Monthly Challenge for March, 2021: Get job ready! Resumes, Portfolios, Cover Letters, and Elevator Pitch

It is never a bad thing to keep your job packet updated, and we're going to challenge you to do it, whether or not you're actively applying to jobs.

During this month, we'll work on creating, revising, or updating your job packet materials and that elevator pitch that might get you in the door. Each week, we'll work on a new piece, starting with the resume.

Theme

Get job ready! Resumes, Portfolios, Cover Letters, and Elevator Pitch

Goals

• A complete and updated resume tailored to your job search or position
• A plan for updating or creating your portfolio with clear and actionable steps
• A complete and updated Cover Letter that creates a personal connection
• A captivating elevator pitch

How it works

• For the month of March we're focusing on creating job application materials. Whether you're actively looking, getting ready to look, or just want to update your materials in case that dream job comes along, this is a great time to do it with the community and to get some feedback.
• We encourage you to post your ideas, questions, and even your fears in slack. We're all learning and growing together!
• Each week, we'll do a slack check-in to brainstorm, support, and learn from each other.
• Keep in mind that different experiences will have different approaches to the materials, but we can all provide positive feedback.

Each week, we'll cover something new.

Week one: Resume

• Step one: Find a job post.
• Step two: Match your skills to the post.
• Step three: Make your resume standout.

Week two: portfolio

• Step one: Create a clear purpose. Your portfolio should reflect the skills you would apply at your ideal job.
• Step two: Use a medium that works best for you.
• Step three: Create a connection.

Week three: Cover Letter (CL) or continue portfolio

• Step one: Do some research. Learn about the company and make a connection.
• Step two: Do some storytelling. A CL isn't a written resume. It's an opportunity to go deeper.
• Step three: Connect your experience to the position.

Week four: Elevator Pitch

• An elevator pitch is a short speech introducing yourself, what you do or your experience, and why you would be a good person to have on the team. The idea is to confidently convey information about yourself in a short amount of time and to leave an impression on the mind of the person who hears it.

Each week, our project lead will start us off with some questions and resources. For this challenge to be fruitful, make sure you're sharing, providing feedback, and asking for help when you need it.

And remember, we're always here to help ❤️