This course is designed to enhance the student’s ability to seek, obtain, and retain employment. Assessment of personal characteristics, job-seeking and retention skills, preparation of employment-related documents, and interviewing strategies are included.

Course Competencies/Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course the student should be able to:

1. Compile portfolio of effective documents reflecting employment potential.

2. Perform self-assessments related to skills needed in the work force.

3. Exhibit effective professional appearance and behavior.

4. Compile employment contacts and sources.

5. Demonstrate effective interviewing strategies.

6. Describe job offer evaluation methods.

7. Identify success strategies required for job retention and advancement.

8. Explain the legal rights and responsibilities of employee and employer. 

9. Describe opportunities which can foster personal effectiveness and leadership development.

The instructional method used for this course will be similar to a traditional classroom approach. Various types of learning will be stimulated through reading assignments, numerous handouts, class and specifically small group discussion which will focus on performance based learning objectives. Presentations by students, guest speakers, instructor lectures, audio visuals, student written assignments, projects, internet activities and a potential class field trip will also be included.

During this semester, all students will be participate in the registration and demonstration of the employment assistance services available through WITC and the Student Success Center.

This class is intended to help you evaluate, identify and polish up your personal and professional image with the specific objective to help you obtain, retain, and advance in the job/career of your choice. It will require "you" to make it worthwhile. For all class activities you will be expected to act responsibly, work cooperatively, communicate clearly and work productively. There will be specific dates when a professional wardrobe will be required.

Grades will be determined by your Portfolio which shall include a well organized folder with all of your written assignments, class projects, critiques, and mock interview materials. NOTE: As in any employment situation, without demonstrating good attendance, a positive attitude and effective communications it is impossible to be able to project a positive impression."   Class Portfolio 's will be due on a date announced during the course orientation. Please note that any student who does not successfully complete a prescheduled mock interview and portfolio will not pass this course. On a limited basis, alternative class activities and extra credit in Service Learning will be available. For your use, a student/course rubric is attached and must be checked off & graded by yourself and a classmate or a network contact person.. Also the WITC  A - F grading system will be followed; please refer to the current WITC Student Handbook for further details.

All assignments and class projects will be graded as acceptable or not acceptable. Guidelines for the minimum requirements of an acceptable project or assignment will be explained in detail.

Also, because this is a Job Quest course, your inability to demonstrate appropriate grooming, attitude, goal setting, self-confidence, and values with regard to your professional development and quality work may automatically result in a D or F grade for this course. 

Class participation is a part of your grade in this class. Over three absences will result in referral to Student Services and a possible 100% letter. You will be expected to maintain your own attendance record as well as call into WITC or make special arrangements with me if you are not able to attend class.

*A special note: Students enrolled in the eight-week sections will only meet two class periods a week for the eight weeks; therefore, students who miss more than four class sessions could receive a D or F even if all other course requirements have been met!  Also, please remember to pass this course, you must successfully complete a mock interview and turn in a graded course Portfolio on time.

Students interested in advanced standing for this course should contact:

Ms. Ellen Riely-Hauser-Dean of Instructional Operations for the WITC-Ashland Campus Business and Trade and Industry Departments.

Be extremely careful when entering and leaving our classroom. If at any time there is an accident, please inform me immediately.

There are various Fire/Emergency exits on campus. I will inform you of them on our first day of class. An emergency exit poster is also located on the bulletin board in our classrooms.

If you or any of your classmates feel you would like some additional help or have a question or concern, see me immediately.

When I am not in class or at lunch, I typically can be found in my office in the Instructor Office Area. My schedule is posted at the entrance to my office and on the bulletin board next to the Instructor Office Area.

Comments to: Web Team

©  Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College
All Rights Reserved