March 3, 2014 guest speaker Maired Togneri visited the school to inform students about how to prepare properly for getting a job. At 2:00 p.m., in room F106, a few students walked in and took their seats. Tongneri passed out an “Education, Training and Work” packet as well as a print out of her PowerPoint. In her presentation she explained the importance of preparation, organization, and execution. Tongneri offered the following advice:

When preparing a resume one should research the company you wish to go into – this will help you get an understanding of what exactly they are looking for in their employees. If you are still in school during the job search, take note that the skills you have now may develop and you will gain new skills. The best way to impress the employer: try to develop skills critical to the job you want to do. Knowing what you want to do will help you figure out the skills you need. One way to keep you focus on your dream job is creating a job objective, a statement that defines what kind of a job you want.

Organization is a high priority in getting ready for a job interview. Having your information and yourself organized shows the interviewer you are responsible. Before the interview, practice answering questions they might ask you with a partner or in the mirror. Always make sure you’re on time, do a test drive to make sure you know how long it takes to get there. Rereading your portfolio and resume will help catch any mistakes you might have made.

Once at the interview make sure to talk slowly and clearly. Before answering any question take a few seconds to think it over then answer truthfully. During the interview smile and be interested in what they have to say. If you act like you don’t care they will not want to hire you. The last important tip is to dress professionally; this is your only chance to sell yourself.

After Togneri warped up her presentation she passed out a practice job application for the students to try and help familiarize themselves with what is expected for the application. She then concluded the workshop and wished the group good luck on the job hunt.

Coming up on March 13 there will be a Business Expo at Cross Roads Church where students will have the chance to meet CEOs and workers from many different corporations. There will also be a mock interview and a lunch with Karen Spigel, the Mayor of Corona, as the guest speaker.