• Fill out your profile completely. Proofread for accuracy of information, spelling, grammar and punctuation. These things really do matter!
• Keep your profile up to date.
• Don’t limit yourself in your search. For example, computer skills are transferable and customer-service skills usually are not specific to one type of work.
• Provide as much information as possible for the employer to make a decision. You don’t want the hiring manager to be confused about the information on your profile or how it relates to the job for which you are applying.
• If you’ve had a job before, match your skills and experience to those the employer is seeking. Look for key words – e.g., “computer experience” or “people skills” – in the job description and make sure you address them in your profile.
• If you’ve never had a job before, don’t worry. Your positive attitude, enthusiasm and willingness to work hard are noticed by employers. And be sure to mention any school clubs, volunteer work or other experience you have in which you learned skills that can be used in the workplace.
• In your descriptions, use action words like “led,” “created” and “wrote.”
• Use the profile and interview as an opportunity to practice. Nobody gets everything right the first time. Just stay positive and focus on describing the qualities that would make you a good employee.
• Dress appropriately for an interview. Smile, make eye contact, use good manners and answer questions directly.

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