Before you begin your search for a training position at a US company, it is important that you determine exactly what type of training experience you are looking for. Ask yourself the following questions, and then create in your mind the exact type of training experience you would like to have.
What type of company would I like to train with? -- There are many different types and sizes of business here in the US, from smaller firms or agencies to large, dynamic corporations. You may also be more interested in not-for-profit companies or NGO's.
Do I want to train with a company in a major city, a suburb, or a rural area? -- Remember that your training program is also a cultural exchange experience, which will be shaped by your company's location.
What are the top three features that are most important to me in a training environment? -- The qualities you like in a supervisor, the things you need from a team of co-workers, the general atmosphere at a company, how high-paced a company may be, a company's longevity, and a company's mission are just some of the attributes you might consider when reviewing your options.
What elements of a training environment could make my experience difficult? -- Just as you considered the positives, consider what company features might make you uncomfortable or less likely to succeed. Keep in mind that a training program is a learning experience and that you should choose a training environment that challenges you to stretch your comfort zone.
Your ResumeIn the United States, most businesses expect interested applicants to submit an organized 'resume' outlining their professional and personal experiences, along with a statement of interest called a 'cover letter.' A resume is very similar to the curriculum vitae, or CV, which you should be more familiar with. Every person has individual preferences on how to present his or her personal information. However, there are a few general guidelines you should follow when creating your resume:
· Attempt to keep your resume to one page - try adjusting borders, spacing, and font size
· Be sure to include all relevant work experience, starting with your most recent
· Ensure that your resume is appropriate for the position you are applying to - do not include jobs that
· Be organized - your resume should separate your educational experiences from your professional and
personal ones
· Be concise - don't waste words, or space. Specifically state how each of your experiences allowed you to develop skills that will make you a better Trainee
· Be specific about the duration of each of your experiences
· Don't be afraid to include information on your hobbies and unique skills
· Do not use graphics or icons of any sort
To view an example of an outstanding resume, please
click here.
Your Cover LetterFinding a training position in your field of interest is very similar in process to finding a related job in your home country. The most important step in this process is creating an informative and interesting cover letter, which strongly emphasizes your professional qualifications, and your interest in training. When sending out application material, a cover letter should always precede your resume. And, each cover letter you send should be unique to the position and company to which you are applying. This means that you must write a cover letter for each potential Host Company that you contact. It may be useful to work from a general cover letter, and personalize it as you search for a training position.
What Makes a Good Cover Letter?A professional cover letter is generally composed of three to four major paragraphs. After you have properly addressed your cover letter, your first paragraph should be dedicated to clearly stating the intentions behind your inquiry. In short, you should state your name, your interest in a training position, and highlight the fact that you are a skilled and competitive candidate with much to offer a potential Host Company. Briefly explain why you are looking for a training opportunity, and convince them to continue reading your cover letter. If you intend to have this training program count for academic credit, you should mention the name of the school you are attending and the fact that this program will be credit-bearing. This paragraph should not exceed three to four sentences in length.
In the second paragraph of your cover letter it is important to mention that you are intending to apply for a J-1 Trainee Visa through CIEE and that, as part of this program, CIEE will act as legal sponsor and will provide for the legal framework in which this training program can be undertaken. Moreover, companies may also be interested to learn that you will be provided with health and travel insurance as part of the CIEE program.
The third paragraph of your cover letter should highlight your educational background and professional interest in pursuing a career related to the company's activities. This paragraph is your chance to expand upon the experiences outlined in your resume, and directly relate them to a company's operations and mission. It is also important to discuss your work ethic, positive nature, ability to communicate with others, dedication to professionalism, and whatever other qualities are relevant to the training position you are seeking.
Finally, you need to conclude your letter by restating your interest in training at this particular company, and thanking the company for taking the time to review your materials. Also, you should remember to express your interest in the chance to participate in a telephone interview, and offer them a good means of contacting you, be it by phone or email.
To view an example of an outstanding cover letter, please click
here.
Important Tips- Check your spelling and grammar. If you are not a native English speaker, you may also choose to have a skilled English speaker review your cover letter for content and clarity.
- Remember to contact the company after submitting your cover letter and resume. Send an e-mail to the contact person if you have not heard from them in over two weeks, and remind them that you have submitted materials to them and would still be very interested in pursuing the possibility of a training position with them.
- Don't make your cover letter too long. It should be kept to three paragraphs, and should not be more than one page in length. The biggest challenge in cover letter writing is drafting a document that is both readable and comprehensive, within a very restricted space.
- Your contact information should always follow the salutation portion of the cover letter.
