Table of Contents
Introduction
Getting Started_____
Conduct a Self-Assessment
Explore Options_________
Networking
Social Media
Develop a Plan
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11
Interview
36
Closing
44
Introduction
Northwestern University is committed to supporting employees with the tools and information necessary
to assist with a career transition. With this in mind, Northwesterns Office of Human Resources has
developed a resource guide to support staff in the job search process. This guide provides a summary of
the key steps in conducting a job search, along with practical tools and resources for getting started.
Should you have questions regarding your job search, you may contact the Office of Human Resources at
847-491-7507 (Evanston) or 312-503-8481 (Chicago).
Conduct a
SelfAssessment
Land Your
New Position
Explore
Options
Interview
Develop a Plan
Apply for
Positions
Getting Started
There are many components to conducting an effective job search. Before you begin, consider the
following:
Do you have a good understanding of yourself and the type of employment that interests you?
Have you identified industries, companies, and organizations that interest you?
Have you identified what positions are currently open within your target industries and
organizations?
Have you identified networking opportunities?
Do you have a cover letter and resume prepared?
Have you prepared for interviews?
Are you prepared to track your progress toward finding employment?
Being thoughtful about these components before you begin your job search can help to streamline the
search process and lead to a more successful outcome.
Conduct a Self-Assessment
Self-assessment is the first step in an effective job search. It is important to understand early on who you
are and what is important to you in a job. The following are questions to consider when thinking about
your career:
What makes me happy?
What things have I done in the past that I really enjoyed?
What types of things interest me?
What are my skills, abilities, and interests?
What type of work environment do I like?
What things are most important to me in a job on which I am unwilling or unable to compromise?
What type of people do I like to spend time with?
What type of management style do I work best under?
What qualifications and education do I bring to the table?
Do I value work / life balance and what am I willing to trade for it?
As you think about what positions, industries (e.g. manufacturing, higher education, service, technology),
and organizations you plan to target in your job search, consider them in the context of how you
responded to the questions above. For example:
Are they a good fit given my skills, abilities, and interests?
Will I find the work interesting and challenging?
Will they provide me with the things that are most important to me and on which I cannot
compromise?
If you are looking for additional support in determining what career best fits your own skills, interests,
and abilities, there are a number of free self-assessment tools available on the Internet that you may find
useful. Additionally, the Office of Human Resources also has an assessment profile at no additional
charge to University employees called the CareerPortrait, available at Workplace Learning under Career
Planning Tools.
Explore Options
The next step in your job search is to explore options. Write down all your ideas for new possibilities.
What types of positions are you looking for? What industries are of interest? What potential paths would
you like to explore? A resource to help you explore various career paths is Beverly Kays seminal Up is
Not the Only Way.
If you are considering not only changing jobs, but also changing careers, there are additional
considerations you must address, such as:
What type of experience is necessary to qualify me for a position in my career of interest? If you
lack the requisite experience, consider signing up for volunteer work or enrolling in a course to
gain exposure to this type of work.
What skills do I need for the type of positions I am interested in? Do I possess these skills?
Consider that many skills are often transferable. Explore how to reframe past experiences to
highlight your transferrable skills rather than your specific work activities.
Do I have a compelling story for why I want to switch careers? Since there will undoubtedly be
other job applicants who possess experience more directly relevant to the position, it will be
important that you have a compelling reason for changing careers and that you can clearly
articulate this to potential employers. Develop a brief, minute-long story highlighting your
reason(s) for changing careers. Also, ensure that your cover letters describe why you are seeking
to change careers and the ways in which your skills translate to the new career.
A recommended resource that can help you further explore the process of career reinvention is Herminia
Ibarras book Working Identity.
Networking
Career networking is a very powerful tool to leverage when you are in the midst of a job search. When
thinking about networking, it is important to remember that networking should not be a one-sided
relationship or only about you getting a job. Rather, networking is about creating long-lasting, mutually
beneficial relationships that allow you to tap into career opportunities that might not otherwise be known.
While it is essential that you are honest and relaxed when networking, you also shouldnt wing it. Before
beginning to network, you will want to develop a list of potential contacts. Think broadly about these
contacts and consider individuals from all different parts of your life. These could include contacts from
Northwestern, previous employers, schools you attended, associations to which you belong, and those
within your community.
Once you have compiled your list of contacts, thoroughly research their backgrounds and work history.
Also consider forums for creating new contacts, such as business conferences, continuing education
classes, and volunteer opportunities.
There are several professional and social organizations within Northwestern that provide excellent
networking opportunities for staff, including:
AHEAD@NU
The Association for Higher Education Administrators' Development helps higher education
administrators establish and fulfill their academic, career, personal and social objectives, while
also providing support for navigating the potential challenges encountered.
http://www.northwestern.edu/ahead/
ANUW
The Association of Northwestern University Women supports the professional development of
women in administration at the University.
http://www.northwestern.edu/anuw/
GLUU
The Gay and Lesbian University Union is an organization for LGBT graduate students, faculty,
staff and alumni at Northwestern University.
http://www.northwestern.edu/gluu/
NURAP
Northwestern University Research Administration Professionals supports research administration
professionals at Northwestern University and is open to all members of the Northwestern
University research community.
http://www.research.northwestern.edu/nurap/
NUSAC
Northwestern University Staff Advisory Council is a group of volunteer staff members appointed
by the President to promote a positive work environment and serve as an advocacy group and
communication channel between staff and University administration.
http://www.northwestern.edu/nusac/
University Circle
University Circle provides opportunities for Northwestern University women to participate in
service, scholarship and social activities that enhance the University community.
http://www.northwestern.edu/university-circle/
The Women's Center
The Womens Center serves as a gathering place for women students, staff and faculty across
lines of race, class and sexual orientation. It is a safe haven where NU women connect, as well as
an environment suited to enrich personal, professional and academic lives.
http://www.northwestern.edu/womenscenter/
Finally, PlanIt Purple, the Universitys events calendar located on the main home page, is also a great
resource for staying abreast of events happening on and around our campuses.
Social Media
With the Internet buzzing with social media, there are many ways to use this in order to network and
augment your job search. Several of the most prominent social networking sites are included below. As
you use these sites, it is important to appropriately set your privacy settings and be mindful of how posts
and pictures may be perceived. You should represent yourself professionally on social media sites and in
a way that is consistent with your broader job search.
LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a business-oriented social networking site that allows you to build and maintain
professional connections with colleagues, business prospects, or others within your industry. It
allows you to create a professional profile detailing your professional expertise and work history
and provides a useful forum for seeking employment.
http://www.linkedin.com/
Facebook
While Facebook is a social networking site more popularly used for connecting or reconnecting
with personal friends or other people you know, when used appropriately it can also be an
effective networking tool. It allows you to create a profile of personal information and to share
messages, photos, links, videos, and other information.
http://www.facebook.com/
Twitter
Twitter is an online social networking and microblogging service that enables you to send and
read brief text-based posts. From a networking standpoint, Twitter allows you to connect with
other individuals based on a common interest.
http://twitter.com/
Develop a Plan
Once youve explored some options, set some targeted goals. Targets/goals should be S.M.A.R.T.:
Specific
Measurable
Attainable
Relevant
Time-Bound
When setting targets, think about1
How will you know whether or not you are on the right track?
Can the goal be broken down into a series of sub-goals that can be monitored to assure that you
are moving in the desired direction?
Evaluating Attainability
Is this a logical next step from the present position and salary grade?
What is the competition likely to look like and how will my qualifications compare?
Evaluating Relevance
Is the goal in sync with my recent position, skills, and abilities?
Is the goal a step in the right direction?
Your targets should reflect a match between the realities of the organization, the marketplace, and your
skills and aspirations.
Targets
By When
1. _______________________________________________
2. _______________________________________________
3. _______________________________________________
_______________________
_______________________
_______________________
For your top two targets, what actions do you need to take and by when in order to meet your target?
What new skills and education might you need to acquire?
By When
1. _______________________________________________
2. _______________________________________________
3. _______________________________________________
_______________________
_______________________
_______________________
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Your Evidence
1.
1.
2.
2.
3.
3.
4.
4.
5.
5.
6.
6.
5. Be sure all of your matching evidence for a particular job posting is highlighted in your cover
letter and included within your resume.
Clearly lay out what the hiring manager is looking for that is, someone whose skills, abilities
and experience match what is needed for the position. Make it easy for the hiring manager to find
that information.
12
The example below demonstrates how you can use this exercise to develop a customized cover letter or
follow-up letter to an organization in which you are interested:
My Qualifications
I look forward to discussing the position with you in more detail. Thank you.
Robert Garcia
3 Analyzing
a Job Description Worksheet excerpted from Northwestern Universitys Managing Your Career Series, Office of
Human Resources.
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In a resume, it is important that the descriptions of your past experience are accomplishmentoriented and frequently they will be listed in a bulleted format. When listing accomplishments,
use action verbs to describe your experience and ensure that each bullet point you include
answers the question So what? A C.V., on the other hand, will place more emphasis on who
you worked with, where you attended school, and where you published.
Consider including your grade point average (G.P.A.) for the institution(s) you attended if it
reflects favorably upon your academic history. You may want to leave this information off your
resume if it does not reflect favorably. In any case, after a few years of work experience your
G.P.A. is less relevant and does not need to be included.
When you submit your resume or C.V. online, frequently the prospective employer uses a
program to scan the resume based on keyword content. Therefore, it is important that your
resume or C.V. uses enough keywords to define your skills, experience, education, professional
affiliations, and industry background. You may want to consider including a keyword
summary section to increase the likelihood of the computer selecting your resume or C.V. It is
appropriate to use jargon and acronyms specific to your industry in the keyword summary.
If your resume or C.V. is going to be scanned or e-mailed, rather than the traditional printed
document on high-quality paper, avoid embellishments such as underlining, bold, or over-stylized
text.
Tailor your resume or C.V. to the specific position to which you are applying. Ensure it indicates
your accomplishments related to the experience, skills, and competencies the organization has
listed in the job posting. Each of the requirements listed in the job posting should be included
within your document.
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Professional Experience
Company Name and Location
Description of company/organization
Month/Year to Month/Year
Job Title
Summary of responsibilities and resulting accomplishments/benefits to the organization.
Month/Year to Month/Year
Job Title
Summary of responsibilities and resulting accomplishments/benefits to the organization.
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Month/Year to Month/Year
Job Title
Summary of responsibilities and resulting accomplishments/benefits to the organization.
Month/Year to Month/Year
Job Title
Summary of responsibilities and resulting accomplishments/benefits to the organization.
Include any additional previous employment history below. Ensure any gaps in employment are covered.
Company Name and Location
Month/Year to Month/Year
Company Name and Location
Month/Year to Month/Year
Company Name and Location
Month/Year to Month/Year
Education and Training
Include a list of your degrees and certifications here, beginning with the most recent. This should include
the degree or certification granted and the name of the granting institution.
Skills
Include a list of your skill sets, including technical, language, and soft skills.
Professional Affiliations
Include a list of your professional affiliations here.
References
Include a list of your references here. This section is optional.
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Management Skills
Communication Skills
Administrative/Detail Skills
Research Skills
Technical Skills
Teaching Skills
Administered
Analyzed
Assigned
Attained
Chaired
Contracted
Consolidated
Coordinated
Delegated
Developed
Directed
Evaluated
Executed
Improved
Increased
Organized
Oversaw
Planned
Prioritized
Produced
Recommended
Reviewed
Scheduled
Strengthened
Supervised
Clarified
Collected
Critiqued
Diagnosed
Evaluated
Examined
Extracted
Identified
Inspected
Interpreted
Interviewed
Investigated
Organized
Reviewed
Summarized
Surveyed
Systematized
Addressed
Arbitrated
Arranged
Authored
Corresponded
Developed
Directed
Drafted
Edited
Enlisted
Formulated
Influenced
Interpreted
Lectured
Mediated
Moderated
Motivated
Negotiated
Persuaded
Promoted
Publicized
Reconciled
Recruited
Spoke
Translated
Wrote
Assembled
Built
Calculated
Computed
Designed
Devised
Engineered
Fabricated
Maintained
Operated
Overhauled
Programmed
Remodeled
Repaired
Solved
Trained
Upgraded
Approved
Arranged
Catalogued
Classified
Collected
Compiled
Dispatched
Executed
Generated
Implemented
Inspected
Monitored
Operated
Organized
Prepared
Processed
Purchased
Recorded
Retrieved
Screened
Specified
Systematized
Tabulated
Validated
Adapted
Advised
Clarified
Coached
Communicated
Coordinated
Developed
Enabled
Encouraged
Evaluated
Exchanged
Facilitated
Guided
Informed
Initiated
Instructed
Persuaded
Set goals
Stimulated
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Financial Skills
Administered
Allocated
Analyzed
Appraised
Audited
Balanced
Budgeted
Calculated
Computed
Developed
Forecasted
Managed
Marketed
Planned
Projected
Researched
Creative Skills
Acted
Conceptualized
Created
Designed
Developed
Directed
Established
Fashioned
Founded
Illustrated
Instituted
Integrated
Introduced
Invented
Originated
Performed
Planned
Revitalized
Shaped
Helping Skills
Assessed
Assisted
Clarified
Coached
Counseled
Demonstrated
Diagnosed
Educated
Expedited
Facilitated
Familiarized
Guided
Referred
Rehabilitated
Represented
Adapted from Boston College Career Center with original development by the Employment Development Department of
Palo Alto, California.
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Publications
Abstracts
Scholarly Works
Books
Chapters
Editorial Boards
Professional Papers
Technical Papers
Refereed Journal Articles
Editorial Appointments
Articles/Monographs
Book Reviews
Research Grants
Funded Projects
Grants and Contracts
Patents
Professional Experience
Academic Appointments
Professional Summary
Related Experience
Administrative Experience
Consulting Experience
Awards
Scholarships
Fellowships
Honors
Activities and Distinctions
Professional Recognition
Prizes
Academic Service
Advising
University Involvement
Outreach
Leadership
University Assignments
Professional Memberships
Affiliations
Memberships in Scholarly Societies
Professional Organizations
Honorary Societies
Professional Societies
Professional Development
Professional Association Advisory Boards
Advisory Committees
National Boards
Professional Activities
Professional Certification
Certification
Licensure
Endorsements
Special Training
Conference Participation
Conference Presentations
Conference Leadership
Workshop Presentations
Invited Lectures
Lectures and Colloquia
Foreign Study
Study Abroad
Travel Abroad
International Projects
Languages
Language Competencies
Excerpted from the National Institutes of Healths Guide to Writing a Curriculum Vitae (CV) at
https://www.training.nih.gov/assets/Writing_a_CV.pdf.
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Sample Resumes
Megan Brown
321 N. School
Chicago, IL 60001
Phone: 123.456.7890
someone@example.com
EDUCATION:
University of Name, city, state
Bachelor of Arts, cum laude, June 2011
Majors: Biochemistry, Spanish Minor: Chemistry
GPA: 4.8/5.0
Relevant Coursework:
Immunology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry (I, II), RNase Structure and Function,
Analytical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry (I, II), Experimental Medicinal Chemistry
EXPERIENCE:
University of Name, city, state
Research Assistant, Dept. of Chemistry
April 2008 - June 2011
Identifying nuclear protein targets of Angiogenin
Used protein based techniques (Protein purification, Cell culture, Pull-down
Assay, SDS-PAGE, Co-Immunoprecipitation, 2D Gel Electrophoresis) to identify
protein-protein interactions of Angiogenin in cancer cells
Maintained various cell culture lines (e.g. A-549, HUVEC, HeLa)
Identifying novel Cyclooxygenase and Carbonic Anhydrase inhibitors based on
structure-activity relationships
Chemically synthesized Celebrex (anti-arthritic) to modify and test as an
anticancer agent
Presented research at various local and regional symposia
Trained less experienced research students in laboratory techniques
Nurses Assistant, Sumner Health Center
Performed basic pre-examination procedures
Maintained files and patient data
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Jane Smith
1234 West School Street
Chicago, IL 60000
312-111-1234
someone@example.com
EDUCATION
Green University, College of Biological Sciences
Bachelors of Science in Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development
September 2007 May 2011
GPA: 3.8 / 4.0; Relevant Courses: General Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry with Lab, Biochemistry,
Genetics, Cell Biology, Human Genetics, Molecular Cellular Biology, Molecular Biology of Cancer, Immunology,
Endocrinology
EXPERIENCE
Green University, Department of Entomology
Undergraduate Research Assistant - January 2010 May 2011
Maintained laboratory equipment and greenhouse
Worked in MAES/MDH quarantine facilities which required proper decontamination techniques
Maintained exotic parasitoid and aphid strains in quarantine facilities
Performed DNA Extraction and PCR independently
Green University, Department of Pediatrics, BMT/Hematology/Oncology (PI Dr. Alex Brown, MD.)
Undergraduate Research Assistant - March 2008 August 2009
Independently maintained a colony of over 60 strains of mice including the daily breeding, weaning, and
genotyping in a Specific Pathogen Free environment
Performed laboratory techniques including PCR, Luciferase Assay, FACS, PBL Phenotyping, DNA Extraction on
research mice
Administered intraperitoneal, subcutaneous, and oral injections to research mice along with irradiation for the
study of Graft versus Host Disease
Extensive use of Microsoft Word and Excel to keep track of the entire colony of mice
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
Infant, Child, and Adult CPR, AED, and First Aide Instructor, May 2008 January 2011
American Red Cross Chicago, IL
Child Life/Nursing Services Volunteer, April 2011 Present
Childrens Memorial Hospital - Hematology/Oncology Inpatient Unit
SKILLS
Laboratory Techniques DNA extraction, PCR, Gel Electrophoresis, FACS, cell plating, basic microbiology
laboratory techniques (including yeasts and E.coli), reagent preparations, basic chemistry and organic chemistry
techniques, basic statistical analysis, Western Blotting, BLAST (sequence analysis software), computational analysis
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Lisa Miller
567 Rosewood Lane
(960) 555-1212
someone@example.com
Profile
Motivated, personable business professional with college degree and a successful 12-year track record of
administrative excellence. Talent for quickly mastering technology recently completed Microsoft Office Suite
certificate course. Diplomatic and tactful with individuals at all levels. Accustomed to handling sensitive,
confidential records. Demonstrated history of producing accurate, timely reports meeting stringent accuracy
guidelines. Flexible and versatile able to maintain a sense of humor under pressure. Poised and competent with
demonstrated ability to easily transcend cultural differences. Thrive in deadline-driven environments. Excellent
team-building skills.
Skills Summary
Project Management
Report Preparation
Written Correspondence
Computer Savvy
Customer Service
Scheduling
Front-Office Operations
Professional Presentations
General Office Skills
Professional Experience
COMMUNICATIONS
Prepare complex reports ensuring full compliance with agency requirements and tight deadlines.
Author professional correspondence to customers and vendors.
Design and deliver series of classes for local businesses and associations, providing ergonomic counseling and
educating employees on proper lifting techniques to avoid injury.
Conduct small-group sessions on meditation/relaxation techniques.
Communicate medical concepts to patients using laymans terms to facilitate understanding.
Rapidly learn and master varied computer programs; recently completed Microsoft Office certificate course.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Oversee front-office operations and provide impeccable customer service.
Produced departments strategic marketing plan.
Provide front-line response to all office inquiries and route office customers and visitors to the appropriate
designate within the office.
ORGANIZATION
Effectively manage the Presidents complex calendar.
Manage the room reservation system for the department ensuring that rooms are not overbooked.
Balance multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining the ongoing operations of the office.
Maintain files for all study-related materials housed within the office.
Employment History
ABC CHIROPRACTIC Colorado Springs, CO; Pueblo, CO; Cheyenne, WY
Executive Assistant, 1993 to Present
Education
ABC COLLEGE MINNEAPOLIS, MN
Bachelors Degree in Communication, 1991
GPA: 3.89/4.0
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10 School Street
Chicago, IL 60001
Cell : 123.456.7890
Email: someone@example.com
EDUCATION
Brown College, Brown, MA
B.A. French, *substantial coursework in Biology, Pre-Med, Fine Arts
Michigan University Pre-Health Professions Program
Courses to fulfill pre-med requirements
Paris College Junior Year Abroad, Paris, France
Attended the Sorbonne, with an art history focus
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Columbia University
September 2009- February 2010
Laboratory Assistant
Performed PCR analysis to assist with skin regeneration research such as underlying causes of scar
formation
Contributed to writing and submission of grant proposal entitled: "Smart Robotics-based
Automation to Tissue-Engineering In Situ"
Wrote animal protocol for skin regeneration testing in the Duroc pig
Learned methods for performing genotyping and histological preservation, including work with mice
Chicago University - Mailman School of Public Health
January 2007
Selected Intern
Wrote laboratory protocol for H.I.V. research study on Mother-to-Child transmission and familybased care
Observed H.I.V. care at Harlem Health Clinic
Assistant Clinical Research Coordinator, Division of Rheumatology
Summer & Winter 2004
Oversaw clinical trials for Dr. Nancy E. Lane, Principal Investigator
Consulted with glucosamine/chondroitin and parathyroid hormone study patients: recorded vitals,
organized questionnaires, dispensed study medication and answered questions
Trained new research coordinator, updated lab data, and maintained files
SELECTED LEADERSHIP POSITIONS
Brown College
Selected Resident Counselor
Academic Years 2004-2005, 2006-2007
Provided informal advising & a community-building for dorms of over 30 residents
Planned and led educational and social programs
70 hours of training related to eating disorders, alcohol, diversity, depression, etc.
Selected Laboratory Teachers Assistant for Molecules, Genes and Cells
Encouraged and aided students during weekly biology labs
Prepared and set-up for labs
Fall 2005
June 2006
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Summer 2005
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Ensure your online applications and resumes have accurate job titles and work dates listed. If you
include more descriptive titles on your resume than those formally approved by the University,
acknowledge your official titles in parentheses.
Identify references who can attest to your professional history, including at least two current or
former supervisors. It is Northwestern Universitys practice to notify you if your references will
be contacted. However, it is a good idea to let your references know ahead of time they may be
contacted so they are not surprised if they receive a phone call. If you are selected as a final
candidate, your supervisor will be notified.
If you are applying for jobs after your most recent position has been eliminated, account for the
time since you last worked. Identify those ways that you have continued to maintain knowledge
in your field of expertise, such as attending a course or an industry conference.
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Local Universities
There are a number of local universities within the Chicagoland area that you may want to explore
regarding any available career opportunities. Listed below are several of these local universities:
DePaul University
http://www.depaul.edu/
Illinois Institute of Technology
http://www.iit.edu/
Loyola University Chicago
http://www.luc.edu/
National Louis University
http://nlu.nl.edu
Northeastern Illinois University
http://www.neiu.edu/
Roosevelt University
http://www.roosevelt.edu/
Rush University
http://www.rushu.rush.edu/
University of Chicago
http://www.uchicago.edu/
University of Illinois at Chicago
http://www.uic.edu/
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Organization / Company:
Organization / Company Profile:
Contact person and telephone number:
Position(s) applied for:
Date application submitted:
Date of interview:
Follow-up date:
Organization / Company:
Organization / Company Profile:
Contact person and telephone number:
Position(s) applied for:
Date application submitted:
Date of interview:
Follow-up date:
Organization / Company:
Organization / Company Profile:
Contact person and telephone number:
Position(s) applied for:
Date application submitted:
Date of interview:
Follow-up date:
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Set out the things you will need to bring with you to the interview, including directions, extra
copies of your resume, a nice pen and notepad, your references, and prepared questions that you
would like to have answered.
Practice, practice, practice. Being prepared for an interview and the tough questions you receive
is one of the most important steps.
Research the organization to which you are applying before the interview. Visit the
organizations web site and read current news about the organization. Learn as much as you can
about the business, industry, current initiatives, and key leaders within the organization.
If you are interviewing for a position involving research, do your homework to ensure you
understand what projects and initiatives are underway and what research has been published from
the area within which you would be working.
Make a practice trip to help you find the interview location and gauge the time it will take to get
there.
Keep in mind that everything and everyone counts. Ensure that you are professional and
courteous to everyone you come in contact with as part of the interview process, whether this is
the interview scheduler, the receptionist, or simply the person who gives you directions within the
building if you are lost.
Excerpted from Northwestern Universitys Managing Your Career Series, Office of Human Resources and Ohio Universitys
New Job Seekers Resource Guide.
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S Situation:
T Tasks:
A Actions:
R Results:
Listed below are a number of sample interview questions to help you prepare for your next interview. 9
Youll note that many of the questions below follow the Behavioral Interview format.
Can you do the job?
Can you tell me about a time where you worked effectively in an environment in which the
parameters changed frequently?
Have you ever had to go the extra mile to satisfy a customer? What did you have to do?
Describe a situation where you were able to successfully coach an employee to better
performance.
Explain a situation youve been in where multiple demands have been placed on you. How did
you handle it?
When working on a project, how do you decide what gets top priority? Can you give me an
example?
Tell me about a significant achievement in your life.
What prompted you to study.?
Tell me about a time when you had to work towards a deadline. Did you meet it? If not, what
would you do differently next time?
Tell me about a time when you were given difficult feedback at work and how you handled it.
What would your current (previous) boss say about you?
Give me an example of a time when you demonstrated initiative.
Tell me about a situation in which you had to adjust quickly to changes over which you had no
control.
Give me an example of a project or task for which you were responsible that did not go well,
either in terms of outcome or process.
Tell me about your most difficult management challenge.
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Do you want the job? Do you want to work in this organization? Are you ambitious?
Why do you want to work for us?
Here and throughout the interview, a good answer comes from having done your
homework so that you can speak in terms of the organizations needs. Your homework
should include learning enough about the organization to avoid approaching places where
you wouldnt be able or wouldnt want to function. Since most of us are poor liars,
its difficult to con anyone in an interview. But even if you should succeed at it, your
prize is a job you dont really want.
What do you know about our company/organization/business?
Let your answer show that you have taken the time to do some research, but dont
overwhelm the interviewer, and make it clear that you want to learn more. You might
start your answer in this manner: In my job search, Ive investigated a number of
organizations. Yours is one of the few that interests me, for these reasons.
What important trends do you see in our industry?
Be prepared with two or three trends that illustrate how well you understand the industry.
You might consider technological challenges or opportunities, economic conditions, or
even regulatory demands as you collect your thoughts about the direction in which the
business is heading.
What are your short-term and long-term goals?
Why are you leaving (did you leave) your present (last) job?
Be brief, to the point, and as honest as you can without hurting yourself. Do not mention
personality conflicts and never concoct a story for an interview.
What do you find most attractive about this position? What seems least attractive about it?
List three or four attractive factors of the job, and mention a single, minor, unattractive
item.
What do you look for in a job?
Keep your answer oriented to opportunities at this organization. Make your answer
oriented toward opportunity rather than personal security.
How long would you stay with us?
Indicate that you are interested in a career with the organization, but that you would have
to continue to feel challenged to remain with any organization. Think in terms of as
long as we both feel achievement-oriented.
Will you fit in?
Can you describe a time when you formed an ongoing working relationship with someone from
another department or organization to achieve a mutual goal when it wasnt part of the culture or
wasnt easy to do so?
Can you give me an example of a time when you had to work with someone with whom you
didnt get along?
Describe a time where you had to work with a group of people to achieve a common goal.
What were the best and worst aspects of your current (previous) position?
What do you think of your boss?
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Be as positive as you can. A potential boss is likely to wonder if you might talk about
him in similar terms at some point in the future.
What is your management style?
You should know enough about the organizations style to know that your management
style will complement it. Possible styles include: task oriented, results oriented,
paternalistic, or participative.
Are you the best applicant for the position?
Tell me about yourself.
Since this is often the opening question in an interview, be careful to keep your answer to
a minute or two at the most. Cover four topics: early years, education, work history, and
recent career experience. Remember this is likely to be a warm-up question, so dont
waste your best points on it.
Why do you think you are the best person for the job?
Talk about your record of getting things done, and mention specifics from your resume or
your career accomplishments.
What skills and qualities can you bring to this position?
What are your strengths? Weaknesses?
Developing responses to questions such as these can be challenging, but with careful preparation you will
be ready with concise and professional responses when these tough questions come up in a job interview.
Excerpted from Northwestern Universitys Managing Your Career Series, Office of Human Resources and Parting Company:
How to Survive the Loss of a Job and Find Another Successfully by William J. Morin and James C. Cabrera.
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Closing
We hope these materials are helpful to you as you plan your next career step. If you have any questions
regarding the job search process for Northwestern staff positions, you may contact the Office of Human
Resources at 847-491-7507 (Evanston) or 312-503-8481 (Chicago).
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