SDSMT Career Guide 2011-12

Dear Students, We’re glad you are a student at the School of Mines! Our goal in the Career Center is to help you succeed 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

Staff Dr. Darrell Sawyer, Director Cindy Christensen, Program Asst.

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

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The Superior Source

Career Center Services E-Recruiting System Deciding Your Career Direction

Pursue Your Passion Setting Career Goals Career Planning Timeline Plan to Intern or Co-op Career Fairs Job Search Strategies Networking Connect With Alumni Graduate School Advice for Grads Social Media Alumni Advice

6 7 8 9 11 11 12 14 16 16 16

Resumes Resume Formats Choose Your Best References Electronic Resumes Sample Chronological Resume Sample Chrono-Functional Resume Cover Letters Cover Letter Parts Sample Cover Letter

17 17 18 18 19 20 21 21 22

The Power of the Pen

Conversation is Key

Interviews The Actual Interview First Year On the Job Interview Tips/ Mistakes Scheduling A Campus Interview Behavior Based Interviews Sample Questions Dress for Success Telephone Interviews

23 24 25 26 26 27 27 28 29

Follow-Up Letters Second Interviews/ Plant Trips Dining Etiquitte Act With Integrity Applying Online

33 34 35 35 36

Essential Extras

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4 5 6

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

Army Inside Front Cover Angus Palm 29 Alpha Natural Resources Inside Back Cover Black Hills Corporation 30 Dakota Gasification Company 5 Design Data Corporation 12 SD Office of Economic Development 10 Horton Inc. 33 Kadrmas, Lee & Jackson 30 Kiewit Back Cover Nebraska Public Power District 32 NorthWestern Energy 3 POET 10 Polaris Industries 32 Raven Industries, Inc 31 Sioux Steel Company 25 SD Department of Labor 10 SD Department of Transportation 3

*The School of Mines Career Center 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, World Association for Cooperative Education, National Careeer Development Association, and South Dakota Association of College Career Centers.

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

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Job Postings

Career Center Services

The Career Center’s online job and resume system (www.sdsmtcareers.com) enables students to search and apply for jobs posted by employers seeking to hire School of Mines students and graduates.

Career and Professional Development

Internships and Co-ops

Professional Development Workshops

•Resumes •Cover letters •Practice interviews •Job searches •Professional development workshops (social networking, business etiquette, cultural awareness, etc.)

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

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 benefits

•Job search strategies

•Business etiquette dinners

•Professional networking

Career Advising Career Fairs Career Fairs are held on campus each fall and spring and attract a wide range of employers—Fortune 500, regional companies, and government agencies.

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 150 employers visit the campus each year to recruit and hire School of Mines students.

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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 and schedule on-campus interviews.

•Access jobs (full-time, co-op, intern) posted by employers and submit your resume electronically.

•Learn about upcoming professional development workshops and other events.

•Update your resume and cover letters electronically.

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Deciding Your Career Direction

Setting Career Goals

Setting your career goals requires reflecting on your priorities and appraising yourself as a person. To conduct your self-analysis:

•Examine your values, interests,

and abilities.

•Identify your personal qualities and

strengths.

•Prioritize what is important to you for

personal satisfaction and success.

•Consider the knowledge you will

acquire through your education and

identify careers that match those

skills.

•Be realistic about your skills as well as

limitations and consider how they

could impact your goals.

•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!

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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.

Understand yourself…

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

•Take career assessments offered by the Career Center.

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

Explore options…

•Access career resources available

online and in libraries.

•Talk to alumni working in various

career fields.

•Attend Career Fairs and visit with

employers.

•Read profiles of alumni.

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

•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.

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

•If still deciding a major, take career assessments offered by the Career Center.

Sophomore

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 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 workshops.

•Get involved in student activities.

•Attend employer information meetings.

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

Junior

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.

•Participate in professional development activities.

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

•Volunteer with campus or community organizations.

•Seek opportunities to develop your leadership skills and experiences.

Senior

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 search the Career Center’s job postings.

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

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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.

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 college.

•Obtain academic credit.

To Get an Internship or Co-op: •Prepare a good resume and cover

letter.

•Apply for jobs posted in the Career

Center’s online system. (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.

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

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

• Starting salaries are often higher for graduates with co-op/internship experience .

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://careers.sdsmt.edu for additional information.

Apply technical understanding

“My co-op and interships resulted in receiving a full-time job offer at the start of my graduating year.”

Cathy Sass, Cargill Chemical Engineering, May 2010 8

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 and open to all Mines students, alumni, faculty, and staff.

To Get Results at the Career Fair: Before the Fair— PREPARE •Check the employers attending:

http://careers.sdsmt.edu.

•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!

•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.

•Request a business card from the recruiter.

After the Fair— FOLLOW UP

•Send follow-up notes to the employers of special interest.

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

•Submit any applications or resumes online through the employers’ web sites.

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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 School of 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 useful contacts.

•Networking—Visit with faculty, alumni, relatives, friends, and others

and ask for advice on job leads.

•Government agencies — Federal and

state job postings can be viewed at:

http://www.usajobs.gov and http://www.jobbankinfo.org.

•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.

•Third-party recruiters/staffing agencies (Avoid search firms that charge

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.

fees to applicants.)

•Direct contacts with employers—

Submit a resume and 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 few weeks to let them know you’re still interested.

Perseverance sometimes pays off!

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Connect With Alumni

Networking 101

•Make a list of the people you know (faculty, alumni, family, 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 that company.

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

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

Don’t overlook School of 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 Mines Alumni Association is located in the Surbeck Center next to the Career Center. Stop by and get to know the alumni association staff. .

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Considering Grad School?

For professions (medicine, law, university faculty, etc.) where an advanced degree is required, attending graduate school is a necessity. For other fields, deciding whether to attend graduate school immediately after earning your bachelor’s degree can involve various considerations:

•What are your career goals?

•What is your readiness to pursue

graduate level work—time commitment, financial resources,

etc.?

•What is the value of a graduate degree to your career plans—

earning potential, entry into a profession, advancement, etc.?

•What is the current job market like?

Is it to your benefit to pursue a graduate degree immediately or after working in your career field for a year or more?

“Good Fit” Graduate Schools Once you have decided to pursue a graduate degree, it is important to identify graduate programs that are a “good fit” for you and your career goals. Some factors to consider include: Program of Study—Degrees offered; majors or areas of emphasis Admissions Standards—Importance of test scores, grades, recommendations, statements; undergraduate degree in subject or course prerequisites; state residency; preferences for recent graduates or work experience Faculty—size of department; areas of expertise, type of research and teaching interests, publications and affiliations, awards, and accessibility to students Fellowships and Financial Aid—Type and amount of awards available; criteria used for choosing recipients Facilities—Libraries, research, laboratories, equipment

•How long will it take?

•How much will it cost?

Would an employer help pay for graduate school?

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Timetable

FALL

Begin the year before or at least the summer before your senior year of college. Study deadlines for specific programs carefully, as they may vary significantly among institutions. Financial aid deadlines may be earlier than admissions.

Take standardized tests Request application materials from programs Ask for letters of recommendation (i.e. faculty, advisors, supervisors, mentors) Order transcripts Research financial aid; complete applications for sources with early deadlines Finalize statement of purpose

SUMMER/EARLY FALL Write draft statement of purpose Start browsing through guides to graduate programs and college catalogs Visit with faculty members to discuss statement and possible programs Sign up for required standardized tests Visit schools; meet with faculty and graduate students in programs

Lifelong learning 14

EARLY WINTER Complete application and financial aid forms Give recommenders forms to fill out (if provided) or addresses for sending letters Mail applications; watch deadlines for admissions and financial aid Contact programs to set up possible interviews Follow up by phone to verify all materials have been received

Your Personal Essay/Statement

The personal statement is your opportunity

to speak about yourself and explain why

you would be an asset to that university’s

graduate program. In addition to describing

your career goals and your commitment to

that field of study, your personal statement

serves as an indication of your writing ability.

Because the personal statement is a short

piece that sometimes has a word limit, it is

crucial that you first organize your thoughts,

and then refine, simplify, and polish your ideas.

**Make sure that your essay is neat, grammatically correct, and free of any errors!

The Power of a Good Introduction

An effective opening line engages the

reader and draws them into your essay.

The rest of your introduction should be a

short summary of what is to come, but

don’t just write a summary—provide an

exciting preview of the body of your statement.

The Body: Getting the Message Across

The main paragraphs should consist of events, experiences and activities you have already organized in order of importance.

Give special prominence to those accomplishments that you believe deserve particular attention--be specific and detailed.

Each paragraph should have a separate theme. Your final body paragraph should end on a positive note, restating your goals in terms of its anticipated fulfillment at the institution to which you are applying.

Conclusion The conclusion should not merely restate your introduction. It’s acceptable to restate your goals and motivations, but do so in a manner that will leave a lasting impression with the reader.

Be clear, straightforward, and end on a very positive note.

References/Recommendations Two to three letters of recommendation are required by most graduate schools. Select the most appropriate letter writers, who might be:

•Someone who has a high opinion of your ability to perform well in graduate school

•Faculty member(s) with whom you have taken several classes

•Someone knowledgeable about the schools or programs to which you are applying

To assist your recommenders, provide them with the application deadlines, any specific instructions required for the letter of recommendation, a statement about what you are applying for and why, your resume or curriculum vitae, and a copy of your transcript. Always send a thank you note to those who wrote letters of recommendation. ** NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure that your application is completed on time!

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Social Media Social media sites such as Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter can be useful networking tools

“What I Wish I’d Known before Working in Industry” Advice from Alumni

during your job search. They offer job seekers the potential to meet new contacts company web sites or job postings.

Several Mines alumni who participated in a recent career development program offered the following advice to current Mines students:

However, in addition to networking

that wouldn’t be accessible to them through

• Networking is extremely important!

Introduce yourself to coworkers.

• Learn how to communicate effectively with different audiences and different generations.

media accounts and limit access to your

friends. Be sure to remove any inappropriate

opportunities for job seekers, social media now are being used by some employers to check Facebook and similar sites as part of their evaluation process of candidates.

Review the privacy settings for your social

language or photos that you would not want

• Get involved in your company’s activities. Show up at the company picnic!

an employer to see!

• Broaden your skill sets continually.

• Develop interpersonal relationships.

• Keep a positive attitude. You won’t get promoted if you’re viewed as a whiner or having a negative outlook on everything.

• Don’t be afraid to say “I don’t know, but I’ll find out!”

• Volunteer to help with projects or activities outside your regular work duties.

Communicate

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Resumes Your resume is a marketing tool that highlights your qualifications for a position.

It’s 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.

Your resume should quickly identify to an employer:

•Who you are

•What your career objectives are

•What you have accomplished

•Why you are a good fit for that employer 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, 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. Your resume 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 onepage resume, but use two pages if necessary to summarize all your relevant skills and experiences. Remember your audience—a busy 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.

Resume Formats Chronological

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

•most common format and often preferred by recruiters.

Functional

•focuses on qualifications and skills rather than previous jobs.

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

Chrono-functional

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

Resume Tips

•Keep it short—(1 page if possible)

•Write in phrases with action words

•Use at least 10 point font.

•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 within too much text.

•PROOF it and then proof it again!

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Choose Your Best References Having positive and effective references can be very important to getting hired. 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! Give your references a copy of your resume so they have it on hand when speaking to prospective employers.

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. Carter Kerk Professor of Industrial Engineering South Dakota School of Mines 501 E. St. Joseph Street Rapid City, SD 57701 (605) 394-xxxx

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Electronic Resumes Many employers prefer and some require that resumes be submitted online. Some companies have automated their initial screening process by using 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 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 (e.g., AutoCAD, IEEE) 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 sending it, as it reflects on your communication skills.

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

JILL JOBSEEKER

jill.jobseeker@hotmail.com CURRENT ADDRESS SDSM&T, RH 999 501 E. St. Joseph Street Rapid City, SD 57701 (605) 394-xxxx

PERMANENT ADDRESS Box 111 Hometown, SD 57101 (605) 555-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 2012 EXPERIENCE Engineering Co-op

Cargill, Spiritwood, ND

January-August 2010

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 2009

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, Rapid City, SD Sept. 2008-May 2009

Answered phones and filed office documents. Prepared packets for campus visits by

prospective students and their parents.

PROJECTS Sub-Compartment Humidification

March–June 2010

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. 2009-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) 2008-present

Student Association Junior Senator Fall 2009 Orientation Leader Summer 2009

Alpha Omega Epsilon Professional Engineering Sorority 2009-present

United Way Day of Caring Volunteer Fall 2009 REFERENCES Available Upon Request 19

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 Six Sigma, Green Belt certification SUMMARY 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: May 2011 Major GPA: 3.4; Overall GPA: 2.9

EXPERIENCE Industrial Engineer Intern, Caterpillar, Peoria, IA Summer 2010

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 2009

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 Jan-May 2008

Provided friendly customer service. Developed interpersonal skills.

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RELEVANT “Human Powered Vehicle” 2009-present PROJECTS 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 2010

Evaluated the layout of the particleboard manufacturing plant and modifications

to accommodate the installation of new equipment. Presented commendations

to plant supervisors. Involved in a Kaizen event for warehouse space utilization.

(team project)

“Work Station for Black Hills Workshop Clients” Fall 2009

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 2008-present ACTIVITIES Vice-President 2009-10

Coordinated IIE community service project Spring 2010

Student Association- Sophomore Representative 2008-09

United Way Day of Caring Volunteer-SDSM&T Team Fall 2009

REFERENCES Available upon request

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 demonstrates 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

•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

(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.

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

•Remember your audience—a busy

employer!

Cover Letter Parts Applicant’s address Date Name of company official Title Company name Street address City, State ZIP Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name: (Use “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 or 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 in wanting to review your resume!

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.

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

Your name typed Enclosure 21

123 First Avenue, Apt. 678 Rapid City, SD 57701 Date Ms. Mary Smith Director of Human Resources ABC Company 123 Main Street Anytown, SD 57000 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 and Student Association has provided me with many opportunities to develop strong teamwork, communication, and leadership skills.

I n 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 appreciate the opportunity for an interview to further discuss my qualifications. I look forward to hearing from you.

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

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1. KNOW YOURSELF

Interviews 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 30-45 minute intervals, so you only have a brief time to sell yourself. Thus, being well prepared is absolutely critical!

PREPARING FOR THE 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 they put into getting ready for an interview! Preparing for an interview can be some of your best spent time in college— especially if it helps land the job you want!

Who am I? What are my goals?

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?

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

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

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

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. 27 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 to answer various questions can be helpful, but make sure your responses don’t sound “canned”.

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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 several minutes early is better than one minute late. Be courteous and friendly to everyone you meet. Most job interviews are comprised of three parts :

In addition to assessing your specific knowledge, skills, 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 look for candidates with a strong work ethic and a willingness to take initiative, assume responsibility, and produce results.

Opening/Introduction

Back up your statements with specific examples. When describing a certain skill that you have developed, reinforce those statements by citing a particular situation or project where you demonstrated that ability.

This part is the icebreaker and usually lasts three to five minutes. The interviewer often greets you, asks you to be seated, and engages 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 2025 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.

Communicate

24

Near the end of this segment, the interviewer will ask if you have any questions. Be prepared with two to three 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.

Successful First Year on the Job

Your first year on the job can be extremely

important to your career success. The world of work is different than college life, and recognizing the differences can help you make the transition successfully. You are no longer a college student, and as a new employee, you may not be accepted yet as a professional by your coworkers.

Bringing a positive attitude and a willingness to learn the company culture will help you get started “on the right foot”. The impressions you make on your supervisor and coworkers during the early weeks of your employment will largely determine the opinions they form of you. By developing a reputation as a

hard-working team member, you will not only earn the respect of your colleagues but also the appreciation of management for the contributions you are making.

Tips for First-Year Success:

•Pay attention to the company culture and how to “fit in”.

•Understand your supervisor’s expectations of you and strive to meet those expectations.

•Demonstrate the right attitudes.

•Instead of trying to prove that you “know it all”, be a good listener and contribute your suggestions and ideas when appropriate.

•Have realistic expectations and be willing to “pay your dues” to demonstrate your value to the company.

•Be confident in your abilities but also remember that you don’t know everything.

•Build relationships with your boss and your coworkers.

•Be conscious of the impressions you are making on others.

•Continue to acquire new skills and abilities.

•Remember—to be accepted as a professional, you must act and look like a professional!

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Interview Tips •Research the company.

•Know yourself.

•Practice your responses.

•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).

Interview Mistakes

•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-itall” 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). , 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. If you must cancel an interview due to illness or personal emergency, call the Career Center at (605) 394-2667 and provide as much, advance notice as possible. Not showing up,for an interview without any notification reflects poorly on you and also can leave an unfavorable impression with the interviewer about School of,Mines students as a whole. *CANDIDATES WHO FAIL TO APPEAR FOR AN INTERVIEW RISK LOSING THEIR PRIVILEGES TO USE CAREER CENTER SERVICES, INCLUDING CAMPUS INTERVIEWS. 26

Behavior­­‑Based Interviews Many employers have switched to behaviorbased 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, Think About . . .

•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?

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

To Answer Behavior-Based Questions— Use the SAR Approach

Situation- Describe the problem or situation

you encountered.

Action- Briefly explain the action you took.

Results- Describe the outcome AND what you learned!

During the Interview, show:

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.

•Tell us about a time when you 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.

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

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

•What is the most frustrating experience you have encountered?

•Energy •Confidence •Dependability

Communicate

•Enthusiasm

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Dress For Success You never get a second chance to make a first impression! Looking professional matters!

Interviewers notice how you look before they learn anything else about you, so it’s important to project a professional image.

Employers sometimes 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 casual” dress code, you still should dress up for an interview unless specifically told otherwise. It’s always better to be dressed professionally than to risk not meeting the employer’s expectations regarding your interview attire.

Interview Dress Guidelines Men

•Suit or sport coat with dress slacks (dark colors) •Dress shirt—clean and ironed!

•Ties—avoid loud patterns.

•Shoes—should be polished and a dark color that goes with the slacks •Socks—dark color (no white socks!)

Women

•Classic business skirt/blouse or dress pant suit.

•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

Men and Women

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•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 if possible

Business Casual is NOT

•T-shirts and blue jeans •Casual clothing worn to the beach, dance clubs, exercise sessions and sports events •Flip flops, tennis shoes, or shorts •Clothing that reveals too much cleavage, your back, your feet, your chest, your stomach, or your underwear

Top 10 Interview Dress Mistakes Campus recruiters 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.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Flip flops.

Wrinkled clothes.

Clothing that is too tight.

Women: skirts or blouses that are too revealing.

5. Dirty or scuffed shoes.

6. Heavy use of perfume or cologne.

7. Visible tattoos or piercings.

8. Men: not shaving (The stubble look may be popular in social settings but is not 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.

•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.

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

•Jot down the interviewer’s name(s).

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

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30

31

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Follow-Up Notes Send a follow-up note 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 notes 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!

Sample Letter from the desk of

Jill Jobseeker 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 57000 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. Be sure to proof your follow-up notes as carefully as your resume or cover letter!

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Second Interviews/ Plant Trips Being invited for a second interview or an on-site visit (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 School of 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).

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

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

•Pack lightly to avoid checking luggage if possible.

•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.

34

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— receptionists, secretaries, production workers, and others—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 meals, 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, and others—will reflect poorly on you.

After the Trip •Send follow-up notes within 24 hours thanking your host and other persons you met. Reinforce your interest in the company and reiterate a key reason why you are a good fit.

•Submit receipts for travel reimbursement (if applicable).

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

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

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 •Keep your elbows off the table.

Act with Integrity

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

•Use silverware working from the outside

You may receive several job offers during your toward your plate.

search. You aren’t required to accept the first job

offer that you receive and until you have accepted •After using a utensil, keep it on your plate

a job, you can continue to interview and pursue instead of putting it back on the table.

other offers. If you are still undecided by the date •When ordering food, take your cue from your a company has requested a decision, you can ask host. Don’t order the most expensive item on for an extension of their deadline. Some the menu!

companies may agree to a brief extension, but •Avoid foods that may be messy or difficult to others may insist on a decision so they can pursue eat (e.g., crab legs, spaghetti, spareribs, corn other candidates if you decline their offer. on the cob).

Once you have accepted a job offer, you should •Place napkin on your lap as soon as you sit

adhere to the following ethical standards: down and keep it there throughout the meal.

•Withdraw from the interviewing/ If you leave the table during the meal, place

recruiting process. the napkin on your chair.

•Notify other employers who were actively •Taste your food before seasoning it. considering you so that they can consider

other candidates.

•Pass the food clockwise.

•Cancel any pending interviews so another •Be polite to your server.

student can possibly be selected for your •Engage in table conversation with

interview slot. small talk or topics of mutual •Notify the Career Center of your accepted job interest. Avoid talking about politics,

offer so your resume will not be referred to religion, or inappropriate jokes.

other employers.

•Turn off your cell phone.

•Do not renege on an accepted job offer except in extremely extenuating circumstances •Don’t talk with your mouth full. Take

(unexpected health problem, family small bites.

emergency, etc.)

•Remember to thank your host for Accepting a job offer as a back-up in case a better one doesn’t the meal. 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 School of Mines students overall by

employers, which may cause them to reconsider

their decision to recruit on our campus in the future.

Act with integrity 35

Applying Online Many companies no longer accept hard-copy resumes and instead require all candidates to apply online through their web sites. Company web sites often vary in their formats and specific application methods, which can be time consuming and frustrating at times. However, it is important that applicants follow the company’s application instructions EXACTLY! Some employers consider a candidate’s ability to follow the application instructions as part of their first round of screening.

Online application tips:

36

• Use a lot of key words relevant to the job description.

• Know what you are applying for— review the job posting carefully.

• Apply for jobs that aren’t your first choice to help get your “foot in the door” with that company.

• Don’t bother applying for jobs that you don’t come close to meeting the experience or skill requirements.

Getting Noticed in the Online Crowd Some Fortune 500 companies receive several hundred thousand applications each year.

Getting your resume to stand out from the crowd can be a challenge. To increase your chances:

• Use key words taken directly from the job description.

• List your most important skills/ accomplishments early on your resume.

• Keep your resume to one page.

• Be sure there are no grammar or spelling errors.

• Refresh (update) your resume once a month on job posting sites.

• Provide “extras” (portfolio samples, letter of recommendation, etc.) if possible.