Miriam J asks:

What file format should I use when uploading my Resume to an online employment site?

Answer:
Read the job information carefully. Many times they will state what format they prefer. If you are pasting into an online form, use the Plain Text or ASCII format as it has no unique formatting that may cause your input to look misaligned. Many sites are now asking for an Adobe PDF (Portable Document Format) resume to be uploaded (you can save a Word 2010 document as a PDF in the save options or have a coach scan your current resume into PDF format in most centers.)

A.J. asks:

What do I put on an application that asks about criminal/felon records?

Answer:
The most important thing is to make sure that you are reading the question carefully, so that you are clear on exactly what they are asking you to provide. For instance, many applications will ask if you have ever been convicted of a crime (other than traffic) so, if you were arrested and acquitted, no need to include the details. Or, if it asks for any convictions for the last 10 years and you have been incarcerated for 25 years, again, no need to answer. The semantics really CAN make a difference. Be honest, but not in too much detail...if possible note that an explanation will be made at the time of the interview. During the interview, you will have an opportunity to accept responsibility and ensure that you have learned from your mistakes.

Note: A new law (AB218) just went into effect, July 1, 2014, which prohibits all state and local agencies from asking an applicant to disclose criminal conviction information until the agency has determined the applicant meets the minimum employment qualifications for the position. The bill is aimed at reducing barriers to employment for people who have previously offended and decreasing unemployment in communities with concentrated numbers of previous offenders.

Hailey W asks:

I have heard that many employers scan your resumes and that keywords are important, what does that mean?

Answer:
You heard correctly! Many resumes are scanned directly into a potential employee database. When a position becomes available, the database is searched for applicant resumes which might be a good match for the open position. The search criteria they use? The "keywords" that are related to the job skills needed for that open position.

Weave your keywords into your resume. For example, you could talk about your management skills in one of your summary statements. (“Skilled at contract negotiations, conflict resolution, benefits administration, and internal communications.”) Also, look for ways to make lists of your keywords under logical headings. For example, you could list your computer application skills and capabilities under a "Computer Skills" heading.

Bill S asks:

I am going to interview for a mechanic job, should I wear a suit and tie? Is there such a thing as being "overdressed"?

Answer:
Dress for an interview just a bit nicer than the current employees in that position. For a mechanic type job, clean and pressed collared shirt and pants would be appropriate (a tie would not be necessary). Shirt should always be tucked in and wear a belt that matches. If possible, shoes that hold a shine are recommended. If you aren't sure, do your best to find out before the interview (for instance, you could drive by the shop).

Tips For Dressing For An Interview:

Remember, it is better to be over dressed than under dressed. If you are interviewing for a job in business, banking and wealth management, politics, academia, or health sectors then you should dress business formal unless otherwise instructed. (This would be suit and tie, polished shoes, low key jewelry etc.) If the company you're interviewing for is not one of the sectors listed above, stick with business casual. If you don't have a good feel for the proper dress, remember this: You want that first impression to be not just a good one, but, a GREAT one!

Here are some things NOT to wear:

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