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Resources for Job Hunters

There are multiple steps involved in looking for and getting a job. Here, we’ll walk you through the basics. Working closely with your vocational rehabilitation counselor can help you navigate these steps. 

Explore Career Interests

When you work with a vocational rehabilitation counselor, they will help you understand your personal interests and skills to help guide you towards a fulfilling career. You can use the tools below to get started.

Testimonial Speaker

“It was a lot easier to go through DARS and get the help and assistance versus me doing it on my own.”

Destiny Lamb began career exploration with her DARS VR counselor while in high school. They narrowed her search to the medical field, which led to a volunteer job at a local medical center.

Working in the transport department, she gained experience with the hospital’s logistics. She used the job readiness skills that she learned through school and DARS to land a full-time job as a CNA at the hospital.

How to Apply for a Job

You’ll need 3 things for each job you apply for. 

  1. Cover Letter

    A typed letter written to the employer expressing your interest in the role. It’s important that the letter be written professionally and checked carefully for typos and errors.

    • At the top of your letter: 
      • Provide your contact information and address
      • Include the company’s name and address
      • Address the letter to the hiring manager
    • In the body of the letter, be sure to mention:
      • The position you’re applying for and where you saw it listed
      • Your skills or work experience that make you qualified for the role
      • You are eager to interview and appreciate the opportunity to apply
      • That you are including your resume with the letter

  2. Resume

    A one-page typed summary of your education, work experience, and professional skills. The goal of this document is to show the value you bring to a workplace and get an interview.

    Your resume should include your:

    • Name and contact information
    • Education and training
    • Skills and abilities
    • Work experience with dates
    • Volunteer experience
    • Memberships to any organizations

  3. References

    A list of at least three people that you have worked with who the employer can contact for more information. Managers, teachers, co-workers, and your vocational rehabilitation counselor can all make good references

    • Ask the person to be a reference before you list them, and let them know you’re applying for jobs
    • Include their work title and preferred contact information
    • Have your references with you at your interview, on a separate sheet of paper

Interview

Two men sit at a table talking. One has a pen and notebook in his hand.
Interviewing is a skill you can get better at. The more you practice and prepare, the better you’ll do.

Once you’ve been offered an interview, it’s important to put your best foot forward. That starts before you arrive at the interview and continues once you get back home. 

Before Your Interview

Research the company you’re interviewing with. You should know at least the basics, including what they do and/or what they make. In addition, know the details about the job you are applying for and what your responsibilities would be.  

  • Practice
    1. Practicing interview questions with friends, family, co-workers, and your vocational rehabilitation counselor can help you prepare
    2. Be ready to answer:
      1. “What do you know about our company”?
      2. “Why do you want to work here?”
  • Plan ahead
    1. Make sure you have reliable transportation to your interview
    2. Verify the location of the interview and get directions if needed
    3. Arrive on time, or 10-15 minutes early

During Your Interview

An interview is your opportunity to make a good first impression. We recommend you dress professionally, show that you have a positive attitude, and are polite. 

What to Wear

  • For men
    • Long-sleeved dress shirt with khakis or slacks
    • Suit and tie
    • Pair outfit with belt and polished dress shoes
  • For women
    • Pantsuit or dress
    • Length of dress or skirt should allow you to sit comfortably 
    • Natural looking makeup 
  • For everyone
    • Practice personal hygiene with neat hair and nails
    • Limit or cover tattoos and piercings
    • Limit scented perfumes or cologne

How to Stand Out

  • Have a positive attitude
    • Show that you are excited about the opportunity 
    • Thank them for the interview
    • Have questions prepared to show that you have done your research
  • Mind Your manners
    • Introduce yourself
    • Shake the hands of those you meet
    • Use proper titles like “Mr.” “Mrs.”
    • Don’t chew gum
    • Turn off your phone 
  • Be careful with your body language
    • Sit up straight
    • Make eye contact
    • Smile when it’s appropriate

After Your Interview

A woman in a wheelchair smiles outside of an office building
Be sure to thank and follow-up with your interviewer.

At the end of your interview, you should thank the interviewers for their time and reiterate your enthusiasm about the role. After your interview, you should follow up with a written letter or email. 

Your follow-up letter should:

  1. Be addressed to the interviewer, with their professional title
  2. Thank them for the opportunity to interview
  3. Reference the job you interviewed for
  4. Show your interest in working for the company 
  5. Mention that you are looking forward to hearing from the interviewer soon
  6. Include your current contact information and address

Where to Find Jobs

Your vocational rehabilitation counselor can help you find job boards and open positions. These resources are also a helpful starting point. 

This program is managed by the Division of Rehabilitative Services.