FromSearchto Success: YOUR CAREER RESOURCES HANDBOOK
YOUARE HIRED!
FromSearchToSuccess:YourCareerResourcesHandbook
Winter 2025
From Search To Success: Your Career Resources Handbook is a comprehensive resource designed to support students in achieving their career aspirations. This booklet offers practical guidance on resumes, cover letters, job interviews, and networking, equipping students with the tools needed to excel in their professional journeys.
We respectfully acknowledge that Columbia College is located on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the Coast Salish Peoples including xwməθkwəyəm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səlílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. We also want to acknowledge all non-status peoples and members of other bands who live in Vancouver. As uninvited guests, we are dedicated to fostering a reciprocal, respectful, and meaningful relationship with the Indigenous communities, who are the caretakers of this place since time immemorial.
www.columbiacollege.ca/career-services studentcareers@columbiacollege.ca cssa@columbiacollege.ca
Writing and Content Development
Richa S. Rathod (Career Services Student Assistant F24 & W25), Ana Albuquerque (Student Career Advisor).
Special Thanks
Ana Albuquerque, Ginny Chien, Shraddha Duggal, Navita Gupta, and Harjot Kaur for their invaluable help in reviewing the booklet.
Cover Photography
Richa Sanjay Rathod.
References
Content for this guide was inspired by and adapted from various trusted sources, including Skilled Immigrant InfoCentre, Arrive, City of Burnaby – Careers, Jan Melnik, Tannia Suarez, WorkBC, and Academia Insider.
Dedicated to our friend and colleague Tim Yernar (S24 CSSA).
Career Services
Columbia College's Career Services supports students by offering tools to develop job-seeking skills, explore career paths, and build professional networks.
Key services include: Personalized resume & cover letter assistance 1. Interview preparation 2. Job search resources
3. Networking opportunities
5.
4. Career events like fairs and workshops.
These resources aim to empower students to succeed in their academic and career goals by enhancing their employability and confidence.
Ana Albuquerque Student Career Advisor
www.columbiacollege.ca/career-services
Self-Discoveryfor CareerGrowth 05
What skills am I most proud of?
What values are most important to me in a job?
What type of work environment motivates me?
What tasks or projects do I enjoy most?
Ask Yourself
What subjects or fields am I curious to learn more about?
What do I need to improve to reach my career goals?
What career goals do I have in the next 1-5 years?
Reflect on these questions to uncover your strengths and interests. Your answers can guide you toward roles that align with your values and skills, making your career journey clearer and more meaningful.
Resume Essentials
What is a Resume?
A document showcasing your experience, education, and accomplishments. The chronological resume format lists work and education history by date, starting with the most recent. Resumes should be tailored for each job or industry to highlight the most relevant skills and experiences.
Its Purpose
A resume is a marketing tool for the job seeker.
It focuses on your achievements and accomplishments.
It highlights and prioritizes relevant skills for the job. Only includes skills that are directly applicable to the position.
Opportunities don’t happen, you create them.
--Chris Grosser
Beforeyou Begin 07
Review Job Posting & Research the Company
Review keywords, and identify knowledge, skills, and abilities that match yours.
Use a Computer for Editing
Always edit your resume on a computer for better formatting and ease of use. Avoid using your phone.
Understand ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems)
Opt for ATS-compatible formats and includ role-specific keywords to get noticed.
Keep Your Header Consistent
Use the same header format (name and contact information) for both your resum and cover letter.
Update Your Online Presence
Make sure your LinkedIn and other professional profiles are consistent with the details on your resume. For more tips on LinkedIn, see page 26.
Engage reader by starting sentences w
Excellent at…
Proven ability to…
Strong background in...
Extensive experience in / with…
Proficient in / with…
Resume:Header
Your resume header is the gateway to your professional identity. It should be clean, concise, and packed with essential details like:
1. Contact Information
Your Name - Use your full name in a bold, larger font than the rest of the resume. Avoid nicknames; use a preferred name instead of your legal name if desired.
2.
Phone number - Ensure it’s active.
Email - Use a professional email (firstname.lastname@gmail.com).
Location - Only include your city and province.
LinkedIn Profile - Hyperlink your well-developed profile. Learn more about LinkedIn on page 26. You can customize your LinkedIn URL by clicking “Edit public profile & URL” on your profile and removing numbers to create a professional link, such as linkedin.com/in/YourName
Rule of Thumb: For Resume
Past experience: past tense
Current experience: present tense
Write in third person: avoid using “I”
Keep your resume to 1-2 pages
Use standard font: Arial, Calibri
Use font size 10-12
Refer to page 12 & 13 for a Sample Resume
Resume: Summary&Skills
Highlight the main knowledge, skills, and abilities that directly relate to the job. This is where you market and "sell” yourself. But don’t lie or over-exaggerate!
Summary
The summary section provides a concise overview of your expertise and potential. Use it to demonstrate how you’ve applied your skills with results. For example, instead of saying "good at teamwork," say "Coordinated a team project to analyze sales data, leading to a 10% improvement in predictions during an internship."
Skills
The skills section highlights your most relevan abilities in a clear, structured format. Include hard and soft skills, bolding the skill name fol a brief one-sentence description of how you developed or applied it through projects, wor education. This approach ensures clarity whil your skills more engaging and relevant to the
Tip: You can choose to include either the Summ Skills section, or combine both for a comprehen overview of your qualifications. If you include b ensure they highlight different points to avoid r
Resume: Experience
The experience section is your chance to showcase your relevant work and volunteer achievements rather than just duties. Tailor this section to the role you’re applying for, and always aim to quantify your results to make them more impactful.
Tips and Tricks
Avoid generic responsibilities; instead, focus on achievements and outcomes.
Use the formula: Action Verb + What You Did + Result/Impact.
Example: Coordinated with team members to meet daily sales goals, increasing customer satisfaction and retention.
Quantify accomplishments using numbers & percentages whenever possible.
If the company name doesn’t clearly describe the industry, add a brief clarification in brackets. For example: Best Buy (Electronics Retailer).
If you worked a seasonal position or short-term role, specify this to prevent employers from assuming the job ended prematurely.
Avoid vague phrases like "responsible for"; instead, focus on specific actions and measurable results.
List experiences in reverse chronological order (most recent to oldest).
Refer to page 12 & 13 for a Sample Resume
Resume:Education& Languages
Education
11
Include the name of the institution, degree, location and the expected graduation.
If relevant, mention specific coursework or projects that demonstrate your skills or align with the job requirements.
Highlight academic achievements like scholarships, honors, or awards.
Place the Education section before Experience if the role you’re applying for aligns more closely with your academic background than your work experience.
Languages
Mention any languages you speak and clearly indicate your fluency level (e.g., Fluent, Intermediate, Conversational).
Avoid listing “Beginner” or “Conversational” as it adds little value unless the role specifically requires it.
If you have a certification (e.g., TOEFL, CELPIP or IELTS), include it to substantiate your proficiency.
Be honest about your language proficiency; overstating your skills can backfire during interviews.
The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.
--Ralph Waldo
12
Sample Resume (1/2)
Sample Resume (2/2)
QuickGuide: AnsweringResumeFAQs
CAN I INCLUDE MY EXPERIENCE FROM BACK HOME ON MY RESUME?
Absolutely! Highlight relevant experiences from your home country that showcase transferable skills or industry knowledge.
CAN I LIE ABOUT A JOB ON MY RESUME IF I HAVEN’T WORKED BEFORE?
No, honesty is critical. Employers may verify your background, and dishonesty could hurt your chances. Instead, focus on volunteer work, internships, or class projects to demonstrate your skills.
DO I NEED TO PROVIDE REFERENCES IN MY RESUME?
No, you don’t need to list references directly on your resume. If requested, you can provide them separately.
SHOULD I INCLUDE A PHOTO OF MYSELF ON MY RESUME? No, employers prefer to focus on qualifications rather than appearance to avoid bias.
DO I NEED TO LIST ALL MY PAST JOBS?
No, only include roles relevant to the job you’re applying for. Focus on showcasing accomplishments that match the job requirements.
SHOULD I MENTION MY VISA STATUS ON MY RESUME?
No, it’s not necessary unless the employer specifically asks for it in the job posting. Focus on your qualifications and skills instead.
YourPathwayToSuccess
Even if you haven’t had a formal job yet, life is full of moments that have prepared you for success. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover what you already have to offer!
��Checkpoint 1:
Clubs and Organizations
Have you been part of any clubs or groups? (student council, cultural organizations, hobbies, etc.)
��Checkpoint 2: Family Contributions
Have you helped with a family business or household tasks?
��Checkpoint 3: Informal
Gigs
Have you had informal jobs or gigs? (Babysitting, tutoring)
��Checkpoint 4: Creative Adventures
Have you worked on personal projects? ( blogs, designing, coding)
��Checkpoint 5: Volunteering Adventures
Have you volunteered at school or in your community? (organizing events, tutoring, local drives)
ResumeBuilding Checklist
Customize for each position with relevant skills.
Write a summary that captures attention.
Focus on your accomplishments, not just duties.
Use an easy-to-read layout (consistent fonts).
Make sure your personal information is current.
Proofread it over (and over).
One page for less experience, two for more.
CoverLetter Writing
What is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter (one-page maximum) demonstrates to the employer why you are the ideal fit for the position. It provides an opportunity to establish a connection between your skills and the employer’s needs. Many job postings today require or strongly encourage applicants to submit both a resume and a cover letter.
Its Purpose
A cover letter isn't just an introduction it's your chance to tell the employer: Who you are and why you’re applying. How your skills, knowledge, and abilities align with the role. What makes you the ideal candidate for their team.
Tips & Tricks
A generic cover letter won’t make an impression. Personalize it to show genuine interest in the role and the organization.
Do Your Research: Learn about the company’s mission, vision, recent news, and products/services.
Find Common Ground: Highlight shared values or goals to show you're a cultural fit.
Opportunities don’t happen, you create them
Be Specific: Mention the company name, the role, and why you’re excited to apply.
CoverLetter: Format
Personal Header
Use the same header as your resume to create a consistent & professional “brand” across documents.
Addressing the Hiring Manager
Research who the cover letter is for:
Use the job posting, LinkedIn, or Google to find the hiring manager's name.
Can’t find the name? address it as Dear Hiring Team.
Opening Paragraph
Start strong to engage the reader. Include: The position title.
Why you’re interested in the position and company.
A brief summary of what you bring to the role.
2nd Paragraph: Skills and Experience
Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and how they align with the role’s requirements.
Incorporate keywords from the job posting.
Paragraph: Highlight Soft Skills
mmarize your:
Relevant soft skills such as communication, teamwork, leadership, and organization. How do these skills contribute to a positive workplace and align with the company’s culture ?
sing Paragraph: Call to Action
ress your interest in an interview to discuss the e further and thank them for their time and sideration.
n-Off
e a professional closing, such as “Sincerely,”
CoverLetterChallenge: TestYourExpertise!
DO ALL JOBS REQUIRE A COVER LETTER? HOW SHOULD YOU ADDRESS THE HIRING MANAGER? SHOULD YOU USE THE SAME COVER LETTER FOR MULTIPLE JOBS?
WHAT’S THE IDEAL LENGTH OF A COVER LETTER?
WHAT IS THE MAIN PURPOSE OF A COVER LETTER?
Yes, unless the employer specifies otherwise. A
“To Whom It May Concern.” A
B
Only if the employer requests it. C No, it’s optional but often beneficial.
B “Hello Sir/Madam.”
Yes, as long as the jobs are similar. A B
Only if they’re at the same company.
C
“Dear Hiring Manager.”
C No, each cover letter should be tailored to the job. One Page. A B Two pages. C As long as it takes to explain everything. A B
To repeat everything on your resume.
C
To include personal information not relevant to job.
To explain why you’re a good fit for the role. :srewsnA ,A ,C ,C ,A .B
Purpose of the Interview Interview Preparation
From the Employer’s Perspective
Verify the accuracy of your resume.
Assess your technical and cultural fit for their team.
Share details about the role and company to gauge mutual alignment.
Evaluate if you meet their expectations (e.g., skills, growth, salary).
From the Candidate’s Perspective
Demonstrate your experience, knowledge, and skills.
Determine if the company’s culture, values, and opportunities align with your career goals.
Clarify role expectations (e.g., responsibilities, salary, development opportunities).
The future depends on what you do today.
--Mahatma Gandhi
TypesofInterview Questions
TECHNICAL
Assess specific skills related to the job.
Example: “What steps are involved in cash balancing?”
ILLEGAL
Employers should not ask about:
Religious background
Marital/family status
Place of origin
Age, health, or disabilities
How to Respond: "I prefer to focus on my skills and experience relevant to this role. Could you tell me more about the job's responsibilities?"
SITUATIONAL/ HYPOTHETICAL
Test your approach to challenges.
Example: “As a cashier, what would you do if your cash wasn't balancing?”
BEHAVIORAL (STAR TECHNIQUE)
Focus on past experiences.
Example: “Tell us about a time when your cash register didn’t balance. How did you handle it?”
STAR Technique:
Situation: Set the scene.
Task: Describe the challenge or responsibility.
Beforethe Interview
Research the Company
23
Understand their mission, vision, values and products/services.
Understand the Job Posting
Prepare for Common Questions
Prepare examples that match your experience to their needs. Technical: What tools or processes do you use to manage projects?
Situational: How would you prioritize tasks under tight deadlines?
Behavioral: Tell us about a time you resolved a conflict in a team.
Craft Questions to Ask the Interviewer
What does success look like in this role?
Can you describe the team dynamic? What are the opportunities for growth and development?
Arrive Early
Arrive 10–15 minutes before the scheduled time. For virtual interviews, log in at least 5 minutes early to handle technical hiccups.
First Impressions Matter
Greet everyone warmly, from the receptionist to the interview panel.
Use a firm handshake (in person) or a confident “thank you for meeting with me” (virtually).
24 Pre-Interview Checklist
Research the company and job posting.
Match your skills to job requirements.
Prepare answers for common questions.
Create questions to ask the interviewer.
Prepare materials (resume, notebook, water).
Dress professionally, even for virtual interviews.
Practice with mock interviews.
DuringtheInterview
1.
Engage with confidence
Maintain eye contact and open body language.
Listen carefully don’t interrupt.
2. Use the STAR Technique for Behavioral Questions
Example:
Q: Tell me about a time you improved a process.
A: In my previous role, I noticed delays in team communication (Situation). I initiated a weekly check-in system (Task), ensuring updates were shared in real time (Action). This reduced project delays by 20% (Result).
3. Handle Tough Questions Gracefully
Take a breath before answering.
Ask for clarification if needed: “Could you please elaborate?”
Post-Interview
Send a Thank-You Note 1.
Email a polite and professional message within 24 hours.
Reinforce your enthusiasm for the role.
2. Reflect on Your Performance
What went well?
What could you improve for next time?
YourOnlineCareer Toolkit
Why Use LinkedIn?
A platform for professional networking and career growth.
Functions as your online resume to showcase your skills, experiences, and aspirations. Build "connections" instead of followers, fostering meaningful professional relationships. Expand your network and explore opportunities. Search and apply for jobs or internships. Stay informed on market trends and industry news.
Market Yourself Effectively: Profile Photo
Adding a profile photo boosts 9x more connection requests, 21x more profile views, and 36x more messages! Here’s a few photo guidelines:
Use a high-quality image with good lighting and a neutral background. Avoid selfies; choose a professional, friendly pose. Smile—it’s inviting!
Scan QR Code to Download LinkedIn for
CraftingaStandoutProfile
Headline
Use this space to highlight your career aspirations or key skills.
Highlight what’s unique about you. Don't say unemployed, rephrase positively!
Example
Aspiring Software Engineer | Innovation enthusiast | Proficient in Python & Data Analytics.
About Section (Summary)
Tell your story: What drives you professionally? What makes you unique? Why are you passionate about your field? Write short paragraphs sharing your experience using “I” statements--do not write in 3rd person. Use CAR (Challenge-Action-Result) to showcase achievements. End with a call to action: “Let’s connect!”
Work & Volunteer Experience
LinkedIn Experience follows a similar structure to your resume (page 10). However, there are key differences: Use first-person ("I") to describe roles and achievements.
Education & Certifications
Include courses or micro-credentials relevant to your career goals. Add job-relevant courses.
Making WorkforYou
What to Post
Work or academic activity & achievements (e.g., conferences, certifications, or awards).
Industry insights: articles, reports, or workshop summaries.
Share useful resources or professional advice.
Networking Tips
Start With Your Circle: Connect with classmates, coworkers, and mentors.
Expand Strategically: Reach out to professionals in your desired field with request note answering: how you found them, your similarities, and why you want to connect with them. Stay Active
Log in weekly.
Engage with posts (like, comment, share).
Send personalized connection requests.
Congratulate others on milestones. Endorse skills or write recommendations for connections. Nurturing Relationships
Connect with 5 professionals in your field.
Engage with 3 posts by liking or commenting.
Share one insightful post or article.
Update your profile with recent achievements.
Send personalized connection requests.
Log in weekly to stay active and relevant.
Endorse skills or recommend someone.
30 SkillUpwith atColumbiaCollege!
As a Columbia College student, you get free access to LinkedIn Learning, with over 24,000 courses in business, technology, and creativity. Alumni also enjoy one year of free access after graduation!
Why You Should Try It
Learn from Experts: Gain valuable skills taught by industry leaders.
Flexible Learning: Courses are available on web and mobile, making learning convenient. Career-Focused: Build skills that employers are looking for.
Earn Certificates: Showcase your achievements on your LinkedIn profile and resume.
Navita’s Success Story
General Science Student at Columbia College
I used LinkedIn Learning to improve my time management, public speaking, and digital skills. It made me more confident in interviews and helped me land an on-campus job!
Get Started Now!
JobSearch Strategies
Preparing for Job Search
Before you Begin
Assess Your Skills: Identify your key strengths, technical abilities, and accomplishments.
Define Your Career Goals: What positions align with your experience and future aspirations?
Polish Your Application Materials: Create a tailored Canadian-style resume and a professional cover letter.
Build a Strong LinkedIn Profile: Ensure it reflects your skills, experience, and career objectives.
Where to Start Your Search
Company Career Pages: Search “[Company Name] Careers” for openings.
Online Job Boards: Platforms like Indeed and WorkBC. Career/Job Fairs: These provide direct access to employers and recruiters.
Networking: Use your personal and professional contacts to learn about opportunities.
Professional Associations: Explore organizations for industry-specific roles.
Smart JobSearching
Smart Search Strategies
Be Specific: Start with focused search terms for relevant results.
Refine Your Search: Use techniques like: Quotation marks (e.g., “marketing specialist”).
Boolean terms like AND, OR, and NOT to include or exclude keywords.
Set Alerts: Most job boards allow you to create email alerts, so new opportunities come directly to you. Use Google or Indeed to get a broad result, but apply directly at the company website.
Networking 101
Why Network?
Discover unadvertised roles (65–80% of jobs are in the hidden job market, filled through referrals rather than advertisements).
Gain insider knowledge about industries and companies.
Build strong professional relationships for referrals and recommendations.
How to Network
Reconnect with Existing Contacts: Start with friends, family, professors, or previous coworkers.
Engage on LinkedIn: Follow companies, participate in discussions, and connect with professionals in your field.
Attend Events: Look for career fairs, webinars, or networking meetups.
UnlockingHidden Opportunities
The Hidden Job Market
Did you know? 65–80% of job openings in Canada are never posted online. Employers often rely on referrals to fill these roles.
How to Tap In
Polish Your LinkedIn Profile: Showcase your skills, projects, and achievements to attract recruiters. Volunteer or Take Temporary Jobs: Gain valuable experience and grow your professional network. Ask for Informational Interviews: Schedule informal chats to learn more about industries or companies of interest.
Leverage Referrals: Reach out to people in your network who might refer you for positions.
If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.
--Milton Berle
YourJobSearchPlan
Write down two job titles you’re targeting.
List three people you can reach out to this week.
Research two upcoming events or job fairs to attend.
Outline a short LinkedIn message to introduce yourself to a professional.
On-CampusResources
Career Services at Columbia College 1.
To book an appointment with Ana, the Student Career Advisor, visit www.columbiacollege.ca/career-services. You can also reach her via email at studentcareers@columbiacollege.ca or visit her in Room 212, Main Campus.
2. Resume & Cover Letter Drop-ins
Career Services offers resume and cover letter reviews every semester.
For drop-in hours, check the Career Services website or email cssa@columbiacollege.ca for more details.
3. LinkedIn Learning
Columbia College students have free access to LinkedIn Learning, a platform offering thousands of courses to help you enhance your skills. Explore all that LinkedIn Learning offers on page 30.
4. Typing Essentials Program
Boost your resume with your improved and certified typing speed and accuracy through comprehensive lessons offered by the TEP program. For more information, email sdpa@columbiacollege.ca.
5. Workshops Throughout the Semester
Columbia College offers various workshops each semester, covering everything from resume writing to interview preparation. You can find the full schedule on www.columbiacollege.ca/events/
ExternalResources
A popular job board in Canada where you can find job listings, set job alerts, and apply directly to companies.
2. WorkBC
A provincial resource offering job listings, career exploration tools, and tips for navigating the BC job market.
3. LinkedIn
Build your professional network and explore job opportunities on LinkedIn, a key platform for professionals across all industries.
4. Job Bank
Canada's government-supported job platform, featuring local job openings and career development resources.
4. Eluta
A Canadian job search engine that links directly to employer career pages for the latest job postings.
6. GoVolunteer
Explore volunteer opportunities that help you gain skills, expand your network, and give back to your community.
7. VPL Skilled Immigrant Info Centre
Offers programs, workshops, and resources to help immigrants in Vancouver connect to the job market and community.
Glossary
Action Verbs
Dynamic words used to describe skills and achievements in resumes and cover letters (e.g., "managed," "developed," "led").
Applicant Tracking System (ATS)
Software that screens resumes for keywords. Use ATS-friendly formats like MS Word or Adobe-created PDFs; avoid images.
Chronological Resume
A resume format that lists work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent.
Endorse (LinkedIn)
A feature where LinkedIn connections validate your listed skills, increasing your credibility on the platform.
Hard Skills
Specific, measurable abilities such as technical expertise, certifications, or language proficiency.
Language Fluency Levels
Fluent: Full command in any setting.
Intermediate: Comfortable in most situations.
Conversational: Basic communication skills.
Networking
Building professional relationships to gain insights, discover opportunities, and advance your career.
References
Individuals who can vouch for your skills, character, and work ethic during the hiring process.
Soft Skills
Interpersonal and non-technical skills, such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability.
CareerGuideatYour Fingertips
This guide is your go-to resource for navigating the job search process with confidence. Inside, you'll find essential advice on building an effective resume and cover letter, creating a professional LinkedIn profile, and exploring job search strategies. Learn how to network effectively, tap into the hidden job market, and make the most of Columbia College's career services and resources.
Whether you're just starting or looking to enhance your job search, this booklet provides the tools and insights to help you succeed in your career journey.