Getting Work

[UK2ATL 9]

Hey Guys,

I just wondered how you guys prepared your resumes and job applications when you first started applying for jobs in America?

I'm not sure how to go about it, my work in England was a Truck Driver but i have no interested in doing that here due to the amount of time your away from home. Should i just put all my jobs I've had in England?

What about check-able references and High School Diploma? We don't get high school diplomas in England, not at my school anyway.

I'm starting to freak out my wife is due to have our baby in just over a month and i need a job. I've applied for a lot but keep getting the "sorry we're going with other candidates" emails.

Was the best plan of action for someone new in the country.

Thanks

M

[jayne d 12]

Hi, there are some good example resumes on the internet that you can use to get you started. If you search for ones related to the type of work you are looking for - for example you could search for 'driver resume sample' if you were looking for a driving job. It took me a long time to find a position, there are so many people applying for each position advertised that it is quite hard to get noticed. I created a cover letter which I customised for each job I applied for, highlighting the areas that would make me stand out from the other candidates. You can also find good cover letter samples online.

With regards to your high school education, just put you UK high school qualifications - e.g. O level/GCSE/A level, College diploma etc. For references, I always just put References available on request at the end of the resume.

When putting down your previous employment, I put in the last 3-5 jobs in detail and then list the remaining briefly where I just put the Employer, from/to dates, position held and then sometimes one line that might say Responsible for........

Good luck with your job hunt and best wishes with the baby.