by cjxpadmin | Aug 22, 2012 | Job Club Heart of Texas, Job Search
The Grammar Income Test
UNIVERSITY OF MOTTSBURGH OCCUPATIONAL INVENTORY OF GRAMMATICAL KNOWLEDGE
As demonstrated in the research of Dr. Edward McCormick, an individual’s habits of grammar correlate with her or his income. Test results indicate that one can predict with 80 percent accuracy the income of an individual based on his answers to the questions below. Use this quiz to see what income level your grammatical patterns place you.
Instructions: Mark each sentence as C if it is grammatically correct, I if it is incorrect, or ? if you are uncertain. Wrong answers count as a minus two. A question mark, indicating you are uncertain, only counts as a minus one. Keep in mind that errors may be of any variety: spelling, punctuation, capitalization, or usage.
- 1Her choice will strongly effect the outcome.
- We have alot of work to do.
- Mottsburgh is a busy industrial city, thousands of cars and trucks move through it every day.
- “I suppose”, she remarked “that success comes only with time.”
- The company should receive the package tomorrow.
- Its impressive to hear what she has done.
- She was late, however, she did make the presentation.
- Give the book to whom?
- When the ship arrives we can begin the journey.
- We rafted down the grand mountain river.
- The name of the book was “Outbreak.”
- There were four in the group: Ann, Jim, Theo, and Amanda.
- He sings good.
- You shouldn’t lie on the wet grass.
- He paid all the interest on the principal.
- I wish to go irregardless of his decision.
- He doesn’t know history very well. As you can see from his answers in class.
- He imagined that Hawking would have all the answers but he just posed more questions.
- Spiraling in the Andromeda Galaxy, Dr. Vilhelm insists that there is alien life on the Andromeda planet called Lanulos.
- We packed all of our luggage, then we were on our way to the airport.
For your scoring to this test, please check here tomorrow. For results showing the effect of your salary, refer to the article “Grammar Test” in the September Issue of CampusJobXpress.com.
- How well did you do?
- How well do you think you did?
- Do you feel you need assistance with your grammar?
- How important do you feel grammar is to your salary earning capacity?
*From Noden H. (1999). Image grammar: Using Grammatical structures to teach writing (pp. 195-196) Portsmouth, N.H: Heinemann.
Please DO NOT post your answers or corrections to these sentences.
SCORING Answer Key:
1. I 2. I, 3. I, 4. I, 5. C, 6. I, 7. I, 8. C, 9. I, 10. I, 11. I, 12. C, 13. I, 14. C, 15. C, 16. I, 17. I, 18. I, 19. I, 20. I.
For the projected salary that goes with your score, check out the article, Grammar Test, in the upcoming September issue of CampusJobXpress.com.
by cjxpadmin | Aug 15, 2012 | Job Club Heart of Texas, Job Search
What IS the big idea, we ask. So far Job Club has been a hit, but we want Opinions. What do you think would improve Job Club? What would you like to see added or talked about. Tell us Your Big Idea.
Just another serious reminder, many of you are not making at least one comment. This comment is critical as it documents you as participating in Job Club. You must say something in job club to be marked as present. Your participation in job club is one job search!
We welcome your comments.
Rachel Rudd Job Placement Specialist Campusjobxpress.com
by cjxpadmin | Aug 8, 2012 | Job Club Heart of Texas, Job Search
We have asked everyone to be ready to do a one minute presentation on the ultimate interview question: “Tell me about yourself”. Everyone assumed they were ready to do that, but after hearing some individuals this is not the case. All answers to every question should always be work related and kept positive. The below questions are major examples as to what employers normally ask during an interview. How would you answer some of these?
- Tell me about yourself.
- What is your greatest strength?
- Can you describe a situation in your past where you learned from a mistake?
- What is the most difficult situation you have ever faced?
- Is there anything you would like to improve about yourself?
- What is the most important thing you are looking for in a job?
- What are your career goals?
- What motivates you?
- Why would you like to work for us?
- Why should I hire you?
by cjxpadmin | Jul 31, 2012 | August 2012 Magazine, Job Search
Ten Hints For Writing A Great Cover Letter
From time to time, it becomes necessary for you to pull out your legal pad or notebook and sharpen up your rusty pencil to produce a much needed cover letter. Sometimes, it helps to write it out in long hand and then transfer it to your computer. Many great authors write this way.
You’ve seen that perfect job you know you are so right for and you want to let that employer know that you exist. You are here, ready for them to hire and place in that made-for-you position. That’s why you need to hone your writing skills and write your cover letter. This is a time for you to introduce yourself and let that employer know a lot more about you and your abilities, skills and experience.
So, pick up that pencil and keep these following hints in mind while you write.
- Each letter should be an original; no photocopies, please.
Plain and simple, no copies. It lets the employer know that you are dedicated to producing a quality product.
- Address the employer by name and title. Research names online or call the company directly.
With the ease of technology, it is so easy today to find this type of information on the internet. It is also helpful to know a little something about the company.
- Your first sentence should capture the attention of the employer. Refer to a mutual friend who referred you for the position. If there is no referral, then start with “Having graduated tenth in my class in the field of Elementary Education, I feel I am the perfect candidate for your position of Coordinator of Children’s Programming with your company.” You want the employer to consider you the right fit. He/she may receive hundreds of cover letters. You need to create enough interest in your opening sentence which will compel the employer to continue reading.
Make your impact on the employer about why you are writing within your first sentence. Let him/her know that you learned of this position with the company and your interest in it.
- Make your cover letter concise. A cover letter should be one page with three to six paragraphs.
Your letter should be no less than three paragraphs and no more than six. Don’t make your paragraphs very long either. Keep your letter as concise as you can but deliver your message as best you can.
- The body of your letter should highlight your experience and accomplishments. Focus on the needs of the employer. You want them to believe that hiring you will mean improved services, innovative ideas, greater efficiency or increased productivity.
Include your work experience and accomplishments in this area. Make sure your skills and abilities match those of the employer.
- Your letter should ask for an interview. State how you plant to follow up with the employer.
Make sure that you let the employer know that you are at their disposal. Let him/her know that you are flexible and can accommodate their time requirements. If you state that you are going to follow up, do it! This lets the employer know that you keep your word and you are reliable.
- Your closing should briefly summarize the body of the letter. Leave the reader with an important thought to remember you by.
This could be something as simple as expressing how much a part of their company you would like to be.
- Check and re-check your letter for errors. Look closely for mistakes in grammar, punctuation and especially spelling. Have someone else proof-read and critique it for you.
Very Important! Error-free please! Also, check your grammar.
- Select quality bond paper for your final copy. The paper you select should coordinate with the paper you use for your resume. Also, use a letter-quality or laser printer and black ink.
Your letter needs to look very professional and neat.
- Fold and mail your cover letter and your resume in a matching envelope.
Don’t fold and re-fold and have any creases other than the necessary two folds to your letter. Also neatly address your envelope, if not typed.
Sample Cover Letter
123 Main Street
Anytown, Texas 78888
(DATE)
Ms. Mary Boss
(TITLE, if known)
123 Business Drive
Anytown, Texas 78888
Dear Ms. Boss:
In the 1st Paragraph, indicate the reason for writing, the specific position for which you are applying and if there is a position opening, the source from which you learned of the job and the date it was posted. If you are inquiring about jobs in general and no opening was advertised, indicate your interest in career opportunities in your field.
I am writing to inquire about your position of Telemarketer listed on your website yesterday. I would like to apply for this position with your company.
In the 2nd Paragraph, mention why you are interested in the position or organization and its products or services. Talk about your related academic or work background as it pertains to the position you are applying. Bring attention to your qualifications, work experience and specific achievements. Mention other things that are not on your resume.
I have ten years experience in the telemarketing field. I have undergone a multitude of training programs with relation to customer service and have a vast knowledge of telemarking techniques. During the past ten years, I have accumulated several awards, certificates and plaques honoring my telemarketing abilities and accomplishments. I will call your office within the week to find out if an interview can be arranged.
In the Final Paragraph, refer the employer to your enclosed resume. You may also mention how an employer can obtain your references or credentials. Mention that you would like to have a personal interview, at their convenience. Indicate your flexibility as to time and location. Re-state your interest and eagerness to meet personally to further discuss the position. Be sure to include your telephone number and mention that you will be calling within 7 to 10 days to inquire about a possible interview. If you indicate that you will call, follow through! Thank the employer for taking time out of his/her busy schedule to read your letter and resume.
Please accept my enclosed resume and it is with great anticipation that I welcome the opportunity to personally discuss my qualifications with you, at your convenience. I am available any time. Please contact me at (317) 555-5555. Again, let me express my anticipation at learning more about your position and the possibility of working for your company. Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to review my resume. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Veronica Anderson
NOTE: Make every effort to get a specific name. If you absolutely cannot, address your letter to the correct department. If you are unable to get a specific name, do not use “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern.” Instead use something like “Dear Employer” or “Director of Human Resources.”
Thank You Letter
The following sample is provided for you to get an idea of how to write the letter to the employer to let him/her know that you appreciate the fact that they met with you. It should be very simple. All you are doing is acknowledging the fact that you are courteous and appreciative of the opportunity to meet with someone regarding a position that meets your qualifications and needs.
Again, keep in mind to use good grammar, check your punctuation and definitely check your spelling. Also, ask someone to review and critique your letter for you. It always helps to have someone else look over your shoulder and possibly, give you some pointers on how your letter can look better or be more effective.
Hope this helps you in your job search efforts. Good Luck!
Sample Thank You Letter
123 Main Street
Anytown, Texas 78888
(DATE)
Ms. Mary Boss
(TITLE, if known)
(COMANY NAME, if known)
123 Business Drive
Anytown, Texas 78888
Dear Ms. Boss:
Thank you for the opportunity to meet with you and discuss the possibility of employment with your firm.
I appreciate all the helpful information you have given me and i welcome the opportunity to put it to use and apply my own experience and techniques in the position of Telemarketer. The firm’s growth and future plans falls right in line with my goals and objectives. I would find it intriguing to be part of such a company.
My references are available and can be contacted at your leisure. Should I be able to provide yo with any further information or if I can answer any other questions for you, please do not hesitate to contact me at (317) 555-5555. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Thank you again for your graciousness and hospitality.
Sincerely,
Veronica Anderson
NOTE: Your Thank You Letter does not need to be very long. You are simply thanking the person who interviewed you for the opportunity to acquire a position at their company. Assure them that they can contact your references whenever they wish and be sure to list your telephone number again. If they wish to call you right away, your number is at their fingertips; they donʼt even have to look it up.
It is also correct to use a simple Thank You Notecard. You can still state the above-referenced comments and get the point across.
by Melvin | Jul 25, 2012 | Job Club Heart of Texas, Job Search
In talking to many of you, lots of resumes are being sent out with out much success. This may be due to your resume not giving the right information or format.
A resume should be clear and easy to read. Objectives are not necessary.
If you have many jobs over a short period of time, change your resume to a functional resume.
If you have not loaded your resume to Campusjobxpress, please do so. We can not consider you for any job with your resume and profile.
Rachel has already begun the search for employers and we have jobs that may have to be filled before the job fair
The Following is Our Sample Resume. Please Review:
NAME
123 Harris Drive • Anytown, Texas 76701 • Tel: (254) 444-4444
E-Mail: myname@yahoo.com
SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS
• Over 20 years of responsible work experience
• Experience operating and repairing forklifts
• Good Interpersonal and Communication Skills
• Quick learner and committed to quality work
• Dependable, safety-conscious and self-motivated
• Work well individually as well as part of a team
EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
STEWART & STEWART, LLC Anytown, Texas
Mechanic
Duties: Responsible for servicing and maintaining forklifts for a local company.
• Repaired all makes and models of forklifts and drove field service van to sites
• Maintained service checklist and accounted for repair parts.
Field Service Mechanic
Duties: Responsibilities involved performing various duties for forklift operation company.
• Repaired forklifts on site and inspected forklifts to diagnose defects or problems
• Disassembled and re-assembled heavy equipment utilizing hoists and hand tools
• Immersed parts in tanks of solvent or sprayed parts with grease solvent to clean parts.
WORLD WIDE TRUCKS Anytown, Texas
Field Service Technician
Duties: Responsible for repairing forklifts for a large local company.
• Repaired forklifts after diagnosing mechanical problems
• Examined parts for damage utilizing micrometers and gauges
• Tested forklifts to ensure operation was safe and efficient
• Disassembled equipment, cleaned parts, repaired parts and re-assembled for efficient use.
UNITED STATES ARMY RESERVE
USAR Mechanic
Duties: Responsibilities involved performing mechanic operations on all types of construction
equipment while serving in the military.
UNITED STATES ARMY RESERVE
USAR Mechanic/Supply
Duties: Responsible for implementing mechanic practices learned as a reserve mechanic.
• Repaired generators and compressors as well as trucks and engineer equipment
• Repaired small motor vehicles such as jeeps and trailers.
UNITED STATES ARMY RESERVE
Motor Sergeant
Duties: Responsibilities involved basic running for the Mechanic Office for the USAR.
• Loaded testers, amp probes, radiator testers and fuel pressure gauges
• Diagnosed electrical systems and handled man hour accounting.
UNITED STATES ARMY RESERVE
Motor Officer (Management)
Duties: Responsible for Mechanical Division for the USAR.
• Monitored work done by Motor Sergeants and organized work for USAR Mechanic
EDUCATION
ANYTOWN HIGH SCHOOL GED Anytown, Texas
SKILLS
• Computer (Microsoft Word, Excel)
• Office Equipment (10-Key Calculator)
• Forklift Operation Skills (20 Years)
• Welding Equipment
• Air Conditioning Installment (Auto, Home, Commercial)
• Carpentry, Electrician and Plumbing Skills (3 Years)
• Mechanic Skills (30 Years)
• Sheetmetal Work (8 Years)
• Sheetmetal and Welding Layout (5 Years)
• Maintenance and Personnel Management (8 Years)
• Truck Driving Skills (6 Years)
TRAINING
Motorcycle, Class C, Texas (with Endorsement P-Passenger)
Forklift Operator Training
CERTIFICATIONS
Certificate, Forklift Operator
References furnished upon request
by cjxpadmin | May 1, 2012 | Job Search, May 2012 Magazine, This Issue's FEATURE, Uncategorized
INITIATIVE
What is the definition of initiative? Well, when you’re talking about a personal nature such as social settings, it would be an introductory act or step, leading action, such as it would take initiative to make friends. In other settings, it could mean readiness and ability in initiating action, something enterprising or adventurous. Now when you are talking about your own personal self, 
you would take responsibility, make a decision or bottom line, to act on one’s own initiative. Well, that’s what Webster says.
Take the Initiative. In life, you will never feel the exhilaration of doing something fun or adventurous or maybe even a little dangerous. Do you dare? Sometimes, you have to take the initiative to go beyond what you feel is safe. Why do we do this? Because it’s life guys, okay? There are many things out there that maybe haven’t touched your life yet, but you will never know this if you don’t take the initiative.
Initiative at Work. The same holds true in your work and your career. If you are working somewhere in an entry level position and a position comes up that could help you move up the ladder, so to speak, would you apply for it? Well, who wouldn’t, right? 
Sure, but you need to take the initiative to make that happen. I will tell you a story about a good friend of mine who was in this very same situation. He has been working at the same entry level position at this big corporation for over a year. He is a very hard worker and a very conscientious person, but yet, he is still in that entry level position. So what did he do? He took the initiative. He saw his chance to do something different in his everyday process of working, so he spoke up about how something could be done differently. His supervisor took notice and has now asked him to apply for an upcoming position with the company, not as a temporary worker which he currently is, but as a permanent employee — with benefits! YAY! That’s a good feeling. And this all came about because he took the initiative.
So, when on your job, taking the initiative simply means that you will go beyond your job title or duties to get something done. On any job, as you grow in the job and as you gain more experience and know-how, higher-ups expect you to show initiative. They want you to be able to be more flexible, have answers to
problems or even initiate a new procedure to save time or money, like my friend did on his job.
Here are a few tips for you to show initiative:
- Always keep yourself busy. When you have completed your duties, find something else to do to make the job situation better. Take on extra duties if you can.
- Establish a good rapport with your supervisor and with his superiors.
- Think up ways to improve your work environment.
- If you see something that is being done wrong or inefficiently, bring a suggestion forward.
- Volunteer to help with work-related committees or company fundraisers.
- Always, always keep your mind open to change.
So, look around you. What change can you make? In anything? Home, school, work, personal, anything? Just set your mind to something you want to change and make it happen. It’s in your control.
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