Class 3 - How to get the job you want Flashcards
What are the 4 simple steps to success?
Research
Contact
Interview
Relationship Management
Where could you research job opportunities?
ARIDO (join)
Attend tradeshows and conferences (IIDEX, NEOCON, Construct Canada, IDS)
Internet (job-placement firms, blogs, Linked-In)
Suppliers/Vendors: showroom events, CEU courses
Read: Good newspapers, Good general magazines (New Yorker, Fast Company, Wired), Interior Design magazines, online sites
Where do Interior Design Graduates Work?
Interior Design firms
Architectural firms
Furniture Dealerships
Corporations (banks, insurance companies…)
Institutions (universities, governments,…)
Film and Theatre industries
Manufactures (wall covering, carpet, furniture, etc)
Construction firms
Retailers (bath, kitchen, paint,…)
What are the 2 main characteristics of a good Covering Letter?
Keep it short and to the point
Think about your style
Parts of a Covering Letter
Introduction: why am I sending this letter?
Body: Why you should hire me (use research)
Closing: Thank you
What are the dos and don’ts of a Covering Letter style
Be formal and professional Always addressed to a specific person Use an appropriate font and point size (11+) Do not use UPPER CASE Do not hand write
What the characteristics of a Resume that work
Keep it short and to the point (one page works for new graduates)
Make your name big, bold and obvious (include address, phone, email)
Put things in a logical order
Paint yourself in the best light (but don’t lie)
What is the logical order of a resume?
Objective (demonstrate research) Education Work Experience (include dates) Other relevant experience Honours / Awards
How do you contact, follow up, after sending your resume to try for an interview?
Phone call:
Don’t leave voicemail, keep trying at different times
Keep it short and sweet
Write out a script and practice delivery
Ask for information, not a job; try to get an “information session”
Learn to deal with rejection
Send a thank-you email - keep it simple
Offer to “keep in touch”
How to maintain a relationship after the interview, what should you do?
Send a thank-you note within 48 hours (email or letter based on the person)
Stay in touch but don’t be a pest
Find excuses to follow up; new address, interesting information, shared hobbies
How to behave in an interview?
Show up on time, better to show up 10 min early
Dress appropriately
Project a great attitude
Have a portfolio ready, concise but diverse
Listen to the questions, prepare answers ahead of time
Have your own questions ready
Be yourself (the best version of yourself that you can be)
Tips for the interview (act like a star):
Make sure your right hand is free for a welcoming handshake
Always stand to greet someone
If possible, sit facing the door
If offered, accept a refreshment (water is best)
Have an extra copy of your resume with you
Maintain eye contact
Project good posture and body language
SMILE
Ask questions that demonstrate your research
Bring a note pad
How should you compose your portfolio?
Emphasize your strengths right off the top
Emphasize typical industry programs (3Ds, AutoCAD, REVIT)
Tailor it to your audience
Show examples of your creativity and conceptual work
Keep it concise (maybe 10-12 items)
Keep it smaller, shorter and simpler than you think
Make it look professional: well-bound, flat, organized
Never bring originals
When accepting an offer what you can negotiate?
Benefits, vacations (not salary)
When should you accept an offer?
If it’s the job you want, immediately. If it is your second choice, ask for 48 hours (go back to other firms to see if there is a chance)
