I was going to offer to talk to my sister, since she is a children’s librarian at a public library (with a masters in library science), and has done the clerk job before. However, she is currently unreachable by email, and will be for some time. That leaves phone calls. Since TVeblen spoke up, I think that covers the insider angle.
Most of the points I can think of have been made. One thing I did want to emphasize was not to “exaggerate” the time on the nurse’s aide job. That is something that can be checked out. Not that they will necessarily, but it could be, and you would hate them to call on something basic as how long you worked there and you said 2 yrs when you really only worked 6 mos. Just be prepared to explain the ups and downs of your working life. For instance, being a stay at home mamma. That is very likely to be an interview question.
It would probably be good to do a couple practice interviews, even if they aren’t for jobs. One thing that can help any interview is learning the typical questions that get asked and having a chance to formulate your answers ahead of time. While being quick to think on your feet is good, getting yourself ready puts you in your best light. An example is to think about your response to the question about your spotty work record. What have you been doing with yourself? Why so short a time on each of your jobs?
Another question they like to ask is “What is your biggest area of weakness?” or some variation. And my favorite - “Where do you see yourself in XX years?”
Any other questions she should be prepared for?
Great advice, guys! Thank you all!
Bill H. - Great idea, I’ll get the new-and-improved version later today and see what you think. Our resident Resume Goddess, Zette, worked her magic for me and the difference is like night and day.
Pun - D’oh! I hate it when that happens! Its like when people say,“Well, he’s never bitten anyone before now…”. Just when you think its safe…
Veb - Thanks for the vote of confidence. That someone would think that my experience looks ‘great’ makes me feel more positive.
Irishman - I think you are right. Its been years since I’ve had an interview and I’m pretty oxidized. And to be honest, I’ve never really been to an interview for anything other than a ‘laborer’ type job. So I’ve never had to answer the tricky questions. Well, I did have to state my opinion of Ralph Macchio in Karate Kid once, but…you understand.
Thank you all once again for taking the time to help me. For the record, I’ve already submitted Zette’s new ‘me’ for the library clerk position, but thoughts and advice are still welcome on it. I’ll more than likely be submitting it elsewhere, too.
I really don’t mind if I don’t get this particular position; I expect to be turned down a bit anyway.
And here it is. all thoughts appreciated.
I would clean it up a bit.
Work experience:
Sales Associate
Stop n Go October (dates on right margin)1991-August 1992
Lake Jackson,Tx
*Kept an organized and accurate cash drawer
*Assisted customers in a timely and courteous manner
*Inventory assistance ? Replaced depleted stock
*Kept an accurate log of gasoline deliveries
*Assisted in new employee training
*Ordered stock
*Closed store, ensuring a clean and secure facility
Nurses Aide (State Certified)
Woodlake Nursing Home (right margin)May 1990-June 1991
Lake Jackson,TX
*Assisted patients in the following areas: Personal hygiene, dressing, ambulating to and from dining and recreational areas, nutrition.
*Provided timely meal deliveries and feeding assistance when needed.
*Obtained lab samples
*Linen maintenance
*etc
I would also split “Interests/Special Skills” and add specific computer skills
Special skills
*Familiar with a variety of computer programs including Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, etc and I am eager to learn those with which I am not.
*Inquisitive, friendly, and enjoy working with others, but content to work alone or with little supervision.
*I am able to take direction and criticism well, and believe the best learning comes from constructive feedback.
*I am self-motivated and frequently complete tasks ahead of schedule
Intrests:
*I am a literature fan, and do a lot of reading
*volunteer work,
*etc
I also would avoid bolding and underling. The only reason for this is because since scanning resumes became common, folks just don’t do it any more.
It looks good though!
It’s looking good, 3Bunny! Just a few suggestions…
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for the library clerk position, stress the public contact aspects. List them first, and add something about meeting customer needs and resolving problems, if possible.
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“Literature fan” sounds a bit strange; you might just say you’re an avid reader. Literature connotes classics, etc. in libraries. A basic knowledge of established literature is great, but someone who reads current books knows the inventory, so to speak.
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can you spin the linen maintenance a bit? Sure, that’s the action but the fuction was carefully and dependably handling an unglamorous job that was still essential to the health and well-being of the patients. Hell, you could put it something like “quality assurance in hygenic linen supply” or something.
A lot of any job is boring scut-work. Employers look for people who don’t blow off necessary boring stuff, accepting that it IS necessary and part of the job.
Best of luck on this. Your background and experience are good! If you want any help with the interview stuff (they can be awful for all concerned!), give us a holler.
Veb