­Are you job- ready

Special to the Chronicle

Denise R. Willis

Denise R. Willis

Special to the Chronicle

Recently, a student asked me, “Just what do I have to do to get a job?” While this sounds like a simple question, the answer is not simple at all. In fact, the answer to that question is very complex.
 

The approach a person takes will differ depending on whether they have identified a specific job opening they wish to pursue. For the purpose of this article, let’s focus on the student who has identified a specific job
opening.
 

My first comment to students is they must get into the right frame of mind. The student must approach the job-getting process as a campaign and not just an event. The student must also realize there will be many people applying for any given position. Therefore, the student needs to appear to be the best person for the position, on paper as well as in person. With their attitude adjusted, let’s look at the actual process.
 

An obvious first step is to complete the employment application. When an employer asks you to complete an application, they mean just that. Answer all the questions and fill in all the blanks. And be truthful in your responses. If you are going to submit your résumé with the application, you need to customize your resumé to draw attention to your skills that relate to the job you are seeking. In explaining your work experience or training, you should be concise and use terminology associated with the occupation.
 

One method to demonstrate what you have learned, that an employer can relate to, is having the appropriate industry certification for your occupation. For example, at WTI, students in the Computer Systems Technology program can earn the A+ industry certification and in our Medical Administrative Specialist program, students have an opportunity to earn a Certified Medical Administrative certification. Each program at WTI has a corresponding industry certification or a license. Licensed occupations include practical nursing, patient care assistant, nursing assistant, early childhood education and cosmetology. This past school year more than 300 industry certifications were earned by students at WTI.
 

Prior to the interview,  applicants need to do their homework. This means doing some research on the company. Be knowledgeable about the products or services they provide. Doing your homework also means preparing for the interview by practicing answers to interview questions. There are many websites that have information on interview questions. At WTI, instruction in preparing for the employment campaign is part of every program. In addition, we invite potential employers to conduct seminars and workshops for students to sharpen their job-seeking skills.
 

For information about our programs, check out the website: www.wtionline.cc or contact Student Services at 352-726-2430 extension 4326.
 

Denise R. Willis is director of the Withlacoochee Technical Institute.