SDSMT Career Guide

Dear Students, We’re glad you are here at the School of Mines! Our goal in the Career Center is to help you succeed as a student and to support your professional development so you will be well prepared for success in your career field upon graduation.

This Career Guide can serve as a useful resource for your career plans, resumes and cover letters, interview preparation, job searches, and professional development. Co-ops and internships can help you gain relevant work experience and skills that employers value when making hiring decisions. The quality of education you receive at the School of Mines, combined with your professional development and experiences, will pave the way for your success after graduation.

We look forward to working with you throughout your college experience and helping you achieve your career goals by graduating from Mines as an emerging professional!

Sincerely,

Darrell Sawyer, Ed.D. Director

Career Center Surbeck Center 501 E. Saint Joseph St. Rapid City, SD 57701 Phone: 605.394.2667 FAX: 605.394.6721

Career Center Staff Darrell Sawyer, Ed. D. Cindy Christensen, Program Asst.

Office hours: 7:30 am‑4:30 pm (M-F) (summer: 7:30 am‑4:00 pm) http://sdmines.sdsmt.edu/career

The Superior Source Career Center Services E-Recruiting System Deciding Your Career Direction

Employer Index 4 5 6

Pursue Your Passion Setting Career Goals Career Planning Timeline

Plan to Intern or Co-op Career Fairs Job Search Strategies Networking

Connect With Alumni

6 7 8 9 11 11 12

The Power of the Pen Resumes Resume Formats Choose Your Best References Electronic Resumes Sample Chronological Resume Sample Chrono-Functional Resume Cover Letter Cover Letter Parts Sample Cover Letter

14 14 15 15 16 17 18 18 19

Conversation is Key Interviews The Actual Interview Interview Tips/ Mistakes Scheduling A Campus Interview Behavior Based Interviews Sample Questions Dress for Success Telephone Interviews

20 21 23 23 24 24 25 26

Essential Extras Follow-Up Letters Second Interviews/ Plant Trips Dining Etiquitte Act With Integrity

Special thanks to these employers for their advertising support of the South Dakota School of Mines Career Guide:

Angus-Palm 26 Altec Industries 3 Applied Engineering 34 Arch Coal, Inc. 10 Basin Electric Power Cooperative 28 Black Hills Corporation 10 CCL LAbel Inc. 28 Cleveland Cliffs Inc. 33 Dakota Grasification Company 5 Design Data Inside Back Cover Goodrich Cargo Systems 30 Horton Inc. 26 Inberg-Miller Engineers 9 Innovative Systems 27 Kadrmas, Lee & Jackson 33 Kiewit 36 Kolberg Pioneer 3 Martin Group Inside Front Cover MidAmerican Energy

22 Nebraska Public Power District 29 PCA Engineering, Inc.

35 POET 12 Raven Industries, Inc. 13 RESPEC 21 Scientific Drilling 5 SD Department of Transportation 34 SD Office of Economic Development 29 SEH, Inc. 22 Ulteig Engineers, Inc. Back Cover Vishay Dale Electronics, Inc. 35

30 31 32 32

*The School of Mines Career Guide adheres to the National Association of College and Employers (NACE) Principles of Professional Conduct for Career Services and Employment Professionals. Professional memberships include National Association of Colleges and Employers, Midwest Association of Colleges and Employers, Mountain Pacific Association of Colleges and Employers, American Society for Engineering Education (Coop. Ed. Division), Cooperative Education & Internship Association, National Careeer Development Association, and South Dakota Career Planning and Placement Association.

2,500 copies were printed by the School of Mines at $1.24 per copy.

Job Postings

Career Center Services Career and Professional Development

•resumes

•cover letters

•practice interviews

•job searches

•professional development workshops

(social networking, business etiquette, cultural awareness, and other important topics)

The Career Center’s online job and resume system (www.sdsmtcareers.com) enables students to search and apply for jobs posted by employers not visiting the campus but seeking to hire Mines students for available positions.

Internships and Co-ops The Career Center connects students with a wide range of employers who hire our students for summer internships and co-ops. These “real world” experiences help students obtain valuable work experience. In many cases, students can obtain aca‑ demic credit for their internship or co-op.

Professional Development Workshops A series of professional development workshops are offered each year by the Career Center on topics such as:

•resumes and cover letters

•behavior-based interviews

•evaluating job offers and employee benefits

•job search strategies

•business etiquette dinners

•professional networking

Career Advising Career Fairs The Fall and Spring Career Fairs held on campus attract a wide range of employers (Fortune 500, regional companies and government agencies) and hundreds of students from freshman to graduate levels.

On-Campus Interviews The Career Center coordinates the scheduling of campus interviews through an e-recruiting system called “The Gold Mine” (www.sdsmtcareers.com).

More than 200 employers visit the campus each year to recruit Mines students for professional positions.

Students still deciding or thinking about changing their major are encouraged to contact the Career Center for access to an electronic interest inventory and other career planning resources.

Alumni Placement The Career Center offers School of Mines alumni free access to its online job posting system at www.sdsmtcareers.com.

Get Connected to The Career Center’s E-recruiting System

www.sdsmtcareers.com

•Apply for on-campus interviews* with employers.

•Access jobs (full-time, co-op, intern) posted by employers not visiting campus and submit your resume electronically.

•Learn about upcoming professional development workshops and other events.

•Update your resume and cover letters electronically.

•Access jobs posted by employers at multiple campuses.

*Students must be registered with the Career Center’s e-recruiting system in order to apply for and schedule on-campus interviews.

Deciding Your Career Direction Setting Career Goals

Choosing a major is an important decision that can be overwhelming or intimidating at times. If you’re not sure of your career path, you’re not alone.

Many students change their major in college.

Setting your career goals requires reflecting on your priorities and appraising yourself as a person.

To conduct your self-analysis:

Understand yourself…

•Conduct a self-analysis of your interests, values, and skills.

•Examine your values, interests, and abilities.

•Take an interest inventory through the Career Center.

•Identify your personal qualities and your strengths.

•List the skills you have or plan to obtain in the future.

•Answer these questions: “Who am I? What are my goals?”

•Prioritize what is important to you for personal satisfaction and success.

•Access career resources available online and in libraries.

•Consider the knowledge you will acquire through your education and identify careers that match those skills.

•Talk to alumni working in various career fields.

•Be realistic about your skills as well as limitations and consider how they could impact your goals.

•Attend Career Fairs and visit with employers.

•Read profiles of alumni.

•Assess how your interests can be an asset in reaching your goals.

Establish both short-term and long-term career goals and review them on a regular basis. Make adjustments to reflect changing interests or circumstances. As one goal is reached, set another one. This will help you stay on target in your career journey throughout life!

Explore options…

College is a developmental period that involves change and personal growth for students. Thinking about goals now helps you stay on target as you develop, learn, and implement the skills acquired during your education so you are well prepared for professional success and personal fulfillment after graduation.

Not Sure What to Do and When to Do It? Career Planning Timeline at Mines

Freshman Inquire about career options

Confirm career decisions

•Update your resume in the Career Center’s online system to reflect internship/co-op experience.

•Join the student professional chapter in your career field.

•Visit with employers attending Mines Career Fairs about co-op and internship opportunities.

•Schedule a mock interview with the Career Center.

•Assess your interests, abilities, and values.

•Explore the various degrees that Mines offers.

•Get to know your faculty and your Peer Advisor.

•Volunteer on campus and in the community.

•Attend the School of Mines Career Fairs.

•Develop good study habits.

•Discuss your career interests with faculty, students, alumni, and Career Center staff.

•Participate in professional development activities.

•Join at least one student organization and participate in extracurricular activities.

•Compile an inventory of your qualifications and skills relevant to your career goals.

•If still deciding a major, take an

interest inventory assessment

offered by the Career Center.

•Volunteer with campus or community organizations.

•Seek opportunities to develop your leadership skills and experiences.

Sophomore

Senior

Explore career choices

•Attend Mines Career Fairs and visit with prospective employers.

•Talk to your advisor and develop a curriculum plan that includes a co-op or an internship.

•Register with the Career Center’s online system and familiarize yourself with its services.

•Apply for a summer internship or co-op.

•Write a resume and cover letter.

•Attend the Career Center’s professional development workshops.

•Get involved in student activities.

•Attend employer information meetings held on campus.

•Identify three skills sought by employers and plan how to acquire those skills.

Junior

Prepare to enter your career field

•Develop a plan to search for jobs or graduate schools.

•Write a clear and concise career objective.

•Update your resume in the Career Center’s online system.

•Visit with as many prospective employers as possible at the Mines Career Fairs.

•Compile a list of your skills, accomplishments, projects, and work experiences when preparing for interviews.

•Apply for on-campus interviews through the Career Center’s system.

•Select your best references, ask their permission, and provide them with your resume.

•Network with alumni, faculty, and other students with similar career interests.

•Continually check the Career Center’s job postings and conduct electronic job searches.

•If planning to attend graduate school, know the admission procedures and deadlines.

Plan to Intern or Co-op Internships and co-ops provide excellent opportunities for students to integrate their classroom learning with “real world” work experiences in industry.

Co-op and intern students are employed in positions related to their major and may earn academic credit for their work experience.

To Get an Internship or Co-op, I Should…

•Prepare a good resume and cover letter.

•Register with the Career Center’s online system and search the job postings.

(The Gold Mine: www.sdsmtcareers.com)

•Attend campus Career Fairs.

•Take advantage of campus interviewing opportunities.

•Talk to faculty, alumni, and friends about your internship/co-op goals.

•Identify employers of interest to you and contact them directly.

Intern/Co-op Benefits:

•Gain valuable work experience.

•Confirm or redefine your career choice.

•Increase your chances for more job offers and higher starting salary offers.

•Develop communication and teamwork skills.

•Earn money to help pay for your college degree.

•Obtain academic credit.

Co-ops experiences are often 6-8 months (semester + summer) but can vary in length depending on the employer. Internships are usually for the summer or part-time during the school year. However, the terms are often used interchangeably by employers.

Students may earn 1-3 hours of academic credit upon approval from their academic department. Students registered for co-op courses keep their full-time student status during the semester they are on co-op. Check http://sdmines.sdsmt.edu/career for additional information.

•75% of Mines graduates have relevant work experience upon graduation.

•Many co-op/ intern students receive job offers several months before graduation.

•Average Salary for School of Mines co-op/ intern students was $15.76 in 2007-08. Some employers also provide free housing or housing allowances and relocation expenses not reflected in the salary averages.

Career Fairs School of Mines Career Fairs are held each fall and spring. These events bring a wide range of employers from many states to recruit students for full-time, internship, and co-op positions.

These career fairs offer all Mines students— from freshman to graduate level—excellent opportunities to gain first-hand knowledge from employers about full-time job openings, as well as intern/co-op opportunities. These events are free to all Mines students, alumni, faculty, and staff.

To Get Results at the Career Fair: Before the Fair— PREPARE

•Check the employers attending: http://sdmines.sdsmt.edu/sdsmtcareerfair.

•Research the employers that interest you.

•Update and PROOF your resume.

•Develop a 30-second introduction of yourself and practice saying it!

•Think of 1-2 questions to ask employers.

During the Fair— COMMUNICATE

•Organize a plan of which employers you want to talk to.

•Dress appropriately and bring numerous copies of your resume.

•Make a good first impression—smile, make

eye contact, use a firm handshake, and

introduce yourself in a friendly manner.

•Remember your body language! Don’t chew gum, fidget, or look around while the employer is talking to you.

•Ask questions and be positive.

er.

•Request a business card from the recruit‑

After the Fair— FOLLOW UP

•Send follow-up letters or emails to the employers that interest you.

•Reinforce your interest and reiterate why you are a “good fit”.

•Submit any applications or resumes online that recruiters recommended you do.

Job Search Strategies Getting the job of your choice requires more than just having a degree. Your degree will open many doors, but it is up to you to obtain the job you desire. Develop a plan. The more committed you are to your job search, the greater your chances of finding the job you really want!

Keep in mind…

•Job searches take time and energy.

•Knowing your career goals will help you narrow the focus of your job search.

•Stay organized and flexible as you pursue your goals.

Job searches are a marketing campaign where you have to sell yourself. After you identify potential employers, you then need to convince them that you are a “good fit” for that company. Remember­— you are competing against candidates from other universities as well.

In addition to the Mines Career Center, your job hunt can involve many other resources:

•Company web sites

•Internet job posting boards

•Alumni– The Alumni Association’s list of employers where our alumni work can provide some useful contacts.

•Networking– Visit with faculty, alumni, relatives, friends, neighbors, etc. and ask for advice on job leads.

•Government Agencies- Federal and state jobs are posted on web sites such as:

•Job Fairs­‑ Off-campus job fairs include the Black Hills Regional Job Fair in Rapid City and the B.I.G Job Fair in Sioux Falls.

www.usajobs.opm.gov and www.jobbankinfo.org.

•Third-Party Recruiters/ Staffing Agencies

(Avoid search firms that charge fees to applicants.)

•Direct Contacts with Employers– Submit a resume/cover letter targeted toward an employer’s specific needs.

Timing can be a critical factor in the job search.

If a company has no openings at the time of your initial contact, follow up in a couple months to let them know you’re still interested. Perseverance sometimes pays off!

Networking—Tap the Hidden Job Market Many jobs are never advertised and instead are filled through referrals from company employees or associates. Networking can be one of the most effective ways to tap into the hidden job market.

Networking does not mean “schmoozing”—it means using your personal and professional contacts to help you become aware of unpublicized or not-yet-announced job openings. Networking is simply contacting people you know or people in your field and then asking them for advice in your job search.

Networking 101

•Make a list of the people you know (faculty, family, neighbors, friends, etc.) who might be able to refer you to someone within a company.

•Contact the individuals in your network and let them know what type of position you are seeking.

•Follow up with the referrals you receive.

When introducing yourself, provide the name of the person who referred you.

•Explain what type of position you are seeking and why you are interested in their company.

•Be courteous, professional and sensitive to the person’s busy schedule.

•Send a follow-up/ thank you note to everyone you visit with.

Connect With Alumni Don’t overlook Mines alumni in your job search!

They can be a very valuable resource. School of Mines alumni work across the United States and throughout the world for a wide variety of employers—Fortune 500 corporations, regional and local employers, federal and state agencies, non-profit organizations, and small businesses.

Many alumni are willing to help their fellow Hardrockers apply for positions with their employer. The School of Mines Alumni Association has an alphabetical list of employers showing where our alumni work and their contact information. This directory can be a useful tool in your job search. Don’t wait until you’re ready to graduate to contact alumni about full-time positions­—also use them as a resource in securing internships and co-ops.

The Alumni Association is located in the Surbeck Center next to the Career Center. Be sure to stop by and get to know the Alumni Association staff.

Resumes

Resume Formats The three basic resume formats are:

Your resume is a marketing tool that highlights your qualifications for a position. It is a summary of your education, work experiences, and skills that represents YOU to a prospective employer. The goal of a resume is to get selected for an interview.

Chronological

Your resume should quickly identify to an employer:

Functional

•Who you are

•What your career objectives are

•What you have accomplished

•Why you are a good fit for that employer

•list information in reverse chronological order starting with your most recent education or work experience.

•most common format and often preferred by recruiters.

•focuses on qualifications and skills rather than previous jobs.

•well-suited for candidates who have multiple jobs or who are applying for jobs not directly related to their previous work experience.

Chrono-functional Deciding which academic and work experience to include and what to omit can sometimes be difficult. Begin by making a comprehensive list of your jobs, relevant projects, awards, technical skills, extracurricular activities, volunteer activities, and other interests. Select the items that will most interest an employer and that present you as a strong candidate. The final version should make a good impression on a recruiter within 30 seconds.

Whenever possible, target your resume to a specific job or company. Strive for a one-page resume if possible, but use two pages if necessary to summarize all your relevant skills and experiences.

Remember your audience-the employer! Proofread your resume, and don’t rely on “Spell-check” to catch all the errors! Keep updating your resume as you acquire additional skills, work experiences, and projects.

•combines elements of both chronological and functional resumes •lists experience and education chronologically, but also includes a “Qualifications Summary” section that allows you to highlight your qualifications pertinent to the position.

Resume Tips

•Keep it short — (1 page if possible)

•Use at least 10 point font.

•Write in phrases with action words

•Leave some white space (1” margins)

•Limit bolding, underlining or italicizing text — excessive bolding defeats the purpose of highlighting the most significant items!

•Provide enough information to quickly get the reader’s attention BUT not so much detail that your highlights get buried amongst too much text.

•PROOF it and then proof it again!

Choose Your Best References Selecting references is a critically important part of your job search. Choose individuals who know you well and who can attest to your skills and work quality. A combination of work supervisors and faculty provides a good balance. Other individuals to consider include university staff members, community leaders, and volunteer organizations.

Listing relatives or friends is not recommended.

Before you list individuals as references, ask their permission! Having positive and effective references can be very important to getting hired.

Give your references a copy of your resume so they have it on hand to review when speaking to prospective employers about your background and skills.

Sample Reference Format

Mrs. Mary Doe Engineering Supervisor ABC Company 123 Industrial Drive Burbank, SD 55222 (605) 555-xxxx

Mr. John Jones Shift Supervisor XYZ Company 234 Main Street Rapid City, SD 57701 (605) 341-xxxx

Dr. Antonette Loger Professor Computer Science Dept.

501 E. St. Joseph Street Rapid City, SD 57701 (605) 394-xxxx

Electronic Resumes Many employers prefer and some require that resumes be submitted online. Some companies have automated their initial screening process of applicants through the use of resume scanning software. Resumes are stored in a database and then are searched for keywords relevant to that particular position. Thus, the more keywords contained in your resume that match the job description, the greater chance you will have of being identified as a qualified candidate and selected for an interview.

When emailing your resume, keep these tips in mind: •Condense your cover letter into a brief opening paragraph. Briefly introduce yourself and explain the purpose of your email. Busy people don’t like to read lengthy emails, so get to the point.

•Use the Subject Line to indicate the position you are applying for.

•Using industry jargon and abbreviations (AutoCAD, IEEE, etc.) is OK, but spell out any acronyms that may be unfamiliar to the employer (e.g., CAMP) •Avoid using bullets, columns, graphics, or other special formatting.

•Keep your email messages professional.

•Use Spell-check and proof your email before you send it, as it is a reflection of your communication skills.

•Do a test email before submitting it to an employer.

JILL JOBSEEKER

jill.jobseeker@hotmail.com CURRENT ADDRESS PERMANENT ADDRESS SDSM&T, RH 999 Box 111 501 E. St. Joseph Street Hometown, SD 57101 Rapid City, SD 57701 (605) 555-xxxx (605) 394-xxxx OBJECTIVE A summer internship in the chemical engineering field.

EDUCATION Bachelor of Science, Chemical Engineering

South Dakota School of Mines and Technology (SDSM&T), Rapid City, SD

GPA: 3.33

Degree Expected: May, 2009 EXPERIENCE

Engineering Co-op Cargill, Spiritwood, ND

January - August 2008 Designed piping and water purification system for Sub-compartment humidification.

Tested Sub-compartment Humidification System. Assisted in daily process problem solving and with process optimization projects.

Undergraduate Research Assistant

Summer 2007 SDSM&T Chemical Engineering Dept., Rapid City, SD Assisted professor with research on optimizing the process for using wood biomass to produce ethanol.

Office Assistant - SDSM&T Admissions Office Sept. 2006-May 2007 Answered phones and filed office documents. Prepared packets for campus visits by prospective students and their parents.

PROJECTS

Sub-Compartment Humidification March – June 2008 Designed a $300,000 piping and water purification system for Sub-compartment humidification at a Cargill malt production facility. Presented recommendations to plant management and corporate officials which were approved.

Alternative Fuel Vehicle, SDSM&T

Sept. 2007-present Member of team that is focused on running and maintaining a hydrogen-powered fuel cell for one-passenger car for national student competition. Lead other non-ChE team members in optimizing fuel cell.

COMPUTER Visotec, EES, Visual Basic, MathCAD, AspenPlus, Microsoft Office SKILLS HONORS/ Dean’s List (4 of 6 semesters) ACTIVITIES American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE)

Society of Women Engineers

Treasurer

Student Association Junior Senator

Orientation Leader

Alpha Omega Epsilon Professional Engineering Sorority

United Way Day of Caring Volunteer REFERENCES Available Upon Request

2006-present 2006-present 2006-2007 2008-present 2006-2007 2006-present 2007-2008

JOE JOBSEEKER

joe.jobseeker@yahoo.com CURRENT ADDRESS 123 Main Street Rapid City, SD 57701 (605) 394-xxxx

PERMANENT ADDRESS Box 111 Hometown, SD 57101 (605) 555-xxxx

OBJECTIVE

A full-time industrial engineering position with special interest in lean manufacturing.

QUALIFICATIONS SUMMARY

Six Sigma –Green Belt certification Engineering co-op and internship experience with Fortune 500 companies Strong teamwork, organizational, and analytical skills Ergonomic expertise Proficient in AutoCAD, Minitab, SolidWorks, Arena, Project

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, Industrial Engineering South Dakota School of Mines and Technology (SDSM&T), Rapid City, SD Degree Expected: December 2009 Major GPA: 3.4; Overall GPA: 2.9

EXPERIENCE

Industrial Engineer Intern, Caterpillar, Peoria IA Summer 2008 Conducted work measurement studies of drivers, sorting systems, and loading operations. Assisted in developing a workshop presentation for supervisors.

Industrial Engineer Co-op, Rockwell Collins, Cedar Rapids, IA Jan-Aug 2008 Applied Lean Manufacturing principles in a production environment. Constructed process flow charts for products in development. Gained experience in initiating and completing engineering change orders and process documentation.

Server, Minerva’s Restaurant, Rapid City SD

Provided friendly customer service. Developed interpersonal skills.

Jan-May 2007

RELEVANT PROJECTS

“Human Powered Vehicle” 2007-present Worked on a team to design and build an aesthetically unique human-powered vehicle that focuses on ergonomics, the team members’ safety, and the ability to succeed in all aspects of competition. Team won 6th overall place among 24 teams at 2008 West Coast HPV competition. (team project)

“Facility Layout - Merillat Industries”

Spring 2008 Evaluated the layout of the particleboard manufacturing plant and modifications to accommodate the installation of new equipment. Presented recommendations to plant supervisors. Involved in a Kaizen event for warehouse space utilization. (team project)

“Work Station for Black Hills Workshop Clients” Fall 2007 Analyzed current work station used by clients with disabilities. Used SolidWorks to create a work station model that was low cost and ergonomically designed for a wide range of individuals. Presented findings to Workshop management team. (team project)

HONORS AND Institute of Industrial Engineers, SDSM&T Student Chapter ACTIVITIES Vice-President

Coordinated IIE community service project

Student Association- Sophomore Representative

United Way Day of Caring Volunteer-SDSM&T Team

REFERENCES

Available upon request

2007-present 2008-09 Spring 2008 2006-2007 Fall 2008

Cover Letters Good cover letters are as important as resumes to the job search! A cover letter introduces you to a potential employer and gives you an opportunity to sell yourself as a candidate who is a “good fit” for the position. Employers often will read your cover letter before your resume, so a well-written and effective cover letter can be very important to creating a good first impression.

Your cover letter is a one-page marketing tool that should highlight your skills and qualifications, your desire to work for that employer, and reasons why you are a “good fit” for that position. A powerful cover letter will connect your background to the specific job for which you are applying. In addition to summarizing your qualifications, it also can demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively. Whenever possible, submit a cover letter with your resume— it provides another opportunity to sell yourself and could give you the advantage over another candidate.

Cover Letter Tips

Cover Letter Parts Applicant’s Address Date Name of Company Official Title Company Name Street Address City, State ZIP

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name: (Dear Director: if you cannot get a specific name) Opening Paragraph: Introduce yourself and identify the specific job for which you are applying. When appropriate, mention how you heard about the position. If you have some type of connection to the company, state the connection.

Middle Paragraph(s): Describe why you are interested in the job and working for this particular employer. In a confident and enthusiastic manner, highlight your three most significant skills, abilities, experiences, or personal characteristics that make you a strong candidate for the position.

Point out specific examples of relevant work experience or educational activities, but do not simply reiterate your entire resume. Emphasize what you offer the employer— NOT what the employer can do for you. Engage the reader and make him/her want to review your resume!

•Write concise, punchy sentences.

•Use action instead of passive tense.

•Vary sentence structure (10-15 words in length— 20 words maximum).

•Use a conversational yet professional tone.

•Avoid starting every sentence with “I”.

•Keep letter to one page in length (3-4 paragraphs).

•Avoid using the same terms or phrases repeatedly.

•Edit carefully. Read it aloud to check for cadence and flow of sentences.

•Write a draft, set it aside and then take a fresh look at it.

Sincerely,

•Proof it, ask a friend to proof it, and then ask Career Center staff to review it.

Your signature in blue or black ink (Don’t forget to sign it!)

•Remember your audience-a busy employer!

Closing Paragraph: Refer the reader to your enclosed resume. Be sure to request an interview.

End by “closing the sale” with a positive note or thank you.

Your name typed Enclosure

123 First Avenue, Apt. 678 Rapid City, SD 57701 Date Ms. Mary Smith Director of Human Resources ABC Company 123 Main Street Anytown, SD 577xx

Dear Ms. Smith: Currently, I am a senior chemical engineering major at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology (SDSM&T) and will be graduating this May. I am interested in the Process Engineer job posted with the SDSM&T Career Center. After talking with your company officials at our Career Fair and further researching your company, I would be very excited to have the opportunity to work for ABC Company.

While completing my degree, I have had the opportunity to acquire relevant work experience through two internships as a production engineering intern with Cargill. During my internships, I successfully completed several projects which strengthened my passion for working as a process engineer. My education at SDSM&T, combined with my internship experiences, has helped me develop my personal and professional skills.

My active involvement in student organizations such as AIChE, Society of Women Engineers, and Student Ambassadors has provided me with many opportunities to develop strong teamwork, communication, and leadership skills. In addition, I have acquired efficient time management and organizational skills necessary to get the job done. I would welcome the opportunity to apply my education and experience to your company’s continued growth and success.

Thank you for your consideration of my enclosed resume. I would like to discuss my qualifications with you further and give you an opportunity to learn more about me. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Jill Jobseeker (blue or black ink) Jill Jobseeker (Type your name under your signature) Enclosure

1. KNOW YOURSELF Who am I?

What are my goals?

Interviews

What are my strengths and skills?

What is my weakness and how do I compensate for it?

Why am I a good match for this employer?

The importance of the interview in the job search cannot be stressed enough. Usually the first interview is a screening interview where the employer evaluates whether you are a viable candidate based on how well you portray yourself and effectively communicate your skills, experiences, and career goals. Most campus interviews are scheduled in 3045 intervals, so you only have a brief period in which to make a good impression and sell yourself. Thus, being well prepared is absolutely critical!

It is up to you to convince the employer that you are the best choice for the job!

PREPARING FOR THE INTERVIEW

Many companies sponsor information meetings the evening before their campus interviews. You should definitely attend these sessions. They provide an excellent opportunity to learn about the company and help you be well prepared for your interview.

Spend time preparing for your interview. You usually get only 30 minutes to connect with an employer, so advance preparation can help you make the best use of this time. Some students spend more time studying for a single test than what they put into getting ready for an interview!

Preparing for an interview can be some of the most well spent time of your college life—especially if it helps you land the job with want that will launch your career success!

2. KNOW THE EMPLOYER

Research the company and learn as much as you can about the prospective employer’s operation, products, locations, work environment, and recent corporate news. This information is often provided on the company’s web site.

3. PRACTICE YOUR RESPONSES

Your ability to communicate your knowledge about yourself will be a key factor in the success of your interview. Expressing yourself clearly and concisely will create a favorable impression.

Think about how you would respond to possible interview questions (see p. 24 for some sample questions). Practice saying your responses out loud. Schedule a mock interview with the Career Center to get some feedback on your responses and a simulated sense of an actual interview.

Practice with a friend or in front of the mirror. Rehearsing how you would answer various questions can be very helpful, but make sure your responses don’t sound “canned”.

The Actual Interview First impressions make a big difference—you never get a second chance to make a first impression!

Dress appropriately—look professional and well groomed. Arrive on time—being a few minutes early is better than one minute late. Be courteous and friendly to everyone you meet. Most job interviews are comprised of three parts:

Opening/Introduction This part is the icebreaker and usually lasts 3-5 minutes. The interviewer often will greet you, ask you to be seated, and engage in small talk to help you relax.

Get your interview off to a good start when you greet the interviewer: 1. Smile 2. Direct Eye Contact 3. “Hello, I’m ___. It’s a pleasure to meet you.“ 4. Firm, gentle handshake

Body / Information Exchange During this segment, which generally lasts 20-25 minutes, specific information is exchanged between you and the interviewer. The recruiter will ask you a series of questions to help decide if you appear to be a “good fit” for the company’s needs.

In addition to assessing your specific knowledge, skills, abilities, and attitudes, the interviewer will be evaluating how you handle yourself, your degree of confidence, your ability to relate to others, and your motivation. Employers are looking for candidates with a strong work ethic who demonstrate a willingness to take initiative, assume responsibility, and produce results.

Back up your statements with specific examples.

When describing a certain skill that you have developed, reinforce those statements by citing a particular instance or project where you used demonstrated that ability.

Near the end of this segment, the interviewer will ask if you have any questions. Be prepared with 2-3 good questions that show you have researched the company and that you are strongly interested in working for this company. This is not the time to ask about salary and benefits, unless the interviewer initiates a discussion of those issues.

Close Similar to the “close” of a sales presentation, this part of the interview lasts only a few minutes.

The recruiter will signal the end of the interview by wrapping up the discussion, standing up, and escorting you to the door. Before leaving, ask for a business card and make sure you understand the next step in the process.

Remember to thank the interviewer and reiterate your interest in working for the company. Exit with a smile, good eye contact, and a firm handshake.

Interview Tips

Interview Mistakes to Avoid

•Research the company.

•Practice your responses.

•Know yourself.

•Schedule a mock interview.

•Prepare questions to ask.

•Show up on time.

•Make a good first impression.

•Dress and conduct yourself in a professional manner.

•Show enthusiasm and energy.

•Maintain eye contact.

•Communicate effectively.

•Accentuate the positive.

•Back up your statements of abilities with examples.

•Be aware of body language (yours and the interviewer’s).

•Showing up late.

•Having poor personal appearance.

•Failing to keep eye contact.

•Showing little enthusiasm or interest.

•Giving rambling, unfocused responses.

•Having unclear career objectives.

•Responding with yes or no answers.

•Talking negatively about former employers or colleagues.

•Projecting an arrogant or “know-it- all” attitude.

•Failing to project self-confidence and poise.

•Not doing any prior research on the company.

•Focusing on salary and benefits.

•Not asking the interviewer any questions.

Scheduling A Campus Interview Students must be registered with the Career Center’s online system to apply for interviews with employers coming to campus (The Gold Mine: www.sdsmtcareers.com). The Career Center’s web site explains the procedures for registration, resume posting, and campus interviews. Also included is information about the types of jobs, eligibility criteria, open sign-up vs. prescreen method, and application deadlines.

Be sure to keep checking on a regular basis to learn about additional employers that have scheduled on-campus interviews.

Students are expected to honor all interview appointments. The competition for interview slots is often very keen. If you must cancel an interview due to illness or personal emergency, call the Career Center at 394-2667 and provide as much advance notice as possible. A “No-Show” without any notification not only reflects poorly on you but also can leave an unfavorable impression with the interviewer about Mines students in general. *CANDIDATES WHO FAIL TO APPEAR FOR AN INTERVIEW RISK LOSING THEIR PRIVILEGES TO USE CAREER CENTER SERVICES, INCLUDING CAMPUS INTERVIEWS!

Behavior­­‑Based Interviews Many employers have switched to behavior-based questions in their interviews. Behavior­‑based interviews are based on the concept that past behavior is the best predictor of future performance.

What you have done in the past is a good indicator of how you likely will perform in the future.

To Prepare for Behavior-Based Interviews

•How are your previous internship or other work experiences relevant to this job?

•What are the specific attributes the employer is seeking in candidates for this job?

•What specific examples can you provide where you demonstrated the characteristics sought by the employer?

To Answer Behavior-Based Questions— Use the SAR Approach Situation- Describe the problem or situation you

ActionResults

encountered.

Briefly explain the action you took.

Describe the outcome AND what you learned!

Some Sample Questions •Provide an example of a time when you took the initiative to get something done.

•Describe a time when you solved a challenging problem.

•Give an example of a situation where you experienced a difficult coworker.

•Tell me about a situation that required several things to be done at the same time.

•Describe a goal that you set for yourself and explain how you reached that goal.

•Describe a goal that you set for yourself that you didn’t reach.

•Tell me about a time when you had an innovative or creative idea.

•Have you ever disagreed with a decision of your supervisor?

•Give us an example of a time where you showed your ability to keep track of details.

•Tell me about a time where the end result wasn’t what you expected.

•Describe a time when you went “above and beyond” what was expected of you.

•Give me an example of a project that was very successful.

•Describe the best supervisor and the worst supervisor you’ve had, and explain why.

•What is the most challenging or stressful situation you have encountered?

During the Interview, show: •Energy •Confidence •Dependability

•Enthusiasm

•Tell me about an experience where you had to adapt to different situations.

•What is the most frustrating experience you have encountered?

Dress To Impress You never get a second chance to make a first impression! Looking professional matters.

Interviewers notice how you look before they learn

Men

•Suit or sport coat with dress slacks (dark colors)

•Dress shirt—clean and ironed!

anything else about you, so it’s important to

•Ties—avoid loud patterns.

project a professional image. Employers sometimes

•Shoes—polished —dark color that goes with the slacks

•Socks—dark color (no white socks!)

decide within the first five minutes of meeting you whether they intend to seriously consider you for the position.

Even though many companies have a “business

Women

casual” dress code, you still should dress up for

•Classic business skirt/blouse or dress pant suit.

an interview unless specifically told otherwise. It’s

•Blouse—conservative neckline

•Shoes— basic look with low heels

•Stockings—natural or neutral colors (no runs!)

•Accessories—keep jewelry to a minimum; understated colors for fingernail polish

always better to be dressed professionally than to risk not meeting the employer’s expectations regarding your interview attire. Following are a few guidelines:

Top 10 Interview Dress Mistakes Company officials who do a lot of campus recruiting have cited the following mistakes that some college students make when dressing for their interviews. Remember—you often are being judged by someone from another generation whose expectations of interview dress are different from your peers.

Men and Women

•Personal hygiene—clean nails, fresh breath

•Hair—clean, combed/brushed, professional hair style

•Cologne/Perfume—use in moderation

•No visible tattoos or body piercings!

•Extra items—avoid taking backpacks or coats into the interview room

Business Casual is NOT

•T-shirts and blue jeans

2. Wrinkled clothes.

•Casual clothing worn to the beach, dance clubs, exercise sessions and sports events

3. Clothing that is too tight.

•Flip flops, tennis shoes, or shorts

4. Women – skirts or blouses that are too revealing.

•Clothing that reveals too much cleavage, your back, your feet, your chest, your stomach, or your underwear

1. Flip flops.

5. Dirty or scuffed shoes.

6. Heavy use of perfume or cologne.

7. Visible tattoos or piercings.

8. Guys- not shaving! (The stubble look may be popular in social settings but isn’t OK for an interview.)

9. An overall look that is too casual.

10. Too much jewelry.

Telephone Interviews Telephone interviews are sometimes used by employers as a screening method to decide which applicants to invite for a second interview or plant trip. The interview questions often are the same as those used in face-to-face interviews.

Phone interviews don’t allow you or the interviewer to make eye contact or read each other’s body language. So…it’s especially important that your voice shows energy and enthusiasm during the phone interview. During a phone interview, you can refer to your notes without feeling self-conscious or worrying about forgetting key points that you want to make.

Tips for a successful phone interview

•Take the call in a quiet place (no television sets, loud music, or barking dogs!)

•Be sure your answering machine or voice mail message sounds professional.

•Jot down key points you want to emphasize and questions to ask the employer.

•Have your resume and the job description with you for reference.

•Ask for clarification or for the question to be repeated if necessary.

•Speak clearly with energy in your voice to show enthusiasm for the position.

•Smile during the phone interview—it improves your delivery.

•Keep good posture during the interview—it can improve your delivery and keep you focused in a professional frame of mind.

•Expect brief pauses after you have finished answering a question. The interviewer(s) are likely taking notes.

•Jot down the name(s) of the interviewer(s).

•Practice answering interview questions by recording them and then playing them back to see how you sound.

Sample Letter

Follow-Up Letters

from the desk of

Jill Jobseeker

Send a follow-up letter every chance you get—after an interview, meeting a recruiter at a Career Fair, or visiting with a company official at a professional conference. In addition to showing good business etiquette, follow-up letters provide a networking opportunity to reinforce your qualifications and desire for the job. They also give you a chance to demonstrate your written communication skills.

Your follow-up note should be brief and sent within 24 hours after your interaction with the employer. The tone should be friendly yet professional. The format (typed vs. handwritten) and the delivery method (snail mail vs. email) are not as important as making sure that you actually do it!

SDSM&T RH 999 501 E. Saint Joseph St. Rapid City, SD 57701 Ms. Mary Jones Technical Recruiter XYZ, Inc. 999 Industrial Boulevard Anytown, SD 577xx

Dear Ms. Jones: Thank you for the opportunity to interview with you and discuss my qualifications for the software development position. I am very excited about the possibility of working for XYZ, Inc. As we discussed, my summer internships not only provided me with some relevant work experience but also developed my technical and teamwork skills. I am convinced that I would be a good fit for this position and would be an asset to your company.

Again, thank you for the interview. I look forward to hearing from you and hope to have the opportunity to join the XYZ team.

Sincerely, Jill Jobseeker (Signature) Jill Jobseeker

Try to send a separate note to each person you met or visited with. Be sure to proof your follow-up letters as carefully as your resume or cover letter!

Second Interviews/ Plant Trips Being invited for a second interview or an on-site visit (which is often called a plant trip) indicates that the company is strongly interested in hiring you. However, a job offer is not a sure thing yet.

This stage of the evaluation process allows both you and the employer a chance for a more in-depth assessment of each other.

During the typical visit, you will meet with a variety of people who have some input into the hiring decision. These meetings will give them a sense of whether you are a “good fit” for their company.

Likewise, seeing the company firsthand and meeting some of the principal players can help you decide whether the company is a good fit for you.

Before the Trip •Learn as much as you can about the company and if any Mines alumni work for that employer.

•Prepare questions to ask throughout the day.

•Have a clear understanding of who makes the travel arrangements and how expenses will be handled (many companies cover the expenses, but not all do).

During the Trip •Keep a positive and enthusiastic attitude throughout the day.

•Pay attention to the names of the people you meet and collect business cards to send follow-up notes.

•Be friendly to everyone you meet—including receptionists, secretaries, production workers, etc.— treat everyone as if they are the CEO! •Be a good listener and ask questions to show interest.

•Observe the company culture, management style, and work environment.

•During lunch/dinner meetings, remain professional and follow the lead of your host in ordering food. Do not order alcohol.

•Be prepared to discuss salary expectations if asked, but don’t raise the subject yourself.

•Use good judgment in charging expenses to an employer. Inappropriate charges—room service, personal phone calls, in-room movies, etc.—will reflect poorly on you.

After the Trip

•Bring several copies of your resume and a copy of your transcript in a nice portfolio, along with samples of relevant projects (if applicable).

•Send follow-up/thank-you notes within 24 hours to your host and other persons you met. Your follow-up letters should reinforce your interest in the company and reiterate a key reason why you are a good fit .

•Ask about appropriate attire if you will be touring the field operations, production facility, etc.

•Submit receipts for travel reimbursement (if applicable).

•Pack lightly to avoid checking luggage if possible.

•Make notes and record your impressions to help you compare employers if you receive multiple job offers.

•Get a good night’s sleep before the on-site interview.

•Get directions and a phone number of someone to contact if you encounter travel difficulties or delays.

•Follow up with the company if you have not heard anything within the indicated time frame.

Act with Integrity

Dining Etiquette Although lunch or dinner with a prospective

employer may be more relaxing, it is still part of

the evaluation process. Good behavior and proper dining etiquette are very important to the overall

impression the employer will have of you.

Some tips

As students emerging as professionals, you are expected to demonstrate a code of conduct that includes: •Accepting responsibility for your actions •Keeping your word and following through •Making decisions based on personal and professional ethical standards

•Keep your elbows off the table.

•After using a utensil, keep it on your plate instead

of putting it back on the table.

•When ordering food, take your cue from your

host. Don’t order the most expensive item on

the menu!

•Avoid foods that may be messy or difficult to eat (e.g., crab legs, spaghetti, spareribs, corn on

the cob).

•Use silverware working from the outside toward your plate.

•Place napkin on your lap as soon as you sit

down and keep it there throughout the meal.

If you leave the table during the meal, place

the napkin on your chair.

•Taste your food before seasoning it.

•Pass the food clockwise.

•Be polite to your server.

•Engage in table conversation with small talk or topics of mutual interest. Avoid

talking about politics, religion, or

inappropriate jokes.

•Turn off your cell phone.

•Don’t talk with your mouth full. Take small bites.

•Remember to thank your host for the meal.

You may receive several job offers during your search. You aren’t required to accept the first job offer that you receive and until you have accepted a job, you can continue to interview and pursue other offers. If you are still undecided by the date a company has requested a decision, you can ask for an extension of their deadline. Some companies may agree to a brief extension, but others may insist on a decision so they can pursue other candidates if you decline their offer.

Once you have accepted a job offer, you should adhere to the following ethical standards: •Withdraw from the interviewing/ recruiting process •Notify other employers who were actively considering you so that they can consider other candidates.

•Cancel any pending interviews so another student can possibly be selected for your interview slot.

•Notify the Career Center of your accepted job offer so your resume will not be referred to other employers.

•Do not renege on an accepted job offer except in extremely extenuating circumstances (unexpected health problem, marriage, divorce, etc.)

Accepting a job offer as a back-up in case a better one doesn’t come along is unfair not only to the employer holding the position for you, but also to other students who may be

interested in that company. Students who renege

on job offers can create unfavorable impressions

of Mines students overall by employers, which may

cause them to reconsider their decision to recruit

on our campus in the future.

ENGINEER your way to WYOMING! Great Career!

Outstanding quality of life!

PCA Engineering, Inc. offers a competitive salary and benefits package that includes:  100% medical and dental insurance  retirement plan  profit sharing  6 paid holidays per year  15.5 days of paid personal leave per year.

We take pride in a great work environment and client satisfaction!