Job-Package-Assignment

Task: Create a job package for yourself that contains the following three components:

1. Job Advertisement (including source documentation)

Search for a job in an industry of your choice that you might apply for after graduation. This should obviously be a job in the profession you hope to work in and should be an entry-level position suitable for a new graduate. Find an ad and print a copy of (or photocopy) the advertisement that you will attach to your letter and resume.

Hint: the more detailed your job ad is, the easier this assignment will be.

2. Cover Letter (specifically tailored to the job ad of your choice)

Write the letter that would accompany your resume stating that you are applying for the job and requesting an interview.  Follow the directions discussed in class and described in your handout. Like your resume, the cover letter should be targeted specifically to the situation (job and organization) you choose. Portray yourself as being uniquely and professionally qualified for this position. Show how your education and your work experience make you a good candidate.

3. Resume

Craft a resume that you would use to apply for this job – work with your own real information. If you have an existing resume, you may use that for starters, but be sure to tailor it for this specific job. Your resume should clearly show that you are uniquely qualified for the position.  Use keywords from the job advertisement (where appropriate). If you do not have directly relevant job experience, you might show how course work and part-time work have given you appropriate experience and skills. The resume format you use is up to you, but it should fit your existing experience profile.

Hint: use heading styles and spacing to break up your Keyword, Education, and Experience sections.

Format: all documents must be printed and turned in EXACTLY as you would want an employer to see them (except for the copy of the advertisement). DO NOT use standardized or “example” wording from textbooks or Microsoft Word templates for your cover letter. Be original, be yourself, be uniquely qualified.

Note: You DO NOT need to use special “resume” paper, folders, etc., for this assignment. Duplex (two-sided) printing is acceptable.

Also note: you do not actually have to apply for the position (unless, of course, you want to)

Resources: Your job package involves attention to many levels of thought and detail, which we cannot cover completely in class. (Your textbook is an excellent resource.) As you prepare for your job search, consult others – including people in your field. Search job boards locally or in an area where you might wish to relocate. MLive Careers (Kalamazoo Gazette), BroncoJOBS and Indeed would be good places to start your job search. Try trade publications, other newspaper listings, or websites (Monster, etc.). Also consult WMU’s Career and Student Employment Services (wmich.edu/career/).

The Zhang Career Center at Haworth College of Business (3020 Schneider Hall) offers excellent advising and employment resources. The Business Communication Center (3435/3445 Schneider Hall) also offers excellent career skills resources.

Grading criteria: All grading criteria/aspects of communication matter, especially

• “Mechanics/language use” – spelling, grammar and punctuation are especially important.
• “Audience” includes how effectively you portray your knowledge of the company you’re applying to.
• “Organization” includes how precisely your skills match their requirements.
• “Self-expression” is about credibility and how effectively you “sell” yourself.
• “Language use” includes tone and degree of professionalism.
• “Task/context” is about how realistic and professional your job package is – make it “real.”