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LEARNING GOALS:+++Develop a personal employment plan. +++Seek and apply for employment. +++Prepare a resume and cover letter. +++Prepare for an employment interview. +++Accept employment. +++Understand how automotive technicians are compensated. +++Understand the proper relationship between an employer and an employee. +++Explain the key elements of on-the-job communications. +++Be able to use critical thinking and problem-solving skills. +++Explain how you should look and act to be regarded as a professional. +++Explain how fellow workers and customers should be treated. This section gives an overview of what you should do to get a job and how to keep it. The basis for this discussion is respect-respect for yourself, your employer, fellow employees, your customers, and everyone else. Also included in this discussion are the key personal characteristics required of all seeking to be successful automotive technicians and employees. SEEKING and APPLYING FOR EMPLOYMENTBecoming employed, especially in the field in which you want a career, involves many steps. As with many things in life, you must be adequately prepared before taking the next step toward employment. This discussion suggests ways you can prepare and what to expect while taking these steps. Employment Plan An employment plan is nothing more than an honest appraisal of yourself and your career hopes. The plan should include your employment goals, a timetable for reaching those goals, and a prioritized list of potential employers or types of employers. You may need to share your employment plan with someone while you are seeking employment, so make sure it’s complete. Even if no one else will see it, you should be as thorough as possible because it will help keep you focused during your quest for employment. Think about the type of job you want and do some research to find out what is required to get that job. Evaluate yourself against those requirements. If you don’t meet the requirements, set up a plan for obtaining the needed skills. Also, consider the working conditions of that type of job. Are you willing and able to be a productive worker in those conditions? If not, find a job that is similar to your desires and pursue that career. Self-Appraisal -- To begin the self-appraisal part of your employment plan, ask yourself:
By honestly answering these questions, you should be able to identify the jobs that will help you meet your goals. If you are just seeking a job to pay bills or buy a car and have no intention of turning this job into a career, be honest with yourself and your potential employer. If you are hoping to begin a successful career, realize you will probably start at the bottom of the ladder to success. You must also realize that how quickly you climb the ladder is your responsibility. An employer's responsibility is merely to give you a fair chance to climb it. Identifying Your Skills -- Honestly evaluate yourself and your life to determine what skills you have. Even if you have never had a job, you still have skills and talents that can make you a desirable employee. Make a list of all of the things you have learned from your school, friends, and family and through television, volunteering, books, hobbies, and so on. You may be surprised by the number of skills you have. Identify these skills as being either technical or personal skills. Technical skills include things you can do well and enjoy, such as:
Personal skills are also called soft skills and are things that are part of your personality. These are things you are good at or enjoy doing, such as:
By identifying these skills you will have created your personal skills inventory. From the inventory you match your skills and personal characteristics to the needs and desires of potential employers. The inventory will also come in handy when marketing yourself for a job, such as when preparing your resume and cover letter and during an interview. |||| Check Internet Job search-engines (e.g., Monster) or the help-wanted ads in your local newspaper for businesses that are looking for technicians. Identifying Job Possibilities One of the things you identified in your employment plan was your preferred place to work. This may have been a specific business or a type of business, such as a new car dealership or independent shop. Now your task is to identify the companies that are looking for someone. To do this, look through the help-wanted section in the newspaper ---. You can also check your school's job posting board or ask people you know who already work in the business. If there is nothing available in the business you prefer, look for openings in the type of business that was second on your priority list. Carefully look at the description of the job. Make sure you meet the qualifications for the job before you apply. For example, if you have a drug problem and the ad states that all applicants will be drug tested, you should not bother applying and should concentrate on breaking the habit. Even if the ad says nothing about testing for drug use, you should know that there is no place for drugs at work and continued drug use will only jeopardize your career. Driving Record -- Your driving record is something you must also be aware of, and you probably are. If you have a poor record, you may not be considered for a job that requires operating a vehicle. In the same way that a driving record affects your personal car insurance, the employer's insurance costs can also increase because of your poor driving record. A bad driving record or the loss of a driver's license can jeopardize getting or keeping a job. Preparing Your Resume Your resume and cover letter are your own personal marketing tools and may be the first look at you an employer has. Although not all employers require a resume, you should prepare one for those that do. Preparing a resume also forces you to look at your qualifications for a job. That alone justifies having a resume. Keep in mind that although you may spend hours writing and refining your resume, an employer may only take a minute or two from his or her busy schedule to look it over. With this in mind, put together a resume that tells the employer who you are in such a way that he or she wants to interview you. A resume normally includes your contact information, career objective, skills and/or accomplishments, work experience, education, and a statement about references. There are different formats you can follow when designing your resume. If you have limited work experience, make sure the resume emphasizes your skills and accomplishments rather than work history. Even if you have no work experience, you can sell yourself by highlighting some of the skills and attributes you identified in your employment plan. ----- |||| A sample of a resume for someone who has little work experience: Joe Shmo 1234 Main Street Somewhere, Oh 49902 123-456-7890 JoeSho@email.com Performance-oriented student, with an excellent reputation as a responsible and hard-working achiever, seeking a position as an entry-level automotive technician in a new car dealership. Skills / Attributes: • People oriented • Motivated • Committed • Strong communication and teamwork skills • Honest • Reliable • Organized • Methodical • Creative problem-solver • Good hand skills Work Experience: 2006-2008 Somewhere Soccer Association (Assistant coach) • Instructed and supervised junior team • Performed administrative tasks as the Coach required 2004-2006 Carried out various odd jobs within the community • Washing and waxing cars, picking up children from school, raking leaves, cutting grass Education: Somewhere Senior High School, graduated in 2008 Somewhere Community College, currently enrolled in the Automotive Technology Program Extracurricular Activities 1999-2008 Active member of the video game club 1999-2008 Member of the varsity soccer team Hobbies and Activities Reading auto-related magazines, going to races, doing puzzles, working on cars with family and friends. References: Available upon request. ----- An example of a cover letter that can be sent with the resume above. Joe Shmo 1234 My Street Somewhere, Oh 49902 October 15, 2012 Mrs. Marge Wong, Service Manager, Best New Cars 56789 Big Dealer Avenue Somewhere, Oh 49907 Re: application for an entry-level automotive technician position Dear Mrs. Wong: Your ad in the October 14 edition of the Sentinel Tribune for an automotive technician greatly interested me, as this position is very much in line with my immediate career objective-a career position as an automotive technician in a new car dealership. Because of the people and cars featured at your dealership, I know working there would be exciting. I have tinkered with cars for most of my life and am currently enrolled in the Automotive Technology program at Somewhere Community College. I chose this program because you are on the advisory council and I knew it must be a good program. I have good hand skills and work hard to be successful. My being on the varsity soccer team for four years should attest to that. I also enjoy working with people and have developed excellent communication skills. The position you have open is a perfect fit for me. A resume detailing my skills and work experience is attached for your review. I would appreciate an opportunity to meet with you to further discuss my qualifications. In the meantime, many thanks for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you soon. I can be reached by phone at 555-352-7890, most weekdays after 4:00 PM. If I am unable to answer the phone when you call, please leave a message and I will return your call as soon as I can. Thanks again. Sincerely, Joe Shmo encl. ------- When listing or mentioning your attributes and skills, express them in a way that shows how they relate to the job you are seeking. For instance, if you practice every day at your favorite sport so you can make the team, you may want to describe yourself as being persistent, determined, motivated, and goal oriented. Another example is if you have ever pulled an all-nighter to get an assignment done on time, it can mean that you work well under pressure and always get the job done. Another example would be if you keep your promises and do what you said you would do, you may want to describe yourself as reliable, a person who takes commitment seriously. Identifying your skills may be a difficult task, so have your family and/or friends help you. Keep in mind that you have qualities and skills that employers want. You need to recognize them, put them in a resume, and tell them to your potential employer. Don’t put the responsibility of figuring out who you are on the employers-tell them. |||| an example of a basic resume for an individual seeking an entry-level position as a technician. Putting Together an Effective Resume -- Follow these guidelines while preparing and writing your resume: +++Your resume must be typewritten. If you don’t have access to a computer or a typewriter, your local library probably has them available for public use. +++Make sure it’s neat, uncluttered, and easy to read. +++Use quality white paper. +++Keep it short-a maximum of one or two pages. +++Use dynamic words to describe your skills and experience, such as accomplished, achieved, communicated, completed, created, delivered, designed, developed, directed, established, founded, instructed, managed, operated, organized, participated, prepared, produced, pro vided, repaired, and supervised. +++Choose your words carefully; remember that the resume is a look at you. +++Make sure all information is accurate. +++Make sure the information you think is the most important stands out and is positioned near the top of the page. +++Design your resume with a clean letter type (font) and wide margins (1½” on both sides is good) so that it’s easy on the eyes. +++Only list the "odd" jobs you had if they are related to the job you are applying for. +++Don’t repeat information. +++Proofread the entire resume to catch spelling and grammatical errors. If you find them, fix them and print a new, clean copy. +++Don’t make handwritten corrections or use correction fluid to cover mistakes. +++Make sure your resume is not dirty and wrinkled when you deliver it. References A reference is someone who will be glad to tell a potential employer about you. A reference can be anyone who knows you, other than a family member or close friend. Employers contact references to verify or complete their picture of you. Make a list of three to five people you can use as references, including their contact information. If you don’t supply references, the potential employer may assume that you cannot find anyone who has anything nice to say about you. You probably won’t be considered for the job. Choose your references wisely. Teachers (past and present), coaches, and school administrators are good examples of who you can ask to be a reference. People you have worked for or have helped are also good references. Try also to get someone whose opinion is respected, such as a priest, minister, or elder in your church or someone you know well who holds a high position. Always talk to your references first, and get per mission to give their names and telephone numbers to an employer. If they don’t seem comfortable with giving you a reference, take the hint and move on to someone else. If someone is willing to provide you with a written reference, make several copies of the letter so you can attach them to your resume and/or job application. Give copies of your resume to those on your reference list. Make sure to bring your reference list when applying for a job. Preparing Your Cover Letter A cover letter should be sent with every resume you mail, e-mail, fax, or personally deliver. A cover letter gives you a chance to point out exactly why you are perfect for the job. You should not send out the same cover letter to all potential employers. Adjust the letter to match the company and position you are applying for. Yes, this means a little more work, but it will be worth it. For example, if you state in one letter that you have always been a "Chevy nut" that may help at a Chevrolet dealership but won’t at a Toyota or Ford dealership. A good cover letter is normally made up of three paragraphs, each with its own purpose. First Paragraph--In the first paragraph, tell the employer that you are interested in working for the company, the position you are interested in, and why. Make sure you let the employer know that you know something about the company and what the job involves. Also include a statement of how you found out about the open position, which could be a help wanted ad, a job posting at school, and/or a referral by someone who works for the company. Second Paragraph --In this paragraph, sell yourself by mentioning one or two of your job qualifications and describe them in more detail than you did in your resume. Make sure you expand on the material in your resume rather than simply repeat it. Point out any special training or experience you have that directly relates to the job. When doing this, give a summary without listing the places and dates. This information is listed in your resume so simply refer to the resume for details. This summary is another opportunity for you to let the employer know that you understand what they do, what the job involves, and how you can help them. Third Paragraph-- Typically this paragraph is the end or closing of the letter. Make sure you thank the employer for taking the time to review your resume and ask him or her to contact you to make an appointment for an interview. Make sure you give a phone number where you can be reached. If you have particular times when it’s best to contact you, put those times in this paragraph. Make sure you have a clear and understandable message on your telephone's answering machine, just in case you miss the employer's call. Also, have an organized work area around the phone so you can accurately schedule any inter view appointments. Guidelines for Writing an Effective Cover Letter Follow these guidelines while preparing and writing your cover letter: +++Address the letter to a person, not just a title. If you don’t know the person's name, call the company and ask for the correct spelling of the person's name and his or her title. +++Make sure the words you use in the letter are upbeat. +++Use a natural writing style, keeping it professional but friendly. +++Try hard not to start every sentence with "I"; make some "you" statements. +++Check the letter for spelling and grammatical errors. +++Type the letter on quality paper and make sure it’s neat and clean. +++Make sure you sign the letter before sending it. Contacting Potential Employers Unless the help-wanted ad or job posting tells you otherwise, it’s best to drop your resume and cover letter off in person (preferably to the person who does the hiring). When you are doing this, make sure you tell the employer who you are and the job you want. Make sure you are prepared for what happens next. You may be given an interview right then. You may be asked to fill out an application. If so, fill it out. Before you leave, thank the employer and ask if you can call back in a few days if you don’t hear from him. If you don’t hear back within a week, call to make sure the employer received your resume, reminding him of who you are and what job you applied for. If he tells you that the job is filled or that no jobs are available, politely thank him for considering you and tell him you will stay in touch in case there is a future job opening. Employment Application An application for employment is a legal document that summarizes who you are. It’s also another marketing tool for you. Filling out the application is the first task the employer has asked you to do, so do it thoroughly and carefully. Make sure you are prepared to fill out an application before you go. Take your own pen and a paperclip so that you can attach your resume to the application. Make sure you have your reference list. When filling out the application, neatly print your answers. Read over the entire application before filling it out. Make sure you follow the directions carefully. Too often applicants try to rush through the application and make mistakes or provide the wrong information. Also by reading through the application before you fill in the blanks, you have a better chance of filling it out neatly. A messy application or one with crossed out or poorly erased information tells employers you may not care about the quality of your work. By following the directions and providing the employer with the information asked for, you are demonstrating that you have the ability to read, understand, and follow written instructions, rules, and procedures. When answering the questions, be honest. Make sure you completely fill out the application. Doing this shows the employer that you can complete a task. Answer every question. Write N/A (non-applicable) if a question does not apply to you. If lines are left blank, the employer may think you don’t pay attention to the details of a job or are a bit lazy. When you have completed the application, sign it and attach your cover letter and resume to it. The Interview Typically if employers are interested in you, you will be contacted to come in for an interview. This is a good sign. If they were not impressed with what they know of you so far, they won’t ask for an interview. Knowing this should give you some confidence as you prepare for the interview. Although an interview does not last very long, it’s a time when you can either get the job or lose it. Get ready for the interview by taking time to learn as much as you can about the company. Think of some of the reasons the company should hire you. When doing this, think of how both of you would benefit. Think of questions you might ask the inter viewer to show you are interested in the job and the business. Then make a list of questions that you think the employer might ask. Think about how you should answer each of them and practice the answers with your family and friends. Some of the more common interview questions include: +++What can you tell me about yourself? +++Why are you interested in this job? +++What are your strengths and weaknesses? +++If we employ you, what will you do for us? +++Do you have any questions about us or the job? Tips for a Successful Interview +++Before the interview, think about what days and hours you can work and when you can start working. +++Make sure you take your social security card (or SIN card), extra copies of your resume, a list of your references and their contact information, as well as copies of any letters of recommendation you may have. +++Take paper and a pen to the interview so you can take notes. Often the interviewer will be doing the same. +++Try to relax right before the interview. +++Be on time (early is good) for the interview. If you are not exactly sure how to get to the business or what types of problems you may face getting there (such as traffic jams or construction), make a trip there 1 or 2 days before the interview. If you must be late, or if you cannot make it to the interview, call the employer as soon as possible and explain why. Ask if you can arrange for a new interview time. +++Show up looking neat and professional. Wear something more formal than what you would wear on the job. +++When you are greeted by the interviewer, intro duce yourself and be ready to shake hands. Do it firmly! +++Listen closely to the interviewer and look at the interviewer while he or she talks. +++Answer all questions carefully and honestly. If you don’t have an immediate answer, think about it before you open your mouth. If you don’t under stand the question, restate the question in the way you understand it. The interviewer will then know what question you are answering. +++Never answer questions with a simple "yes" or "no." Answer all questions with examples or explanations that show your qualities or skills. +++Market yourself but don’t lie about or exaggerate your abilities. +++Show your desire and enthusiasm for the job, but try to be yourself; that is, not too shy or too aggressive. +++Never say anything negative about other people or past employers. +++Don’t be overly familiar with the interviewer and don’t use slang during the interview, even if the interviewer does. +++Restate your interest in the job and summarize your good points at the end of the interview. +++Ask the interviewer if you can call back in a few days. After the Interview After the interview, go to a quiet place and reflect on what just took place. Think about what you did well and what you could have done better. Write these down so you can refer to them when you are preparing for your next interview. Within 3 days after the interview, write a letter to the interviewer, thanking him or her for his or her time. Make sure you remind the interviewer of your interest and qualifications. Take advantage of this additional chance to market yourself but don’t be overly aggressive when doing this. Remember, finding a job takes time and seldom do you land a job on your first attempt. If you don’t get a job offer as a result of a first interview, don’t give up. Do your best not to feel depressed or dejected. Simply realize that, although you are qualified, some one with more experience was chosen. Send a thank you letter anyway; this may prompt the interviewer to think of you the next time a similar job becomes available. Review your cover letter, resume, and interview experience. Identify anything that can improve your marketing tools. Don’t feel shy about asking the employer who did not hire you what you could have done better. Discuss your job hunt with your family and friends who will provide support and encouragement. Keep in touch with people you know who are working and who may have job leads. Explore other options. Don’t rule out volunteering or job shadowing as a means of connecting with the workplace. If you do get a job offer, don’t be afraid to discuss the terms and conditions before accepting. Find out, or confirm, things such as what you will be doing, the hours you will be working, how you will be paid, and what to do when you report to work the first day. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to share them with someone whose opinion you respect before committing yourself to the job. Don’t commit to the job and then change your mind a few days later. If you have any doubts about the job, think seriously about it before you accept or decline. |||| Automotive technicians can be paid in a number of ways. Next: Accepting Auto-Industry Employment Prev.: Automotive Industry: Jobs/Careers Home Article Index top of page |
