Job Interview Resources

Resumes, Cover Letters, Letters of Recommendations and Job Interviews can be overwhelming for anyone, let alone a high school student, who is often experiencing all of them for the first time. However, utilizing the resources available and with practice, it can become easier. 

A resume is an important skill that all students at Lake Orion High School will have the opportunity to create in Career Foundations.  A resume is a snapshot in time, sharing current job objectives, education, other employment, extracurricular activities, accomplishments, volunteer opportunities and skills.  It advertises who you are, and what you have to offer.  It's important to review and update a resume annually. 

A cover letters is an introduction to a potential employer. It is the first document an employer reads to learn about you; it is their first impression of you before a potential interview.    Therefore, it is very important to craft a letter that is upbeat, tailored to the position you are applying for and free of spelling and grammatical errors. 

It is important ask for permission BEFORE giving contact information from a teacher, coach or other trusted adult for a recommendation.  Family members SHOULD NOT give recommendations, either for job or college applications.

My Perfect Resume

InstaResume

Enhancv Resume

Resume Genius

This compilation shows what is acceptable for adding social media links to your resume for your potential employer.  Most employers WILL look you up on social media to see your posts, and if you are a good fit for their place of employment.

LinkedIn is a great resource for any student or potential employee to use.  Not only are you putting your resume out there for the public to see, but it allows for you to build a network of professionals to learn from and connect with.

Creating your own professional LinkedIn account is important these days.  Give it a try!

A cover letter helps you make an initial and deeper connection to the employer that your resume doesn't quite allow.  When effectively written, it is 3-4 paragraphs, highlighting skills and experience you can bring to the company and explaining why you are the most qualified person for the job. 

Resume Genius Cover Letter Tips

Resume Builder Cover Letter Examples and Guide

To prepare for your interview:

• Research the company.  Be prepared to talk about the company, its vision, and how YOU will fit in to their goals.
• Map your route to the company and LEAVE EARLY.  Be prepared for any delays.
• Be confident.  They won't ask you a question you don't know the answer to.  Remember, it is all about YOU! But, if you draw a blank, just be honest and ask for a moment.  It's ok.  We all freeze up sometimes. 
• Smile! Walk in, hand outstretched for a handshake and introduce yourself!
• Dress for SUCCESS! Choose the best you have and wear it.  Be clean, well groomed and do NOT bring your phone in with you.  Leave it in the car or it will tempt/distract you. 
• After the interview, be sure to send a thank you note!

Interview Tips

The Online Writing Lab (OWL) at Purdue University houses writing resources and instructional material, and we provide these as a free service of the Writing Lab at Purdue. Students, members of the community, and users worldwide will find information to assist with many writing projects.