Job Search FAQ

Q. Is it necessary to include a cover letter with my resume?

A. It is highly recommended that you use a cover letter. This allows you to explain why you are sending the resume, the job you are applying for, and to more fully discuss your qualifications and how they might match with the employer's needs.
Q. How long should my resume be?

A. One to two pages at most. Only one page if you have limited work experience.
Q. What kind of career services does NLU offer?

A. The Office of Career Services offers a wide range of career resources ranging from assistance in career decision making to learning productive job search skills. For further information, call Career Services at 800/443-5522 ext. 4245.
Q. How can I establish a Credential File?

A. Click here to sign-up for Interfolio (On-line Third Party Credential File Service).
Q. Is it really necessary to follow-up with an employer after sending a resume and cover letter?

A. Employers usually receive many resumes for each open position. Following up by telephone gives you the opportunity to confirm that your resume was received, to reiterate your interest in the job, and to further discuss your qualifications.
Q. Who can I contact for career related questions?

A. Counselors are available to assist you on the Chicago, Evanston, and Lisle campuses. If you are unable to come to a campus, you can call a counselor for a telephone consultation. Another option is to send e-mail to careerservices@nl.edu. A staff member will respond within 24-48 hours.
Q. What is appropriate attire for a career fair?

A. When attending a career fair, it is important that you "dress for success" as you would for a regular job interview. For women, a professional business suit or coat dress is appropriate; and for men, a professional business suit is also appropriate. Dressing professionally will always make a good first impression with employers.
Q. If I am applying for a position, do I automatically send a list of references along with my cover letter and resume?

A. Not unless the employer has asked for them. It is a good idea to have a separate sheet of paper with your list of references to assist you when you are completing an employment application and when you are invited for an interview.
Q. Is it necessary to include an "Objective" category on my resume?

A. For most resumes the "Objective" is optional and can be included in your cover letter. If you decide to use an objective on your resume be sure to be specific about the job you are looking for. Do not make the employer guess. For educators, using an "Objective" is recommended as it identifies the grade(s) and subject(s) that you wish to teach.
Q. Does NLU hold Job Fairs?

A. Yes. Our next all-campus Career Fair will be held in March 2006, location and time to be determined.
Q. In an interview, what is the best way to respond to the question "What is your biggest weakness"?

A. You can respond to this question in one of two ways. First, you may state a weakness that you have that may also be viewed as a strength such as "perfectionism". In addition, you may state a "weakness" that the employer is likely to know based on the information in your resume. It might be that knowing MS Power Point is desired. You might say "I don't have experience with Power Point but, I'm a quick learner and would welcome some training to learn this software". The important thing is to turn a "weakness" into a positive and indicate how you are dealing with it.