EMPLOYABILITY
SKILLS MANUAL
This handbook will help you become more familiar with the job-seeking process and will
share some tips and insight on how to improve your chances of being hired — directly
from industry professionals.
Table of Contents | 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction and Acknowledgements 3
Section One — Getting Started 4
Introduction .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 4
Information Gathering .......................................................................................................................................................................................................4
Assessing your Strengths and Interests .................................................................................................................................................................5
Importance of Networking ..............................................................................................................................................................................................5
Creating a LinkedIn Account in High School ..................................................................................................................................................... 6
Managing Your Digital Footprint ............................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Where to Look for a Job .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Career Planning and Job Search Checklist ........................................................................................................................................................12
Section Two — Resumes 13
Creating an Effective Resume ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Common Resume Myths ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 13
Types of Resumes ................................................................................................................................................................................................................14
General Tips for All Resumes ........................................................................................................................................................................................14
Tips for Email Submission of Resume ..................................................................................................................................................................15
Action Words Related to Specific Skills.................................................................................................................................................................16
Constructing a Resume Bullet Point ......................................................................................................................................................................18
Sample Resume Heading ..............................................................................................................................................................................................18
Sections of a Resume ........................................................................................................................................................................................................19
Resume Samples ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................21
Professional Reference Page .......................................................................................................................................................................................25
Sample Reference Page .................................................................................................................................................................................................27
Section Three — Cover Letters 28
What is a Cover Letter? ...................................................................................................................................................................................................28
General Tips for Cover Letters .....................................................................................................................................................................................28
The Do’s of a Cover Letter ..............................................................................................................................................................................................29
Parts of a Cover Letter ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 29
Sample Cover Letter ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 31
Emailing Cover Letter .......................................................................................................................................................................................................32
Section Four — The Job Application 33
What is a Job Application and Why do Employers Use it? ....................................................................................................................33
How to Ask for a Job Application..............................................................................................................................................................................33
Information You Will Need to Complete a Job Application ...................................................................................................................33
Tips for Completing a Paper Application ............................................................................................................................................................34
Introduction and Acknowledgments | 3 2 | Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Kalamazoo RESA Career & Technical Education Skills Manual was originally developed in close
collaboration with several human resources and talent acquisition professionals from various
business sectors across southwest Michigan. Their first-hand experience provides unique insight into
the hiring process and a few tips “From the Experts” on how to succeed during the experience.
Kalamazoo RESA Career Connect would like to extend a very sincere thank you to the following
individuals and employers for their critical contributions to the Employability Skills Manual:
Holly Hagerty, Talent Acquisition Manager
CSM Group of Companies
Stevie Monroig, HR Generalist
XL Machine Co.
Kalee Hirsch, Human Resources
Kalamazoo RESA
Jennifer Smith, Talent Acquisition & Retention Manager
Consumers Credit Union
Tina Richmond, Sales Manager
EG Workforce Solutions
Online Application Process ..........................................................................................................................................................................................35
Following Up After Submitting a Job Application .......................................................................................................................................35
Employment Testing and Screening ..................................................................................................................................................................... 36
Job Application Samples ...............................................................................................................................................................................................38
Section Five — Interviews 44
Do Your Research ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 44
What to Bring to an Interview ....................................................................................................................................................................................45
Professional Dress ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................45
The Do’s and Don’ts of Interviewing ..................................................................................................................................................................... 46
Virtual Interviewing Tips ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 48
Phone Interviewing Tips ................................................................................................................................................................................................48
STAR Approach .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 49
Traditional Interviews – Frequently Asked Questions ............................................................................................................................... 49
Behavioral Questions ........................................................................................................................................................................................................52
Illegal Interview Questions ...........................................................................................................................................................................................54
Questions You Could Ask ...............................................................................................................................................................................................56
Follow-up and Thank You Email ...............................................................................................................................................................................57
Section Six — First Days on the Job 58
How to Rock Your First Days of Work ....................................................................................................................................................................58
Forms, Forms and More Forms..................................................................................................................................................................................58
Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9) .............................................................................................................................................. 60
IRS W-4 Form ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 63
Michigan W-4 Form.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 64
Work Permit Form (CA-6) ..............................................................................................................................................................................................65
Work Permit Form (CA-7) ..............................................................................................................................................................................................67
New Job Orientation ........................................................................................................................................................................................................69
Section Seven — The Importance of 21st Century Skills 70
What are 21st Century Skills? ......................................................................................................................................................................................70
Educational and Technical Skills ................................................................................................................................................................................71
Employment Evaluations and Performance Reviews ...............................................................................................................................72
Employment Evaluation Sample .............................................................................................................................................................................73
Steps for Advancement ..................................................................................................................................................................................................76
Section Eight — Leaving Your Job 77
Employment Resignation .............................................................................................................................................................................................77
Sample Letter of Resignation .....................................................................................................................................................................................78
What if You are Terminated? ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 79
Exit Interviews ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 79
Section One — Getting Started | 5 4 | Section One — Getting Started
Assessing your Strengths and Interests
Have you said any of the following lately?
■ “I don’t know what I want to do with my life.”
■ “I’m not sure if I should go to college.”
■ “My job doesn’t quite fit me.”
■ “Is there a test that can tell me which career is right for me?”
The answer to all of the above lies in knowing yourself and your interests. There is no magical test
that will tell you what to do with the rest of your life. You can, however, use a combination of self-
assessment tools that will help you make these important decisions.
The first step in the career planning process lies in self-assessment, which is the process of gathering
information about yourself in order to make an informed decision. Values, interests, personality and
skills should be considered during this personal evaluation.
Consider the following ideas when gathering information about yourself and potential careers:
■ Talk with other students. Ask them what they are learning in their class, ask about specific careers
and career pathways. Does it sound like something you might enjoy?
■ Speak with your instructor about why they chose their career path. Ask them how you might learn
more about their career path.
■ Check with your teacher or counselor to find out what assessments are available at your school. Different
schools have access to different assessments so they can help you to determine which tool would best
suit you, including Holland Code, Gallup StrengthsFinder and Keirsey Temperment Sorter.
■ Xello, a college and career planning software, prepares K-12 students for success through an
engaging program that builds self-knowledge, personalized plans and critical life skills.
■ Since you will be employed for most of your adult life, you owe it to yourself to explore all of your
career interests. Don’t limit yourself to careers which may be traditionally viewed as “appropriate” for
a specific gender or identity. Choose a career that fits you, your goals and desired lifestyle. From that
point, it’s just a matter of getting the right education and training necessary to land the job you want.
■ Most importantly, use your imagination! Don’t decide on a particular type of training or job until
you have learned a lot about other careers that might also match your abilities and interests. The
more time you take to explore your opportunities, the better chance you will find employment that
will be a good fit for you.
Importance of Networking
Networking is an important part of being a successful professional. The phrase “it isn’t what you
know, it’s who you know,” illustrates the professional power of networking. Through the process
of developing professional relationships and contacts, building a network establishes a group of
people who are ready to help each other succeed in the workforce. Staying in touch and regular
communication with your professional network can benefit all parties involved. It’s important to help
the members of your network, and likewise, they can help you in situations such as finding a job,
getting a referral from a friend at a company to which you applied, getting career advice, gaining
resources to learn a new skills, asking for feedback and so much more! Always remember that
networking relationships are a two-way street, offer to help as much, or more, than you ask. Keep the
members of your network connected by periodically checking in and offering help and resources
whenever you can.
SECTION ONE GETTING STARTED
Introduction
There are many ways to get a job. The Employability Skills Manual will help you become more familiar
with the job-seeking process and give you some tips and insight on ways to improve your chances of
being hired.
Sound too good to be true? It’s easy. Just take it one step at a time.
Information Gathering
Be sure to check out the Career Planning Checklist on page 12 to help you through this process.
The first step in looking for a job is to assess and determine your knowledge, skill and abilities. What
information should you have about your background and experiences? What information will you or
a potential employer need that might be required by law?
Information you should have when you begin your job search includes:
■ Social Security Card – You must have a social security number before you can start work.
■ Work Permit – If you are under 18 years of age and are not a high school graduate, you must have
a work permit. The purpose is to protect you. Apply for a work permit after you have an offer of
employment. (See samples on page 65.)
■ Identification – A list of acceptable identification methods is available on page 62.
■ High School Transcript – Your high school transcript is helpful in completing applications and
identifying specific classes and grades. It can also verify proof of graduation.
■ Schools Attended – List all of the schools you have attended, including location and dates.
■ School Activities – All extracurricular activities, groups or teams that you have participated in
should be listed, as well as any related awards received.
■ Previous Employment – Know the names, addresses and phone numbers of past employers, as
well as your job titles, responsibilities, accomplishments and the dates you were employed. Include
all part-time, summer and volunteer or community service experience.
■ Strengths – What unique and special abilities do you have that could allow you to excel in certain
roles? Can you follow directions accurately? Can you organize or lead others?
■ Potential Weaknesses – Are there any reasons that your ability to succeed in a job could be limited?
Are your career goals realistic and attainable?
■ Work Goals – What would you like to be doing in five or 10 years? What type of job will help you
reach these goals?
■ Professional References – You will need permission from at least three people to use as references.
(See more on page 25.)
Section One — Getting Started | 7 6 | Section One — Getting Started
Who should you include in your professional network? Begin with your inner circle of close family and
friends, they are your biggest group of supporters and, when asked, can be very helpful on the path
to success. Next, consider the group of people you see every day, including classmates, neighbors,
coworkers, supervisors, teachers, coaches, teammates, etc. These people may not be your closest
associates, but they can be helpful connections. Additionally, connect with those you may know from
professional group memberships such as clubs, athletics, volunteer organizations, places of worship,
etc. You network should also include the friends, relatives and acquaintances of those individuals you
have identified.
Creating a LinkedIn Account in High School
LinkedIn is a professional networking social media platform that serves as an excellent resource
for keeping in touch with individuals who could be valuable connections when you are searching
for a job, applying for scholarships, learning about careers or conducting industry research. By
professionally connecting classmates, teachers, employers, colleagues, mentors, family members
and friends, LinkedIn helps you to showcase your talents, skills and accomplishments. Two powerful
features available on LinkedIn include the ability for your connections to endorse your skills and write
professional recommendations, which serves as an invaluable validation of your strengths, therefore
giving you an edge over other candidates.
When creating a LinkedIn account, use the following LinkedIn Profile Checklist to ensure you include
all elements of a great profile. Also remember that this profile is a part of your digital footprint - make
sure you have proper grammar and keep your interactions strictly professional!
PHOTO: It doesn't have to be fancy - just
use your cellphone camera in front of a plain
background. Wear a nice shirt and don't
forget to smile!
HEADLINE: Tell people what you're
excited about now and the cool things you
want to do in the future.
SUMMARY: Describe what motivates
you, what you're skilled at, and what's next.
EXPERIENCE: List the jobs you held,
even if they were part-time, along with what
you accomplished at each. Even include
photos and videos from your work.
HONORS & AWARDS: If you earned
a prize in or out of school, don't be shy. Let
the world know about it!
Continued >>
LinkedIn Profile Checklist
Section One — Getting Started | 9 8 | Section One — Getting Started
Managing Your Digital Footprint
Technology and social media platforms have
added an additional resource for employers to
research potential employees. Hiring managers
can easily search for your digital footprint online
to tell them more than you might like them to
know. Also, be aware that with the help of facial
recognition programs, fake accounts not under
your legal name can be found.
So, what is a digital footprint? A digital footprint is the trail that you leave as you move through your
digital environments, such as social media accounts. All of this data can be used to build a profile about
you and your behavior. In most cases, there is nothing you can do to erase these records, so it’s very
important that you manage your digital footprint so that you are positively portrayed. Here are a few best
practices for maintaining a strong and positive online presence:
■ Do a thorough self-search so you are aware of all information that is currently available.
■ Keep your personal details private. Use a nickname instead of your real name on social sites.
Become familiar with the privacy settings on any social networks that you use.
■ Protect your personal data and do not share username or password information.
■ Think before you post. Once shared, information is nearly impossible to remove completely. Don’t
post information that you would not want everyone to know about you.
■ Be respectful about other people’s content when you share and tag.
■ Keep it professional. Only share factual information and make sure it is appropriate in the event
that your supervisor, mentor or coworker see it.
■ Be aware of what other people are saying about you online. Adjust your account settings to make
sure that you see notifications when people mention your name, tag you, like, comment or share
on your feed. On many platforms, you can enable approval settings when other people tag you.
■ Be accurate. Check spelling and grammar in your posts. Poor writing can be a big negative to
someone checking up on you.
■ Consider your contacts. Connect with whomever you like, but don’t feel the need to connect with
those who could be a detriment to you because of the way you post on social media.
■ Be proud of your achievements. Include information about your hobbies, interests, volunteer and
charity work, and awards. This is your personal brand, it shows others who you are and provides and
honest and professional view of you.
Where to Look for a Job
Once you have your information organized, it’s time to start searching for a job!
Here are some common sources of job information:
Online
The first place you should search for available job positions is online. Most companies and
organizations post their jobs on Indeed and Glassdoor. Also, be sure to check LinkedIn and individual
company websites, usually under “careers” or “job openings.”
Career Fairs and Hiring Expos
Great resources for generating job leads and a good introduction to networking, career fairs and
hiring expos can also help job seekers get internships.
From the
Experts
Do Your Research!
Know the job market
in your area, who is
hiring and what types of
positions are available.
PROJECTS: Whether you led a team
assignment in school or built an app on your
own, talk about what you did and how you did it.
COURSES: List the classes that show
off the skills and interests you're most
excited about.
SKILLS & EXPERTISE: Add at least 5
key skills - and then your connections can
endorse you for the things you're best at.
ORGANIZATIONS: Have you joined
any clubs at school or outside? Be sure to
describe what you did with each organization.
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE & CAUSES:
Even if you weren't paid for a job, be sure to
list it. Admissions officers and employers
often see volunteer experience as just as
valuable as paid work.
RECOMMENDATIONS: Ask managers,
teachers, or classmates who've worked with you
closely to write a recommendation. This gives
extra credibility to your strengths and skills.
EDUCATION: Starting with high
school, list all the educational experiences
you've had - including summer programs.
Want more LinkedIn tips for students? Check out students.linkedin.com
Section One — Getting Started | 11 10 | Section One — Getting Started
Don’t see a union listed for your area of interest? Check out the Become an Apprentice website, at
miroad2work.org/michigan-apprenticeship, for detailed information about each trade, including scope of
work, requirements and length of program. Your CTE instructor could also help you with any questions.
Professional Trade Organizations
Industry-specific groups of professionals and corporations, Professional Trade Organizations are
great places to network. Every career field has at least one professional organization. For example,
the Kalamazoo Human Resources Management Association (KHRMA), a local chapter of the Society
for Human Resource Management (SHRM), connects human resource professionals to increase
collaboration, and serves as a platform for development to its members and community.
Public Employment Agencies
Michigan Works! provides services for job seekers of all ages, including job placement, access to the
Michigan Talent Bank, as well as career assessment and coaching. Consider visiting your local service
center; some employers bring applications for positions to Employer of the Day events that can only
be obtained in that office.
■ Michigan Works! Southwest
1601 South Burdick St. Kalamazoo, 49001
(269) 383-2536
michiganworkssouthwest.org
Private Employment Agencies
When applying to an employment service agency or temporary staffing agency, you will be
asked to complete an application, complete skills assessments and pass a drug test. Applying at a
staffing agency is similar to a job interview: arrive dressed professionally and prepared to submit an
application, including professional references. First impressions count.
It is important to determine whether any fees are associated with utilizing the services of a private
employment agency. Depending on the situation, sometimes the employer will pay the fee. Be sure
to research the agency. Determine with which types of industry and positions the agency is affiliated.
For example, if you are seeking a role as an administrative assistant, it would not be worth your time
to apply through an agency that only places temporary manufacturing labor positions.
Kalamazoo Area Employment Agencies:
■ Aerotek – Contract, contract-to-hire and direct
placement in various fields.
(269) 903-4440
aerotek.com
■ EG Workforce Solutions – Permanent
and temporary contract, light industrial,
administrative, professional and technical
placements.
(269) 388-2175
egnow.com
■ Manpower – Permanent, temporary and
temporary-to-permanent staffing.
(269) 382-5954
manpower.com
■ MiTalent
mitalent.org
■ OnStaff USA – Clerical, light industrial,
technical and professional placements.
(269) 385-6292
onstaffusa.com
■ People Ready – Temporary and permanent
employment in a variety of fields.
(269) 276-0111
peopleready.com
■ Robert Half – Specializes in accounting and
finance, technology, administrative, legal, or
creative and marketing recruitment.
(888) 226-0755
roberthalf.com
■ Snelling Personnel Services – Full-service staffing.
(269) 342-2715
snelling.com
■ Trillium Staffing Solutions – Temporary,
contract and permanent staffing.
(866) 246-0185
trilliumstaffing.com
■ WSI – Temporary, contact, project-based and
onsite staffing in various fields.
(269) 488-5100
wsitalent.com
Word of Mouth
Ask around! Talk to family, friends, neighbors and coworkers about if they know of any businesses
that are hiring. Ask for leads and let them know you are searching for a job. More opportunities are
discovered through networking than any other method.
Pounding the Pavement
When going door-to-door to submit job applications, always be sure to dress professionally in the
event that you may be interviewed on the spot.
“Help Wanted”
If you see a “Help Wanted” sign, do not go in right away. Take the time to prepare. Take your cover
letter and resume, brush up on how to fill out a job application and practice your interviewing skills.
Government
Civil Service Commission jobs involve working for your local, state or federal government. In order
to get a civil service job, you must take a civil service occupation-specific test. Candidates are then
contacted based on their scores. Most post offices have application forms and information on civil
service opportunities. The armed forces offer job training and career opportunities. Federal civil
service jobs can be found online at usajobs.gov. State of Michigan civil service jobs can be found
online at governmentjobs.com/careers/michigan.
Unions
Industrial and trade unions have exclusive hiring authority in some companies, typically through
apprenticeship programs. The first step in becoming part of an apprenticeship program is completing
an application, which can be obtained from the union. Most applicants will also take an aptitude test
and must receive a certain score before being interviewed. After the interview process, the union selects
which candidates will be invited as part of its program. Apprenticeship programs last three to five years,
during which time you are paid for work and attending school for additional training in the field.
Listed below are some of the unions represented in Kalamazoo County that have apprenticeship programs:
■ Sheet Metal Workers Local 7
(269) 342-8842
sheetmetal7.org
■ Union Millwrights Local 1102
(586) 756-3610
hammer9.com
■ United Auto Workers Local 1666
(269) 349-7569
uaw.org
■ Carpenters Union Local 525
(616) 837-1200
hammer9.com/locals/carpenters-local-525
■ International Brotherhood of Electrical
Workers (IBEW) Local 131
(269) 382-1762
ibew131.com
■ Iron Workers Local 25
(248-) 344-9494
ironworkerslocal340.com
■ Plumbers and Pipe Fitters Local 357
(269) 679-2570
ualocal357.com
Don’t Forget to Follow-up
Remember, to be successful in your job search, not only do you need to develop as many job leads as
possible, but you also need to follow-up on each lead. After submitting your cover letter and resume,
call potential employers to confirm that your material was received and ask about the timeframe for
interviews. Consider keeping a log of leads to identify the status of each and the dates you followed-up.
Additionally, prepare a professional job search package, including a resume and cover letter tailored
to each specific job. These documents are discussed in the next two sections of this manual.
Section Two — Resumes | 13 12 | Section One — Getting Started
Career Planning and Job Search Checklist
Step One: Information Gathering
Applied for and received a social security card. Required to start a job.
Know where to obtain a work permit. If you are under 18 years of age and not a high school
graduate, you must submit a work permit. Pick up a work permit at your high school after receiving
an offer of employment.
Have a current driver’s license and birth certificate. Required to start a job.
Have a copy of your high school transcript – a helpful tool in completing applications, recognizing
specific classes and grades, and serves as proof of graduation.
Identified all schools you have attended, including location and dates attended.
Organized a list of all extracurricular activities in which you have participated. Include clubs, groups
and teams both in school and outside of school. Highlight any awards you have received.
Know the names, addresses and phone numbers of previous employers, as well as dates of
employment. Identify job titles, duties and responsibilities, and accomplishments for all part-time,
summer and volunteer or community service work.
Analyzed all personal strengths, special skills, abilities, qualifications and certifications that you
have which will allow you to excel in certain types of work.
Aware of any potential weaknesses and prepared to illustrate how you are strengthening them.
Step Two: Assess Your Skills and Interests
Identified all of your strengths, skills, interests and values. (More information on page 70.)
Created a list of possible job titles and fields of interest.
Step Three: Prepare for Your Job Search
Determined the geographic location where you would like to work.
Organized a list of all employers you would like to contact within that area.
Created a resume and cover letter, reviewed by at least three people. (More information on page 13.)
Contacted at least 3-5 people to use as professional references. (More information on page 25.)
Prepared a portfolio of work samples that highlight your skills and experience.
Practiced interview responses or conducted a mock interview. (More information on page 44.)
Identified professional interview attire that corresponds to the field in which you plan to work.
Set-up a professional voicemail message on your cell phone.
Created a professional, non-school-related email address and are prepared to check it regularly.
Ensured that past, present and future information posted online through social media platforms is
professional and would be appropriate if it were to be seen by an employer.
Step Four: Start Searching
Created a system for tracking contacts and positions for which you have applied.
Prepared to follow-up on job leads within a week, and a second follow-up within two weeks if needed.
Ready to keep networking contacts up to date.
Planning to follow-up with letters or emails to each person who interviews you.
SECTION TWO RESUMES
Creating an Effective Resume
What is a resume?
■ A short, one-page document showing an employer that you are a desirable candidate for a job.
■ A statement of facts, strategically using keywords and action verbs that highlights your
accomplishments, work and volunteer experience, skills, education and career training.
■ A document that highlights your technical and
professional skills, as well as your experiences
relevant to a specific position.
What is the purpose of a resume?
■ To gain a potential employer’s interest
■ To obtain an interview
■ Used by the employer as a screening tool
The average time spent by a recruiter looking at a resume is six seconds!”
-Time Magazine
Common Resume Myths
Listed below are some common resume myths:
Myth: 8 A good resume will get you a job.
Fact: 9 A good resume may get you an interview.
Myth: 8 Write one resume for all positions.
Fact: 9 Target your resume for each job by matching your skills and experience to the job
description.
Myth: 8 Always include an objective.
Fact: 9 Objectives are outdated and focus on what you want, not what the employer wants.
Myth: 8 Little lies are okay.
Fact: 9 Only factual information should be included on your resume. Lies can get you fired.
Myth: 8 Templates are great tools to use when creating your resume.
Fact: 9 When you use a template, your resume will look the same as everyone else’s. You will not
stand out from other applicants.
Myth: 8 It is okay to use personal pronouns such as “I,” “me” or “my.”
Fact: 9 Leave these off your resume. Instead, begin your bullet points with action verbs.
Myth: 8 Having a typo, a misspelling or a grammatical error on your resume is not a big deal.
Fact: 9 Spelling and grammatical errors show a lack of attention to detail.
From the
Experts
Four Cs
When writing your
resume, don’t forget
to apply the Four Cs:
Clean, Clear, Concise
and Consistent.
“
Section Two — Resumes | 15 14 | Section Two — Resumes
Myth: 8 “Achievements and Skills” should be highlighted in separate sections
Fact: 9 Showcase your achievements by bulleting them in your experience.
Myth: 8 Include all of your professional skills. (i.e. communication, teamwork, etc.)
Fact: 9 Include only the soft skills most relevant to the job and support with evidence.
Myth: 8 Never use color.
Fact: 9 When used appropriately to demonstrate skills for specific positions i.e. marketing, graphic
design, communications, etc., color can enhance your resume.
Myth: 8 Spacing on your resume is not very important.
Fact: 9 Inconsistent formatting can compromise the overall look of your resume.
Myth: 8 Paragraphs are acceptable.
Fact: 9 Use short, concise, bulleted writing.
Myth: 8 Include “References Available Upon Request” and/or list your references on your resume.
Fact: 9 Create a separate page for references. More information on page 25.
Types of Resumes
There are two main types of resumes: Chronological and Skills-Based/Functional.
Chronological
■ Lists experiences in reverse chronological order, with most recent experiences listed first.
■ Preferred by most employers because it provides a quick snapshot of your work history.
■ According to an Accountemps survey, 75% of hiring managers prefer a chronological resume.
f Use this format if you have a good work history and experience that is aligned to the job for
which you are applying.
Skills-Based
■ Focuses on skills and experience rather than chronological work history.
■ Easier to tailor your resume to the requirements of the position.
■ Emphasizes experiences and accomplishments.
General Tips for All Resumes
1. Always describe your experiences and skills honestly and accurately.
2. Don’t overcrowd your resume. Make it easy
to read and find important information. A
resume should be properly balanced, aligned
from top to bottom, as well as left to right.
3. Use action verbs to describe experiences,
skills, accomplishments and duties. More
information on page 16.
4. Be consistent with your formatting from
section to section.
From the
Experts
Tailor your Resume
Make sure to tailor
your resume to each
position for which you
are applying!
5. Include all technical skills you possess, such as proficiency using software programs, ability to
operate specialized equipment and fluency in other languages. Be as specific as possible with
model numbers and versions of software.
6. Don’t list class rank or GPA unless it is something of which you are very proud. As a general rule,
include GPA only if it is 3.0 or above.
7. Do not disclose demographic information such as age, gender, ethnicity, past or current salary
expectations in your resume or cover letter.
8. Make sure you have proper use of past or present tense, for example present tense for current jobs
and past tense for previous jobs.
9. Ask someone to proofread your resume. Make it perfect. Check for any spelling, grammatical
and punctuation errors. Your resume is a representation of you – make it professional.
10. Use a font that is easy to read when printed, such as Arial, Garamond or Calibri, size 11- or
12-point font.
11. Spell out all words completely and avoid abbreviations. Explain acronyms such as BMA or HOSA
upon first reference.
Tips for Email Submission of Resume
1. Use your full name as part of the file name when you save your resume – this will make your
resume attachment easily identifiable to the employer.
2. The subject line of the email message should include your name and the position for which you
are applying.
3. Send yourself a blind carbon copy (BCC) of the email so that you have a record of the submission.
4. Use a dedicated professional email address for your job search. Be sure that the email address
you are using for submission matches the email listed on your resume. Make sure you check your
email every day. Don’t forget to check “junk” or “spam” folders.
5. Never submit your resume without explanation. The body of the email is your cover letter. (More
information on page 28.)
6. Always attach the resume instead of pasting it into the body of the email. The only exception is if
the employer does not accept attachments.
Section Two — Resumes | 17 16 | Section Two — Resumes
Action Words Related to Specific Skills
Rather than listing your skills, such as leadership, communication, etc., use action verbs to create
vivid language that captures what you have you accomplished. Use similar language to the words
below to make your resume descriptive and informative.
General Resume Words
Assisted Attended Called Cleaned Committed
Communicated Credited Delivered Developed Ensured
Filed Gathered Helped Inventoried Led
Monitored Named Operated Organized Participated
Performed Promoted to Received Responded Served
Stocked Supported Taught Worked
Leadership, Management and Supervision Skills
Example: “Trained up to five new employees in customer service and food preparation procedures
over a one-year period.”
Administered Controlled Coordinated Directed Employed
Executed Guided Headed Implemented Initiated
Maintained Managed Motivated Supervised Trained
Was responsible for
Promotion and Sales Skills
Example: “Consistently met daily sales goals by effectively communicating daily promotions to
customers.”
Communicated Demonstrated Generated Increased sales Marketed
Negotiated Offered Persuaded Promoted Recommended
Sold
Problem-Solving Skills
Example: “Brainstormed a new way to organize inventory to reduce the time spent searching for an item.”
Analyzed Brainstormed Designed Developed Evaluated
Experimented Found Identified Improved Investigated
Proposed Streamlined Solved Sorted Strengthened
Communication Skills
Example: “Presented new ideas for high school Homecoming floats to 100+ freshman students.”
Authored Collaborated Convinced Edited Facilitated
Influenced Instructed Interpreted Presented Spoke
Translated Wrote
Initiative and Creativity Skills
Example: “Created a new webpage which generated 300 hits per day.”
Created Devised Enhanced Initiated Invented
Innovated Originated Refined
Research Skills
Example: “Conducted research and interviews on bullying at the middle school to write an article for
the newspaper.”
Clarified Collected Conducted Recorded Reviewed
Researched Proposed Summarized
Technical Skills
Example: “Operated machine tools such as lathes and grinders to produce metal parts.”
Assembled Built Calculated Computed Designed
Engineered Fabricated Maintained Operated Overhauled
Programmed Remodeled Repaired Solved Upgraded
Customer Service and Helping Skills
Example: “Provided one-on-one and group tutoring for 30+ at-risk elementary students through an
after-school reading program.”
Assisted Coached Enabled Familiarized Helped
Provided Served Tutored
Math and Quantitative Skills
Example: Calculated an estimate for new school store inventory needed for Registration Day.
Balanced Budgeted Calculated Computed Converted
Estimated Inventoried Projected Purchased Quantified
Reconciled Recorded Reduced Tabulated Totaled
Getting Results and Working Hard
Example: “Achieved title of Most Important Player through good attendance and exceptional effort
at practices and games.”
Accomplished Achieved Attained Completed Delivered
Earned Finalized Generated Increased Introduced
Obtained Produced
Organizational Skills
Example: “Coordinated weekly meeting schedule for 25+ club members.”
Allocated Arranged Assigned Classified Mapped out
Organized Scheduled Straightened
Section Two — Resumes | 19 18 | Section Two — Resumes
Constructing a Resume Bullet Point
Under each position listed on your resume, bulleted accomplishment statements should describe
what you did in each position and the results of your actions. Demonstrate your skills.
Action Word + Example + Result = Bullet Point Formula
Action Word: Always begin your bullet points with an action word to illustrate different skills. (Action
Word Examples on page 16)
Example: Be descriptive and specific about what you did. How did you do this skill? If possible,
always quantify (i.e. 30 students; ten-page report; eight tables; more than a year, etc.).
Result: State what you achieved from your example. What was the purpose of what you did, or
why you did it?
Resume Bullet Point Examples:
■ “Tutored first-grade students in reading to improve all students reading scores by 70% on DIBELS test.”
■ “Served at least nine tables of customers to
ensure efficient food service.”
■ “Led practices for more than 30 teammates to
prepare for the State competition.”
■ “Read up to three blueprints per shift to
accurately measure part tolerances.”
Sample Resume Heading
The following types of letterhead examples could be used on all documents for the job search
process, including cover letters, resumes, professional references, thank you letters, etc. The first
sample heading below will be used throughout this manual. When creating a header, remember
that professionalism is always the goal. Avoid using decorative fonts or graphics. Make sure your
name is stands out more visually than your address.
Create one file that only contains your header, which can be copied and utilized, as necessary. Simply
open a copy of the file and use it as a template for your other professional documents. Remember to
always “Save As” when creating new documents to keep your original header file unchanged.
From the
Experts
Past or Present?
Remember to use
appropriate tenses! Use
the present tense for a
current role; use past
tense for a previous job.
Sections of a Resume
The most commonly included sections on a resume are as follows:
1. Heading
a. Your full legal name should stand out slightly more than the rest of your contact information.
Use a larger font, bold or lines to emphasize your name.
b. The header should include your name, complete mailing address with zip code, email
address and phone number with area code - use the phone number where you can most
easily be reached. If this is a cell phone, make sure that voicemail is set up, able to accept new
messages and sounds professional.
c. Make sure that your email address is appropriate and is a positive and professional
representation of you. Your professional email address should include first and last name. Do
not include slang, nicknames, birthdate or other unprofessional language.
Example: [email protected]
2. Professional Summary: Strengths and Summary of Skills (Optional)
a. First section on a resume.
b. Replaces the outdated objective section. A personal statement that authentically describes
your passions and strengths in a way that matches the job for which you are applying. Think of
this as a personal mission statement.
c. Spotlight the skills that you have to contribute to the position and organization.
d. Utilize keywords to help increase the number of hits if the potential employer uses an
electronic process to match applicants with specific job requirements.
e. Include professional social media handles, such as LinkedIn and URLs to personal websites,
blogs and portfolios.
3. Education
a. List your recent education first.
b. Include your school’s name, city and state, expected date of graduation or completion, as well
as any specific programs of study or specialized training.
c. Identify classes you have successfully completed that are relevant to the job for which you are
applying. Use official course titles, not abbreviations or acronyms.
Section Two — Resumes | 21 20 | Section Two — Resumes
4. Work Experience
a. List most recent work experience first.
b. Include your job title, the name, city and state of your previous employer, as well as the month
and year of employment. If you are currently working at an organization list “Present” as the
end date.
c. Describe your responsibilities in short statements using action words. Make sure to vary
wording, so responsibilities are not redundant. Do not use the “I” pronoun when describing
your responsibilities. Use strong statements that make your skills stand out. Try to quantify
whenever possible. (See examples on page 18.)
d. Emphasize at least three responsibilities for each position listed on your resume.
e. Personal or company accomplishments while you were employed may be listed.
Example: Exceeded store sales goals.
f. Types of “Work Experience” if You Haven’t
Had a job:
■ Babysitting
■ Taking Care of Pets
■ Mowing Lawns
■ Cleaning the House
■ Cooking and Preparing Meals
5. Volunteer Experience and Community Service
a. List most recent volunteer experience first.
b. Include the type of volunteer experience, name of organization, city and state, as well as time
period or number of hours volunteered.
c. Identify your responsibilities and the experience you gained.
6. Activities and Awards
a. List skills that you have acquired through coursework or work experience. Be specific.
Example: Proficient in Microsoft Word 2016. (See resume samples on page 21.)
b. Identify clubs and organizations to which you belong.
c. List special awards and certificates you have earned.
d. Include athletic experience. List your years of experience and any special awards or leadership roles.
From the
Experts
Keep it Current
Your resume should
be a living document.
As your experience
and education grows,
make sure to keep
your resume updated.
Resume Samples
Resume of a Student with Work Experience
Sections of a Sample Resume
YOUR NAME
123 Street, City, MI 49001 | (269) 454-3234 | [email protected]
SKILLS SUMMARY
Versale and mul-skilled person. Excellent mechanical aptude and work-ethic. Passionate about working in the
automove eld and works on engines while not at work as an assistant mechanic.
EDUCATION
Anytown High School – Expected graduaon 2022
Anytown, MI
Relevant Courses: Auto Technology and Computerized Manufacturing
Maintained B average
ACTIVITIES
Track (2020–present)
Cross Country (2019–present)
• Selected for All-Conference Team (2020)
WORK EXPERIENCE
Assistant Mechanic January 2020–present
Uptown Garage, Anytown, MI
• Work on all makes and models of vehicles, including domesc and imports
• Perform a variety of maintenance and repairs ranging from tune-ups to complete engine overhauls
Crew Member Summer 2019
Simmons Detasseling, Anytown, MI
• Followed direcons of Lead Foreman
• Worked on a team to detassel corn
• Invited to return for the next summer as a Lead Foreman
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
• Led a team of four students in the Breadli fundraising event beneng the March of Dimes (2019–2021)
HOBBIES AND AWARDS
• Stock car racing
• Automobile customizing
• Rebuilding cars to original condion
• Awarded Southwest Michigan Hot Rod of the Year–2021
CERTIFICATIONS
• ASE Engine Repair (2020–2023)
• ASE Repair (2020–2023)
Section Two — Resumes | 23 22 | Section Two — Resumes
Resume of a Student with Work Experience
YOUR NAME
123 Street, City, MI 49001 | (269) 454-3234 | [email protected]
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Experience with CAD and Autodesk. Familiar with 3D printers. Ulized Ladder Logic to program roboc funconing.
Soldering, desoldering and rework of electronic instrumentaon. Planned and completed personal computer builds. Familiar
with coding in Python. Coded two separate servers.
EDUCATION
Anytown High School, Anytown, MI 49000
• Expected date of graduaon: June 2021
• Planning to study CNC machining aer high school
WORK EXPERIENCE
Part-me Work-Based Learning, Innovave Products Inc., Anytown, MI 49009
August 2020 to present
• Manufacturing and assembly of parts
• Ensure quality during manufacturing by precise measuring of tolerances
• Shadowing of dierent areas of the shop including the QC departments
Maintenance, Anytown Paints, Anytown, MI 49000
August 2019 to September 2020
• Maintains work areas and oce spaces
• Performs janitorial dues and special projects as needed with minimal supervision
• Experience with power equipment including oor Zamboni and buer, power washers and industrial steam cleaners
• Trained new hires
• Punctual with an excellent aendance record
COURSEWORK
Introducon to Engineering and Design (2020)
Principles of Engineering (2019)
Computerized Manufacturing (2019-present)
• Skills learned include: Project design, management, safety and producon
• Projects include: Robot build and model vehicle development and producon
• Machinery used include: Computer Numerical Control (CNC) router, table saw, lathe, industrial wood planer and plasma cuer
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
SPCA of West Michigan, Anytown, MI 49009
August 2018 to present
• Bond and socialize with the animals to promote their adopon
• Assist with exercise and connued obedience training
Resume of a Student without Work Experience
YOUR NAME
123 Street, City, MI 49001 | (269) 454-3234 | [email protected]
EDUCATION
Anytown Central High School, Anytown, MI
GPA: 3.08
Expected Date of Graduaon: May 2022
Honors: Honor Roll, Business Student of the Month
Courses Studied: Markeng, Business Management Administraon (BMA), and Accounng I and II
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
Anytown Gospel Mission, Anytown, MI
May 2020–present
• 100+ hours
• Prepare and serve meals to 50 homeless individuals
• Maintain organizaon of supply closet and distributed resources as needed
Boys and Girls Club of Kalamazoo, Anytown, MI
December 2019–present
• 40+ hours
• Prepare and assist with various holiday events throughout the year
American Red Cross, Anytown, MI
January 2018–December 2019
• 20+ hours
• Assisted with four blood drives in the Kalamazoo County area
ACTIVITIES
DECA Member, 2021–present
• Parcipate in “Lock-Up” for Muscular Dystrophy Associaon
• First place at DECA State Conference in Markeng Communicaon Series Event
Business Professionals of America (BPA) Member, 2020–2021
Naonal Honor Society Member, 2020–present
Anytown Varsity Soccer, 2018–present
• Most Spirited Player, 2019
• Varsity Soccer Captain, 2020
SKILLS
• Procient in Microso Oce
• Fluent in Spanish
Section Two — Resumes | 25 24 | Section Two — Resumes
Resume of a Student without Work Experience
YOUR NAME
123 Street, City, MI 49001 | (269) 454-3234 | [email protected]
EDUCATION
Anytown High School, Anytown, MI
Graduang: June 2023
GPA: 3.5
LEADERSHIP
Exchange Student Ambassador
• Iniated social funcons to help acclimate 15 exchange students to the high school
School Student Representave
• Conducted at least 20 tours of the high school to new families and students
Varsity Baseball Captain
• Selected by coach and teammates to lead the team in pracces
SPECIAL SKILLS
• Perfect Aendance Award (2021 School Year)
• Parcipated in varsity football and baseball athlecs, while maintaining a 3.05 GPA
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Central Hospital Paent Volunteer
• Volunteered over 100 hours at the hospital working with paents to ensure they had books, crosswords puzzles and other
materials to keep them happy and entertained
ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS
School Newspaper Reporter
• Invesgated and wrote weekly columns in the school newspaper that addressed student body concerns
• Covered the Boy’s Varsity Football Team during its run at the 2021 state championship
• Consistently met publishing deadlines
COMMUNICATION SKILLS
• Runner-up in the Norman Mailer Creave Wring Compeon
• English Department Student of the Month (May 2021)
TECHNICAL SKILLS
• Spanish: Conversaonal
• Procient in Adobe PhotoShop, Illustrator and DreamWeaver soware
• Basic photojournalism ability
Professional Reference Page
A professional reference page shows that other people can attest to what you have said in an interview.
Who Should Serve as a Reference?
■ Individuals who know your work style and work performance.
■ Current or previous supervisors, teachers, counselors, coaches or anyone who can speak about your
character, skills and worth ethic.
■ References should NOT be family members or friends.
■ Select people who have known you for at least three months - the longer the better.
Preparing a Professional Reference Page
■ Identify three to five professional references.
■ Always ask permission BEFORE using someone as a reference.
■ When asking to use someone as a reference, contact via phone, email or in-person. Try asking,
“Would you be willing to serve as a positive employment reference for me?”
■ Send a thank you note after they accept and provide them with your resume and some idea of
your employment goals. Keep your references informed of key accomplishments and updated on
the outcome of your job search.
f Ensure all contact information is accurate, including: full name, organization or company name,
position, relationship to you (supervisor, counselor, coach, etc.), full company address, email and
phone number with area code.
■ A professional reference page should always be on a separate document and not listed on your
resume. Be sure to use the same heading, fonts and formatting as your resume for consistency.
(See the next page for a reference page example.)
■ Bring enough copies of your reference page to the interview and offer them near the end. Some
employers may ask for them before an interview, in which case you would not offer them again.
Section Two — Resumes | 27 26 | Section Two — Resumes
Sample Email Requesting a Reference
Sample Reference Page
YOUR NAME
123 Street, City, MI 49001 | (269) 454-3234 | [email protected]
REFERENCES
Ms. Joyce Alexander, Teacher
Anytown High School
6001 Fourth Street
Anytown, MI 49930
(269) 838-2938
joyce.alexander@anytownhs.com
Mr. Kevin Garret, Manager
Name of Business
17250 Baxter Street
Anytown, MI 49930
(269) 389-1343
kgarre@gmail.com
Ms. Ann Jones, Coach
Anytown High School
6001 Fourth Street
Anytown, MI 49330
(269) 555-1515
ann.jones@anytownhs.com
Section Three — Cover Letters | 29 28 | Section Three — Cover Letters
SECTION THREE COVER LETTERS
What is a Cover Letter?
Your first impression with a prospective employer, a cover letter is an opportunity to stand out or
distinguish yourself from other applicants. A cover letter can be shared in a few different ways: as a
document separate from your resume in the body of an email with a resume attached or uploaded
to an application tracking system.
An introduction to your resume, cover letters are an important document used by employers to
sort out who they wish to interview. Employers may ask for a cover letter to see how much effort an
applicant is willing to make for the position, as well as to gauge how well you can express yourself in
writing.
When requested, a cover letter can have several
purposes:
■ Express to the employer the position you are
seeking
■ Explain how you are qualified for the position
■ Highlight the aspects of your experience that
would be most useful to the employer
■ Expand upon the information in your resume
■ Illustrate your personality
General Tips for Cover Letters
1. Write your own cover letter. There are many samples available to use as guides for ideas, but the
final product should be your own work.
2. If an organization’s online application tracking system does not allow for cover letter attachments,
send a follow-up email after submitting your resume. Find the name and contact information
of the human resources representative by searching on the company website or through
professional social media platforms such as LinkedIn.
3. Use the same header, font and formatting that you used in your resume.
4. Address the letter to a specific person, not “Whom It May Concern.” If a contact is not listed in the
job description, search the company website or call to find out the name of the hiring manager.
You may also call the organization and ask who to send your cover letter to. Only as a last resort,
use “Dear Hiring Manager.”
5. Avoid spelling and grammatical errors. Triple check for common errors such as misspelled words,
incorrect punctuation and not capitalizing proper nouns (names of businesses, schools, classes,
etc.) Always ask for at least two other people to proofread your cover letter before sending it.
6. If you have a personal connection within the organization, mention it; this may help you stand out
from the rest of the applicants.
7. Target each version of your cover letter to a specific position, strategically align your skills and
qualifications to the position. Intentionally use key words and phrases from the job posting. Use
detailed examples to support your claims. For example, if you claim that you are organized, give an
example of how you have used that skill.
8. Save a copy of your cover letter for future use and follow-up purposes.
From the
Experts
The Perfect Pitch
Think of your cover letter
as an elevator speech. If
you bumped into in Mark
Zuckerberg in an elevator,
how would you pitch
yourself as an asset to the
Facebook team?
The Do’s of a Cover Letter
■ Compose a well-written, formatted letter.
■ Research the company and specific job to which you are applying. Explore the company’s website,
its executives’ professional social media profiles and recent news.
■ Emphasize what you can bring to the company. Share an accomplishment, skill or experience that
shows you can address the challenges the employer may face.
■ Convey enthusiasm for the position, which will make your letter stand out from other interested
candidates.
■ Write professionally and with a tone that
matches the type of employer and industry.
■ Keep it brief. Someone should be able to read
it at a glance.
■ Limit the use of “I” and “my” in your cover
letter.
Parts of a Cover Letter
1. Heading:
Include personal contact information such as your name, address, phone number and email
address. Optional information includes LinkedIn profile, online portfolio and website links. Then,
press enter and write the date. Next, write the employer’s contact information, including their
name, title, company name and address.
2. Greeting:
Address your cover letter to a specific person.
3. Beginning Paragraph:
Introduce yourself and express interest in a specific position. Include who you are, the specific job
title, how you heard about the position and, if appropriate. the name of the person who told you
about it, why you are interested in the position and why you are qualified. In a brief, one-sentence
summary, explain why you are a good fit about what makes you qualified - you will elaborate
details in the next paragraphs.
4. Middle Section:
Describe one to three of experiences or projects that show your specific job skills and
qualifications. Be sure to demonstrate experiences or skills that match what the employer is
looking for, focus on what you bring to the organization and identify qualifications, skills and
experiences that are not on your resume. Break up paragraphs into smaller sections if they are too
long - smaller paragraphs are easier to read.
5. Summarizing Paragraph:
End your cover letter with a strong, well-written paragraph that includes your availability and
how you will follow through with the application. Don’t forget to tell your reader the best way,
dates and times to reach you.
6. Closing Signature:
Use a professional closing signature such as “Best Regards” or “Sincerely” and then type your full
name.
From the
Experts
Match the Job
Align your experiences
and qualifications to
the job requirements
of the position.
Section Three — Cover Letters | 31 30 | Section Three — Cover Letters
Parts of a Cover Letter
YOUR NAME
123 Street, City, MI 49001 | (269) 454-3234 | [email protected]
November 19, 2020
Mr. John Employer, Human Resources Manager
Anytown Design Company
1234 First Street
Anytown, MI 87650
Dear Mr. Employer:
This is in reply to your advisement for a part-me CAD Draer on Indeed.com. As the following comparison
demonstrates, my experience and background match your requirements.
Your Requirements My Qualicaons
Procient in various versions of AutoCAD Two years of experience in draing classes using
AutoCAD 2016
Experience with 3D drawings Designed several 3D drawings for various class projects
focusing on both architecture and engineering
Able to read blueprints Two years of experience reading blueprints
I am currently employed as a host at Mr. Big’s Restaurant. I have been in this posion for a year and really enjoy my
work. In my role as a host, I have learned to work in a team environment and developed my interpersonal skills.
However, I am looking for a posion that allows me to ulize my experience in draing.
Through my two years of draing classes, my knowledge and condence with AutoCAD have connued to grow.
This year I placed second out of y students in our draing state compeon in the area of AutoCAD 2016. I have
received several other draing related awards, as seen on my resume.
I appreciate your consideraon for the CAD Draer posion. I can be reached at 269-454-3234 aer 3:00 p.m. I
look forward to meeng you and further discussing my qualicaons for this posion.
Sincerely,
Your Name
start at the 2-inch mark
leave 3 blank lines
leave 1 blank line
leave 1 blank line
leave 1 blank line
leave 3 blank lines, don’t
forget to sign the letter.
Sample Cover Letter
YOUR NAME
123 Street, City, MI 49001 | (269) 454-3234 | [email protected]
Mr. Allan Moyle
Moyle Retail Soluons
305 S Main St
Anytown, MI 49002
RE: Applicaon for Casual Retail Sales Assistant Posion
Dear Mr. Moyle:
As a highly movated and dedicated student with strong communicaon and interpersonal skills, I would like to apply for the
posion of Retail Sales Assistant.
During my high school years, I have been extensively involved in my school community, which has allowed me to develop
strong interpersonal skills. My involvement in various events, including drama and sports, has allowed me to work closely
with my peers while supporng the school community as a whole.
These experiences have allowed me to develop strong me management and organizaonal skills, which I see as being very
important when seeking employment while connuing to study.
Personal aributes that I believe make me suitable for this posion include:
• Movaon: Volunteer parcipaon and school results demonstrate high movaon.
• Customer Service: Assisng with the sale of products at community events has allowed the development of customer
service skills.
• Communicaon: Acng in drama performances and working as an MC for school events has allowed the development of
communicaon skills.
My teachers and educators have commended me for my willingness to parcipate and my dedicaon to helping out where
possible. I enjoy working with others and believe that my strong communicaon skills will ensure that I can meet the
expectaons of this role.
I believe that I have a lot to oer your organizaon. I am keen to develop my professional skills and look forward to discussing
my applicaon with you at an interview. My resume is enclosed for your consideraon. I can be contacted at any me via cell
phone or email as listed above. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Regards,
Your Name
start at the 2-inch mark
leave 1 blank line
leave 1 blank line
leave 1 blank line
leave 3 blank lines, don’t
forget to sign the letter.
Section Four — The Job Application | 33 32 | Section Three — Cover Letters
Emailing Cover Letter
SECTION FOUR THE JOB APPLICATION
What is a Job Application and Why do Employers Use it?
Most employers will ask interested applicants to complete a job application, which is either a paper
format or online. A legal document that asks for factual information, the job application allows
employers to collect information and the applicant’s signature verifying that everything on the
application is true. The application may also give the employer permission for reference, background,
criminal history and financial history checks. Most applications also ask the applicant whether they
can contact current or former employers. Lying on an application is grounds for termination and
rescinding of an offer.
How to Ask for a Job Application
Make sure you dress neatly and look polished. Plan to dress a step above what you would expect
to wear for the actual position you are seeking. Think about what you are going to say and practice
ahead of time. Ask for the person who is in charge of hiring or the manager. You could say, “Hi, I’m
John Smith, and I’m very interested in working for Pizza Hut. May I please have a job application?”
If the company’s applications are online, make sure you know how to find it. Most companies have
business cards to direct you to their website. Some large retailers have hiring kiosks within their
stores.
Be sure to have all of the information with you that you will need to complete the application. Bring
a writing utensil. Make sure you go alone and do not go during the busiest hours of the day for that
company. For example, you would not go during lunchtime at Subway.
Information You Will Need to Complete a Job Application
Personal Information:
Name, complete address (house number, street name, city, state and zip code), email address, home
and cell phone numbers.
Education and Qualifications:
Schools attended including complete addresses (high schools, colleges and trade schools),
certifications, skills and qualifications tailored directly to the position.
Employment History:
Name of employer, address, phone, email address, supervisor’s full name, job title and your
responsibilities, dates of employment (month and year), starting salary and ending salary, reason
for leaving.
References:
Three to five professional references who the company may contact. Include first and last name,
job title, relationship to you, company, address, phone number, email address, how long they’ve
known you.
Position Applied for and Availability:
List the position(s) you are interested in applying for at the company, days and hours you are available ,
as well as the date you are available to begin working.
Section Four — The Job Application | 35 34 | Section Four — The Job Application
Tips for Completing a Paper Application
1. Follow all directions on the job application. Look the application over carefully before you begin
working on it. Show the employer that you can follow directions without making mistakes.
2. Be as specific as possible with all answers, and always be honest.
3. Fill out the application yourself. Employers want to know how well you read and write. Print neatly.
4. Print using black or blue ink. Printing is much easier to read.
5. Think before you write to avoid mistakes. If you do make a mistake, use correction tape or draw
one line through it. Do not blot it out.
6. Have all your data handy. It’s a good idea to fill out a “pocket resume” or extra application ahead
of time and take it with you, which will show good planning on your part. If you have created a
portfolio in your CTE course, take it with you.
7. Put something in every blank. The employer needs to know that you did read it, but it just didn’t
apply to you. Simply put, “N/A” which means “not applicable,” or draw a line in each box. Do not
write “see resume” even though you are attaching one.
8. Be specific about employment history in the application. Make sure you know the start and end
dates (month and year) for all of your jobs. Employers are looking for a complete work history,
including gaps in employment. Be specific about job duties that might relate to the job for which
you are applying. List most recent employer first, unless directed otherwise.
9. “Salary desired?” Do not pin yourself down to a dollar figure. You could:
■ Oversell yourself and the employer might think you are too expensive.
■ Undersell yourself and ask for less than the employer was willing to pay for that position.
Do research for your job and understand the market, as well as expectations. The best answers
are: “flexible,” “negotiable,” “open,” or a range such as “$10-$11 per hour.” This type of answer
implies that you are comfortable talking about it later. Salary ranges in you area can be found at
Glassdoor.com.
10. SPELL CORRECTLY. If you don’t know how to spell a word, pick another word with the same
meaning.
11. Some job applications ask a question like, “What special skills or abilities can you offer?” DO NOT
LEAVE IT BLANK! This is your chance to shine above everyone else.
■ Practice a couple of short sentences that reflect a positive image. If you haven’t had much work
experience, refer to a good work attitude, reliability, accuracy, etc.
■ Pick whatever makes you look best, but always be honest. Do not give false information.
Employers check most of the information given on a job application. Using false information
on a job application is the quickest way to get your application ignored and can be grounds for
termination or rescinding of the offer.
12. Proofread your application before submitting it. Spelling and grammar errors can be very
detrimental to you. Don’t forget to sign it and be sure to read what you are agreeing to when you do.
13. After completing the application, don’t forget to check your phone messages and email. Make
sure the voicemail on your phone is personalized and professional. Be sure that your voicemail box
is not full.
Now it’s your turn! There are two sample job applications included on page 38. Complete at least
one of the samples with your information and KEEP IT!
■ Use it as a reminder of how to full out an application.
■ Use it as a reference sheet for dates, addresses, facts and figures that you will have at your
fingertips when you apply for that job.
■ Remember to sign and date the application.
Online Application Process
Many organizations have transitioned to online applications systems, some of which require you
to use an on-site computer. Plan to register a username and password to access the application
if this is your first time applying through the system. Be sure to save this information in case you
need to login later to revise something, check the status of your application or apply for a different
position. You may also need to complete additional follow-up tasks after submitting your application,
including personality and skills assessments or
other tasks. Be sure to regularly check the email
attached to the application.
Typically, applications submitted online are sent
directly to the employer’s applicant database.
A hiring manager who needs to fill a position
will enter key words to search the database
and find the applications of people who are the
best fit for the job. Those results become the
candidate pool.
You may be asked to submit your resume along with the application, or in place of it altogether. Plan
to have your resume created, so you are prepared to upload it.
Following Up After Submitting a Job Application
An often overlooked critical step, a follow-up is an easy way to set yourself apart and show your
enthusiasm for the organization and position. If someone said they would follow-up with you, adhere to
their timeline. Follow-up a week after submitting the application using one of the following methods:
Email
■ The email should be quick and concise.
■ Explain to the employer that you are checking to see if they received your application and reinforce
a couple of awesome things about yourself that are aligned with the position.
■ Review the email before you send it. If there are spelling or grammatical errors, the follow-up could
have adverse effects.
Phone
■ Practice what you will say before you call.
■ Reach out during non-peak hours.
■ Smile while you talk; it makes your voice sound more pleasant.
■ Say something like, “Hello, my name is Darrin Jones, and I’m calling to inquire about the status of
my application that I submitted online last Wednesday. I applied for a cashiering position.”
From the
Experts
Take your Time
Set aside time for this!
Plan for sufficient time
to complete a job
application. It may
take longer than you
would expect.
Section Four — The Job Application | 37 36 | Section Four — The Job Application
Employment Testing and Screening
More companies are requiring employment testing as part of the application screening process.
Research shows that bad hiring decisions can be costly to a company and some organizations feel
that employment testing helps them make more informed decisions. Remember, employment tests
are nothing to fear. It’s just one more aspect of the application screening process.
The most common employment tests measure personality, skills and aptitude.
Personality Tests
A personality assessment is an attempt to identify an applicant’s personality characteristics. Such
tests vary anywhere from a quick written exam to an extensive psychological evaluation. Personality
employment tests have no right or wrong answers; they merely provide the employer with an
inventory of the applicant’s interests and personality traits. Employers use such assessments to
compare an applicant’s score with the job requirements to align an appropriate match and to build
strong workplace teams. Some common personality tests include the Gallup StrengthsFinder, the
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, the Sixteen Personality Factor Questionnaire, the Caliper Profile and the
Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory.
Skills Tests
Nearly 65% of employers use some form of skills test. The applicant must demonstrate the skills
needed for the position. Examples of skills tests include, basic math, operating equipment and
machinery, inputting data, designing an ad layout, writing a letter, blueprint reading, etc.
Aptitude Tests
Employers want to ensure that an applicant has the ability to perform the job before they train the
person. An aptitude test is generally written or oral, and they’re designed to determine reasoning,
mathematical, writing or verbal skills. While similar to a skills test, an aptitude test determines
whether an applicant is capable of doing a job once trained. A skills test determines whether an
applicant can do the job at the time of hire.
How can you prepare?
Although the format and types of employment tests can vary from one company to another,
applicants can do the following to prepare:
■ Ask at the time of application whether an employment assessment will be given. If so, ask what
kind and for what purpose.
■ Ask where the test will be given and how long it will last so you can plan for enough time to
complete it.
■ Investigate online employment test websites. Many firms use these sites to avoid the cost of
preparing their own assessments.
It’s the Law
All employment tests must meet the following criteria:
1. The test must clearly relate to job performance. Companies cannot test applicants for skills that
are not directly related to the job.
2. The same test must be given in the same manner to all applicants who apply for the same
position. Asking one applicant to take a skills test and not requiring it of all applicants is illegal.
3. The results are confidential. They may not be shared with another company or with unauthorized employees.
4. Applicants can always refuse a test; however, if that is their decision, they probably should
withdraw their application as well.
Drug Screens
Pre-employment drug screening is quite
common and hiring can be contingent upon
passing such a drug screen. Employers use
drug screens because drug use can impact job
performance and ultimately risk the lives of
other people. Therefore, employers use a drug
screen to ensure productivity and safety. The
most common method is urine sampling. A
positive result indicates recent drug use.
MRTMA
Michigan voters legalized (with restrictions) the over 21-year-old adult recreational use of marijuana
at an individual’s residence in the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marijuana Act (MRTMA).
However, under the federal Controlled Substances Act (CSA) 1970, marijuana is classified as a
Schedule I substance. In addition, the MRTMA does not restrict an employers right to maintain and
enforce a zero-tolerance drug and alcohol policy. Employers can continue to legally require drug tests
for marijuana as a precondition for employment. As a result, even if an employee legally consumes
marijuana at home, they may be at risk for termination as an employee or not hired in the first place.
Background Checks
A background check can help an employer gather more information about a candidate in order to
make an informed hiring decision. Businesses must obtain a candidate’s written consent before
performing such checks. For some jobs, background checks are required by federal or state law;
for example, candidates seeking employment in schools, hospitals, financial institutions and
government institutions require a background investigation. The most common types of background
checks include an employment history verification, criminal background and credit history.
During an employment verification, employers are only allowed to confirm whether or not someone
worked for them, unless they are listed as a reference.
Employment Verification
An important part of the screening process is verifying and contacting former employers to validate
your dates of employment.
From the
Experts
Be Honest
Bring prescriptions to
a drug screen. Assume
it will be found in the
test results.
Section Four — The Job Application | 39 38 | Section Four — The Job Application
Job Application Samples
Online Job Application Sample
Job Application – Sample One
Applicaon for Employment
ABC Company is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of any
characterisc that is protected by State or Federal law. Michigan law requires that a person with a disability or handicap
requiring accommodaon to perform the essenal dues of the job must nofy the employer in wring within 182 days of
the date that the need is known or should have been known.
Posion Applied For: ________________________________ Date of Applicaon: _______________________________
Date You Can Start: _________________________________
Name: _______________________________________________________________________________________________
Last First M.I.
Present Address: ______________________________________________________________________________________
Street City State Zip
Permanent Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________
Street City State Zip
Phone #: Home (_____) _____________________________ Cell (_____) ______________________________________
Are you 18 years or older? Yes No
Are there any hours or days of the week you cannot work? __________ If so, when? ________________________________
Salary Desired: ____________________________________ Type of Employment: Full-me Part-me
Have you ever applied to ABC Company before? _________ Where? _________________________________________
Under what name? _________________________________ When? __________________________________________
Do you have any relaves working for ABC Company? __________ If so, who? ____________________________________
EDUCATION:
Name and Locaon of School Number of
Years Aended
Did You
Graduate?
Subject/Major
High School
College
Specialized Training
Do you have US Military experience? __________ Date Entered: __________________
Branch: _____________________ Rank: ___________________ Date Discharged: ______________ Honorably? __________
Are you lawfully entled to be employed in the United States? ____________
Please note that this applicaon will only remain acve for 3
months, aer which the applicant would need to reapply.
Section Four — The Job Application | 41 40 | Section Four — The Job Application
Job Application – Sample One (Continued)
Have you been convicted of a crime (except a minor trac violaon) or have a convicon pending?
Yes No If yes, please state citaon, date and place where oense occurred.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Please provide any addional informaon such as special skills, training, management experience, equipment operaon or
qualicaons you feel will be helpful to us in considering your applicaon.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
REFERENCES:
Three individuals not related to you, whom you have known for at least one year:
Name Address and Phone Relaonship Years Acquainted
Emergency Contact: ____________________________________________________________________________________
Name Phone
CURRENT AND FORMER EMPLOYERS: (Most Recent First)
Date
Month/Year
Employer Name,
Address and Phone
Salary Starng/Ending Last Posion Held/
Responsibilies
Reason for Leaving
From:
To:
From:
To:
From:
To:
From:
To:
From:
To:
May we contact the employers listed? Yes No
If not, which one(s)? ___________________________________________________________________________________
Job Application – Sample One (Continued)
Please read the following statement carefully before signing to indicate your understanding.
I understand that, prior to being oered employment, I may be requested to take an employment examinaon. In the event
that I have a disability that will aect my ability to take the test, I will so inform ABC Company prior to the test so that a
reasonable accommodaon can be made. ABC Company reserves the right to require medical documentaon regarding the
need for accommodaon.
I cerfy that the facts contained in this applicaon are true, accurate, and complete to the best of my knowledge
and understand that, if employed, falsied statements or omied material facts on this applicaon may result in my
disqualicaon from consideraon for employment, or terminaon from employment if I have been hired.
I understand and agree that, if hired, my employment is for no denite period and may, regardless of the date of payment
of my wages and salary, be terminated with or without cause, at any me, with or without noce. This provision supersedes
any oral or wrien representaon to the contrary unless in wring and signed by both the President of ABC Company and
the person to whom the wring is directed.
I authorize invesgaon of all statements contained in this applicaon for any employment-related purpose. I release
the listed references and all employers, except those specically excepted,* to provide you with any and all applicable
informaon they may have. I hereby release these references and former employers from all liability for any informaon they
may give to ABC Company.
_________________________________________________________________ __________________________________
Signature Date
* Employers specically excepted: ________________________________________________________________________
For Employer Use Only
Interviewed by: ______________________________________ Date: _______________________ Hired: Yes No
Starng Date: ____________________ Posion: __________________________________ Wage: ____________________
Section Four — The Job Application | 43 42 | Section Four — The Job Application
LIST NAME AND ADDRESS OF SCHOOLS
High School or GED: _________________________________________________________________________________
College or University: _________________________________________________________________________________
Vocaonal or Technical: ______________________________________________________________________________
What skills or addional training do you have that relate to the job for which you are applying?
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
What machines or equipment can you operate that relate to the job for which you are applying?
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Job Application – Sample Two
Applicaon for Employment
An Equal Opportunity Employer
We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, naonal origin, sex, age, disability, or any otherstatus protected
by law or regulaon. It is our intenon that all qualied applicants be given equal opportunityand that selecon decisions be
based on job-related factors.
Answer each queson fully and accurately. No acon can be taken on this applicaon unl you have answered all
quesons. Use blank paper if you do not have enough room on this applicaon. PLEASE PRINT, except for signature on
back of applicaon. In reading and answering the following quesons, be aware that none of the quesons are intended to
imply illegal preferences or discriminaon based upon non-job-related informaon.
Job Applied for ___________________________________________________ Today’s Date _____________________
Seeking: Full-me Part-me Temporary When could you start work? ____________________________
__________________________________________________________________________ _____________________
Last Name First Name Middle Name Phone Number
_________________________________________________________________________ _________________________
Present Street Address City State Zip Code
Are you 18 years of age or older? .................................................................................................................. Yes No
(If you are hired, you may be required to submit proof of age.)
Social Security #: _________________ If hired, can you furnish proof you are eligible to work in the U.S.? Yes No
Have you ever applied here before? Yes No
If yes, when? ____________________________________________________
Were you ever employed here? Yes No If yes, when? _____________________________________________
Have you ever been convicted of any law violaon? Include any plea of “guilty” or “no contest.” Exclude minor trac
violaons.) ..................................................................................................................................................... Yes No
If yes, give details ___________________________________________________________________________________
(A convicon will not necessarily disqualify an applicant for employment.)
If employed, do you expect to be engaged in any addional business or employment outside of our job? Yes No
If yes, give details ___________________________________________________________________________________
For Driving Jobs Only: Do you have a valid driver’s license? ......................................................................... Yes No
Driver’s License Number_____________________________ Class of License _______ State Licensed In ____________
Have you had your driver’s license suspended or revoked in the last 3 years? ............................................. Yes No
If yes, give details: ___________________________________________________________________________________
List professional, trade, business or civic acvies and oces held. (Exclude labor organizaons and memberships which
reveal race, color, religion, naonal origin, sex, age, disability or other protected status.)
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
Diploma/Degree/
Cercate
Subjects
Studied
Number of Years
Completed
Job Application – Sample Two (Continued)
List names of employers in consecuve order with present or last employer listed rst. Account for all periods of me
including military service and any periods of unemployment. If self-employed, give rm name and supply business
references. Note: A job oer may be conngent upon acceptable references from current and former employers.
Name of Employer Job Title and Dues
Address Dates of Employment (MO/YR): From To
City, State, Zip Code Pay: Start $ Final $
Supervisor(s) Phone Reason for Leaving
Name of Employer Job Title and Dues
Address Dates of Employment (MO/YR): From To
City, State, Zip Code Pay: Start $ Final $
Supervisor(s) Phone Reason for Leaving
Have you worked or aended school under any other names? ..................................................................... Yes No
If yes, give names ___________________________________________________________________________________
Are you presently employed? ......................................................................................................................... Yes No
If yes, whom do you suggest we contact _________________________________________________________________
Have you ever been red from a job or asked to resign? ............................................................................... Yes No
If yes, please explain _________________________________________________________________________________
Give three references, not relaves or former employers:
Name Address Phone
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
PLEASE READ EACH STATEMENT CAREFULLY BEFORE SIGNING
• I cerfy that all informaon provided in this employment applicaon is true and complete. I understand that any false informaon
or omission may disqualify me from further consideraon for employment and may result in my dismissal if discovered at a later date.
• I authorize the invesgaon of any or all statements contained in this applicaon. I also authorize, whether listed or not, any person,
school, current employer, past employers and organizaons to provide relevant informaon and opinions that may be useful in
making a hiring decision. I release such persons and organizaons from any legal liability inmaking such statements.
• I understand I may be required to successfully pass a drug screening examinaon. I hereby consent to a pre- and/or post-employment
drug screen as a condion of employment, if required.
• I understand that if I am extended an oer of employment it may be condioned upon my successfully passing a complete pre-
employment physical examinaon. I consent tothe release of any or all medical informaon as may be deemed necessary to judge my
capability to do the work for which I am applying.
I UNDERSTAND THAT THIS APPLICATION, VERBAL STATEMENTS BY MANAGEMENT, OR SUBSEQUENT EMPLOYMENT DOES NOT CREATE
AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED CONTRACT OF EMPLOYMENT NOR GUARANTEE EMPLOYMENT FOR ANY DEFINITE PERIOD OF TIME. ONLY THE
PRESIDENT OF THE ORGANIZATION HAS THE AUTHORITYTO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT OF EMPLOYMENT FOR ANY SPECIFIED PERIOD
AND SUCH AGREEMENT MUST BE IN WRITING, SIGNED BY THE PRESIDENT AND THE EMPLOYEE. IF EMPLOYED, I UNDERSTAND THAT
I HAVE BEEN HIRED AT THE WILL OF THE EMPLOYER AND MY EMPLOYMENT MAY BE TERMINATED AT ANY TIME, WITHOR WITHOUT
REASON AND WITH OR WITHOUT NOTICE.
I have read, understand, and by my signature consent to these statements.
Signature:____________________________________________ Date: ________________________________________________
This applicaon for employment will remain acve for a limited me. Ask the organizaon’s representave for details.
Section Five — Interviews | 45 44 | Section Five — Interviews
SECTION FIVE INTERVIEWS
Congratulations, you’ve made it to the interview phase! Now what?
■ Your job search found the opening.
■ Your cover letter and resume were good enough to get you scheduled for an interview.
■ Your job application projected a positive image of you.
Now it’s time for one last, all-important task – a personal interview.
■ If you do well, you may be hired!
■ If you do not get the job, consider what you could do to improve for the next one and try again!
Your job application and cover letter may have impressed the employer, but the interview will be the
deciding factor as to whether or not you get the job. First impressions are formed within the first ten
seconds, so be prepared to impress.
Do Your Research
Do not take the interview lightly. You wouldn’t play a basketball game without planning several plays
in advance or perform in a play without rehearsing, so why would you walk into an interview without
doing your research. Of course you wouldn’t! There are many ways to research a company, including:
■ Check out the company website.
The easiest way to gather information about what the company wants you to know, browse the
homepage, learn about the products and services they offer, clients and customers they serve,
company values and mission, press releases for the latest news, research the names of the officers
and/or founders, be familiar with the history, identify company size and key locations for business,
as well as any other relevant information you can find. Gauge the company culture – would you
make a good fit?
■ Search social media.
Find the organization’s social media presence
on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter,
Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube and more. Gather
information on the company from recent news,
assess the tone of language, become familiar
with new initiatives, customer responsiveness,
etc. Did you see an excellent customer review?
Mention it during your interview!
■ Read reviews from current and former employees.
Websites such as Glassdoor, Indeed and Muse allow current and former employees to offer insight
into the company’s culture, pay range, hiring process and more. Please note: Such reviews should
be taken with some healthy skepticism – disgruntled or terminated employees usually do not have
nice things to say about their former employers.
■ Research the individuals who will interview you.
If you know the names of those who will conduct the interview, do your research. Browse their
LinkedIn profile to find their official title, career path and work history, connections and other
affiliations you may have in common. Familiarize yourself with the person you need to impress.
■ Consider the company’s culture.
After doing your research, consider whether it is a company you would like to work for. Does it align
with your core beliefs? It is important that you feel like it’s a good fit.
From the
Experts
Be Prepared
You did your research and
explored a professional’s
LinkedIn profile. Don’t
forget to keep your profile
up to date as well.
What to Bring to an Interview
Plan ahead so that you will be organized for the day of the interview. Here are some essential items
that you should always have with you for a job interview:
■ Extra copies of your resume. Even if they already have it, and they likely do, plan to bring three to
five extra copies.
■ Extra copies of your reference page. After the interview, plan to give your interviewer(s) a copy of
your reference page. Plan to bring three to five copies.
■ Portfolio or work samples. Bring along samples of your work to help explain and illustrate your
technical skills. For example, a spreadsheet that you may have developed, a small part that you
machined which will fit in your pocket, a drawing you created using specialized software. In career
fields that require design elements, this is particularly important and also shows preparedness.
■ Notepad and pen. Plan to take notes during the interview to give you something to reference later
if needed. You can also plan ahead with questions you would like to ask your interviewers.
What Not to Bring to an Interview
■ Your cell phone should stay off and put away, or better yet – in a vehicle. Don’t look at it or use it
upon entering the building.
■ Food or drinks. Eat something light before your interview and do not bring beverages or food in
with you. Most organizations will ask you if you want something to drink.
Professional Dress
Your appearance should say, “hire me!” Clothing helps to create a first impression. Dressing
professionally for the interview is an essential part of projecting who you are as a professional.
Remember, it’s not just about clothes.
■ Start with good personal hygiene. Be clean and use minimal cologne or perfume.
■ Well-groomed hairstyle. So as not to be a distraction to yourself, hair should be out of your eyes.
■ Clean and trim fingernails.
■ Fresh breath and teeth.
■ No gum, candy or other objects in your mouth.
■ Minimal jewelry.
Clothing is the finishing touch.
■ Clothes should be clean and wrinkle-free.
■ Male professional dress expectations – collared shirt, dress shirt tucked in with tie, dress trousers
and belt.
■ Female professional dress expectations – dress blouse or sweater, dress trousers, knee-length skirt
or dress.
■ Shoes should be cleaned and polished. Females should avoid stiletto-type heels.
■ Don’ts – No jeans or sagging pants, no sweats or shorts, no t-shirts or tank tops, no flip-flops,
sandals or sneakers, no hats, no bare midriff.
Section Five — Interviews | 47 46 | Section Five — Interviews
Other things that affect your image:
■ Posture
■ Smile
■ Eye contact
■ Tone of voice
■ Pace of speech
The Do’s and Don’ts of Interviewing
Check out these commonsense guidelines for the interview; many of these tips can also be used in
the job search process:
Do…
■ Sell yourself and be confident. The interview is about you and that makes you the expert. You’ve got this!
■ Arrive 10-15 minutes early to use the restroom, find offices, allow for unexpected traffic problems
and to RELAX!
■ Get a full night’s sleep so you will be mentally alert and at your best.
■ Express enthusiasm. Smile and offer a firm handshake upon meeting the interviewer and other
staff members. Speak clearly and directly and vary the tone of your voice.
■ Know how to correctly pronounce the names of people you meet.
■ Use “please” and “thank you” when appropriate.
■ Answer interview questions completely.
■ Dress appropriately and appear well-groomed.
■ Practice answering difficult, illegal or “overly personal” questions. See page 54.
■ Come alone. Do not bring friends or relatives.
■ Sell your qualifications rather than your need for the job.
■ Treat all staff that you encounter politely, including administrative assistants and receptionists.
Remember to say goodbye and thank you on the way out.
■ Listen carefully to the interviewer and express your interest in the job.
■ Make a practice run to the organization where you will be interviewed. Know exactly where to go
and how long it will take to get there. Determine where you can park.
■ Wait to be seated until you are asked, or after your interviewer(s) are seated.
■ Avoid poor language, slang and pause words such as “like,” “uh,” “um” and “you know.”
■ Make sure your cell phone is turned off or left in the car.
■ Bring extra resumes and multiple copies of professional references.
■ Ask questions during the interview. (See “Questions You Could Ask” on page 56).
■ Thank the interviewer(s) after the interview. Ask for a business card to use when writing the
follow-up email.
■ Send a follow-up email to the interviewer(s) thanking them for their time and consideration.
■ Keep a list of all the positions and employers to which you have applied, the date you interviewed,
who you have interviewed with and your impression of how the interview went, but do not bring it
to the interview.
From the
Experts
Practice Makes Perfect
Practice your interview
in a mirror or on camera
and watch for areas of
improvement.
Don’t…
■ Don’t ask questions about pay and benefits. There is a time and place for these questions, an initial
interview is neither.
■ Don’t act as if you already have the job - you do not. Be humble and gracious.
■ Don’t interrupt. If you have questions or need clarification, wait for a logical break in the
conversation before speaking.
■ Don’t bring up personal matters, such as family problems, financial hardship, health issues, etc.
Focus on your professional qualifications for the job.
■ Don’t criticize former employers or coworkers.
■ Don’t give excuses, such as “the work was too hard,” or “the people I worked with were not nice.”
■ Don’t chew gum, smoke before an interview, play with your hair or adjust your clothes. These
actions are a distraction.
■ Don’t read any papers or place anything on or touch anything on the interviewer’s desk. Be
respectful of personal space.
■ Don’t bring bulky items to the interview. A small notebook and pen for taking notes is acceptable.
■ Don’t exaggerate. Be honest about your experience and accomplishments.
■ Don’t answer questions with a simple “yes” or “no.” Offer detailed examples for your answers.
Describe those things that showcase your talents, skills, accomplishments and determination.
■ Don’t fidget. If you have a tendency to fidget, plant your feet on the floor, tie back your hair and
fold your hands on the table.
Section Five — Interviews | 49 48 | Section Five — Interviews
STAR Approach
When answering behavioral questions, a great method to use is the STAR Approach. STAR, which
stands for Situation, Task, Action and Result, is an easy-to-remember format for answering questions
and highlighting experience by telling the whole story and detailing the end result.
Situation: Define the context and the problem you overcame. Don’t forget to include the 5Ws: Who,
What, When, Where and Why.
Task: Identify the key objective. What was the assignment? What were you trying to
accomplish?
Action: Describe the action that you took while emphasizing the skills you used the complete the
task. If you were in a group, make sure to frame your answer in terms of what you did, not
the group.
Result: Summarize the outcome. If you can, quantify the results.
STAR Approach Sample Answer:
“Have you ever led a team?”
Situation: “Yes, in my marketing class, we were asked to develop a new cereal using the 4 P’s of
Marketing in groups of four. One of the tasks of the project was to elect a CEO of our new
cereal company, and I volunteered to lead.”
Task: “The project was worth a large portion of our grade and had many different tasks
the group was expected to complete. I led the group first in a brainstorming session,
and next, in ways we could divide the project for maximum efficiency. Based on our
conversations, we quickly developed a great concept and started working on the details
in our subgroups.”
Action: “I was responsible for my part, developing packaging and an advertisement, as well as
checking in with all the subgroups to make sure that our project was following our vision.
I also lent a hand to some of my teammates who were struggling to calculate our product
price.”
Result: “Based on our great idea and the way we were able to work together, our team received
an “A” on the project. Our teacher also kept our cereal box and idea as an example to
show future classes.”
Traditional Interviews – Frequently Asked Questions
Many employers ask standard questions during
an interview. Some of these questions are listed
below with suggestions on how to best answer.
An important part of preparing yourself for a
successful interview is to practice answering
questions. Practice with a group of people
who can help you think of good answers, tell
you honestly how you look and sound during
your responses and give you suggestions for
improving your interview skills.
From the
Experts
How do you fit?
Know the job posting and
specific job duties. Connect
everything back to you and
what your experiences and
skills would bring to the
company.
Virtual Interviewing Tips
In the wake of COVID-19, people across the country have been forced to navigate a world with
minimal in-person contact. As the result, some companies and organizations have instituted virtual
interviews, including video and phone calls, which is an effective method of recreating that face-to-
face contact. Here are a few tips to consider in the event that you are faced with a virtual interview:
■ Test the platform and download the application.
■ Follow all of the same rules of an in-person interview.
■ Be aware of your background and make sure it is as presentable as you.
■ Make sure your space is quiet and your internet connection is strong.
■ Switch your screen view so you can see everyone in the interview.
■ Take it seriously! This is just as real an interview as if you were seated across from your interviewers.
Phone Interviewing Tips
■ Clear the room of distractions.
■ Turn off call waiting.
■ Keep resume in clear view.
■ Have a pen and paper available to take notes.
Section Five — Interviews | 51 50 | Section Five — Interviews
Make each practice interview as real as possible. All interviews begin with a greeting. Ask the practice
interviewer to ask specific questions which relate to the real interview. Use proper manners. Answers
should be tailored directly to the position, and illustrate your dependability and punctuality, as well as
highlight your related skills and interests. Be sure that the last question your practice interviewer asks
is, “Do you have any questions?”
■ Tell me a little about yourself.
Talk about your school and work experiences, as well as your accomplishments – not your childhood.
■ Tell me about the work you’ve been doing.
Talk about your duties and responsibilities. Share your educational accomplishments.
■ What is your strongest asset? How have you used it?
Ask your friends and family what they think your strengths are. Describe the strengths which
directly correlate with the position for which you are interviewing.
■ Do you prefer working with others or alone?
“Both. I can work independently, and I enjoy working in a group.”
■ Are you familiar with the details of the job?
Do some research before the interview and answer “yes.” Follow-up with a brief description of what you know.
■ Why do you want to work for this company?
Have your answers ready for this question based on your research.
■ Why did you leave your last job?
Keep it positive. Do not speak negatively about your last job.
■ What are your future career plans?
Think about where you want to be professionally in five to ten years from now.
■ Describe yourself in three to five words.
Be positive. Talk about your job skills, 21st Century skills and accomplishments. (See page 70.)
■ What jobs have you held? How were they obtained? Why did you leave?
Plan this response. Be positive.
■ What do you know about this organization?
Research the company’s website and social media presence. Briefly highlight the information that you know.
■ How will you add value to this company?
Talk about your technical skills, 21st Century skills, your CTE course and your accomplishments.
■ Here are our company values. Which do you relate to most?
Do your research and have a planned response. Illustrate how your talents and skills will be a good
fit for the company culture.
■ What are your ideas on salary?
Do your research and understand the pay range for this position and organization. Give a salary
range that would be fair. Expect to be flexible.
■ Why do you think you will like this particular job?
Plan your answer.
■ What kind of boss do you prefer?
Plan an answer that shows you like to work hard for someone who is fair and honest.
■ How would previous managers or coworkers describe you?
Be positive. Do not speak negatively about previous employers.
■ Do you like routine work?
“I realize it is an important part of many jobs. I don’t mind it.”
■ What is your major weakness?
Mention something that you know you need to work on, but that is not necessarily a deal-breaker
or is non-essential for the position. “I take too much time trying to do a perfect job.”
■ What jobs, classes or assignments have you most enjoyed? The least? Why?
Plan your answer. Be honest and positive.
■ How often have you been absent from school or work?
Be honest. Say that you understand the importance of good attendance.
■ What are your special abilities? Give me some examples of when you have used these abilities.
State two or three and tell them how you utilize those abilities at work or school.
■ What kind of work interests you?
Say that you are interested in learning about all kinds of work. Be specific if you have a strong
interest.
■ How do you feel about overtime?
“If extra time is needed to get the job done, I will work it.”
■ What have you done which shows initiative and willingness to work?
Think of something specifically related to work, school, civic or leisure activities.
■ What have you learned from your previous work experience?
You gain something positive from every job.
■ What are the most important considerations for you in choosing a job?
Say something that will also be important to the organization, such as “good training” or
“opportunities for advancement.”
■ What do you see yourself doing in five years? Ten years? What are your long-term goals?
Plan your answer to show that you have goals and will work hard to reach them.
■ Have you ever been terminated from a job? Have you ever quit a job? Why?
Be honest. If you have been fired, share how you learned a lesson from the experience and are now
prepared to overcome that setback.
■ What do you like most about your last job? Least? Why did you leave?
Stay task-oriented when answering what you did not like about your previous job.
■ Could you explain this gap in your work history?
Plan your answer. Be honest and keep it positive.
■ Why should I hire you?
Give concrete examples of why your technical and professional skills, and accomplishments make
you the best candidate.
■ Do you have any questions?
Always have three or four questions prepared to ask. Never leave an interview without asking
questions. (See page 56.)
Section Five — Interviews | 53 52 | Section Five — Interviews
Behavioral Questions
Behavioral questions are intended to discover how the interviewee behaved in specific employment-
related situations. Many companies ask these types of questions because the most accurate predictor
of future performance is past performance in similar situations.
To accurately assess the applicant’s potential for success through behavioral interviewing, companies
must determine which type of skills, behaviors, experiences, knowledge and abilities are needed for
the position.
Sample Behavioral Questions:
■ Describe a situation in which you were able
to use persuasion to successfully convince
someone to see things your way.
■ Tell me about a time when you worked with
others to achieve a team goal. What was
your role on the team? How did you make a
contribution and what was the outcome?
■ Tell me about a time when you had too many
things to do and you had to prioritize your tasks.
■ Describe a time when you set your sights too high, or too low.
■ Tell me about a time when you were forced to make an unpopular decision.
■ Take me through a recent situation in which you had to deal with a very upset customer or coworker.
■ Tell me about a time when you were a leader. What type of leader were you? How did the team respond?
■ Describe a time when you solved a problem. How did you approach the problem? What was the result?
■ Tell me about a time when you had to work with someone you found difficult to get along with.
Tips for Answering Behavioral Questions:
■ Think about six to eight examples from your past experiences where you demonstrated behaviors
or skills that employers typically seek in applicants. Vary your examples. Don’t take them all from a
single aspect of your life.
■ Use examples from internships, classes, school projects, team participation, community
service, hobbies and work experience. Think about your personal and professional special
accomplishments, such as scoring the winning touchdown, being elected treasurer of a social club
or receiving positive recognition from an employer.
■ Remember that behavioral questions seek to uncover how you respond to negative situations, as
well as positive situations. Think about times when things didn’t go as planned and be ready to
share what you learned from these situations.
■ Listen carefully to the questions asked by the interviewer and illustrate your skills and experience
from one of your examples that describes how you demonstrated the desired behavior.
■ Be totally honest about your accomplishments and behaviors.
■ Keep a list of your achievements and accomplishments to help you prepare.
■ Your answers to behavioral questions need to be specific and detailed. Use the STAR Approach to
explain a situation or task, the action you took and the results achieved.
From the
Experts
Are you ready?
You won’t typically know
which type of interview you
will be having beforehand.
Prepare for both a traditional-
style interview as well as a
behavioral interview.
Unusual, Oddball or Crazy Interview Questions
It is becoming more common for companies to ask unusual job interview questions as part of
their candidate interview process. Why? It’s a great way to see how well a candidate can think on
their feet, as well as a measure of your creativity and problem solving abilities. If you are asked one
of these questions, take a deep breath and do your best to answer it. Remember to try to frame
the answer in a way that highlights at least one of your strengths. Listed below are some “oddball”
questions that have been asked by some companies you may be familiar with:
Bed, Bath & Beyond: “If you were a box of cereal, what would you be and why?”
Applebee’s: “What is the funniest thing that happened to you recently?
Google: “If you could only choose one song to play every time you walked into a room
for the rest of your life, what would it be?”
Cisco: “What kind of tree would you be?”
Stryker: “What kinds of people do you like most?”
Microsoft: “How many golf balls does it take to fill a 747?”
Kalamazoo RESA: “What animal would you be and why?”
Section Five — Interviews | 55 54 | Section Five — Interviews
Illegal Interview Questions
Interview questions should only deal with job-related information; however, an interviewer may ask
a question that is not directly job-related. If the questions relate to any of the following areas, it is
generally considered to be “illegal.”
Topic Can Ask Cannot Ask
Name
■ Have you ever worked under a
different name?
■ Are any of your qualifications
under another name
■ What is your maiden name?
■ What is your original name?
Age ■ Are you over the age of 18? ■ How old are you?
■ What is your date of birth?
■ What year did you graduate?
Marital Status ■ Nothing. ■ Are you married?
■ Why aren’t you married?
■ Are you living with your
significant other?
Citizenship ■ Are you authorized to work in
the U.S.?
■ What languages do you read,
speak or write fluently?
(If related to the position.)
■ Do you require a sponsorship?
■ Are you a U.S. citizen?
■ Where were your parents born?
■ What country are you from?
■ What is your native language?
Personal Affiliations ■ Do you belong to any
professional or trade groups, or
other organizations relevant to
this role or position?
■ What clubs or social
organizations do you belong?
■ Have you ever been affiliated
with a union?
Religion ■ Can you work on the schedule
required for this role?
■ What is your religion?
■ What religious holidays do you
observe?
■ Do you attend church?
Dependents ■ This job may require some
overtime on short notice. Will
this be an issue for you?
■ Are you available to occasionally
work overtime?
■ Can you travel?
■ Do you have children?
■ Are you planning to have
children?
■ Who will take care of your
children while you are at work?
■ Are you pregnant or planning to
have children soon?
Economic Status ■ Where do you see yourself in five
years?
■ Have you ever filed for
bankruptcy?
■ Have you had your wages
garnished?
■ Do you own your home?
Topic Can Ask Cannot Ask
Criminal Record ■ Have you ever been convicted of
a crime?
■ Do you have any pending felony
charges? If so, what are they?
■ Have you ever been arrested?
Please note: If a company is doing
a background check, it may be
important to discuss an incident
up front and point out that it was
a thing of the past.
Health ■ How many unscheduled days of
work did you miss last year?
■ Can you perform all of
the essential functions of
the role with or without
accommodation?
■ Do you have any chronic
conditions?
■ How is your health?
■ Do you have any disabilities?
■ What is your height and weight?
■ Do you take any medications?
■ Have you ever filed for
workman’s compensation?
Military ■ Do you have any upcoming
commitments that would
require extensive time away
from work?
■ If you have been in the military,
were you honorably discharged?
■ In which branch of the military
did you serve?
Asked an illegal question? Here’s how to handle it.
Identifying illegal questions will help you respond to them. You may choose to fully answer the
question, but you may also refuse to answer it. It is important to handle this situation carefully. Your
interviewer may not know they cannot ask such questions. Don’t be defensive. The best approach
is to determine why the interviewer asked the question and try to address the underlying curiosity.
Check out these sample responses:
■ “How old are your children?”
“I assume you are concerned about my attendance. In my last job, I missed less work than any
other member of the staff.”
■ “Which religious holidays do you observe?”
“I am willing and able to work the days and times required for this position.”
Section Five — Interviews | 57 56 | Section Five — Interviews
Questions You Could Ask
Always ask a few questions during and at the end of an interview to show your interest in the job and
company.
■ What kind of training would I receive? Does the company have training programs to help
employees obtain additional job skills?
■ How does this job fit into the success of the department and company?
■ How large is your department? How many people would I be working with?
■ What are your department goals for the year?
■ What is a typical career path in this company for someone who starts in this role?
■ Who would I report to?
■ If I do well, are there avenues for promotion?
■ What are the personal qualities that a person would need to be successful?
■ How would my job performance be evaluated?
■ What was your career path at this company?
■ What are the key traits that you are looking for in a person for this role?
■ What criteria do you use to evaluate whether a person is successful in this position?
■ What do you like best about working here?
■ Your company’s mission statement is “____.” How would you say that the mission drives work in this
department?
■ What is the pre-employment process?
■ What is the next step in the interview process, and when might I hear about a decision?
■ Would you like a copy of my professional references?
■ May I have a business card?
■ Ask any other questions that you may have related to the job description.
Questions You Should NOT Ask
■ When would I get my first pay raise?
■ When are your holidays and vacations?
■ What is your retirement plan?
■ What are the fringe benefits?
■ Who is your boss?
■ What are the grievance procedures?
■ I wouldn’t have to do “____,” would I?
■ Do you mind if I vape?
■ Will I be drug tested?
Follow-up and Thank You Email
When you are selected for a job interview, you are a serious contender for the position. It is very
important that you follow-up after each interview by sending a thank you email to every person who
interviewed you, which should always be sent within the same day of the interview. The follow-up
can serve as an opportunity to show your interest in the position as well as another chance to get
your name in front of the employer. Additionally, many candidates do not send a follow-up within 24
hours after the interview, setting you apart from the rest!”
■ Show appreciation in the message for the employer’s time spent with you.
■ Strive to include some reference to your conversation that will help the employer remember you.
■ Highlight your relevant skills relevant to the job.
■ Include anything that you may have forgotten to mention during the interview, ask any additional
questions and address anything you think may be causing the employer to hesitate in hiring you.
■ Proofread the email several times before you send it. Misspellings and grammatical errors can take
you out of contention for the position.
■ Ask at least one other person to review your message.
■ Use your own words. Don’t Google or cut-and-paste - professionals can see right through it!
If you have not heard from the organization after a week, make a call to interviewer – unless they told
you it would take longer. State that you are following up and wanted to know where they are in the
hiring process or if a decision has been made. Follow-up again in two weeks. If still no response, move
on in your job search.
Sample Follow-Up Email
Section Six — First Days on the Job | 59 58 | Section Six — First Days on the Job
SECTION SIX FIRST DAYS ON THE JOB
How to Rock Your First Days of Work
Congratulations, you got the job! All of your preparation and hard work paid off. Starting a new job is a
time for you to show your employer that you are an optimistic person with a positive attitude. You have
the potential to build a solid employment record and gain new skills that can help you reach your goals.
Check out these helpful tips for making a successful transition to your new job:
■ Decide what you will wear the night before – first
impressions matter. Ask about the dress code
and employer expectations several days before.
■ Also, be sure to wear the required PPE for your
job, including safety glasses, steel toe shoes,
long pants, etc.
■ Get a good night’s sleep so you arrive at work
well rested.
■ Arrive early and do not ask to leave early.
■ Ask questions if you are unsure about
anything! Questions are expected during your training.
■ Come to work ready to learn. Listen and observe more than you talk. Show interest in the job and
your colleagues.
■ Learn your coworkers’ names quickly and build a network of trusted colleagues. Model your work
behavior after the best employees within your new company. Avoid inner-office politics and gossip.
Avoid talking about your personal problems at work.
■ Come to your new job with an open mind, which can make all the difference when meeting new
colleagues and supervisors.
■ Take notes during orientation and how to perform certain tasks as you are learning your new role.
■ Read the employee manual. Learn everything you can about your new company.
■ Be a self-starter and show initiative. Ask for more work if you finish tasks early and ask others if you
can help them with anything.
■ Show your team spirit and company loyalty. Maintain a positive attitude about your work and show
appreciation by thanking anyone who helps you learn the ropes during your first days at work.
■ Maintain a good attendance record.
■ Put your cell phone on silent or turn it off completely.
Forms, Forms and More Forms
Your first day on the job will likely be filled with lots of paperwork that must be completed before you
can begin your new responsibilities. While some companies are shifting such processes online to be
completed before your first day, many are still utilizing hard copy paperwork. Some of the paperwork
that you may be asked to complete include:
■ Insurance forms – health, dental, vision, life, disability
■ Payroll deduction forms
From the
Experts
You’ve got this!
Being the newest employee
can be both challenging
and exciting. Your goal
should be to make the most
of all situations. Relax, smile
and learn as much as you
can, as quickly as you can.
You’ve got this!
■ Confidentiality forms
■ Federal employment forms
■ State employment forms
■ Work permit – must be on file before you start working if you are under the age of 18
Federal and State Forms
There are four standard federal and state forms that all organizations in Michigan must process for
new employees: Employment Eligibility Verification Form, Federal W-4, Michigan W-4 and the State
of Michigan Work Permit. Samples of each of the following forms are on the next several pages.
Practice filling them out so that you can ask your parents/guardians or CTE instructor if you have any
questions.
Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9)
The I-9 is required by the federal government to prove that all newly hired employees presented
documentation verifying the employee’s identity and legal authorization to accept employment
in the United States. The new employee completes Section One of the form and the employer
completes Section Two within three days of the employee’s first day of work.
IRS Form W-4 and MI-W4
The purpose of the federal IRS W-4 and the MI-W4 is to let your employer know how much money to
withhold from your paycheck. Accurately completing these forms can ensure that you do not owe a
big balance to the federal and state government at tax time. It can also prevent you from overpaying
your taxes so that you have more money in your pocket throughout the year. Many students question
how many allowances to claim on these forms; the best thing to do is to talk with your parents/
guardians about how much you should claim. A general rule is that if you are a student in high
school, unmarried and without children, your parents claim you on their tax return – claim zero
allowances.
State of Michigan Work Permit
Minors under the age of 18 must obtain a work permit or written agreement between the employer
and the governing school district before beginning work. A minor may obtain a work permit from a
Michigan Issuing Officer at the school district or with the employer. Issuing Officers usually work in
the high school’s administrative offices. The minor will obtain a CA-6 form (pink) if under 16 years of
age or a CA-7 form (yellow) if between the ages of 16-17 years old. The minor will complete Section
Two and the employer will complete the rest. Upon completing the form, the student will take the
form to the Issuing Officer for verification and compliance with state and federal law.
Section Six — First Days on the Job | 61 60 | Section Six — First Days on the Job
USCIS
Form I-9
OMB No. 1615-0047
Expires 10/31/2022
Employment Eligibility Verification
Department of Homeland Security
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Form I-9 10/21/2019
Page 1 of 3
►START HERE: Read instructions carefully before completing this form. The instructions must be available, either in paper or electronically,
during completion of this form. Employers are liable for errors in the completion of this form.
ANTI-DISCRIMINATION NOTICE: It is illegal to discriminate against work-authorized individuals. Employers CANNOT specify which document(s) an
employee may present to establish employment authorization and identity. The refusal to hire or continue to employ an individual because the
documentation presented has a future expiration date may also constitute illegal discrimination.
Section 1. Employee Information and Attestation (Employees must complete and sign Section 1 of Form I-9 no later
than the first day of employment, but not before accepting a job offer.)
Last Name (Family Name)
First Name (Given Name)
Middle Initial
Other Last Names Used (if any)
Address (Street Number and Name)
Apt. Number
City or Town
State
ZIP Code
Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
-
-
Employee's E-mail Address
Employee's Telephone Number
U.S. Social Security Number
1. A citizen of the United States
2. A noncitizen national of the United States (See instructions)
3. A lawful permanent resident
4. An alien authorized to work until
(See instructions)
(expiration date, if applicable, mm/dd/yyyy):
(Alien Registration Number/USCIS Number):
Some aliens may write "N/A" in the expiration date field.
I am aware that federal law provides for imprisonment and/or fines for false statements or use of false documents in
connection with the completion of this form.
I attest, under penalty of perjury, that I am (check one of the following boxes):
Aliens authorized to work must provide only one of the following document numbers to complete Form I-9:
An Alien Registration Number/USCIS Number OR Form I-94 Admission Number OR Foreign Passport Number.
1. Alien Registration Number/USCIS Number:
2. Form I-94 Admission Number:
3. Foreign Passport Number:
Country of Issuance:
OR
OR
QR Code - Section 1
Do Not Write In This Space
Signature of Employee
Today's Date (mm/dd/yyyy)
Preparer and/or Translator Certification (check one):
I did not use a preparer or translator. A preparer(s) and/or translator(s) assisted the employee in completing Section 1.
(Fields below must be completed and signed when preparers and/or translators assist an employee in completing Section 1.)
I attest, under penalty of perjury, that I have assisted in the completion of Section 1 of this form and that to the best of my
knowledge the information is true and correct.
Signature of Preparer or Translator
Today's Date (mm/dd/yyyy)
Last Name (Family Name)
First Name (Given Name)
Address (Street Number and Name)
City or Town
State
ZIP Code
Employer Completes Next Page
USCIS
Form I-9
OMB No. 1615-0047
Expires 10/31/2022
Employment Eligibility Verification
Department of Homeland Security
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Form I-9 10/21/2019
Page 1 of 3
►START HERE: Read instructions carefully before completing this form. The instructions must be available, either in paper or electronically,
during completion of this form. Employers are liable for errors in the completion of this form.
ANTI-DISCRIMINATION NOTICE: It is illegal to discriminate against work-authorized individuals. Employers CANNOT specify which document(s) an
employee may present to establish employment authorization and identity. The refusal to hire or continue to employ an individual because the
documentation presented has a future expiration date may also constitute illegal discrimination.
Section 1. Employee Information and Attestation (Employees must complete and sign Section 1 of Form I-9 no later
than the first day of employment, but not before accepting a job offer.)
Last Name (Family Name)
First Name (Given Name)
Middle Initial
Other Last Names Used (if any)
Address (Street Number and Name)
Apt. Number
City or Town
State
ZIP Code
Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
-
-
Employee's E-mail Address
Employee's Telephone Number
U.S. Social Security Number
1. A citizen of the United States
2. A noncitizen national of the United States (See instructions)
3. A lawful permanent resident
4. An alien authorized to work until
(See instructions)
(expiration date, if applicable, mm/dd/yyyy):
(Alien Registration Number/USCIS Number):
Some aliens may write "N/A" in the expiration date field.
I am aware that federal law provides for imprisonment and/or fines for false statements or use of false documents in
connection with the completion of this form.
I attest, under penalty of perjury, that I am (check one of the following boxes):
Aliens authorized to work must provide only one of the following document numbers to complete Form I-9:
An Alien Registration Number/USCIS Number OR Form I-94 Admission Number OR Foreign Passport Number.
1. Alien Registration Number/USCIS Number:
2. Form I-94 Admission Number:
3. Foreign Passport Number:
Country of Issuance:
OR
OR
QR Code - Section 1
Do Not Write In This Space
Signature of Employee
Today's Date (mm/dd/yyyy)
Preparer and/or Translator Certification (check one):
I did not use a preparer or translator. A preparer(s) and/or translator(s) assisted the employee in completing Section 1.
(Fields below must be completed and signed when preparers and/or translators assist an employee in completing Section 1.)
I attest, under penalty of perjury, that I have assisted in the completion of Section 1 of this form and that to the best of my
knowledge the information is true and correct.
Signature of Preparer or Translator
Today's Date (mm/dd/yyyy)
Last Name (Family Name)
First Name (Given Name)
Address (Street Number and Name)
City or Town
State
ZIP Code
Employer Completes Next Page
USCIS
Form I-9
OMB No. 1615-0047
Expires 10/31/2022
Employment Eligibility Verification
Department of Homeland Security
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Form I-9 10/21/2019
Page 1 of 3
►START HERE: Read instructions carefully before completing this form. The instructions must be available, either in paper or electronically,
during completion of this form. Employers are liable for errors in the completion of this form.
ANTI-DISCRIMINATION NOTICE: It is illegal to discriminate against work-authorized individuals. Employers CANNOT specify which document(s) an
employee may present to establish employment authorization and identity. The refusal to hire or continue to employ an individual because the
documentation presented has a future expiration date may also constitute illegal discrimination.
Section 1. Employee Information and Attestation
(Employees must complete and sign Section 1 of Form I-9 no later
than the first day of employment, but not before accepting a job offer.)
Last Name (Family Name)
First Name (Given Name)
Middle Initial
Other Last Names Used (if any)
Address (Street Number and Name)
Apt. Number
City or Town
State
ZIP Code
Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
-
-
Employee's E-mail Address
Employee's Telephone Number
U.S. Social Security Number
1. A citizen of the United States
2. A noncitizen national of the United States (See instructions)
3. A lawful permanent resident
4. An alien authorized to work until
(See instructions)
(expiration date, if applicable, mm/dd/yyyy):
(Alien Registration Number/USCIS Number):
Some aliens may write "N/A" in the expiration date field.
I am aware that federal law provides for imprisonment and/or fines for false statements or use of false documents in
connection with the completion of this form.
I attest, under penalty of perjury, that I am (check one of the following boxes):
Aliens authorized to work must provide only one of the following document numbers to complete Form I-9:
An Alien Registration Number/USCIS Number OR Form I-94 Admission Number OR Foreign Passport Number.
1. Alien Registration Number/USCIS Number:
2. Form I-94 Admission Number:
3. Foreign Passport Number:
Country of Issuance:
OR
OR
QR Code - Section 1
Do Not Write In This Space
Signature of Employee
Today's Date (mm/dd/yyyy)
Preparer and/or Translator Certification (check one):
I did not use a preparer or translator. A preparer(s) and/or translator(s) assisted the employee in completing Section 1.
(Fields below must be completed and signed when preparers and/or translators assist an employee in completing Section 1.)
I attest, under penalty of perjury, that I have assisted in the completion of Section 1 of this form and that to the best of my
knowledge the information is true and correct.
Signature of Preparer or Translator
Today's Date (mm/dd/yyyy)
Last Name (Family Name)
First Name (Given Name)
Address (Street Number and Name)
City or Town
State
ZIP Code
Employer Completes Next Page
Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9)
Used by the federal government to verify your work eligibility, you must provide documentation to
establish your identity. Most commonly used are a driver’s license and social security card, which will
then be photocopied and attached to the form.
Form I-9 10/21/2019
Page 2 of 3
USCIS
Form I-9
OMB No. 1615-0047
Expires 10/31/2022
Employment Eligibility Verification
Department of Homeland Security
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Section 2. Employer or Authorized Representative Review and Verification
(Employers or their authorized representative must complete and sign Section 2 within 3 business days of the employee's first day of employment. You
must physically examine one document from List A OR a combination of one document from List B and one document from List C as listed on the "Lists
of Acceptable Documents.")
Last Name (Family Name) M.I.
First Name (Given Name)
Employee Info from Section 1
Citizenship/Immigration Status
List A
Identity and Employment Authorization
Identity
Employment Authorization
OR List B AND List C
Additional Information
QR Code - Sections 2 & 3
Do Not Write In This Space
Document Title
Issuing Authority
Document Number
Expiration Date (if any) (mm/dd/yyyy)
Document Title
Issuing Authority
Document Number
Expiration Date (if any) (mm/dd/yyyy)
Document Title
Issuing Authority
Document Number
Expiration Date (if any) (mm/dd/yyyy)
Document Title
Issuing Authority
Document Number
Expiration Date (if any) (mm/dd/yyyy)
Document Title
Issuing Authority
Document Number
Expiration Date (if any) (mm/dd/yyyy)
Certification: I attest, under penalty of perjury, that (1) I have examined the document(s) presented by the above-named employee,
(2) the above-listed document(s) appear to be genuine and to relate to the employee named, and (3) to the best of my knowledge the
employee is authorized to work in the United States.
The employee's first day of employment (mm/dd/yyyy):
(See instructions for exemptions)
Today's Date (mm/dd/yyyy)
Signature of Employer or Authorized Representative
Title of Employer or Authorized Representative
Last Name of Employer or Authorized Representative
First Name of Employer or Authorized Representative
Employer's Business or Organization Name
Employer's Business or Organization Address (Street Number and Name)
City or Town
State
ZIP Code
Section 3. Reverification and Rehires (To be completed and signed by employer or authorized representative.)
A. New Name (if applicable)
Last Name (Family Name)
First Name (Given Name)
Middle Initial
B. Date of Rehire (if applicable)
Date (mm/dd/yyyy)
Document Title Document Number
Expiration Date (if any) (mm/dd/yyyy)
C. If the employee's previous grant of employment authorization has expired, provide the information for the document or receipt that establishes
continuing employment authorization in the space provided below.
I attest, under penalty of perjury, that to the best of my knowledge, this employee is authorized to work in the United States, and if
the employee presented document(s), the document(s) I have examined appear to be genuine and to relate to the individual.
Signature of Employer or Authorized Representative
Today's Date (mm/dd/yyyy)
Name of Employer or Authorized Representative
Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9) (Continued)
Section Six — First Days on the Job | 63 62 | Section Six — First Days on the Job
LISTS OF ACCEPTABLE DOCUMENTS
All documents must be UNEXPIRED
Employees may present one selection from List A
or a combination of one selection from List B and one selection from List C.
LIST A
2. Permanent Resident Card or Alien
Registration Receipt Card (Form I-551)
1. U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card
3. Foreign passport that contains a
temporary I-551 stamp or temporary
I-551 printed notation on a machine-
readable immigrant visa
4. Employment Authorization Document
that contains a photograph (Form
I-766)
5. For a nonimmigrant alien authorized
to work for a specific employer
because of his or her status:
Documents that Establish
Both Identity and
Employment Authorization
6. Passport from the Federated States
of Micronesia (FSM) or the Republic
of the Marshall Islands (RMI) with
Form I-94 or Form I-94A indicating
nonimmigrant admission under the
Compact of Free Association Between
the United States and the FSM or RMI
b. Form I-94 or Form I-94A that has
the following:
(1) The same name as the passport;
and
(2) An endorsement of the alien's
nonimmigrant status as long as
that period of endorsement has
not yet expired and the
proposed employment is not in
conflict with any restrictions or
limitations identified on the form.
a. Foreign passport; and
For persons under age 18 who are
unable to present a document
listed above:
1. Driver's license or ID card issued by a
State or outlying possession of the
United States provided it contains a
photograph or information such as
name, date of birth, gender, height, eye
color, and address
9. Driver's license issued by a Canadian
government authority
3. School ID card with a photograph
6. Military dependent's ID card
7. U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner
Card
8. Native American tribal document
10. School record or report card
11. Clinic, doctor, or hospital record
12. Day-care or nursery school record
2. ID card issued by federal, state or local
government agencies or entities,
provided it contains a photograph or
information such as name, date of birth,
gender, height, eye color, and address
4. Voter's registration card
5. U.S. Military card or draft record
Documents that Establish
Identity
LIST B
OR AND
LIST C
7. Employment authorization
document issued by the
Department of Homeland Security
1. A Social Security Account Number
card, unless the card
includes one of
the following restrictions:
2. Certification of report of birth issued
by the Department of State (Forms
DS-1350, FS-545, FS-240)
3. Original or certified copy of birth
certificate issued by a State,
county, municipal authority, or
territory of the United States
bearing an official seal
4. Native American tribal document
6. Identification Card for Use of
Resident Citizen in the United
States (Form I-179)
Documents that Establish
Employment Authorization
5. U.S. Citizen ID Card (Form I-197)
(2) VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH
INS AUTHORIZATION
(3) VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH
DHS AUTHORIZATION
(1) NOT VALID FOR EMPLOYMENT
Page 3 of 3
Form I-9 10/21/2019
Examples of many of these documents appear in the Handbook for Employers (M-274).
Refer to the instructions for more information about acceptable receipts.
Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9) (Continued)
IRS W-4 Form
Form W-4
2020
Employee’s Withholding Certificate
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
▶
Complete Form W-4 so that your employer can withhold the correct federal income tax from your pay.
▶
Give Form W-4 to your employer.
▶
Your withholding is subject to review by the IRS.
OMB No. 1545-0074
Step 1:
Enter
Personal
Information
(a) First name and middle initial Last name
Address
City or town, state, and ZIP code
(b) Social security number
▶
Does your name match the
name on your social security
card? If not, to ensure you get
credit for your earnings, contact
SSA at 800-772-1213 or go to
www.ssa.gov.
(c)
Single or Married filing separately
Married filing jointly (or Qualifying widow(er))
Head of household (Check only if you’re unmarried and pay more than half the costs of keeping up a home for yourself and a qualifying individual.)
Complete Steps 2–4 ONLY if they apply to you; otherwise, skip to Step 5. See page 2 for more information on each step, who can
claim exemption from withholding, when to use the online estimator, and privacy.
Step 2:
Multiple Jobs
or Spouse
Works
Complete this step if you (1) hold more than one job at a time, or (2) are married filing jointly and your spouse
also works. The correct amount of withholding depends on income earned from all of these jobs.
Do only one of the following.
(a) Use the estimator at www.irs.gov/W4App for most accurate withholding for this step (and Steps 3–4); or
(b)
Use the Multiple Jobs Worksheet on page 3 and enter the result in Step 4(c) below for roughly accurate withholding; or
(c)
If there are only two jobs total, you may check this box. Do the same on Form W-4 for the other job. This option
is accurate for jobs with similar pay; otherwise, more tax than necessary may be withheld . . . . .
▶
TIP: To be accurate, submit a 2020 Form W-4 for all other jobs. If you (or your spouse) have self-employment
income, including as an independent contractor, use the estimator.
Complete Steps 3–4(b) on Form W-4 for only ONE of these jobs. Leave those steps blank for the other jobs. (Your withholding will
be most accurate if you complete Steps 3–4(b) on the Form W-4 for the highest paying job.)
Step 3:
Claim
Dependents
If your income will be $200,000 or less ($400,000 or less if married filing jointly):
Multiply the number of qualifying children under age 17 by $2,000
▶
$
Multiply the number of other dependents
by $500 . . . .
▶
$
Add the amounts above and enter the total here . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3 $
Step 4
(optional):
Other
Adjustments
(a)
Other income (not from jobs). If you want tax withheld for other income you expect
this year that won’t have withholding, enter the amount of other income here. This may
include interest, dividends, and retirement income . . . . . . . . . . . .
4(a) $
(b)
Deductions. If you expect to claim deductions other than the standard deduction
and want to reduce your withholding, use the Deductions Worksheet on page 3 and
enter the result here . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4(b) $
(c) Extra withholding. Enter any additional tax you want withheld each pay period .
4(c)
$
Step 5:
Sign
Here
Under penalties of perjury, I declare that this certificate, to the best of my knowledge and belief, is true, correct, and complete.
▲
Employee’s signature (This form is not valid unless you sign it.)
▲
Date
Employers
Only
Employer’s name and address First date of
employment
Employer identification
number (EIN)
For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see page 3.
Cat. No. 10220Q
Form W-4 (2020)
Section Six — First Days on the Job | 65 64 | Section Six — First Days on the Job
Michigan W-4 Form
5. Are you a new employee?
9. Employee's Signature
Home Address (No., Street, P.O. Box or Rural Route)
3. Type or Print Your First Name, Middle Initial and Last Name
EMPLOYEE'S MICHIGAN WITHHOLDING EXEMPTION CERTIFICATE
STATE OF MICHIGAN - DEPARTMENT OF TREASURY
MI-W4
(Rev. 11-19)
This certificate is for Michigan income tax withholding purposes only. You must file a revised form within 10 days if your exemptions decrease or your residency status
changes from nonresident to resident. Read instructions below before completing this form.
Issued under P.A. 281 of 1967.
Under penalty of perjury, I certify that the number of withholding exemptions claimed on this certificate does
not exceed the number to which I am entitled. If claiming exemption from withholding, I certify that I anticipate
that I will not incur a Michigan income tax liability for this year.
Date
11. Federal Employer Identification Number
Enter the number of personal and dependent exemptions you are claiming
Additional amount you want deducted from each pay
(if employer agrees)
6.
7.
8.
a.
b.
c.
EMPLOYEE:
If you fail or refuse to file this form, your
employer must withhold Michigan income tax
from your wages without allowance for any
exemptions. Keep a copy of this form for your
records.
INSTRUCTIONS TO EMPLOYER:
Employers must report all new hires to the State
of Michigan. Keep a copy of this certificate with
your records. If the employee claims 10 or more
personal and dependent exemptions or claims a
status exempting the employee from withholding,
you must file their original MI-W4 form with the
Michigan Department of Treasury. Mail to: New
Hire Operations Center, P.O. Box 85010;
Lansing, MI 48908-5010.
$ .00
Employer: Complete lines 10 and 11 before sending to the Michigan Department of Treasury.
10. Employer's Name, Address, Phone No. and Name of Contact Person
4. Driver's License Number or State ID
6.
7.
A Michigan income tax liability is not expected this year.
Wages are exempt from withholding. Explain: _______________________________________________________
Permanent home (domicile) is located in the following Renaissance Zone: _________________________________
Yes
No
If Yes, enter date of hire . . . .
If you hold more than one job, you may not claim the same
exemptions with more than one employer. If you claim the
same exemptions at more than one job, your tax will be under
withheld.
Line 7: You may designate additional withholding if you expect
to owe more than the amount withheld.
Line 8: You may claim exemption from Michigan income tax
withholding ONLY if you do not anticipate a Michigan income
tax liability for the current year because all of the following
exist: a) your employment is less than full time, b) your
personal and dependent exemption allowance exceeds your
annual compensation, c) you claimed exemption from federal
withholding, d) you did not incur a Michigan income tax liability
for the previous year. You may also claim exemption if your
permanent home (domicile) is located in a Renaissance Zone,
you are a non-resident spouse of military personnel stationed in
Michigan, or you are a member of a Native American tribe that
has a tax agreement with the State of Michigan and whose
principal place of residence is within the designated agreement
area. Members of flow-through entities may not claim exemption
from nonresident flow-through withholding. For more information
on Renaissance Zones call (517) 636-4486. Full-time students
that do not satisfy all of the above requirements cannot claim
exempt status.
INSTRUCTIONS TO EMPLOYEE
You must submit a Michigan withholding exemption
certificate (form MI-W4) to your employer on or before the date
that employment begins. If you fail or refuse to submit this
certificate, your employer must withhold tax from your
compensation without allowance for any exemptions. Your
employer is required to notify the Michigan Department of
Treasury if you have claimed 10 or more personal and
dependent exemptions or claimed a status which exempts you
from withholding.
You MUST file a new MI-W4 within 10 days if your residency
status changes or if your exemptions decrease because: a)
your spouse, for whom you have been claiming an exemption,
is divorced or legally separated from you or claims his/her own
exemption(s) on a separate certificate, or b) a dependent must
be dropped for federal purposes.
Line 5: If you check "Yes," enter your date of hire
(mo/day/year).
Line 6: Personal and dependent exemptions. The total number
of exemptions you claim on the MI-W4 may not exceed the
number of exemptions you are entitled to claim when you file
your Michigan individual income tax return.
If you are married and you and your spouse are both
employed, you both may not claim the same exemptions with
each of your employers.
1. Social Security Number
2. Date of Birth
City or Town State ZIP Code
I claim exemption from withholding because (does not apply to nonresident members of flow-through entities - see instructions):
Reset Form
Work Permit Form (CA-6)
State of Michigan
Combined Offer of Employment and Work Permit/Age Certificate
CA-6 for minors UNDER 16 years of age
Employer Information:
- The employer must have a completed work permit form on file before a minor begins work.
- The employer must provide competent adult supervision at all times.
- The employer of the minor must comply with federal, state, and local laws and regulations including nondiscrimination against any
applicant or employee because of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, gender, height, weight, marital status, or disability.
- The employer must return the work permit to the issuing officer upon termination of the minor’s employment.
Directions: Please type or print using black ink pen. Back of this form must have summary of requirements to be valid.
Section I: Each Box must be Completed by Minor Applicant and Parent/Guardian
Name of Minor (First, Middle, Last): Address: City: ZIP:
Age: Date of Birth Month/Day/Year: Last Four Digits of Social Security Number: Contact Telephone Number for Minor:
Name of School (present or last attended): Address: City: ZIP:
Last Grade Completed:
School Status (check one):
[ ] in school [ ] home school [ ] on-line/virtual/cyber school [ ] not attending school
Type of Business
(i.e., fast food, manufacturing):
Signature of Minor:
(x)
Name of Parent/Guardian (circle one): Parent/Guardian Telephone Number:
Section II: Each Box must be Completed by the Employer - Offer of Employment
Name of Business: Address: City: ZIP:
Earliest Starting Time 7:00 a.m.
No Earlier than 7:00 am
No Earlier than 7:00 am
Latest Ending Time 7:00 p.m.
7:00 pm (
Labor Day – June 1)
9:00 pm (
June 1 – Labor Day)
Non School Days:
No more than 8
work hours
non-
school days only
School Days
No More than
3 work hours
school days
Monday-Friday
Minor may
not more
than 6
days per
week
40 total combined school and work
hours per week:
No more than 3 work
hours after school Monday - Friday
Applicant’s Job Title: Hourly Wage: Name Job Duties/Tasks to be Performed by Minor: Name Equipment/Tools to be Used by Minor:
Signature of Employer:
(x)
Title: Telephone: Date:
Section III: Each Box must be Completed by School’s Issuing Officer – Must be Signed by the Issuing Officer to be Valid
This is to certify that:
(1) the minor personally appeared before me,
(2) this form was properly completed,
(3) listed job duties are in compliance with state and
federal laws and regulations,
(4) listed hours are in compliance with state and
federal laws and regulations,
(5) this form was signed by student and employer,
and I authorize the issuance of this work permit.
Evidence of Age Confirmed by (issuing officer checks one):
Number of Hours in School
per Week, when School is
in Session:
[ ] Birth Certificate [ ] Certificate of Arrival in the U.S.
[ ] Driver’s License [ ] Hospital Record of Birth (add + add)
Number of Hours able to
Work while Attending
School = No More than 40
[ ] School Record [ ] Baptismal Certificate
[ ] Other (describe)
Name of School District: Printed Name of Issuing Officer: Title:
Address:
City, State, ZIP: Signature of Issuing Officer:
(x)
Issue Date:
Telephone Number:
Form CA-6 (revised 2013) Combined Offer of Employment & Work Permit / Age Certificate
Must Print front and back on Pink Paper
.
Instructions for completing CA-6 must be printed on back of form to be valid.
Permit Number for School Use
(optional)
DO NOT COPY
Section Six — First Days on the Job | 67 66 | Section Six — First Days on the Job
Work Permit Form (CA-6) (Continued)
Summary of Requirements
CA-6 MICHIGAN WORK PERMIT AND AGE CERTIFICATE
The minimum age for employment is 14 years except that a minor 11 years of age or older may be employed as a youth athletic program
referee or umpire for an age bracket younger than his/her own age or as a golf or bridge caddy; 13 years of age or older may be employed to
perform services which entail setting traps for formal or informal trap, skeet and sporting clays shooting events or in some farming occupations
described in section 4(3) of the Youth Employment Standards Act 90 of 1978. Adult supervision is required, at all times.
Who Needs a CA-6 Work Permit? A minor who is 11 to13 years of age employed in certain occupations (
referenced above
) or 14 and 15 years
of age not specifically exempt from the Youth Employment Standards Act (P.A. 90 of 1978). This completed pink CA-6 work permit allows a
minor to be employed only by the employer at the location listed in Section II until a minor turns 16; then, minor completes yellow CA-7 Work
Permit. A minor who does home, cyber, virtual, on-line school or who does not attend school must be issued a work permit from a State of
Michigan authorized school issuing officer or person authorized by that chief administrator in writing.
Who Issues the Work Permit? The issuing officer is the chief administrator of a school district, intermediate school district, public school
academy, or nonpublic school, or a person authorized by that chief administrator, in writing, to act on his/her behalf.
Employment of Minors: A person under 18 years of age shall not be employed in, about, or in connection with an occupation that is
hazardous or injurious to the minor’s health or personal well-being or which is contrary to standards established by state and federal acts, (i.e.,
construction, slicers, motor vehicle operation, power-driven machinery
).
Instructions for Completing and Issuing:
1. The Minor obtains the pink CA-6 from the Issuing Officer of the school district and completes Section I.
2. The Minor takes the pink CA-6 form to the person (Employer) proposing to employ the minor who completes Section II.
3. The Employer gives the pink CA-6 back to the minor to return to the Issuing Officer who verifies the age of minor using the best
available evidence (
reference 409.105 of Public Act 90 of 1978) and ensures compliance with state and federal laws and regulations.
4. The Work Permit is issued by the Issuing Officer who sign and date the form in Section III.
5. The Issuing Officer makes a copy of the pink CA-6 and place in minor’s permanent school file and gives original to the Minor to return
to the Employer.
6. The Minor returns the completed original pink CA-6 work permit, front and back, to the Employer before beginning work.
The failure or refusal to issue a work permit by the school may be appealed by the minor in accordance with Public Act 306 of 1969.
Employer’s Responsibilities:
Must have a completed pink CA-6 work permit, front and back, form before a minor begins work.
Must keep the original pink work permit, front and back, form at the place of employment.
Must provide, at all times, supervision (ongoing instruction and guidance) by the employer or an employee who is 18 years of age or older.
Must comply with federal, state, and local laws and regulations including nondiscrimination against any applicant or employee because of
race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, gender, height, weight, marital status, or disability.
Must maintain adequate time records including number of hours worked each day along with starting and ending times required by Public
Act 90 of 1978, as amended, and be made available for inspection by an authorized representative of the department.
Must return the work permit to the issuing officer upon separation of the minor’s employment.
Must post required work place posters at work site which may be downloaded at www.michigan.gov/mde .
Issuing Officer’s Responsibilities: Upon application, in person by the minor desiring employment, examine and approve information is
not incomplete and work is not hazardous/injurious and is not in violation of state or federal laws and regulations.
14 and 15 Year Old work hours covered by Federal Law (business gross annual sales exceed $500,000 or interstate commerce):
1. No more than 3 hours on school days (Monday - Friday) after school while school is in session
2. No more than 8 hours on non-school days or when school is not in session.
3. No more than 40 combined school and work hours in one week (Sunday - Saturday).
4. Not before 7:00 a.m. and no later than 7:00 p.m. (September Labor Day – June 1).
5. Not before 7:00 a.m. and no later than 9:00 p.m. (June 1 – September Labor Day).
14 and 15 Year Old work hours covered by State Law:
1. No more than 6 days in one week.
2. No more than a weekly average of 8 hours per day.
3. No more than 10 hours in one day.
4. Not employed during school hours.
5. Not more than 5 hours continuously without a documented and uninterrupted meal or rest period, at least 30 minutes or more.
6. Not before 7:00 a.m. and no later than 9:00 p.m.
Michigan Youth Employment Standards Act (P.A. 90 of 1978): For information about the law, rules, and regulations contact the Office of
Career and Technical Education, PO Box 30712, Lansing, MI, 48909 (517-335-6041) or www.michigan.gov/mde and click “Programs &
Offices”, then click “Career & Technical” and select ‘Youth Employment’.
Federal Fair Labor Standards Act: For information about 14 and 15 years of age child labor provisions, contact the U.S. Department of
Labor, Wage and Hour Division (1-866-4USWAGE) or www.youthrules.dol.gov.
Revocation of Permit: A permit may be revoked by the school issuing officer if: (1) poor school attendance results in performance of school
work at a level lower than that prior to beginning employment or (2) the Michigan Department of Education/U. S. Department of Labor informs the
school of an employer’s violations of state or federal laws or regulations
. The minor shall be informed of the appeal process and shall be given
instructions as to the initiation of the appeal process by the school.
DO NOT COPY
Work Permit Form (CA-7)
State of Michigan
Combined Offer of Employment and Work Permit/Age Certificate
CA-7 for minors 16 and 17 years of age
Employer Information:
- The employer must have a completed front and back yellow work permit form on file before a minor begins work.
- The employer or an employee who is 18 years of age or older must provide competent adult supervision at all times.
- The employer of the minor must comply with federal, state, and local laws and regulations including nondiscrimination against any
applicant or employee because of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, gender, height, weight, marital status, or disability.
- The employer must return the work permit to the issuing officer upon termination of the minor’s employment.
Directions: Please type or print using black ink pen. ALL FIELDS MUST BE COMPLETED. Back of this form must have summary of requirements.
Section I: Each Box must be Completed by Minor Applicant and Parent/Guardian
Name of Minor:
Address:
City:
ZIP:
Age:
Date of Birth Month/Day/Year:
Last Four Digits of Social Security Number:
Contact Telephone Number for Minor:
Name of School (present or last attended):
Address:
City:
ZIP:
Last Grade Completed:
School Status (check one):
[ ] in school [ ] home school [ ] online/Cyber/Virtual school [ ] not attending school
Type of Business (i.e., fast food, manufacturing):
Signature of Minor:
(x)
Name of Parent/Guardian (circle one):
Parent/Guardian Telephone:
Section II: Each Box must be Completed by the Employer - Offer of Employment
Name of Business :
Address:
City:
ZIP:
Earliest Starting Time 6:00 a.m.
No earlier than 6:00 am
No earlier than 6:00 am
Latest Ending Time 10:30p.m.
No later than10:30 pm(Sun-Thurs)
No later than11:30 pm (Fri-Sat)
Hours per Day:
No more than 8
Number of Days per Week:
No more than 6 per week
Total Hours of Employment:
No more than 24 when school in
session; No more than 48 when school
not in session
Applicant’s Job Title:
Hourly Wage:
Name Job Duties/Tasks to be Performed by Minor
:
Name Equipment/Tools to be Used by Minor
:
Will the minor be working under an hours deviation granted by the Michigan Department of Education? [ ] No [ ] Yes
If yes, attach the Individual Application for Hours Deviation for 16 and 17 Year Old Minors along with this original yellow CA-7 and mail to:
MDE/OCTE P.O. Box 30712, Lansing, Michigan 48909, for approval
Signature of Employer:
(x)
Title:
Telephone:
Date:
Section III: Each Box must be Completed by School’s Issuing Officer – Must be Signed by the Issuing Officer to be Valid
This is to certify that:
(1) the minor personally appeared before me,
(2) this form was properly completed,
(3) listed job duties are in compliance with state and
federal laws and regulations,
(4) listed hours are in compliance with state and
federal laws and regulations,
(5) this form was signed by student and employer,
and I authorize the issuance of this work permit.
Evidence of Age Confirmed by (issuing officer checks one):
Number of Work Hours
per Week, when School
is in Session:
[ ] Birth Certificate [ ] Certificate of Arrival in the U.S.
No more than 24
hours per week
[ ] Driver’s License [ ] Hospital Record of Birth
Number of Work Hours
while school is not in
session (Summer,
Spring, Xmas vacation):
[ ] School Record [ ] Baptismal Certificate
[ ] Other (describe)
No more than 48
hours per week
Name of School District:
Printed Name of Issuing Officer:
Title:
Address:
City, State, ZIP:
Signature of Issuing Officer:
(x)
Issue Date:
Telephone Number:
Form CA-7 (revised 10/18/2011) Combined Offer of Employment & Work Permit and Age Certificate Must Print front and back on Yellow Paper.
Instructions for completing CA-7 must be printed on back of form to be valid.
Must submit original yellow front and back CA-7 when submitting Individual Application for Hours Deviation form.
Permit Number for School Use
(optional)
DO NOT COPY
Section Six — First Days on the Job | 69 68 | Section Six — First Days on the Job
Work Permit Form (CA-7) (Continued)
Summary of Requirements
CA-7 MICHIGAN WORK PERMIT AND AGE CERTIFICATE
The Minimum Age for Employment is 14 years except that a minor 11 years of age or older may be employed as a youth athletic program
referee or umpire for an age bracket younger than his/her own age or as a golf or bridge caddy; 13 years of age or older may be employed to
perform services which entail setting traps for formal or informal trap, skeet and sporting clays shooting events or in some farming occupations
described in section 4(3) of the Youth Employment Standards Act 90 of 1978. Adult supervision is required, at all times.
Who Needs a CA-7 Yellow Work Permit? A 16 or 17 year old minor attending any type of schooling (
including but not limited to home school
– cyber school – online school – virtual school) or not attending school or is an out of state resident and not specifically exempt from the Youth
Employment Standards Act (P.A. 90 of 1978) sections
409.116; 409.117; 409.118; 409.119. This completed (all sections I, II, III) yellow CA-7
work permit allows a minor to be employed, only by the employer at the location, listed in Section II; therefore, minor shall not begin
employment in an occupation regulated by this act until the person proposing to employ the minor procures and keeps on file at the place of
employment a completed original yellow CA-7 which is valid until minor turns 18 or graduates, as long as the minor works for the same
employer.
Who Issues the Work Permit? A State of Michigan issuing officer is the chief administrator of a school district, intermediate school district,
public school academy, or nonpublic school, or a person authorized by that chief administrator in writing to act on his/her behalf.
Employment of Minors: A minor under 18 years of age shall not be employed in, about, or in connection with an occupation that is hazardous
or injurious to minor’s health or personal well-being or which is contrary to standards established by state and federal acts, (i.e., construction,
slicers, motor vehicle operation, power-driven machinery).
Instructions for Completing and Issuing:
1. The Minor obtains the yellow CA-7 from a State of Michigan Issuing Officer of the school district and completes Section I.
2. The Minor takes the yellow CA-7 to the Person/Employer proposing to employ the minor to complete Section II.
3. The Employer/Person gives the yellow CA-7 back to the minor to return to the State of Michigan Issuing Officer who verifies age of
minor (using best available evidence
409.105 of Public Act 90 of 1978) and ensures compliance with state and federal laws and regulations.
4. The State of Michigan Issuing Officer, after reviewing all information in Sections I, II and III then sign and date in Section III.
5. The State of Michigan Issuing Officer makes copy of CA-7 and place copy in minor’s permanent school file and returns original to the
minor.
6. The Minor gives completed original yellow CA-7 Work Permit to the Employer/Person listed in Section II before beginning work.
The failure or refusal to issue a work permit by the school may be appealed by the minor in accordance with Public Act 306 of 1969.
Employer’s Responsibilities: The issuance of a work permit does not authorize employment of minors contrary to state or federal laws and
regulations.
Must have a valid (front and back) and completed original yellow CA-7 Work Permit form before a minor begins work.
Shall keep the original yellow work permit form and any approved deviation with parental consent on file at the place of employment.
Must provide competent adult supervision, at least 18 years of age or older, at all times.
Must comply with federal, state, and local laws and regulations including nondiscrimination against any applicant or employee because of
race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, gender, height, weight, marital status, or disability.
Records required by Public Act 90 of 1978, as amended, must be maintained and made available for inspection by an authorized
representative of the department.
Must return the work permit to the issuing officer upon termination of the minor’s employment.
Must post all required work place poster at work site/work location; “Posting Requirement” may be downloaded at www.michigan.gov/mde.
Issuing Officer’s Responsibilities: A copy of the CA-7 and any Michigan Department of Education deviation forms shall be filed in the
minor’s permanent school file. Work permits shall not be issued if the work is hazardous or injurious, information is incomplete, or if the
minor’s employment is in violation of state or federal laws and regulations.
Minors 16 or 17 Years of Age Work Hours:
1. No more than 6 days in one (1) week.
2. No more than a weekly average of 8 hours in one (1) day.
3. No more than 10 hours in one (1) day.
4. No more than 24 work hours in one (1) week when school is in session regardless of the number of school hours.
5. No more than 48 work hours in one (1) week when school is not regularly in session (Christmas, Spring or Summer vacation, etc.)
6. Not more than 5 hours continuously without a documented and uninterrupted 30 minutes or more meal or rest period.
7. Sunday - Thursday between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 10:30 p.m.
8. Friday - Saturday between the hours of 6:00 am and 11:30 p.m., and not regularly attending school (i.e., summer vacation, etc).
Hours Deviations: At any time an employer may apply through the Office of Career and Technical Preparation for a General Hours or an
Individual Application for Hours Deviation allowing the minor to work beyond the legal hours of employment allowed by the act (409.120(2)).
Michigan Youth Employment Standards Act (P.A. 90 of 1978): For information about the law, rules, and regulations contact the Office of
Career and Technical Preparation, PO Box 30712, Lansing, MI, 48909, phone 517/373-3373, www.michigan.gov/octp and click on ‘Career
Preparation System’, then select ‘Work Based Learning Guide For Risk Management’ and go to section 6.
Federal Fair Labor Standards Act: For information about federal child labor provisions contact the U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and
Hour Division, at 1-866-4USWAGE or www.youthrules.dol.gov.
Revocation of Permit: A permit may be revoked by the school issuing officer if: (1) poor school attendance results in a level of school work
lower than that prior to beginning employment or (2) the Michigan Department of Education/U.S. Department of Labor informs the school of an
employer’s violations of state or federal laws or regulations. Any minor who has a permit revoked shall be informed of the appeal process by
the school.
DO NOT COPY
New Job Orientation
Many employers offer a new hire orientation, which supplies key information for success at that
organization. Pay close attention and take notes!
If your new employer does not offer such a training, or if the following topics aren’t covered, consider
asking these important questions:
■ Is there an employee handbook? If so, be sure to read it before asking additional questions. Most
likely, they will be addressed in that essential document.
■ Is there any additional information about the company’s history, product line, etc. that I could read?
■ When is payroll processed? Weekly, bi-weekly or monthly?
■ Are there any parking regulations?
■ Where is the schedule posted?
■ What is the attendance and tardy policy?
■ What is the dress code?
■ When is lunch? When are relief periods? Where are the breakroom, cafeteria and restrooms located?
■ How, when and to who do I report when absent?
■ What are my main job duties? Ask for a copy of the job description if you do not already have one.
■ What is my rate of pay?
■ Who will be training or mentoring me?
■ What is the training process?
■ What is the job posting procedure when new positions become available?
■ What is the orientation period? 30, 60 or 90 days?
■ How will my performance be evaluated and how often?
■ What are the safety guidelines related to my position?
■ What are the emergency procedures?
Section Seven — The Importance of 21st Century Skills | 71 70 | Section Seven — The Importance of 21st Century Skills
SECTION SEVEN THE IMPORTANCE OF 21ST
CENTURY SKILLS
What are 21st Century Skills?
The personal and professional qualities that contribute to a student’s future career, 21st Century
skills are essentially a common language between business and education. Including Learning Skills,
Literacy Skills, Life and Career Skills, these abilities will help you remain competitive in a changing job
market.
Consider the following:
■ 21st Century skills help you learn the technical skills necessary for a specific job.
■ These skills are developed through your educational, work and life experiences.
■ You are the only person who can identify and discover these skills within yourself.
■ More than ever, companies and organizations rely on these skills to be efficient and competitive.
■ 21st Century skills are transferrable! From job to job, these abilities will help you transition to a new
career or position.
Learning Skills – Teach students about the mental processes required to adapt and improve in an
evolving environment.
■ Critical Thinking: Ability to think clearly and rationally and understand the logical connection
between ideas, including:
f Analyzing, organizing, using data, comparing options, exercising sound reasoning, independent
thinking, changing your opinion
■ Creativity: The use of the imagination or original ideas, including:
f Drawing on prior knowledge, generating ideas and alternatives, designing, innovating
■ Collaboration: Working with others to produce or create something, including:
f Valuing diversity, exercising leadership, working cooperatively, managing conflict, building
relationships, contributing ideas and effort, motivating self and others
■ Communication: Sharing updates, information or news in writing or verbally, including:
f Analyzing a situation, choosing a medium, using technology, evaluating messages, actively
listening, speaking, writing, reading, presenting ideas, interpersonal networking, serving
customers
Literacy Skills – Gaining and creating knowledge through reading, text, graphs, manuals, etc.
■ Information Literacy: Ability to identify, find, evaluate and use information effectively, including:
f Applying academic knowledge, reading, researching, writing, being an independent learner
■ Media Literacy: Understanding the many ways information is produced and distributed, including:
f Evaluating and questioning credibility of sources
■ Technology Literacy: Understanding new technologies and how to use them to create effective,
well-grounded materials, including:
f Independent learner of computer programs
f Understanding appropriate use of communication tools
f Willing and able to learn new technology
Life and Career Skills – Abilities and behaviors that help you deal effectively with the events and
challenges of everyday life.
■ Self-Management: Finding the self-control to manage work and life responsibilities, including:
f Taking initiative, personal accountability, punctuality, self-direction, work ethic, integrity, social
responsibility, self-esteem, empathy, ethical behavior, navigate career options, perseverance,
lifelong learner
■ Problem Solving: The process or act of finding
a solution to a problem, including:
f Identifying a problem or project, setting
goals, managing workload, asking
questions, researching, considering
impacts, deciding, taking action,
using time effectively, using money
appropriately, analyzing and evaluating
results, recognizing quality/not yet quality,
recognizing the value of mistakes and
failures, improving the results
How can I incorporate these skills?
■ Add these key words to your resume and cover letter. Match them to skills, responsibilities and
experiences from previous jobs, volunteer work and extracurricular activities. Consider the job for
which you are applying, purposefully incorporating words and phrases from the job posting.
■ Create a list of activities, tasks and experiences that helped you develop or demonstrate your 21st
Century skills.
■ Find ways to discuss 21st Century skills during your interview and connect them back to your
experiences – be specific.
Educational and Technical Skills
Math Skills
Various levels of math skills may be required for work, depending on the position for which you are
applying, including:
■ Pre-employment assessment testing
■ Counting change back to a customer
■ Measurements
■ Tracking product and production
■ Daily required paperwork, such as graphs, budgets, expenses, etc.
■ Balancing a budget
■ Completing taxes
Reading Skills
In today’s workforce, nearly every job requires a reading ability above the ninth-grade reading level.
Upon hiring, it is important that you are able to read and understand the employee handbook, as well
as complete all employment paperwork.
From the
Experts
Make the Connection
Integrate the desired 21st
Century skills into your
resume and cover letter.
Find ways to discuss them
during your interview.
Take every opportunity to
highlight the skills posted
in the job description.
Section Seven — The Importance of 21st Century Skills | 73 72 | Section Seven — The Importance of 21st Century Skills
Technology Skills
From searching for a job, to applying to a job and performing that job – the ability to effectively use
technology is a critical component for success in the current workforce. As technology continues to
evolve and change over time, that need will only increase.
Technology skills necessary for success in the workplace include:
■ Navigating job search resources
■ Researching companies and organizations where you would like to work
■ Completing online applications
■ Attaching documents such as a resume or cover letter
■ Basic knowledge and experience with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel,
PowerPoint, Outlook and Access
■ Proper email etiquette, including correct spelling and grammar.
Organizational and Behavioral Skills
You have landed a great position with a wonderful company! To be successful in your job, you must
understand how the organization works. Much like competitive teams, athletics, debate, music, if the
organization is not successful, that means each of its parts is not functioning efficiently. You were
hired and are being paid to do your part to help the company succeed. You need to understand how
you can do your best to make that happen.
Align Personal Goals with Company Goals
A business wants to increase the public’s perception of the quality of its goods or services. Figure out
what you can do personally to help meet that goal. Do not depend on the managers to tell you what
they need. Take the initiative and look for things that need to be done in your department.
Employment Evaluations and Performance Reviews
An employee evaluation is a tool used to review the performance of an employee. Most organizations
evaluate an employee annually and it can directly influence pay increases and promotions.
As the evaluation is a review of your work over a period of time, there is no good way to prepare for it.
If you have been reviewed previously, refer back to it for any outlined goals or areas of improvement.
Consider compiling a list of accomplishments since the last review and be proactive about what you
think your goals should be. Some employers will ask you to complete a self-assessment as part of
the process.
Remember, the review meeting is a discussion
between you and your supervisor. Maintain good
eye contact, attentive posture, listen and take
thorough notes. Emphasize your strengths, be
honest and take responsibility when necessary.
A performance review is a great time to ask
about career development opportunities and
to let your employer know about any additional
training you would like to receive.
From the
Experts
A Key to Success
An honest evaluation,
and some thoughtful self-
reflection, can be a major
benefit to a professional.
Identifying areas where
you thrive, as well as areas
to improve, can help you
become the best version
of yourself.
Employment Evaluation Sample
Performance Evaluaon
Date: ______________ Name: _____________________________________ Job Title: ___________________________
Job Knowledge
Highly Eecve Eecve Minimally Eecve Ineecve
Consider knowledge
of job gained through
experience, general
PD and specialized
PD and On-the-Job
training.
Excellent knowledge of
posion, program
assigned to and
organizaon as a
whole.
Well rounded job
knowledge and
knowledge of
organizaon as
a whole.
Improvement
needed to have
adequate grasp of
essenal skills. Some
PD and support
required.
Inadequate
knowledge. Has
been provided
appropriate PD, yet
requires improvement
to retain.
Comments: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Organizaon/Time
Management
Highly Eecve Eecve Minimally Eecve Ineecve
Sets priories and
allocates of me as
well as resources
accordingly.
Exceponally
organized and
excellent use of me.
Organized and not
overwhelmed.
Slightly disorganized
and could use me
beer.
Inadequate
knowledge. Has
been provided
appropriate PD, yet
requires improvement
to retain.
Comments: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Quality of Work
Highly Eecve Eecve Minimally Eecve Ineecve
Consider work
pracces that
demonstrate
aenon to detail
and connuous
improvement.
Exceponal
quality and a
relentless drive to
improve. Seeks
feedback as
appropriate.
Acceptable, work
quality. Seeks
feedback as
appropriate.
Oen unacceptable
quality of work
and occasionally
shows a lack of
interest in
improvement.
Excessive errors or
rejecons, lacks
interest in improvement.
Requires immediate
improvement to
retain.
Comments: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Dependability/
Responsibility
Highly Eecve Eecve Minimally Eecve Ineecve
Consider the degree
to which he/she can
be relied upon to
carry out dues.
Consistently
fullls all job
responsibilies
and dues.
Totally reliable.
Can be depended
upon to get the job
done with lile
or no follow up.
Very reliable.
Can be relied on to
fulll some
responsibilies, but
not all. Punctuality or
Aendance may
contribute to issues
with performance.
Fails to accept
responsibility even
when specically
assigned. Requires
immediate
improvement to
retain.
Comments: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Section Seven — The Importance of 21st Century Skills | 75 74 | Section Seven — The Importance of 21st Century Skills
Innovaon &
Iniave
Highly Eecve Eecve Minimally Eecve Ineecve
Consider contribuon
of new ideas and
methods. Self-starter
with posive inuence
on co-workers. Works
independently toward
approved goals.
Consistently
works toward
approved goals.
Ancipates administrator
needs improving
their eecveness.
Iniates
acvity within
normal roune.
Ancipates
common sense
needs related to work.
Seldom iniates
acvity during
normal roune.
Needs frequent
direcon. Requires
immediate
improvement to
retain.
Comments: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Compassion and
Trustworthy
Highly Eecve Eecve Minimally Eecve Ineecve
Consider the degree
to which employee
leads with heart,
has integrity, is
empathec,
trustworthy and
helps others in need.
Use of exceponal
care and concern
for others. Thinks
and acts with others
in mind. Has trust of
coworkers and
Administrators alike.
Care well for others.
Thinks of the needs of
others on the team.
At mes needs to be
more empathec
and caring.
Has diculty
interacng
understanding and
empathizing with
others.
Comments: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Respect (customer
service)
Highly Eecve Eecve Minimally Eecve Ineecve
Consider the degree
to which employee
respects and values
all people.
Communicates
respecully in all
interacons with others.
Creates posive working
relaonships with others
while gaining their
respect and condence.
Communicates
respect in all
support interacons
with others.
At mes customer
service skills require
improvement.
Has diculty
interacng
understanding and
empathizing with
others and their
support needs
Comments: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Collaborave
Relaonships
Highly Eecve Eecve Minimally Eecve Ineecve
Consider the degree
to which employee
interacts and works
harmoniously with
the public, coworkers,
faculty, students,
and sta.
Possesses exceponal
tact, diplomacy,
collaboraon, and
communicaon skills.
Proper balance of
individual performance
and teamwork.
Collaborates well with
others. Frequently
promotes teamwork
and harmony.
Needs improvement to
have adequate skills at
promong teamwork
and harmony.
Has diculty
interacng with
people.
Comments: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Performance Evaluation (Continued) Performance Evaluation (Continued)
What is your overall evaluaon of employee?
Highly Eecve Eecve Minimally Eecve Ineecve
Comments:
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Current year’s goals, progress made on goals and evidence:
Goal 1: ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Goal 2: ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Goal 3: ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Next year’s goals:
Goal 1: ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Goal 2: ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Goal 3: ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Comments:
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Signature of Employee: ______________________________________________ Date _______________________________
Signature of Immediate Supervisor: ____________________________________ Date _______________________________
Section Eight — Leaving Your Job | 77 76 | Section Seven — The Importance of 21st Century Skills
Steps for Advancement
Several steps can help you prepare for job advancement. To get ahead in your field of work and to
earn pay raises and promotions for challenging roles with more responsibility, use these tips.
■ Understand and be able to apply 21st Century skills. (page 70.)
■ Always do your best.
■ Be a safe, reliable and efficient worker.
■ Show a sense of responsibility.
■ Follow the directions and advice of your employer.
■ Show enthusiasm when working, even when doing unpleasant tasks.
■ Accept criticism as a means of improving yourself.
■ Be willing to perform extra tasks and work overtime within reason.
■ Look into courses and training opportunities that may improve your knowledge and skills.
■ Be informed of the types of skills and background needed for promotion and watch for
opportunities to advance.
■ Maintain a business-like attitude. Get along with everyone. Keep your temper in check, even if
someone is rude to you. Be courteous.
■ Maintain a pleasant and professional appearance. Dress appropriately for the position and practice
excellent personal hygiene.
■ Be cooperative. You may have to bend a little for the good of the group. Be a team player. Working
together gets the job done faster and more efficiently.
Concerns About Job Status
If you are currently employed and unsure about the future of your job within the organization,
communication is key. Ask your supervisor for a private conversation. Share your concerns and
ask how you can improve your performance. If there is something you do not understand, ask for
clarification. Asking for help can be the best way to save your job.
Finding a job is not an easy process, so don’t be quick to leave your position when you could turn the
situation around. Sometimes all it takes is a conversation.
SECTION EIGHT LEAVING YOUR JOB
Employment Resignation
When you decide to leave a job, you are expected to do the following tasks:
■ Tell your supervisor. Your direct supervisor should hear it from you first. Request a face-to-face
meeting.
■ Be professional and positive about your reason for leaving. You may be leaving for negative reasons
or for a higher salary with another organization. Consider saying, “I’m leaving for a more profitable
opportunity” or “I have been offered a position with more responsibility.”
■ Give the correct notice period. The industry expectation is two weeks. Continue to stay focused and
work hard during those two weeks.
■ Write a formal letter of resignation. A
professional requirement, the letter should
include the date your resignation is effective,
the position you are resigning from, a short
explanation of why you are leaving and
share your gratitude for the opportunities
and experiences you gained during your
employment.
■ Offer to help. You can offer to help train your replacement and/or leave detailed instructions on
your daily responsibilities.
■ Ask for a letter of recommendation and a reference. Ask your manager or supervisor who would
say good things about you to future employers. Find more information about asking for a reference
on page 26.
■ Work your last days with a good attitude to maintain professional relationships.
From the
Experts
Don’t burn bridges!
These are tough
conversations, but it is
very important to preserve
professional relationships.
Section Eight — Leaving Your Job | 79 78 | Section Eight — Leaving Your Job
YOUR NAME
123 Street, City MI 49001 | (269) 454-3234 | y[email protected]
April 2, 2020
Ms. Susan East, Owner
S&E Body Shop
1623 Any Street
Anytown, MI 49001
Dear Ms. East:
It is with regret that I inform you I will be leaving my posion as a painter with S&E Body Shop. My terminaon date will be
April 16, 2020.
Working for S&E has been a very rewarding experience and I have learned a great deal from supervisor, Frank Jones. Thank
you for this opportunity.
Sincerely,
Your Name
Sample Letter of Resignation
start at the 2-inch mark
leave 3 blank lines
leave 1 blank line
leave 1 blank line
leave 1 blank line
leave 3 blank lines, don’t
forget to sign the letter.
What if You are Terminated?
A job termination is not the end of the world. You should react in a positive way from a negative
experience.
How to Benefit from a Termination
■ Grow from the experience.
■ Request an exit interview. Identify the specific reasons you were terminated. “You didn’t do the job”
is not specific enough. Find out what skills need to be improved. Be professional, tactful and polite.
Ask questions. Focus on how you can improve.
■ Take responsibility for performance, behavior and attitude. Don’t blame others or make excuses,
and do not argue with the employer. This is a stressful time – do not say anything you will
regret later.
■ Ask about your good qualities. You will likely find out that you are still a good person with good
qualities and will leave feeling better.
■ Ask for a letter of recommendation.
■ Start your new job search. Use the same techniques you did before. It worked once; it will work
again.
■ Update your resume and cover letter with your recent job experience.
■ Brush up on your interviewing skills. Be prepared to explain the positive you.
■ Go get another job!
Exit Interviews
Some organizations require an exit interview from employees leaving the company. During this
meeting, it is acceptable to give constructive criticism. Be open and honest while answering
questions.
Notice of Non-Discrimination
It is the policy of Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency that no discriminating practices
based on race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation or sexual identity), disability,
age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information
or any other legally protected category be allowed during any program, activity, service or in
employment. The following positions at Kalamazoo RESA have been designated to handle inquiries
regarding the nondiscrimination policy: Assistant Superintendents — Tom Zahrt and Mindy Miller.
Contact information: (269) 250-9200, 1819 E. Milham Ave, Portage, MI 49002.
■ Climax-Scotts Community Schools
■ Comstock Public Schools
■ Galesburg-Augusta Community Schools
■ Gull Lake Community Schools
■ Kalamazoo Public Schools
■ Kalamazoo RESA
Kalamazoo RESA Career & Technical Education
1819 East Milham Avenue | Portage, MI 49002
(269) 250-9300 | kresa.org/CareerConnect
@kresaCC @kalresa
Consortium Members:
■ Kalamazoo Valley Community College
■ Parchment School District
■ Portage Public Schools
■ Schoolcraft Community Schools
■ Vicksburg Community Schools
