Internship Briefing: Resume Preparation Workshop

Internship Briefing: Resume Preparation Workshop

• Category: Internship Briefing 2024
• Date 19-09-2024

Internship Briefing: Resume Preparation Workshop at Goon International College

Overview of the Resume Preparation Workshop

On September 19, 2024, Goon International College (GIC) hosted a Resume Preparation Workshop as part of its Semester 7 Internship Briefing. Organized by the Editorial and Student Affairs Department, this event aimed to equip students with the skills and abilities necessary for creating effective resumes and preparing for job interviews. The workshop was an essential part of the college’s efforts to help students transition smoothly from their academic studies into professional environments.

The session was designed to offer practical guidance on resume preparation, job-seeking skills, and effective communication with potential employers. The workshop provided students with an opportunity to engage in hands-on learning and gain valuable insights into what employers look for in resumes and during interviews. By the end of the session, students were better prepared to enter the job market and present themselves confidently to employers.

Structure of the Workshop

The Resume Preparation Workshop was structured into five groups, ensuring that each student received personalized attention and feedback. Groups 1, 2, and 3 were guided by Buvanesh Wari A/P Ravi and Geetha Agilan, while Groups 4 and 5 were led by Nur Atiqah Aliya Binti Ruslan and Amira Faieza Binti Nor Rani. The workshop lasted from 10 AM to 4 PM, with a five-minute networking session for individual discussions between students and facilitators. This structure allowed students to focus on their unique needs while providing opportunities for peer interaction and support.

Focus on Resume Preparation and Common Mistakes

The core of the workshop focused on the essential aspects of resume preparation, with a strong emphasis on avoiding common mistakes that could hinder a job application. The facilitators provided a handout titled “Top 10 Resume Mistakes to Avoid,” which highlighted errors such as typos, lack of detail, and poor formatting. This handout served as a useful reference for students, helping them understand what to avoid when crafting their resumes.

Some of the common resume mistakes discussed included:

1. Spelling and Grammar Errors: Even minor mistakes can create a negative impression on potential employers. Attention to detail in grammar and spelling is crucial for a professional-looking resume.
2. Lack of Specificity: Many job seekers make the mistake of using vague language on their resumes. The facilitators encouraged students to provide concrete examples of their achievements and skills, making their resumes more compelling.
3. Unclear Job Titles: It’s important to use job titles that accurately reflect the role and responsibilities held. The facilitators stressed the importance of clarity when describing past job roles.
4. Overly Long Resumes: Keeping the resume concise and relevant to the job is key. Students learned that employers often spend just a few seconds on each resume, so it’s essential to make a strong impression quickly.
5. Irrelevant Information: Including details that are not relevant to the job being applied for can make a resume appear cluttered. Students were advised to focus on skills and experiences that directly relate to the job description.

By addressing these common mistakes, the workshop ensured that students understood the importance of creating a polished and professional resume. The session aimed to build their confidence in the job search process and increase their chances of securing interviews.

Hands-On Activities and Resume Worksheets

A major part of the workshop involved hands-on activities, allowing students to apply the concepts they learned in real-time. One of the key tools used was the Resume Worksheet, which guided students in organizing their skills, experiences, and accomplishments effectively. This worksheet served as a step-by-step guide, helping students structure their resumes in a way that highlights their strengths and makes a positive impression on potential employers.

The Resume Worksheet helped students to:

• Identify Key Skills: Students were encouraged to list their most relevant skills and abilities, ensuring that these were aligned with the job descriptions they were targeting.
• Showcase Accomplishments: Rather than simply listing job duties, students were taught to focus on their achievements in previous roles. This approach allows potential employers to see the impact of their work.
• Highlight Technical Skills: The facilitators guided students in emphasizing their technical skills, such as computer skills and software proficiency, which are often critical in many job applications.
• Craft a Strong Summary: The workshop included a section on writing a resume summary that captures the job seeker’s qualifications and career goals concisely. This summary is important as it provides employers with a quick overview of what the candidate offers.

Through these activities, students were able to draft resumes tailored to their specific career goals. The Resume Worksheet provided a practical framework for organizing their experiences and presenting their qualifications in the best light.

Developing Job-Seeking Skills and Career Planning

In addition to resume preparation, the workshop also covered job-seeking skills and career planning, which are crucial for students entering the job market. These skills include understanding how to search for jobs effectively, preparing for interviews, and networking with industry professionals. The session provided students with strategies for conducting a successful job search, including tips on using online job boards, connecting with recruiters, and leveraging social media for job opportunities.

Key job-seeking skills discussed during the session included:

• Networking: The workshop emphasized the importance of building professional relationships through networking. The brief networking session at the end of the workshop allowed students to practice their communication skills in a professional context.
• Understanding Job Descriptions: Students learned how to analyze job descriptions to identify the specific skills and experiences employers are looking for. This knowledge helps in tailoring resumes and cover letters to fit the requirements of each job.
• Interview Preparation: Effective preparation for interviews is essential for making a positive impression. The facilitators provided tips on common interview questions, the importance of body language, and how to present oneself professionally during interviews.

The focus on these skills ensured that students were not only able to create strong resumes but also prepared to navigate the entire job application process with confidence.

Action Verbs and Strong Descriptions

The workshop also introduced students to the importance of using action verbs when describing their past experiences. A special handout, titled “Action Verbs to Strengthen Your Resume,” was provided to help students choose words that convey their achievements effectively. For example, instead of saying “responsible for managing a team,” students were encouraged to use phrases like “led a team of 5 members to achieve project goals.”

By using action verbs such as “coordinated,” “implemented,” and “streamlined,” students learned how to make their roles and contributions sound more dynamic and impactful. This small yet significant change can greatly enhance a resume’s appeal to employers, showcasing the student’s active involvement in previous roles.

Peer Review and Feedback Session

Towards the end of the workshop, students participated in a peer review session, where they exchanged resumes with classmates and provided feedback. This exercise allowed them to view their resumes from another person’s perspective and identify areas for improvement. It also encouraged collaboration and provided an opportunity to learn from each other’s strengths.

The facilitators guided the peer review process, ensuring that the feedback was constructive and focused on helping each student improve their resume. This interactive part of the workshop helped students refine their resumes further and gain confidence in their job-seeking skills.

Conclusion: Empowering Students for Future Success

The Resume Preparation Workshop at Goon International College was a valuable experience for the Semester 7 students, offering them practical tools and insights to prepare for their future careers. By focusing on resume preparation, avoiding common mistakes, and developing job-seeking skills, the workshop provided a comprehensive guide to entering the job market.

The emphasis on hands-on learning, personalized feedback, and effective communication helped students build confidence in their abilities. With a well-crafted resume and a better understanding of what employers are looking for, students are now better positioned to present themselves professionally during their job search.

This workshop was more than just a step in the internship briefing process—it was an essential part of professional development at GIC, empowering students to succeed in their internships and beyond. As they embark on their job search and career journeys, these students carry with them the skills and knowledge gained from the workshop, ready to make a lasting impact in their chosen fields.

Stay tuned for more updates on Goon International College’s commitment to preparing students for the world of work!