CONDUCTING SUCCESSFUL INFORMATION-ONLY INTERVIEWS

For those of you still pondering what you will do with "the rest of your life," one of the most beneficial things you could do with your time is exploring career options.  Books, magazines, and trade journals can help somewhat in giving you a bit of the "flavor" of what different industries and jobs are like, but the best way to get the inside scoop in the types of jobs you may like is by actually experiencing them in one way or another.

Of course, internships, volunteer work, and co-op jobs get you right into the nitty-gritty of the job, but they take a little bit of time - which you may or may not have at the moment.  The next best way to learn about a job is by talking to the people who perform it every day.

Information-only interviews are initiated and controlled by you.  You ask the questions; the type of work the employee does, the company itself, the industry in general, whatever interests you about the particular job or field. 

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO EXPLORE?
First, think about the type of work that you would like to do.  If you really have no idea what you would like to do, get some books from the library or book store on this subject.  What Color Is Your Parachute? (by Bolles) and Do What You Love, The Money Will Follow. (by Sinetar) are two good examples.  Also, talk to a Career Counselor at the PA CareerLink.  Discuss your interests and skills that you already have.  They will suggest you take an assessment called the SAGE (System for Assessment Group Evaluation).  The SAGE will take into consideration your cognitive abilities, vocational interests, and vocational apitudes to give you some employment suggestion you probably haven't thought of.  Best of all . . . it's free.

DO SOME RESEARCH
Next, use the internet, library, or someone you know, to find all the information you can on your selected jobs, companies, or industries.  The more you know, the better focused you can be when making your questions during the information-only interviews.
With information-only interviewing, there is no limit on the number of types of careers you can explore.  If you have time, there are interviews to be had.

WHO DO YOU WANT TO TALK TO?
Once you have decided on a particular area to explore, your need to identify the specific person or people you want to take to.  To identify the people, you may need to call the main phone number at a company to find out the name of the manager of the department you are interested in.  The professional association responsible for your area of interest may also be able to help you located people to talk to - or they may even have a list available of people willing to talk to students.

ASK FOR THE INTERVIEW
Once you have identified whom you would like to talk to, you need to ask them for an interview.  Call the person, explain the reason for the call, (that you want to explore different career possibilities by speaking with people about what they do in their jobs) and ask if they would grant you a brief information-only interview.

Many people will not grant interviews because they may have previously granted an "information-only" interview to someone who came in and pushed for a job.  Make it very clear that you are not looking for a job, just information, and that you would appreciate them taking the time to share their views of their field.

Ensure the manager, also, that the interview will take less than twenty minutes.  Don't ask for an hour or even a half-hour or their time - they are busy people.  If you and the manager hit it off during the interview, it may run longer, but leave that up to them - don't try to force it on them.

PREPARE FOR THE INTERVIEW
Just because this is an information-only interview, don't feel that you don't need to prepare for it.  You should know everything you can about the company, the industry and current trends, and the job itself.

Think about what you want to find out and write down the question you want to ask so you won't forget any. 

Dress for the interview just as you would for a real job interview.  You're not asking for a job, but look and act professionally; you might make an impression that could get you a job there someday.

WHAT TO ASK
Some questions you might want to ask include:

1. What is your educational and career background?
2. How did you get interested in and involved in this line of work? 
3. How did you conduct your job search?
4. What do you like most and least about your job or field?
5. What is the employment outlook for your field?
6. How do you keep up with the changes and trends in the field?
7. What are the most important issues affecting the industry or your company?

Most people are flattered that you're interested in their job and respect their opinion.  Don't be afraid to ask a lot of questions - just remember your time limit and don't get too personal.

LAST THOUGHTS
Although the interview is not for a job, if you demonstrate a sincere interest, have obviously done your homework and have some skills that could be used in the job, don't be surprised if they show an interest in you.  Don't ask for a job during the interview, but if you think you might like to work there, ask if you could apply later for a job and who to contact at that time.  Always follow up with a not thanking them for their time.

Put them on your list of network contacts and keep in touch with them.

BUILDING A STRONG RESUME

Although networking is the best way to find the job you want, a strong resume is a must if you want to get one of the really plum jobs.  When you aren’t there to “WOW” you potential employers with your accomplishments and terrific attitude, your résumé has to do the talking for you.

HIGHLIGHT YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Employers are usually not looking at your academic record to see if you “fit” the job they have open.  “Book learning” is not as valuable to most employers as your experience, accomplishments, and attitude toward work.  Yes, they will look at this if it is criteria for the position, but experience, accomplishments, and attitude weigh more heavily. If you have these attributes AND have recently updated your “book learning”, you will have a definite “leg-up” on the other applicants.
To make your resume appear stronger than your peers’, highlight your accomplishments.  Statements like “Participated in Girl Scout cookie fundraiser” is not as impressive compared to “Had the highest sales nationally for the Girl Scouts cookie fundraiser” or “Managed twelve volunteer salespeople to the highest regional cookie sales”.  This demonstrates your ability to get quality work done – and that’s what every company wants it's employees to do.
Use numbers wherever possible to demonstrate accomplishments, such as “Supervised 7 part-time workers or volunteers,” “Increased productivity by 29%,” or “Gave presentations at six regional conferences.”
Be sure to include special school projects, research, internships, and volunteer work.  Mention company, organization, or individual names that are impressive which are also related to the work you did.
SHOW STABILITY - Another thing that employers are concerned about is your stability.  When coming right out of school, it may be difficult to demonstrate this.  Put on your thinking cap.
Have you volunteered on a regular basis at the local hospital?  Have you been a library assistant or a club officer?  Have you held a part-time job while attending school?  Employers realize that most people don’t have full-time employment when going to school, but will value the work ethic.
ACCOUNT FOR ALL TIME PERIODS - Along the same lines as stability, employers want to see that you have not had any time gaps unaccounted for on your resume.  If you spent a summer traveling in Europe, say so.  Foreign experience is valuable to a global company – especially if you understand local customs – and it explains why you don’t have a job listed.
Attending school either full- or part-time, volunteering for a full-time project, travelling, caring for a sick family member, conducting research for a personal project . . . all are legitimate ways to spend your time.  Don’t be afraid to say so on your resume.
SUMMARIZE YOUR VALUES - Many books and counselors still recommend that a Job Objective appear at the top of every resume.  The objective states what type of job the applicant is looking for.  Think about this.  Some busy managers will only read the first section of the resume, the objective, and if it doesn’t match the job that they have available, will toss your resume to the side.  They many never find out that you actually have every quality and skill they are looking for.
To give yourself a fighting chance when that busy manager picks up your resume, you quickly sum up your most valuable accomplishments, skills and experiences in a Professional Summary statement. It should be no more than about three sentences, but should mention things like, “Excels in data analysis”, “Proven sales ability”, “Detail oriented in reports and presentations”, etc. – whatever is applicable.
INCLUDE ALL LANGUAGE SKILLS - With more companies going global these days, any language skills you have can be very valuable.  Indicate whether or not you can read, speak, write, and/or translate.  You don’t have to be able to do everything to be an asset to the company.
ARE YOU A TEAM PLAYER? – Demonstrate your teamwork abilities by indicating your participation on special projects.  If you were an officer for a club, team leader, headed or participated on a work project, that should be prominent in your Summary.
Teaching, tutoring, mentoring, lab assistance, research assistance, etc., can be valuable as well.  Since office technology and business procedures/techniques change quickly, having someone in the company who is able to communicate these things to others is an asset. 
This by no means is a complete guide to resume writing, it is only meant to show ways to make your current resume stronger.
(Excerpts of information came from the “Dose of Reality” Series.)

STRATEGIES FOR A SUCCESSFUL INTERNSHIP

 

STEP 1 

Identify What Your Internship Needs Are

 

• Do you want to explore different industries?
• What size company do you want to work for?
• What, specifically, do you want to learn from your internship?
• Do you have to earn some money during your internship or can you afford to do it unpaid?  Unpaid internships increase your opportunities.

 

STEP 2 

Identify What You Have to Offer

 

• What are your strongest skills?
• Do you already have some experience in a related position?
• What skills can be transferred to the professional work environment?  Volunteer work, clubs, etc.

 

STEP 3 

Find or Create An Internship

• Research opportunities through your CareerLink, school, friends, previous employers, etc. – everyone you have contact with.
• Or create an opportunity by writing to a company that you want to work with and offer your services; do they have a volunteer department?

 

STEP 4 

Get Commitment and Make Final Arrangements

• Put all details – hours, responsibilities, pay (if any) – in writing to the sponsoring company.
• If you are interviewed, take note of what employees wear – you will want to look like them.

 

STEP 5 

Prepare for Your First Day

• Assemble at least three outfits that are as similar as possible to what employees wear, so you won’t look like a temporary intern.
• Have extra copies of your resume.
• Scope out alternate routes to the office in case of traffic tie-ups.
• Get a notepad and pen to carry around with you.
• Double check that you have done all that is necessary to begin your internship; vaccines, criminal background checks, etc.

 

STEP 6 

Your First Day

• Get up early, with plenty of time to prepare.
• Leave home extra early – better to arrive early and walk around the block than to arrive late.
• Be ready to jump in and start working right from the beginning.

 

STEP 7 

Make an Impression

• Never arrive late, leave early, or take all the allotted time for lunch.
• Dress and act like a paid employee, even if you are unpaid.
• Keep your notepad and pen with you at all times to take notes of people’s names and titles,  list of the duties your assigned, deadlines your given, etc.
• Offer your opinions only when asked, but offer solutions and useful information when appropriate.
• Put forth your best effort in everything you’re asked to do, not matter how trivial the task may seem to you.
• Never hand in the first draft of any written work – put tremendous energy into accuracy, thoroughness, attention to detail, especially grammar and spelling.
• If you’re not very busy ask for more work – but take only as much as you can do at a high level of quality.

 

STEP 8 

Make the Most of the Experience

• Try to meet as many people as possible without detracting from your assigned duties.
• If your given duties unrelated to what you thought your were there to learn, talk to your supervisor – this is why duties should be spelled out in writing beforehand.
• Ask a lot of questions about the company, the industry, the various types of jobs available in the company, the most valued skills.
• Observe office “politics.”  The receptionist is often the most valuable person to know.  See if you spot any unusual efforts to avoid people or topics of discussion that may clue you in to potential problems in the office.

 

STEP 9 

When It’s All Over

• Thank everyone who helped you in anyway (including secretaries) both in person and in writing at the end of your internship.
• Update your resume with this new experience.  Highlight your accomplishments, not just the skills you utilized or learned.
• add the people you met to you list of network contacts.  Plan to keep in touch with them.

(This information came from the “Dose of Reality” series.)

DECISION-MAKING FOR SUCCESS

    

Ask anyone who has been on his or her own for a few years—“Have you ever regretted any decisions you’ve ever made in your life?”  Most likely, you’ll get a big chuckle and a resounding, ”Yes!”.

     Everyone has made “dumb decisions” in their life.  Some don’t result in much consequence.  Others have a major and lasting impact on their lives—they can cause pain for years, or even decades to come. 

     We want you to avoid making these “dumb decisions” and make all the right choices for your life so you can accomplish and become all you want.

     The process we’re about to describe sounds pretty easy on the surface.  It’s incorporating it into your everyday life and never wavering from it that’s the difficult part—but it can be done!

 

1.  The first step toward making all the “right” decisions is to set goals for yourself—short-, mid-, and long-term goals for your career finances, relationships, even physical and spiritual health.

     You will write down all your goals.  Put them on 3” x 5” cards or some other handy-sized paper because you will be referring to them often.

     You may want to make two copies:  one to keep with you at all times (in your wallet or purse) and another set to hang up where you can readily see them (like on a bulletin board or beside your bathroom mirror so you are forced to review them every day).

 

2.  Once you have your goals for yourself written down, you will need to refer to them every time you are faced with a decision—choosing a career, finding a job, deciding where to live, which big purchases you can make (car, furniture, wardrobe), whether to change jobs or marry, whether or not to relocate to a new part of the country, and so on and so on and so on . . .

     When faced with one of these decisions, don’t panic and don’t feel that you need to make an immediate decision.  Spur-of-the-moment decisions are usually the worst, and you can end up paying for them for a long, long time.

3.  Sit down with a pad of paper and your list of goals (short-, mid-, and long-term ones).  On a sheet of paper, write the costs of each alternative to the decision.  Costs include more than money—opportunity costs come into play with every decision.  An opportunity cost is a lost opportunity because you have chosen to do something else.  For instance, if you only have $5 and you decide to spend it on fast food, an opportunity cost could be that you will not be able buy the loaf of bread, peanut butter or jelly that you need to make next weeks lunches for the kids.  Or if you take one job, you can’t take another.

4.  Try to determine what the consequences of each alternative might be.  In some rare circumstances you may find that a choice which does not fit in with your goals must be made because the consequences of making a different choice are too great to bear.  This is not likely to happen to you often—maybe never—so don’t let it worry you when weighing your important decisions.

5.  Next, write down the pros and cons of the decision.  For instance, what are the positive results that you are likely to experience if you decide to take a particular job or move to another state.  What is the downside to each alternative.

6.  Weigh each of these pros and cons.  If the positive aspects of the decision are in areas that are much more important to you (such as enjoying the work you do) than the downside elements (such as odd work hours), then the table is tilting toward making a positive decision.  But you’re not finished yet!

7.  Now you must look at your goals and determine if this opportunity or decision will get you closer to any of them.  If taking a job offer in computer sales will get you closer to your goal of someday managing a software development team, then great.  If it doesn’t, you will be holding yourself back from accomplishing that career goal if you take the sales job.  

     The same holds true for every decision you have to make—whether it has to do with your career, finances, or personal life.  Look at where your choice fits in with your goals.  If your decision won’t get you closer to any of your goals, it will be a waste of your time, energy, perhaps money to pursue it.  The decision will probably prevent you from accomplishing what you have set your heart on.

     If you use this method to make every decision you face, you will be far ahead of your peers in accomplishing what you want.

     As much as each of us would like to think that if we approach decisions making properly, we would make all the “right” decisions all of the time; this is not true.  You probably won’t sail through life with “no regrets at all”.  Often there are costs, consequences, or other alternatives that we are not aware of when we make our decisions.  That is the reason why some time and effort should be put in to determine the costs, consequences, and other alternatives.  Just going by a “gut feeling” will get you in trouble more times than not.

(This information came from the “Dose of Reality” series.)

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR TIME . . .AND YOUR LIFE

      We all have the same number of hours each day to get things done, but it seems that some people are so much more productive than others are.  It’s all a matter of setting priorities, being disciplined, and keeping organized.

     There are two things that are absolutely essential for successful time management (which means accomplishing everything you want to do).  They are goals and a tool.

 

GOALS ARE THE STARTING POINT

     If you do not have goals, you do not know where you are headed in life (or your career), so it is virtually impossible to successfully manage your time and accomplish what you want.  So the first step is to determine what you want out of life (career, finances, lifestyle, etc.)

 

GET THE RIGHT TOOLS

     As tools go, we recommend that you get a Day Planner.  It is the calendar / scheduling book that thousands of business people use – it comes in a variety of sizes and page formats to fit your individual style. Once you get used to using a Day Planner, your won’t know you lived without one!

     Other calendar / organizer books are available at office supply, luggage and department stores.  Take the time to look at them all and choose one that you can work with comfortably. 

 

HOW ARE YOU USING YOUR TIME?

     The first thing to do when you decide that’s it’s time to start managing your day better, is to record everything you do (and for how long) for an entire week.  It’s a tedious task, but will be well worth the effort. 

     Record the time you get up in the morning, how long you spend in the shower, eating breakfast, reading the paper, getting dressed, and so on throughout your day, including time spent on commuting, talking on the telephone with friends, reading magazines (note whether they were career or for entertainment), and watching television.

 

DID YOU GET A SURPRISE?

     At the end of that week, look over your activity log.  Most people are quite surprised when they add up how much time they spent on the phone, in front of the television or preparing for work in the morning.  These are the easiest places to cut out wasted time and should be the first that you tackle.

     Before you do tackle your time wasters, though, add up the amount of time spent on activities that help put you closer to any one of your goals (career, personal, or financial).  If it’s less than 50% of your waking hours, you have a lot of adjusting to do. 

 

MAKE SOME ADJUSTMENTS

     Now, begin adjusting your use of time to accomplish the goals you’ve set for yourself.  At the beginning of each week, write down the major tasks (not each nitty-gritty detail) that you want to accomplish during the coming week. List them in priority order, most important at the top.

 

WHAT’S MOST IMPORTANT?

     Things that fit either of these criteria: directly relate to accomplishing one of you top priority life or career goals; or, if not done, will result in a loss of a job, future career opportunities, or financial status (small amounts of financial loss are OK; it’s when something can cause you to miss loan or rent payments that you should worry).

     Most people end up not accomplishing their goals because they spend too much of their time completing seemingly “urgent” tasks which are not really important.  Don’t confuse urgency with importance.  Some important tasks will also be urgent—by all means, do those first.  But if a task seems urgent, but does not fit the definition of important, it can probably be left undone temporarily (or sometimes permanently) and you won’t suffer any consequences.  If you can master this distinction, you’re on your way to accomplish whatever you set out to do with your life because you’ll be making every minute count.

 

TURN THE TV OFF

     Normally the first activity to accommodate more important things is television watching.  Even if particular shows will help you accomplish your goals, chances are you have a VCR and can record the show for viewing at a more convenient time (and in less time).

 

GET UP EARLY – GO TO BED LATE

     The next thing most people adjust is their sleeping schedule.  Most of us can do quite well on less sleep than we are currently getting.  Don’t try to make a sudden change, or you’ll doom yourself to failure in this area.

     Try to get up 15 minutes earlier for a few days, then 30 minutes.  Adjust your bedtime the same way until you come up with a schedule you can live with and which provides you more productive, waking time to accomplish your goals.  Many people find that housework and laundry are perfect tasks for the early morning –getting them “out of the way” when little brainpower is available.

 

BE EFFICIENT

     Save time, also by being efficient.  Bunch your driving-around errands all into one trip, and don’t go during rush hour traffic.  Any time you find yourself with even a few minutes on your hands, fill the time with reviewing your goals and determining what you can do now to move closer to them.

(This information came from the “Dose of Reality” series.)

Anonymous Said . . .

Congratulations goes to Jamie! 


As one of your medical coding billing instructors I knew YOU could do it! Keep up the good work!

Anoymous Said . . .

Congratulations Jamie!!!!

-From MCB Term 1's

WORK AT HOME SCHEMES

You can find ads like this everywhere — from the street light and telephone pole on your corner to your newspaper and PC. While you may find these ads appealing, especially if you can’t work outside your home, proceed with caution.  Not all work-at-home opportunities deliver on their promises.

Many ads omit the fact that you may have to work many hours without pay. Or they don’t disclose all the costs you will have to pay. Countless work-at-home schemes require you to spend your own money to place newspaper ads; make photocopies; or buy the envelopes, paper, stamps, and other supplies or equipment you need to do the job. The companies sponsoring the ads also may demand that you pay for instructions or “tutorial” software. Consumers deceived by these ads have lost thousands of dollars, in addition to their time and energy.

Classic Work-at-Home Schemes:

● Medical billing. Ads for pre-packaged businesses — known as billing centers — are in newspapers, on television and on the Internet. If you respond, you’ll get a sales pitch that may sound something like this: There’s “a crisis” in the health care system, due partly to the overwhelming task of processing paper claims. The solution is electronic claim processing. 

The promoter also may tell you that many doctors who process claims electronically want to “outsource” or contract out their billing services to save money. Promoters will promise that you can earn a substantial income working full or part time, providing services like billing, accounts receivable, electronic insurance claim processing and practice management to doctors and dentists.

They also may assure you that no experience is required, that they will provide clients eager to buy your services or that their qualified salespeople will find clients for you.  The reality: you will have to sell. These promoters rarely provide experienced sales staff or contacts within the medical community.

The promoter will follow up by sending you materials that typically include a brochure, application, sample diskettes, a contract (licensing agreement), disclosure document, and in some cases, testimonial letters, videocassettes and reference lists.

For your investment of $2,000 to $8,000, a promoter will promise soft software, training and technical support.  And the company will encourage you to call its references. Make sure you get many names from which to chose. If only one or two names are given, they may be “shills” — people hired to give favorable testimonials. It’s best to interview people in person, preferably where the business operates, to reduce your risk of being mislead by shills and also to get a better sense of how the business works.

Few consumers who purchase a medical billing business opportunity are able to find clients, start a business and generate revenues — let alone recover their investment and earn a substantial income. 

For more information go to: http://www.ftc.gov/

CONGRATULATIONS JAMIE

Congratulations to ETI Graduate, Jamie Orban on passing the National Medical Insurance and Coding Specialist Exam.

Suppose you are looking for a new job and the interviewer says, "I have interviewed five applicants who tell me they are qualified and competent; why should I choose you?" How would you respond? How would your answer set you apart from the other four applicants? In other words, what documentation would show that you are qualified to do the job for which you are applying?

You could answer like Jamie, "My competency was certified by exam through a nationally recognized credentialing agency, and I will maintain proof of my ongoing competency by participating in continuing education and proficiency testing activities."

By voluntarily becoming certified, and by maintaining your competency year after year, you present a unique snapshot of yourself as a professional that practitioners without certification and continuing education can not present.

Join Jamie and call to schedule you National Insurance and Coding Specialist Exam today. 724-836-2395 x279.

Comment From ~ John Munsch, Senior, Greensburg-Salem High School

PINK OUT 2009

Please join Greensburg-Salem student, John Munsch, complete his senior project, "Pink Out 2009".

Wear pink to the Friday, October 16th, Greensburg-Salem vs. Southmoreland football game to show your support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

"Pink Out 2009" T-shirts will be available for sale at the game. The cost of the shirts will be $8 with $3 going toward the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation. Donation buckets and other promotional items will also be available.

"Pink Out 2009" is being held in memory of former Greensburg-Salem student Rachel Parker and her mother Lynda. Lynda unfortunately lost her battle with breast cancer 2 days before Rachel graduated, with honors, in 2009. Rachel was subsequently killed in a car wreck 3 weeks later.

NATIONAL BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Join millions of women who get mammograms on a regular basis. More and more women are getting mammograms to dected breast cancer in its earliest stages. As a result, breast cancer deaths are on the decline.

In recognition of the fact that mammography is the best available method of detecting breast changes that may be cancer, long before physical symptoms can be seen or felt, and that breast cancer deaths could decline further if all women age 40 and older receive mammograms at regular intervals, we the Education and Technology Instutute, urge all women and their families living in Westmoreland County to get the facts about mamography.

FALL START DATES

TERM I:

Computerized Office Technology - October 5, 2009

TERM II:

Medical Coding and Billing - September 28, 2009

Computerized Office Technology - September 28, 2009

FREE FINANCIAL AID WORKSHOP

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

10:30 AM
Ray Greene Computer Lab

Call 724-836-2395 x281 to reserve a spot

Education and Technology Institute
219 Donohoe Road
Greensburg, PA 15601

FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID

Comment from ~ 100 Best Websites for Free Adult Education

http://onlinedegreeworld.com/blog/2009/100-best-websites-for-free-adult-education/

Whether you want to go back to get your GED or simply want to gain additional skills to use on the job, it's never too late to pursue the great variety of adult educational resources out there. Here are 100 great adult education websites and resources we've pulled together to help you get the information you need for personal or professional development.

ADULT EDUCATION

TIE Newsletter ~ Issue 4 ~ Spring 2009
Written By: Kathy Russell

Educating adults differs from educating children in several ways. One difference is adults have accumulated knowledge and experience that can add to or hinder the learning experience. Another difference is with most adults, education is voluntary; as a result students can be more motivated.

WHY GO BACK TO SCHOOL?

· Your diploma will help you get a better job or promotion.

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO ACCOMPLISH?

· Choose the right option, your journey will be more efficient and economical. Know what’s involved in getting what you want.

IS THIS THE RIGHT TIME OF YOUR LIFE? DO YOU HAVE TIME TO GO TO CLASS, READ, AND STUDY?

· Manage your stressors to have time to do your work, enjoy your family, and live life.

IS THE SCHOOL WITHIN REACH?

· Is the school available to you? Consider what you want to achieve, then find out the process.

DO YOU HAVE THE SUPPORT YOU NEED?

· Remember adults learn differently, you need people in your life who will be your cheerleaders or help with child care.

Finishing school will be up to you! You don’t have to do it alone!

Comments from ~ Kathy Topper

Here is some additional information on Test Taking Strategies. It comes from Glendale Community College's web site.

www.glendale.edu/new/services/counseling/tests.html

STRATEGIES FOR TEST TAKING

Different kinds of tests require different kinds of test-taking strategies. This study guide will provide you with some helpful approaches for objective questions, essay questions, and test problems.

Objective Questions

True-false or multiple choice questions appear on objective tests. Since both types of question involve understanding a statement and making a choice in response to it, strategies for answering well are very similar.

• Look for the central idea of each question. What is the main point?
• Look for helpful key words like always, never, none, except, most, least.
• Underline key words if you are allowed to write on the test paper.
• Try to supply your own answer to a multiple choice question before you look at the alternative closest to your own answer.
• Mark an answer for every question. You may lose credit by guessing incorrectly, but an unanswered question will cost you credit automatically.

• If all else fails and you have to guess an answer, then and only then consider this advice:

1. The length of the choices is sometimes a clue. When guessing, pick the long answer - it is easier for instructors to write short wrong answers than long ones.
2. If two choices are very similar, choose neither.
3. If two choices are opposite, choose one of them.
4. The most general alternative is frequently the right answer.

• Don't change your original answer unless you're completely sure it's wrong.

Essay Questions

When you answer an essay question, you're showing how well you can explain and support an idea, not just what you know. Keep the following ideas in mind.

• Read over all the essay questions before you start to write. Underline key words like define, compare, explain, describe or discuss. Jot down ideas on scratch paper, and then start with the easiest questions first.

• Think before you write, and try to outline your response. Remember, a good answer:

1. Often starts with a direct response to the question.
2. Mentions the topics or areas which the essay question describes.
3. Provides specific as well as general information.
4. Uses the technical vocabulary of the course.

• Write legibly. Graders sometimes presume your ignorance if they can't read your writing.
• Always write something and leave a space at the end so that you can add to your answer.
• Proofread your essay answers. The few minutes you spend correcting errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling can improve your grade.

Solving Problems

When you work a problem, ask yourself three questions:

1. What are you being asked to find?
2. What do you need to know in order to find this?
3. What are you already given on the problem to help you with your search?

After working through the problem, look back at what it asked you to find. Does your answer cover it? If not, go through the three questions again.

• Good problem solvers have these characteristics:

1. Positive attitude. They believe that problems can be solved by careful, persistent (though sometimes lengthy) analysis, not by fast answers based on previous knowledge.
2. Concern for accuracy. They read a problem several times trying to understand it. They review their judgments and conclusions, avoid guessing, and check their work.
3. Methodical planning. They break work into parts and then solve it step by step, starting with the simplest step.
4. Concentration. They use their energy to solve problems by talking to themselves about what they are doing, creating mental pictures, relating the problem to familiar experiences, counting, or drawing pictures.

Tips for Success

Successful students do well on exams because they know what to do before, during, and after the test.

Before the test

1. Attend all classes.
2. Complete all required reading.
3. Organize study time by planning daily, weekly, and major review sessions.
4. Form a study group by looking for five or six other conscientious students. Activities for a study group include making up practice tests, comparing notes, etc.
5. Create study tools such as content maps, flash cards, annotated texts, etc. Predict test questions and test yourself. Recite information aloud. Ask your professor for specific information about the test.
6. Reduce test anxiety by maintaining a balanced schedule including exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate rest. Learn relaxation techniques.
7. Be prepared! Remember, preparing for an objective test is different than preparing for an essay test.

During the test

1. Use time wisely.
2. Read directions and questions carefully.
3. Know the rules. For example, are there time limits, penalties for guessing, etc.? Make an attempt to answer all questions unless there are penalties for guessing.
4. Look for clues. Sometimes answers are hinted at on other test questions.
5. Use different strategies for different types of tests, like essay or objective tests.

After the test

1. Evaluate your own performance by answering the following questions:
2. Which part of the exam was the easiest? Why?
3. Which part of the exam was the hardest? Why?
4. List activities you completed prior to the exam? (i.e., review lecture notes, self-testing, study groups, etc.)
5. Which of the above activities did you find the most helpful in preparing for the exam?
6. How much time (in hours) did you spend preparing for the exam?
7. Did you feel prepared when you walked into this exam? Why or why not?
8. How might you study differently for the next exam in this course?

________________________________________
Austin Community College Learning Resource Services

TACKLE TESTS WITH CONFIDENCE

TIE Newsletter ~ Issue 1 ~ December 2007
Submitted By: Beverly Walters, Debra Sonner , And Lynn Roberts.

Here are some hints about how to approach different types of test questions. Get ready for good grades!

TRUE/FALSE
True/False questions require that you recognize a fact or idea, but they often check whether you understand it in exact detail. If any detail is false, the whole answer is false. TIP: Watch for words that suggest that anything happens in only one way: always and never. Questions that contain these words are usually false. Also pay attention to qualifying words such as all, most, usually, or rarely.

MULTIPLE CHOICE
To avoid confusing yourself, try to answer the question first without looking at the options. Then read each option carefully. If you don’t recognize the correct choice right way, see whether you can eliminate at least one or two obviously incorrect choices. Then choose the best of the remaining of the two.

Comment from ~ "The Black Pants Project"

The Black Pants Project said...

Schooner center provides work attire to women, girls

By Stacy Wolford, VALLEY INDEPENDENT
Monday, April 28, 2008

A job interview can be stressful, especially for someone who is not dressed for success.

As a professional speaker and full-time working woman, Jennifer Melnick Carota knows the importance of looking and feeling good, not only at an interview but after landing a new job.

That's why Melnick Carota established "The Black Pants Project" at The Schooner Youth Center in Monessen.

The goal is to provide free wardrobe essentials to low-income girls and women attempting to join the corporate workforce.

Melnick Carota, who serves as executive director and secretary for The Schooner Youth Center, said she was inspired to launch the project after receiving a large donation. Rondell Curcio offered the garments after she closed her Belle Vernon consignment shop.

"While sorting through the donations, I noticed one big shortage - black pants," Melnick Carota said.

As a bargain-shopper, Carota said the staple of any working woman's wardrobe can be centered on a few pairs of basic black pants.

"A fabulous wardrobe can be created from a single pair of black pants," she said.

She is hoping the center will be able to obtain donated new and good-quality used clothing to help low-income women enter the workforce.

With the help of a small ladies auxiliary, the center officials are sorting through the inventory in an effort to open a "working women's closet" in the late summer or early fall.

Melnick Carota said the center will offer interview and wardrobe tips to women.

"We don't want them to feel intimidated or embarrassed," Melnick Carota said. "Part of the mission of the youth center is ministry and we are here for the Mon Valley."

Melnick Carota said donated clothing should be cleaned and pressed, new or gently used, and in style or a classic cut.

The center is seeking blouses, pants, skirts, raincoats and business like attire. Ladies and teen formal wear also will be accepted.

Melnick Carota said the center is seeking volunteers to help with "The Black Pants Project."

To donate clothing or volunteer, call Carota at (412) 559-1754.
June 26, 2009 2:04 PM

HOW TO DRESS FOR SUCCESS

TIE Newsletter ~ Issue l ~ December 2007
Written By: Beverly Walters, Debra Sonner, and Lynn Roberts

Successful people seem to have it altogether...don't they? I mean they have the look of confidence. Well, here is a tip that I learned a long time ago . . . they don't always know it all, "They fake it until they make it." You can look the part until you know the part. So look your best. Take a few minutes to look at yourself in a mirror before you go out. Ask yourself, "Is this how I want other people to see me?" We all have those days that we just don't look and feel well, but if you look sick every day of the year you need to address that NOW ! ! !

I'm not saying to go out and spend your life savings to look the part. What I'm saying is to dress in clothes that fit and are well kept. Some things are just NOT appropriate for the office or the mall. If you find two pair of pants, black and brown, a skirt and a jacket to match the pants, by adding a few different shirts you can build a wardrobe for anyplace. Just make sure it fits you and your environment. Don't look at the size, look in the mirror. Try to find a style that is not going to be dated and, a cotton blend seems to hold up the best. Don't go the "dry clean only" route when you start out building your wardrobe; this could be quite costly to have cleaned.

When looking for something new to wear to the office, keep this in mind: Not Too Tight, Not Too Loose, Classic Style, Cotton Blend, Matching Skirt, Pants, and Jacket.

HOW TO MANAGE YOUR TIME

TIE Newsletter ~ Issue l ~ December 2007
Written By: Beverly Walters, Debra Sonner, and Lynn Roberts

There is a lot to be said about time management. We all do it, some more effective and some not so well. Sometimes we all feel that there is just not enough time in the day. Well there is if you manage your time properly. You should first write down what you must accomplish that day. Then you determine the amount of time each task will take. For instance, you could practice your typing while waiting for a load of clothes to be done; or you could study while you are waiting for the potatoes to boil. Multi-tasking is the term that is heard frequently in today's workforce. Making a list of tasks, is a very good habit to help manage your time. If you know that you must complete many things in a given time, this helps. As the task is completed, you cross it off and begin another one.

Try to be realistic with the amount of time that you allow for each task, you don't want to have five minutes for a fifteen minute drive or plan a doctor visit and an important interview within five minutes of each other. So think about the day, plan it out, and make a list.

INTRODUCING THE T.I.E. NEWSLETTER

How are you coping with life's demands?
Introducing TIE . . . Teach, Inform, and Educate

WHO WE ARE

We are ETI STUDENTS, wives, husbands, parents, and singles...people just like you! We are here to help you to balance life's demands and cope with today's fast paced world. We firmly believe that you can do it. You can make a difference in your life, in the places that you go, in the people that you meet. ALL YOU NEED IS THE RIGHT TIE!

WHAT'S THE IDEA

Tips, recipes, helpful hints, job search information, web sites, and much more will be within your reach. We will have a quarterly newsletter especially for students. You will now have access to see how other students cope and how to be a success. If you are given the proper instruction, encouragement, and training, you can change, mold and even rearrange your life as well as the people around you.

(This was an excerpt from the brochure introducing the first TIE Newsletter in December 2007.)

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Medical Coder/Biller Training

Become A Medical Coder/Biller in 6-Months!

March 31, 2009 - September 24, 2009

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admissions@eti.edu

www.eti.edu