Career Development Tips

Believe it or not, you've already done the hard part of the job search process.  The job interview allows you to follow your experience with an oral presentation.  Anticipating the questions to be asked can be nerve-wracking; however, with practice, you will ease much of your anxiety.  Here are a few pointers:

• Review your research of the company; know the job requirements and relevant job or company history.
• Be clear on your own interests and career goals.
• Be an active participant by asking relevant questions and related details.
• Be an active listener, pay attention and absorb what the interviewer is saying; you may be able to add key points of information that make you more memorable.

In addition to what you say in your interview, you must also be mindful of how you present yourself.  Sometimes what we think of as "dressy" or business like is not appropriate for your interview. Here are a few hints to lead you in the right direction:

• Look clean and neat.  Make sure that all hair is neatly trimmed. 
• Do not wear a strong perfume or cologne. A light soap or body cream should suffice.
• Cover any tattoos and avoid gaudy jewelry.  Definitely limit pierced jewelry to ears only!  Men should generally avoid them.

• Wear a suit or sport jacket with color-coordinated pants.
• The color should be neutral, or dark blue, black or grey.
• Wear a tie, even if you never have to wear one after you get the job.
• Shoes should be clean and polished.
• Make sure that your nails are trimmed and clean.

• Wear a classic suit or a simple dress with a jacket.  This is not a time to be provocative or sexy.  Some appropriate colors are navy blue, black, dark green, dark red, burgundy, or grey.
• Avoid wearing clothes that are tight, revealing or trendy. 
• Fingernails should be trimmed to a length that doesn't attract great attention or interfere with the job skills required. 

Remember: The impression you leave on the job every day will add to your performance when the boss searches for someone to promote. Your interview is the first step in that process.

Web Resources

• Florida Choices Planner
• Peak Life Skills
• America's Career Info Net
• US Department of Education Office of Vocational and Adult Education
• The President
• US Senators
• US Representatives
• Florida Legislators
• Florida Representatives
  

Did you know?

SCC's Adult High School offers Career Programs Institute classes in Nursing, Automotive Technology, Business, Information Systems and public safety.