Job hunting has always been a kind of competitive sport that requires stamina and a thick skin, but in the current economic climate it has become cutthroat and ruthless. It compels all job seekers to use every available asset to vie for a position.

One of the best ways to compete in this kind of market is to keep up-to-date on the current techniques to prepare your cover letter and resume for a prospective employer. Another essential aspect of the job hunt is knowing how to get ready for the job interview.
Brenda Greene, in her book, Get the Interview Every Time: Proven Strategies from Fortune 500 Hiring Professionals (Career/College 650.14 Greene) demonstrates how to prepare a resume so it stands out among the competition. She has also surveyed many hiring managers to find out what they want to see in a good cover letter. With an outstanding resume and cover letter these critical elements will help guarantee the all important chance for an interview.

There are many different ways to approach writing resumes and cover letters. The Quick Resume & Cover Letter Book: Write and Use an Effective Resume in Only One Day (Career/College 650.14 Farr) by Michael J. Farr is one of countless books on the subject. He gives examples of different kinds of resumes and discusses which ones are appropriate for various professions. Worksheets are supplied in the book to help job hunters hone in on their key abilities and skills. The worksheets help clarify the resume and are useful in preparing for an interview.

Cover letters and resumes will only get you in the door. The interview is another crucial step in the process. 101 Great Answers to the Toughest Interview Questions (Career/College 650.14) by Ronald W. Fry is an invaluable aid in learning how to handle interviews. Fry explains that interviewing is fifty percent preparation. This in turn helps job seekers refine their ideas about their strengths, interests and background. The book includes two hundred of the most commonly asked questions and some role playing examples of how to go about the process.

Beebe Library has these and many more books on the job hunting process. No matter if you are seeking a career with the government or one in private industry there are many resources to assist you in today’s competitive market. Make sure to visit the College & Career section in the Magazine Room and browse the library’s extensive selection of books on this topic.

Categories: Library News
Tags: career, careers, cover letter, employment, job, job search, job-hunting, jobs resume