“Finding something important

in life does not mean that you

must give up everything else.”
- Paulo Coelho
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

p. 07 INTRODUCTION

CAREER EXPLORATION
p.09 career testimonials per degree program
p.10 career options per degree program

BEYOND JOB OPPURTUNITIES

p.13 job - personality compatibility
p.14 working culture
p.14 working preference
p.15 job security
p.15 job analysis

JOB HUNTING
p.17 resume making: dos and don’ts
p.18 application and cover letter
p.22 personal grooming
p.23 job interview: before, during, and after
p.25 evaluating job offers
p.28 pre-employment requirements
p.29 frequently asked questions

p.31 DATABASE OF COMPANIES

05
 INTRODUCTION

Definition of Job Searching

This career manual is divided into
five sections. First part deals with
career options you have after grad-
uation; second part deals with what
to know beyond job hunting and
job opportunities; third part deals
with the different job search skills
while the fourth part deals with ac-
tual strategies for a successful job
search process
and the last part is an overview of
company database.

“Career planning is a deliberate

process of knowing WHO we are
so that we can be sure of WHERE
we want to go or WHAT we want
to be at some defined point in the
future.”

“A career campaign is similar to

political campaign. To win, you
must have a plan of action to
sell your skills and abilities and
master the tools to promote
your campaign.”
- John Milton Dillard

07
 CAREER TESTIMONIALS

Cheska Teves Villanueva

AB-CAM
She currently works as a Freelance Line Producer, a Freelance Assistant Pro-
ducer, a Freelance Voice Talent, a Freelance Sound Technician, and as a UNITEL
Production Staff.

“Well our course basically helped me in such a way that I already knew the basics
of production and the history of it. So I knew already how some stuff worked. But
it was all just really the basics. Every production you encounter is different so the
rest you learn as you go along working.”

Gian Carlo E. Miranda

AB-POM, cum laude
“It is an eye opening and humbling experience for me when I first entered the
halls of La Salle, considering it as one of the most prestigious universities we have
in the country. I consider myself as very much privileged because not everyone
can acquire a world class high-edge education. Studying in De La Salle
University taught me a plethora of political principles and ideologies which I all
treasure. I have been exposed to various social issues that are hounding our
country, which made me more conscious and creative of thinking of solutions in
my own idiosyncratic ways.

La Salle has helped me to widen my sphere of influence and my social ties. This
developed me to become a “people person” which definitely helped me in deal-
ing with different people coming from all walks of life. Lastly, I may have been
equipped with the theories but my learning as a student of life is far more impor-
tant. I learned how to embrace uncertainties and the fact that certain circum-
stances are inevitable. I became more flexible and strong in dealing with the harsh
realities of life. I cannot see myself now without first thanking the University for
molding me as the best person that I can be today.”

Bianca Termulo
AB-ISE
“My college degree helped me with my job today. I took up the course AB-ISE.
The preparation that I had during my stay at DLSU-Manila has given me the tools
I need for the job I have today with Focus. The lessons that were taught to me
have prepared me to be an adequate worker among them especially since they
are an NGO. I was able to apply the theories and course that I took to help me.
When getting a job, it is better if you can apply the courses you took so that you
can easily apply your college experience.”

09
 CAREER OPTIONS PER DEGREE PROGRAM

Literature
o Professional work in arts or in any other fields requiring skills that
deal imaginatively and critically with language & literature.
o Publishing o Mass Media
o Advertising o Public Relations
o Foreign Service o Domestic Tourism
o Teaching

Behavioral Science, Major in Organizational & Social Systems Development

o Research and Evaluation, Program / Project Development,
Implementation, Monitoring, and Evaluation
o Teaching/ Academe o Change Management
o Human Resource Development o Training & Employee Development
o Customer Relations o Conflict Management
o Social Development Work o Recruitment & Placement

History
o Archivist/ Historian o Art Historian/ Educator
o Genealogical Service Specialist o Historical Museum Administrator
o Historical Project Coordinator o Historical/ Institutional Research
o Researcher o Teacher / Professor of History

International Studies
o International Organizations base in France, Spain, Japan & America
o Researcher o Teacher/ Professor
o UN Agencies o Academe

Philippine Mass Media

o Writer, Translator/ Editor in TV, Radio & Print, Advertising & Publicity
o Cultural officer and Media Practioner
o Cultural Attaché in different Embassies/ Country
o Teacher and Research in Academe
o Museum Administrator

Political Science
o Campaign Manager o Community Relations
o Foreign Service Officer o Government Intelligence
o Lawyer o Political Pollster
o Political Scientist o Public Administrator

Philosophy
o Others related to business, law, literacy, advertising, media, IT, and
performance arts
o Teaching o Researching
10
Organizational Communications
o Account Executive o Brand Assistant
o Corporate Communications Staff o Events Planner
o Graphic Artist / Designer o Market Researcher
o Public Relations Assistant o Research Analyst
o Training Assistant/Facilitator o Communications Manager
o Desktop Publisher o Product Manager

Communication Arts
o Creative Writer o Desktop Publisher
o Editor o Film / TV Director
o Freelance Writer o Publications Editor
o Radio-TV Commentator o Speech Writer
o Journalist o Magazine Editor
o Magazine Writer o Newscaster
o Newspaper Editor o Proofreader
o Sports Writer o Video Scriptwriter.

Development Studies
o Community Relations o Consumer Advocate
o Demographer o Foreign Service Officer
o Lawyer o Legislative Analyst
o Research Analyst o Public Administrator
o Urban Planner o Consultancy Firm
o Account Executive

AB-Psychology
o Career Counsel o Child Psychologist
o Employee Relations o Employment Recruiter
o Guidance Counselor o Human Resource Manager
o Press Relations o Psychiatrist
o Psychological Assessor o Public Relations Officer
o Teacher o Technical/Media Research

BS-Psychology
o Account Officer o Activity Director
o Admissions Market Analyst o Admissions Officer/Recruiter
o Admissions Public Relations o Counselor
o Advertising Media Specialist o Agency Representative
o Behavior Analyst o Circulation Manager
o College Admissions Rep o Consultant
o Counselor/Therapist o Customer Relations
o Director Of Human Services o Guidance Counselor
o Human Relations Director o Management Trainee
o Research Analyst/Planner o Retail Manager

Sports Management
o Fitness & sports-related personnel working for public organizations/
government offices & private companies
o Secondary & Tertiary P.E. teacher o Sports & Recreation Manager 11
o Sports Director / Leader o Athletic Consultant
 JOB - PERSONALITY COMPATIBILITY
The personality you possess would be one of the many factors that you
should consider when choosing a career. Keeping in mind that careers are
long term, you should make sure that the work environment you would work
in is adjacent to our personality and would not oppose your values.

Our personality should be considered when hunting for possible career op-
tions. According to Richard N. Bolles, there are classifications of work en-
vironment: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Con-
ventional. Satisfied people tend to have personalities that are parallel to their
work environment. There are no pure classifications though. The environ-
ment you are most likely to appreciate depends on the type of personality
you possess.

Realistic : Most people who have a high realistic theme tend to enjoy creat-
ing things with their hands and working with tools rather than working with
people and ideas.

Investigative : People with high investigative characteristics would most likely

appreciate the field of science. They would rather work alone than with other
people. They are idea-oriented and creative in scientific areas such as re-
search. They are analytical, abstract, intellectual and task-oriented.

Artistic : People in this category are most likely independent. They posses
great imaginations, are creative and unconventional. They enjoy the free-
dom to be original and are would prefer to work in unstructured envi ron-
ments. Forcing them to work in an environment with a lot of strict rules would
make them dissatisfied.

Social : These are people who are very sociable, popular and responsible.
They prefer social interaction and social presence. They are often interested
in the concerns of others and like activities that allow them to teach,
inform, train, develop, cure and help others.

Enterprising : People in this classification would enjoy a position in which

they would lead or convince others to achieve team/organizational goals or
economic gain. People in this theme are said to be enthusiastic, dominant
and impatient.

Conventional : People in this theme would like to work in environments which

has a firm structure and clearly defined roles. They are conscientious, ef-
ficient, and calm. They enjoy activities that involve precise, ordered use of
data, filing records, computing, and other clerical works.
13
 WORKING CULTURE / ENVIRONMENT

The work culture is the beliefs, customs, practices, and social behavior of a
particular department in an organization or the organization itself. It is some-
thing that you're going to live with for the rest of your stay in the company.

It would be best if you have an idea of the work culture in the company. Work-
ing in an organization would mean socializing with other people in the com-
pany. Read or ask around about the work culture in the company and the
department you would want to work in. Work cultures would affect future job
satisfaction.

WORKING CULTURE / ENVIRONMENT

i. Large Firms
Most large firms have various training programs. They would have more em-
ployee benefits and career path options. There are more managerial levels
and departments that you could move to, provided that you are qualified.
Large firms would also have more advanced technologies. They would be
highly specialized.

ii. Small Firms

Small firms may offer job opportunities with broader responsibilities. Also, ex-
pect more authority than when in large firms. Since the firm consists of fewer
employees,expect to work more closely with the top management. The size
of the firm would make you see your contributions to the success of the com-
pany.

iii. New Firms

Working in new firms may be risky. But seeing the company grow with you
as an employee may be a rewarding experience for risk-takers. Evaluate the
potential growth and rate of growth of the company to avoid hasty decisions.

iv. Established Firms

Firms that are well established are not as risky. Although, the job analysis, ca-
reer paths and career options would play a more crucial role. You can expect
people to be highly competitive. Either way, job security should always be
kept in mind.

14
 JOB SECURITY

House, life, and cars are being insured. So, why not insure your
job? Job insurance would not cost a cent. Nevertheless, it would
take time and patience. The following are steps in insuring a job.

1. Update your resume.

2. List down achievements, no matter how small they may seem at
the time.
3. Sharpen your skills and learn new skills.
4. Broaden contacts.
5. Always be prepared with an alternative career option.
6. Know more about the company. The more you know about the
company, the more you could contribute to it in times of company
adversities.
7. Keep in mind that "learning is a continuous process."

JOB ANALYSIS

Things to consider:
1. When analyzing a job offer, know whom you would report to and
how you are going to be supervised.
2. Will you be in constant supervision? Know the type of people you
would be working with.
3. Where is the job location and other possible locations that the
company has in case they offer transfer? Would it be easy for you to
commute to the area?
4. Will the size of the organization affect you?
5. How long would your shift be?
6. How long do people stay with the company?
7. Will the job make good use of your skills?

15
In looking for a job, you must send a one-page cover letter to the company’s
Recruitment Department with your resume attached.

RESUME MAKING: dos and dont’s

Definition
For your resume to be outstanding, first you must organize your information
under specific headings such as education, work experience, honors, skills
and activities.

Types
After organizing, decide on the proper format that can represent you best.
Here are the types of resumes that you can choose from:
Chronological Resume
The most conventional type of resume Career mile stones are presented
in reverse chronological order, starting with current or last position held.
This kind of resume is prefer because it is based on facts and is easily
digestible.

Functional Resume
This type of resume organizes work history into sec- tions that highlight
skills & accomplishments deemed most appropriate for the position.
Employers might encounter difficulties matching skills and accomplish-
ments to actual job titles, dates & responsibilties.

Combination Resume
The combination of the best features of chronological and functional
types. This kind of resume is not recommended because employers
may find these longer resumes particularly repetitious & confusing.

Electronic Resume
This kind of resume is sent thru e-mail, you don’t have to go to the com-
pany’s office because it is specially formatted for scanning and search-
ing by optical scanning systems. This is becoming increasingly popular
choice because it is fast, effective and convenient.
In writing your resume, you must have consistency at all times. Here are
some specific guidelines in writing an outstanding resume:
i. Arial, Times New Roman or Bookman are recommended. Use 11 or
12 points.
ii. Only black ink is allowed for printing.
iii. Margins should be 1 inch on all sides.
iv. Acronyms and abbreviations should be avoided.
17
 v. Dates should be complete and consistent.
vi. Use double space between headings of sections.
vii. The name and page number should be indicated at the upper left
corner in ever succeeding page. Name should be in all CAPS; no
spaces before the page number.

Content
Resumes are composed of:
1) Heading - Full name, address, telephone number, provincial address /
phone, cellular number, e-mail address
2) Education - Name of school, degree, term of education, academic
awards / recognition or school based awards (Include only
college and high school educational information.)
3) Work Experience - Inclusive year/s employed, job title, name of
organization, and results and accomplishments on the job.
4) Extra-Curricular Activities - Inclusive year/s of participation, position title,
name of organization, and results & accomplishments on the
job (Participation in school contest & competitions is included
in this portion.)
5) Research Papers Prepared - Year and title of paper. Papers related to
major subjects should be included. Those done in high
school and minor subjects may be omitted.
6) Seminars Attended / Conducted - Month and year, title of the seminar,
& name of sponsoring organization. (This portion can be split
into two sections as applicable.)
7) Personal Background - Date and place of birth, languages spoken,
computer skills, other special skills, hobbies, and interest
(optional), and three exceptional adjectives that describe you.
8) References - For general resumes, it is advisable to indicate “Available
upon Request”.

Remember to keep your resumé updated even upon acceptance to chosen job
opportunity. Take preventive actions just in case there are problems with your
career path in the chosen company.

APPLICATION AND COVER LETTER

This is a sample resume.

JUAN DELA CRUZ

567 Balagtas Street 2” x2” picture with
Makati City, Metro Manila 1200
white background
812-1533; 754-2569
h_r_santos@info.com.ph

18
JUAN DELA CRUZ
Page 2

OBJECTIVE To join an organization where I can use my skills and ex

pertise in personnel administration and attain a high level
of perfor mance in personnel recruitment and training.

EDUCATION

1999-2003 DE LA SALLE UNIVERSITY

Bachelor of Science degree in Commerce, Major in Business
Management, December, 1994. Dean’s List: 1st Term, SY 2001-
02; 2nd Term, SY 2001-02. Candidate for Cum Laude Awardee:
Ten Outstanding Students of Manila, 2003.

1996-1999 LA SALLE SANTIAGO ZOBEL HIGH SCHOOL

High School Diploma, March 1999. Honorable Mention. Awards:
Academic Excellence, 1998; Most Outstanding Student, 1998

WORK EXPERIENCE

May-August 2002 PRACTICUM TRAINEE, FEDERAL EXPRESS

Assisted Research and Development Supervisor in
gathering data on Market Research; handled incom
ing and outgoing correspondence of the R & D office.

April-May 2002 ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE, CITIBANK, N.A.

Handled the accounts of new customers and advised
them on their financial endeavors

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

2001-2002 PRODUCTION HEAD, DLSU-OFFICE OF CAREER

SERVICE
Redesigned & supervised the implementation of the Resume File
Service process; increased participation in Resume File Service
by 100% and company subscription by 50%.

2001-2002 RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT HEAD,

DLSU-COUNCIL OF STUDENT DEVELOPMENT (CSO)
Initiated the following projects: CSO budget defense proposal,
need analysis survey and CSO performance appraisal system.
Led the conceptualization, planning, and implementation of Shirt
fest Variety Show.

SEMINARS ATTENDED

July 2002 LEADERSHIP SEMINAR

Student Development Office, De La Salle University.

March 2002 EFFECTIVE PRESENTATION SKILLS SEMINAR

Student Development Office, De La Salle University.
JUAN DELA CRUZ
Page 3

SEMINARS CONDUCTED

August 2002 FACILITATOR, RELATIONSHIP SEMINAR

Student Development Office, De La Salle University.

RESEARCH PREPARED

March 2003 AN ORDERED PROBIT MODEL OF APPLICATIONS TO

DLSU’S BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS PROGRAM
Estimated a utility function that discusses the probabilities of high
school graduates to apply and study in DLSU, be offered admis
sion by DLSU and accepted DLSU’s offer.

PERSONAL BACKGROUND

Born on June 14, 1983 in Manila, Philippines. Fluent in English and Filipino.
Knowledgeable in Microsoft programs and Adobe Pagemaker. Interests: cross-
stitching, handicraft, enjoys desktop publishing. Adaptable, goal-oriented, quality-
oriented.

REFERENCES

Available upon request.

The second thing that you have to pass together with your resume is cover
letter.

Definition
A cover letter is what employers usually read before looking at your resume.
Its purpose is to influence a prospective employer to singling you out from
other job applicants and call you in for the interview. Therefore, your cover let-
ter should interest the reader to the point where he/she would want to know
more about you.

To have an effective cover letter, it should be well-focused and carefully com-

posedfor the position in which you are applying for. It should consist of not
more than one page; including the position your applying for, your objective for
the position, your long-range career objectives. It should also emphasize your
key qualifications to sell yourself to attract a specific employer for the specific
job in which you are interested, your purpose for seeking the position and you
knowledge about the company.

20
The basic pattern is to start with an attention-grabbing opening paragraph,
followed by a convincing summary of your qualifications. Wrap it up with a
request in the closing paragraph. Ask the employer to act on your applica-
tion by inviting you for an interview. Don’t forget to refer him/her to the en-
closed resume.

Common Format
The sample format of a cover letter can be seen below.

Remember: Of the many persons applying for the same position, an em-
ployer will usually call in for interviews those few whose application letters
stood out. Therefore, it is important for the job seeker to understand very
well the tricky alleys of effective written communication.

Your Street Address

City, Province, Zip Code
Date
Name of Employer, Title
His/Her Department
Company/Organization
Street Address City, Province, Zip Code

Dear Mr./Mrs./Ms./Dr.:

OPENING PARAGRAPH. State the position or type of work you are applying for.
Identify how you heard of the position, how you obtained the employer’s name, or how you
developed an interest in this particular company/organization, providing names with whom
you have spoken.

MIDDLE PARAGRAPH. Your goal is to indicate that you understand the require-
ments for the particular job in this organization and to demonstrate that you are a good
match for the position. Provide evidence to back up your claims by giving concrete examples
of your experience. State the reason why you are interested to work in their company. Spec-
ify your goals; concrete reasons for the type of work you desire; and how your education,
experiences, and other personal qualifications will support your capacity to succeed in the
work for which you are applying. Basically, you are emphasizing your key qualifications- sell-
ing yourself- elaborating on skills and background areas, which will attract a specific employ-
er for the specific work or job in which you are interested. THIRD PARAGRAPH. Use a third
paragraph if you need to describe additional skills and experiences that are related to the
position.

CLOSING PARAGRAPH. Your purpose is to get an interview. An appropriate

request can be made several ways: offer to call the firm on a specific date to arrange for an
interview; ask for an appointment during a particular period of time when you will be visiting
the city where the employer is located; offer some similar suggestions to facilitate an immedi-
ate and favorable reply. It is better to demonstrate initiative and active interest by contacting
the employer rather than asking him or her to contact you.

Sincerely yours/Very truly yours,

(always sign)
Your name

21
After submitting your resume together with your cover letter and application form,
the recruitment personnel will screen all the application forms. If yours shows po-
tential, the company will then invite you over for a job interview, a chance for you
to show the interviewer that you are the best person for the position. So make
most out of your interview and make sure that your impressive features and ex-
pertise are well presented. This would be a way for you to show how interested
you are in the job offer. This is also a way for you to emphasize on things written
on your resume that are worth reiterating. Take note that the interviewer will be
evaluating you based not only on your answers, skills and attitudes, but on your
appearance as well.

PERSONAL GROOMING

The purpose of the job interview for the employer is to find out your attitude
towards work and the job they have in mind for you. It would likewise be a
great way for you, the job seeker, to find out what the work environment in
the company is like.

In any job interview you must wear appropriate attire. Dressing to impress is
a crucial part in job search process. Appearance plays a crucial factor. Inter-
viewers look on the appearance of their interviewees because in dressing,
you can see if a person is well educated, responsible and dependable. Be
sure not to over-dress. You would not want to make the interviewers think
that you are going to replace their positions.

For Women
Suits - standard female business outfit in formal organizations in the Philip
pines is a three-piece suit (skirt, blouse, and blazer) in a lightweight
fabric. Colors such as dark nay or gray are recommended. The skirt
length should be between mid-calf and the bottom of the knee.
Blouses - White or ivory, solid color, or subtle stripped blouses with a modest
neck-line and long sleeves is suggested.
Shoes - should not be flat nor should the heels exceed 2-1/2 inches in height.
Makeup - less is more.
Accessories - avoid wearing any clothing, accessories or jewelry, which might
distract or draw attention to yourself rather than reinforcing your look
as professional.
Grooming - Women who have long hair should wear it fastened back from their
faces because it sends message of positive self-esteem.

For Men
Suits - standard female business outfit in formal organizations in the Philip
pines are dark formal pants, long-sleeved polo shirt and tie or short
sleeved barong. Recommended colors for the pants: dark blue, dark
gray, black or brown. A fresh graduate is not expected to wear a suit
for a job interview.
22
Shirts - White is still the safest and the best color to wear and other pastels
are also appropriate.
Ties - a silk tie with stripes, or a small print in a color that goes with the suit
is required.
Shoes - color should be brown or black polished leather and in good repair.
Socks - Depending on the outfit but recommended colors are black, dark
gray or dark blue. Make sure that socks are long enough. The skin
of your legs should not be seen when seated.
Jewelry - Only one ring per hand is allowed.
Grooming - facial hair is not recommended

For Everyone
o If you think you need a haircut or a trim, get one.
o Don’t place too much perfume or cologne.
o Take a shower in the morning and don’t forget to place deodorant.
o Polish shoes and press clothes the night before the interview.
o If you know you have sweaty palms, bring a handkerchief with a little baby
powder and cornstarch in it. Before the interview, go to the restroom and dry
your hands with it.
o Go to the interview alone.

BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER INTERVIEW

Before the Interview
You have to know more about the
company and the job you are apply-
ing for prior to the big day. Knowing
about the company before your job
interview is an advantage. The infor-
mation you have gathered may lead
you to a better perspective and show
you how to deal with questions that
they might asking you. Know your
strengths and weaknesses.
It is also important that you become
familiar with the various require-
ments of the job beforehand so you
can better relate your qualifications
to them. The Office of Counsel-
ing and Career Services (OCCS) in
DLSU may help you find the neces-
sary information that you’re looking
for. Write down questions you might
want to ask from the company. Most
of the time, the interviewer would
usually ask if there are any questions
you would want to ask. Review the
questions you would want to ask be-
fore going to the interview.
Make ready for frequently asked ques-
tions. Impress your potential employ-
ers by showing them how ready and
interested you are in the position. Also,
ensure that you have all the details you
need for your big day. Take note of the
exact place and the exact time of the
interview. Prepare a time allowance
incase of emergencies, traffic jam or
flat tire. Check out the location before-
hand or ask for clear directions so as
to avoid getting lost. Veer away from
any possible delays. The last thing you
would like your employers to have on
you is a bad impression.
23
During the Interview
Reminders:
1. Arrive before the time so you can rest and relax in the lobby before being
called for the interview.
2. Be courteous to everyone & try to initiate a conversation with an employee
to ask at least two questions: How long has he/she been with the com pany
& what he/she likes about it (the company).
3. Turn off your cellphone or put it in silent mode.

Upon entering the room, shake hands with the employer. Wait to be seated
and relax. Know that you have prepared for the interview. Remember to keep
your mind alert.

A job interview is your chance to show and promote who you are and what
you are food at, to show to the interviewer that you are the best choice. You
will perform two roles in an interview. First is that you will act as the intervie-
wee, where the company will try to find out if you have the qualifications and
personality they are looking for. Here are the areas where interviewer will try
to find out: personal characteristics, personal and family background, future
career plans, involvement in school activities, your knowledge and interests
about their company, and educational background. The second role is that
you will also act as interviewer, where you try to find out if you will like work-
ing with that company. Here are some questions you may ask: What are the
company benefits and other opportunities? When is the latest I can hear from
the company? Where would I fit in the organization?

During the interview, be polite. If you don’t know the answer to the question,
say it properly. If you did not hear the question very well or did not understand
the question, make sure to request the employer to kindly repeat the ques-
tion.

If during the interview, you get the job offer, this is the time you would have
the opportunity to be the interviewer. Do not immediately accept the offer and
give yourself adequate time to think. If you need days to think about the offer
tell the employer to give you a few days to consider.

Be alert to cues. Most interviews last between 20-30 minutes, and when the
interviewer glances at his watch, you know that time is almost up. You can
then quickly sum up your interest in the job briefly and stop talking.

A good way to end an interview is to ask the interviewer the following questions, the answers
to which will not be given to you unless you inquire about it:
(1) “Given my skills, experience and interests, would you consider me for this job?”
(2) “Would you want me to come back for another interview?” OR, “When may I expect to hear
from you?” AND THEN, ”What would be the latest date I can expect to hear from you?”

Do not forget to thank the employer before leaving the room/office.

24
After the Interview
After the interview you must be able to maintain a certain kind of dignity and
professionalism in dealing with the company. Don’t forget to write a thank-you
letter by fax, email, or by special delivery. Doing this makes you stand out from
most job applicants. If competition between you and another candidate is in-
tense, the thank-you note just might be the extra burst of effort that propels
you to victory. Avoid hyperbole and excessive enthusiasm.

Keep your note cordial, brief, and let the tone bespeak its having been written
from a cool remove. Thank the interviewer for inviting you to the interview. Say
that it was a pleasure to meet him or her. And then mention something you
learned during the interview and assure them of your continued interest in the
position - provided you are still at all interested.

A thank-you note shows that you have good people skills. Moreover, this let-
ter gives you an opportunity to correct any wrong impressions you may have
created during the interview.
Here’s an example.

Dear _______, Thank you very much for the interview today. In reviewing the opportunity
with [name of company], I am most eager to start. In closing, let me say that no matter
how many people you interview, what their education or experience is, you won't find
anyone who wants to work for you more than I do.

Very truly yours,

[your name]

You should have time to assess your performance so that you will know what
not to do on your next interview. Learn from your experience so that you will
do better on your next one. The company may contact you through tele-
phone, email and in the same manner you can follow up the status of your
application. If you are rejected, do not feel bad; there may be better career
opportunities for you in other organizations.

EVALUATING JOB OFFERS

Once you receive a job offer, you must decide if you want the job. Fortunately,
most organizations will give you a few days to accept or reject an offer.
There are many issues to consider when assessing a job offer. Will the orga-
nization be a good place to work? Will the job be interesting? Are there op-
portunities for advancement? Is the salary fair? Does the employer offer good
benefits? Now is the time to ask the potential employer about these issues—
and to do some checking on your own. The organization. Background infor-
mation on an organization can help you to decide whether it is a good place
for you to work.
25
 Factors to consider include the organization’s business or activity, financial
condition, age, size, and location. You generally can get background informa-
tion on an organization, particularly a large organization, on its Internet site or
by telephoning its public relations office. A public company’s annual report
to the stockholders tells about its corporate philosophy, history, products or
services, goals, and financial status. Most government agencies can furnish
reports that describe their programs and missions. Press releases, company
newsletters or magazines, and recruitment brochures also can be useful. Ask
the organization for any other items that might interest a prospective employ-
ee. If possible, speak to current or former employees of the organization.

Background information on the organization may be available at your public

or school library. If you cannot get an annual report, check the library for ref-
erence directories that may provide basic facts about the company, such as
earnings, products and services, and number of employees. Some directo-
ries widely available in libraries either in print or as online databases include:

Dun & Bradstreet’s Million Dollar Directory

Standard and Poor’s Register of Corporations
Mergent’s Industrial Review (formerly Moody’s Industrial Manual)
Thomas Register of American Manufacturers
Ward’s Business Directory

Stories about an organization in magazines and newspapers can tell a great

deal about its successes, failures, and plans for the future. You can identify
articles on a company by looking under its name in periodical or computerized
indexes in libraries, or by using one of the Internet’s search engines. However,
it probably will not be useful to look back more than 2 or 3 years.
During your research consider the following questions:
Does the organization’s How will the size of the organization affect you?
business or activity Large firms generally offer a greater variety of training programs and
match your own inter- career paths, more managerial levels for advancement, and better
ests and beliefs? employee benefits than do small firms. Large employers also may
It is easier to apply your-have more advanced technologies. However, many jobs in large
self to the work if you firms tend to be highly specialized. Jobs in small firms may offer
are enthusiastic about broader authority and responsibility, a closer working relationship
what the organization with top management, and a chance to clearly see your contribu-
does. tion to the success of the organization.
Should you work for a relatively new organization or one that is well established?
New businesses have a high failure rate, but for many people, the excitement of helping to
create a company and the potential for sharing in its success more than offset the risk of job
loss. However, it may be just as exciting and rewarding to work for a young firm that already
has a foothold on success.
The job. Even if everything else about the job is attractive, you will be un-
happy if you dislike the day-to-day work. Determining in advance whether you
will like the work may be difficult. However, the more you find out about the
job before accepting or rejecting the offer, the more likely you are to make the
right choice. 26
Consider the following questions:
Where is the job located? What will the hours be?
If the job is in another section of the country, you Most jobs involve regular hours—
need to consider the cost of living, the availability for example, 40 hours a week,
of housing and transportation, and the quality of during the day, Monday through
educational and recreational facilities in that sec- Friday. Other jobs require night,
tion of the country. Even if the job location is in weekend, or holiday work. In ad-
your area, you should consider the time and ex- dition, some jobs routinely require
pense of commuting. overtime to meet deadlines or
sales or production goals, or to
Does the work match your interests and make better serve customers. Consider
good use of your skills? the effect that the work hours will
The duties and responsibilities of the job should have on your personal life.
be explained in enough detail to answer this ques-
tion. How long do most people who
enter this job stay with the com-
How important is the job to the company or orga- pany?
nization? High turnover can mean dissatis-
An explanation of where you fit in the organization faction with the nature of the work
and how you are supposed to contribute to its or something else about the job.
overall goals should give you an idea of the job’s
importance.
Opportunities offered by employers. A good job offers you opportunities to learn
new skills, increase your earnings, and rise to positions of greater authority,
responsibility, and prestige. A lack of opportunities can dampen interest in the
work and result in frustration and boredom.

The company should have a training plan for you. What valuable new skills
does the company plan to teach you?

The employer should give you some idea of promotion possibilities within the
organization. What is the next step on the career ladder? If you have to wait
for a job to become vacant before you can be promoted, how long does this
usually take? When opportunities for advancement do arise, will you compete
with applicants from outside the company? Can you apply for jobs for which
you qualify elsewhere within the organization, or is mobility within the firm lim-
ited?

Salaries and benefits. When an employer makes a job offer, information about
earnings and benefits are usually included. You will want to research to de-
termine if the offer is fair. If you choose to negotiate for higher pay and better
benefits, objective research will help you strengthen your case.

To get an idea about average job compensations, try visiting jobstreet.com

and cbsalary.com. You would know more about national averages and get to
compare the results for your local region. It is amazing to know how helpful
these sites could be.
27
 PRE-EMPLOYEMENT REQUIREMENTS

You may be wondering where you can acquire various requirements that you
need in your quest for a good job. Below are some bits of information that
might come in handy.

Social Security System

SSS Membership Inquiry - https://sss-online.sss.gov.ph/sss/controller
SSS Number Application - http://www.gov.ph/faqs/socialsecurity.asp
** Our school’s OCCS (Office of Counseling and Career Services) makes
it a step easier for us, Lasallians. Drop by their job expo site (usually at the
Yuchengco lobby) and visit the SSS booth.

NBI Clearance
NBI Clearance - First Time Application - http://www.nbi.doj.gov.ph/clear-
ance. html
NBI Clearance - Renewal Application - http://www.nbi.doj.gov.ph/kiosk_
proce dure.html
NBI - Locations - http://www.nbi.doj.gov.ph/locations.html
NBI - Renewal Kiosk Locations - http://www.nbi.doj.gov.ph/kiosk_proce-
dure.html
** Main office address: NBI Building, Taft Avenue, Manila.
** You can get your clearance in Carriedo, Quiapo.

TIN (Tax Identification Number)

TIN Number Application - http://www.bir.gov.ph/reginfo/regtin.htm
TIN Registration Update - http://www.bir.gov.ph/reginfo/regriu.htm
** Don’t worry about this too much. Your TIN Number is usually given by your
first employer.

Driver's License (LTO)

Application of Drivers License - http://www.gov.ph/faqs/driverslicense.asp

Other possible requirements:

- Photocopy of SSS id or SSS E1 or E4 form
- Accomplished 1902 and/or 1905 form from BIR
- Medical Exam Results
- Certification of Employment from previous employer
- School Diploma or Transcript of Records
- 6 pcs. of 1x1 picture
- Photocopy of 2 valid IDs
- Photocopy of Birth Certificate
- Photocopy of Marriage Certificate 28

It’s good to have your guns ready before engaging yourself into battle. Here
are some of the questions usually asked during interviews. Read through it
and have your own answers prepared beforehand.
1. Tell me about yourself.
Tell very briefly who you are, where you
were born and raised, family background,
hobbies and talents and kind of work you
have enjoyed the most to date. Then focus
on your suitability for the job position you
are applying for.
Most interviewers will also be listening for
signs that you are a person who can relate
well with people, at all levels. They, too, will
be checking if you have a good attitude,
integrity and loyalty to the organization.
2. What are your strengths? Do
you have outstanding skills?
Do not repeat key competencies you have
mentioned in your resume. Think of a talent
or outstanding skills you have that are relat-
ed to the job position you are applying for.
3. What are your major weak-
nesses?
This is a difficult question but it is always
asked. You have limitations just like every-
one else but you are open to feedback from
others so that you constantly improve your-
self and your work. If you tell them about
your temper and impatience with people
who don’t do their share of work, or your
tendency to procrastinate, you will be clos-
ing the door on you. When you tell a weak-
ness, make sure you mention the strength
connected with it or stress its positive as-
pect.
4. What is your career goal? What
do you expect to be doing in 5
years? In 10 years?
Because you are applying for a corporate
job, whether private or government, you
must research on the career path of your
If the interviewer asks a difficult question that you can’t answer immediately,
ask him/her to repeat the question again, to qualify or to explain it.
FAQs
job position. Career path may either be man-
agement or professional/technical. Manage-
ment path is characterized by steady increase
in responsibility and authority over people,
budget and other resources. A professional/
technical path is characterized by increasing
use of knowledge and skills in a functional area
to solve problems and develop products and
services.
5. What kind of job are you looking
for? Why?
You must know what career is suited for you
and determine if the job you are applying for is
in that career. Make a research on the job posi-
tion you are applying for.
6. Why are you applying in our com-
pany? What do you know about it?
Do research on the company you are applying
to. Read and learn about it, know its products
and services, look at its products, know its
competitors and the industry it
is in. Go online; look at the company’s website.
7. How do you manage stress in
your daily work?
The usual ways with dealing with stress is flight
(get away from it/avoid/deny it) or fight (hostile
and aggressive behavior directed at the source
or a convenient “scapegoat”). Neither is cor-
rect. The correct way is to deal directly with the
situation calmly.
There may be other questions that will be
asked during the interview which shows that
the interviewer is interested in your answers
and the way you answer them. This is a good
sign.
29
 DATABASE

The challenge of job-hunting does not stop when you leave the interviewer’s
office. Like thank-you letters, follow-up calls can provide that extra thrust
over the job wall in some cases.

However, it's a good idea to assess the situation before you call. Calling can
make you look overeager and can, if overdone, turn off prospective employ-
ers. The last thing you want is for a clumsy follow-up call to dash a favorable
impression of you. To wit: ONE call, e-mail or letter to follow up is just fine. If
it's been two weeks, follow up again. That's it. Pestering your interviewer can
earn you a hasty journey into the garbage can or trash file.

On the other hand, a well-placed follow-up call or letter can give you an op-
portunityto state an idea you failed to mention in the interview, to position
your name in their memories, to demonstrate perseverance, and to separate
yourself from the majority of candidates who don't follow up.

Here's one warning. As tempting as it may be, don't call to check up on a

resume you've sent - and then start quizzing the person on the other end
of the phone (or e-mail) about the position and necessary qualifications. Ea-
ger's fine, but desperate is a turn-off.

So, before picking the up phone and doing a follow-up on your interview,
read the following:
Things You’ll Need: 1 telephone, 1 notepad, and 1 pen
Time to Make the Call
Step1 : Sit down with a notepad and pen about a week after the job interview to make
the follow up call. Having a notepad on hand will help you take any notes that will
come up on your follow up call.
Step2 : Dial the place that you interviewed with and ask to speak to the person you
interviewed with to make your follow up call.
Step3 : Tell the interviewer who you are and when you had sat down with her for the
interview. This will refresh her mind as to whom she is speaking for this follow up call.
Step4 : Ask the interviewer about the status of the position that you had interviewed
for. If the position is still open ask if you are still being considered.
Step5 : End the follow up call after your job interview with telling the interviewer that
you are still interested and look forward to hearing from her in the future.
NOTE: The database are on the compiled sheets of paper accompanying this manual.
Please make use of the database wisely.

31
“The purpose of life, after all, is to
live it, to taste experience to the
utmost, to reach out eagerly and
without fear for newer and richer
experiences.”
- Eleanor Roosevelt

REFERENCES

Books
Santamaria, Josefina. Career Planning Workbook. Makati: Career Systems,
Inc., 2006.
Student Personnel Services, De La Salle University - Manila. Orient2 Pro-
gram Manual. Manila: Office of Career Services and Lasallian Pastoral Office,
2003.

Web Sites
CityJobs.com. Apr. 2007. 30 July 2008. <http://www.ctjobs.com/get-a-job/
career-
resources/2/18.html>

E-how. Aug. 1999. 30 July 2008. <http://www.ehow.com/how_2313151_

make-follow-up-call-after.html?ref=fuel&utm_source=yahoo&utm_
medium=ssp&utm_campaign=yssp_art>

Quintessential Careers. May 2003. 30 July 2008. <http://www.quintcareers.

com/job_interview_follow-up.html>