Thursday, February 9, 2012

Reading is Fundamental


Recently, several very good opportunities have come into The Hofstra University Career Center, many of which have received a lot of student interest – which is wonderful!!!   However, some students unfortunately missed out on these opportunities because they failed to fully read the job/internship listing and/or follow the directions.   So I would like to offer some advice....

  1. Remember it’s a very competitive job market both for jobs and internships. A deadline is a deadline!  When employer sets a deadline date for job/internship posting, that date is firm.
  2. Make sure when you make an application, you carefully read the job/internship listing and follow the directions on how to apply (apply on-line, send resume to: via e-mail, fax, US mail, etc).  Only send the employer the requested materials, no more, just what they ask for (resume, cover letter, transcript, references, etc). 
  3. Be sure that your cover letter is targeted and addresses key points in the job description.  Remember, your cover letter allows you to show the prospective employer that you are the best person for the job.  The cover letter also allows you to highlight transferrable skills, and how you can make a contribution to the organization.   To be competitive a cover letter is crucial - so don’t  blow it off! Don't write "Dear Sir or Madam" or to "Whom it May Concern."  Better yet, take five minutes to find out the person you are sending the cover letter to, and address it to them directly. 
  4. As a reminder, the Hofstra Career Center can help you develop your resume, cover letter and interviewing skills.  Remember your resume and cover letter are the first impression you make on a prospective employer!  So take the time to have it reviewed during The Career Center’s Quick Questions (Mon-Thur 2-4 and Friday 11-1).   Additionally, The Career Center can meet with you for practice mock interviews.  We also periodically bring alumni and employers back to campus to help conduct mock interviews.  If you are not comfortable or nervous about a job or internship interview – please take advantage of employers and alumni who want to help.

So PLEASE carefully read the listing, follow the directions, and take advantage of the resources you have at Hofstra (The Career Center) so you can find success with your job and internship search!

~Fred Burke, Executive Director of The Career Center.   

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