Ch. 6 Wayground Slides #3 (Employability Skills).

Today, fewer advertisements appear in newspapers. Now most jobs are posted online. However, you should maintain and use your career network. This list of people you know who work in healthcare is often the best option for learning about current job openings.

Network = a group of people you know who work in healthcare.

​Job search:

• Make a list of healthcare businesses in your area

• Check job search websites

• Consult teachers or counselors

• Network with friends and family in healthcare jobs

Job application process:

• Apply through company websites

• May also fill out paper application

Create a page in your portfolio to collect personal data you will use for applications

• Contact information (name, phone #, E-Mail)

• Education (Highschool, college, certifications/registrations)

• Work and volunteer experience (previous jobs/current jobs)

• Skills (special skills/training)

• References (professional references, no family or relatives)

• Guidelines for applications:

  • Neatness, accuracy, and correct spelling

  • Complete all the questions (use N/A or "does not apply" is skipping a question)

  • When asked about salary, write "negotiable"

  • Avoid negative comments about former employers. Give neutral reasons when stating why you left a job (e.g., “reduction of workforce” or “return to school”)

  • If employer asks for SSN, you may write "available upon job offer"

  • Be ready to fill out a caregiver background form or Background Information Disclosure (BID) form to authorize a criminal background check

  • Sloppy applications are discarded - even if you are well-qualified, you probably won't be considered.

Provide a cover letter for your resume with the following parts:

• Introduction

  • How you learned about the job

  • Why you are interested

• Body

  • Briefly explain how your skills will meet the employer’s needs

  • Add details from your résumé

• Conclusion

  • Request an interview

  • Provide your contact information

• Before the interview

  • Learn all you can about the job

  • Prepare to talk about your qualifications

  • Make a list of questions to ask

• On the day of the interview

  • Bring extra copies of your résumé

  • Arrive a few minutes early

  • Practice interview etiquette

• After the interview

  • Send a thank-you note or e-mail

Describe professional appearance for an interview. 

• Dress in business-like attire

• Hair, clothing, and shoes should look clean and neat

• Avoid fragrances, bright nail polish, and heavy makeup

• Remove piercings and cover tattoos

What are some things you should avoid doing or saying on the day of an interview?

• Arriving late

• Bringing someone with you

• Saying you hated your last boss

• Asking about salary or vacation until offered the job