it, download it, or print it right from the website.

Save up to 10 resumes!

Other Resume Building Websites

Illinois workNet

What Illinois Work Net has to offer Find and prepare for jobs, connect to training,

services, and more... Learn about career pathways, trends, jobs in

growing Illinois industries and more... Find recruitment, training, development

resources and more... Adults and youth to go from disability benefits

or school, to work and more... Website sponsored by the Illinois government

(no advertising on it)

Instructional Videos

http://www.illinoisworknet.com/vos_portal/residents/en/Education/Videos/#Education

http://www.illinoisworknet.com/vos_portal/residents/en/Jobs/videos

Illinois workNet Centers

Find a location where staff are able to assist you in finding resources for your job search, career preparation, and work support such as financial aid, child care and much more. This is a free service for Illinois residents.

Questions Illinois workNet can help answer

Where can I file for unemployment?

Is there a computer lab I can use in my neighborhood?

I just got laid off.  What do I do now?

Where can I find free GED classes?

Two Internet Job Search Strategies

One: Find Job Postings Online

craigslist

www.indeed.com

Direct link from the Especially for Job Searchers Topic Page

Characteristics of Indeed

Simple Google-like search interface

Jobs are pulled from a wide variety of sources

Searches are easy to refine by date and origin of posting

Only service offered is job leads

Downside to Using Job Postings Websites False Advertising Must Register to most sites before applying Scams on Craigslist Outdated Posts Spend hours on hours looking at Posts

Two: Find Contact Info for Local Businesses Online

Can approach employers directly

  Some jobs are never advertised

online 

 Recommended in What Color is Your Parachute

Reference USA Custom Business Search

http://www.referenceusa.com/Static/VideoTutorials

Find a businesses in your neighborhood! Get contact information such as

Phone Number Email Business History Employment History Managerial Information

Free to use at the Chicago Public Library!

Social Network Websites

Where professionals network. Students, entrepreneurs, corporate

executives and recruiters all signed up and active.

Search for people – teachers, old bosses and co-workers, CEOs of companies you wish to work for.

Closing Tips and Strategies

ALWAYS have a copy of your resume saved in your email! Easy to update and send to employer

Network! Through friends, family, social networks, Craigslist.

Cover Letters do help! Don’t get easily discouraged. References are a big plus!

Any Questions?

Good Luck in your Job Search!

Thank you for supporting the

Chicago Public Library!