This was a presentation that I gave to the St. Thomas More Job Support Network at their April 2011 meeting!

1. What Are Employers Looking For? Kimberly Renee Knowles kimberly@kimberlyknowles.com 513-404-9523

2. What Are Employers Looking For? An EASY and RISK-FREE solution to their problem(s)!

3. How a Typical Employer Fills a Vacancy What Color is My Parachute, Richard Bolles, 2008 Edition, p. 28-33

4. Key Idea: The more familiar and risk-free you seem to the hiring manager, the less qualified “on paper” you need to be!

5. How Can You Position Yourself Accordingly? Networking Resumes & Cover Letters Interviewing Portfolios References & Professionalism

6. Networking Cultivate relationships with hiring managers – and those whom they trust for referrals Informational Interviews Professional Associations Volunteer Work Former colleagues!

7. Resumes & Cover Letters Get yourself invited in for an interview! Demonstrate specific achievements Use keywords Highlight how you are a match Show how you can meet their needs!

8. Interviewing

9. Portfolios Prove you can do the job! Showcase examples of your work Explore both physical options and online tools Create your own website Create your own blog

10. References Seal the deal and get the job! Don’t burn bridges with former employers Acquire recommendations on LinkedIn Prepare your references ahead of time

11. Professionalism Don’t forget the fundamentals! Be on time for interviews Dress appropriately Watch your Facebook profile Always send a thank you note!

12. Questions?