Parachute 2011 Chapter 3-4

 
Summary

     Chapter three details the ups and downs one encounters when job hunting. The first part of the chapter deals with rejection shock. The reality is when job hunting, you will hear several no’s before you finally receive the “yes” you’ve been looking for. Bolles details the best and worst method to use when searching for jobs. I was a little shocked to see the internet as one of the worst ways to look for jobs, But after further research, it makes perfect sense, because of the large amount of people that utilize this method. The internet is very impersonal and provides few options that allow you to stand out above the rest. You will have to depend on shear luck that your resume gets picked out the bunch. One of the best ways to land a job, and my personal favorite, is your social network. I feel the best way to gain an edge on landing a job is by knowing someone on the inside who can help push your resume to the top of the pile.


     Chapter four focuses on the preparation needed before going on a job interview. The chapter focuses on the dos and don'ts of job interviewing. One major point that Bolles emphasizes is the importance of a thank you letter after every interview. Whether the interview went well or not one should always write a thank you letter afterward. Leaving a good impression always provides opportunity in the future. The next topic Bolles expands on is the developing and strengthening of your social skills. His main focus is becoming comfortable with talking to people about your passion. In order to become a successful interviewer you have to become a good talker and be able express your passion in a confident and concise manner.


Exercise Reaction

     The exercise found in chapter 4 begins by creating a "Can't do" and "Can do list" that requires you choose from a large list of skills descriptions and then asks the reader to place each skill in the appropriate column. Once done with your list, you are asked to choose your top five skills and give examples of how you used these skills in the past. I feel this exercise is great for resume building, it allows  you to reflect on what you do best and prepares you with the tools needed in order to elaborate.