Chapter III: Initiation to job

search
 INTRODUCTION

Employability is one of the main concerns of the citizens of developed countries. Over the
last 10 years, it has become popular to use technology to find employment and better career
opportunities. Currently, there are many technology-powered tools available which offer their users
(candidates and companies) the possibility of finding the best job opportunities/employees.
However, technology is becoming increasingly advanced and current employment-oriented
websites must keep up with those standards. Artificial intelligence computing and information
processing capabilities provides a lot of facilities, that is today's websites are not mere directories of
jobs and candidates; instead, they make it possible to automatically filter search results according
to the characteristics of candidates and jobs.
 1. What is job search (Definition)

Wikipedia defines Job hunting, job seeking, or job searching as the act of looking
for employment, due to unemployment, underemployment, discontent with a current
position, or a desire for a better position. The immediate goal of job seeking is usually to
obtain a job interview with an employer which may lead to getting hired. The job seeker
typically first looks for job vacancies or employment opportunities. Various methods are used
to seek for employment.
 2. Methods of job search

 Business and personal networks;  Professional guidance such as

outplacement;
 Social media platforms;
 Visiting organizations ;
 Employment websites ;
 Job alerts…
 Class fields in newspapers;
 Private and public agencies or
recruiters;
 Website companies to see open
vacancies;
 3.Job search process

 Step 1: search jobs

 Step 2: write resume
 Step 3: apply
 Step 4: practice and prepare
 Step 5: attend the interview
 Step 6: Follow up
 Step 7: accept job offer
4.Writing job search documents(Resume or CV)

A) Resume
A resume is a formal document that displays an individual's professional background
and relevant skills. Hiring managers or recruiters usually collect resumes through an
organization's career website, a job search engine, a professional social media page or in
person. They are generally consist of work history, education, a professional summary and a
list of skills.
4.Writing job search documents(Resume or CV)
importance

A resume has a great importance in job search:

 It provides opportunity to market yourself;

 It outlines your skills, background and skills;

 Helps employee to eliminate unqualified candidates;

 Demonstrates your written communication skills.

 4.Writing job search documents(Resume or CV)
types

There are several types of resume but we will focus on three that is:

 Reverse-chronological resume. This is the classic format that most recruiters and managers prefer. This
resume type lists your most current work experience first along with your great achievements and then
continues back in time until it reaches the end of your resume.

 Functional resume. A functional resume places emphasis on your skills rather than your work experience. This
resume is ideal for those who are changing careers or those who have gaps in employment.

 Combination resume. This format combines both the reverse-chronological resume and the functional
resume, creating a hybrid resume. A combination resume starts with a skill summary and then the most
relevant job experience. This format offers flexibility while maintaining the resume's effectiveness.
 What to include in a resume

Key important sections : Optional sections :

 Contact information  Certifications and licenses
 Professional summary  Awards and honours
 Education  Volunteer work
 Work experience  Publications
 Skills  Freelance work experience
 Exercise:
Design your CV, following the guidelines we gave and note that you have to include all
the elements listed as part of a CV. You can choose one type of your choice amongst the
types we listed above.
4.Writing job search documents(Cover page)

B) A Cover letter

A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application
(alongside your CV or Resume). It requires good written communication skills and can be
written following 6 steps.
 4.Writing job search documents(Cover letter)
importance

A cover letter is important because :

 Its purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background.
 It is also important because it outlines your written communication skills.
 It gives you the opportunity to show that you can be a strong fit for the position you are
applying
 Steps to follow for a cover letter
Step 1: The header
name, city, phone number, email and date
for both sender and receiver
Step 2 : Greetings
Dear (first and last name)
Dear(position title)
Step 3: opening paragraph
Mention the job title you are applying for
and explain your interest company to show
that you have done researches)
Step 4: second paragraph
Brief overview of your background as it
relates to the position. Include your skills,
specialities to make you particular for the
position
Steps 5: closing paragraph
Insist on additional achievements and skills
Step 6: End with professional signoff
summarise why you are applying and
explain that you look forward for a response
about a possible next step
 Cover letter
review with a
sample included
 How to understand a job description

Example 1: Administrative Assistant

 Job description

In this role, you will support managers and other senior-level personnel by managing their calendars,
arranging travel, filing expense reports, and performing other administrative tasks. Strong interpersonal skills,
attention to detail, and problem-solving skills will be critical to success.

 Qualifications:

• 4+ years of experience providing high-level admin support to diverse teams in a fast-paced environment

• High school diploma or equivalent work experience

• Excellent Microsoft Office Skills with an emphasis on Outlook and Excel

• Self-motivated and highly organized

 Job interview (possible questions)
This part will be done in workshops
with answers
1. Could you tell me about yourself and describe your background in brief?
2. How did you hear about this position?
3. What type of work environment do you prefer?
4. How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations?
5. Do you prefer working independently or on a team?
6. When you’re balancing multiple projects, how do you keep yourself organized?
7. What did you do in the last year to improve your knowledge?
8. What are your salary expectations?
9. Are you applying for other jobs?
10. From your resume it seems you took a gap year. Would you like to tell us why that was?