I am preparing to graduate in Spring of 2015 with my MA in Criminal Justice. I find myself for the first time in my life preparing a resume. I have a few questions. First, I need to find advice for developing a network and learning about law enforcement or private security. Next, I would like advice about researching companies to put together solid cover letters.
Any advice would be much appreciated. Thanks!
Answers
I agree you should create one cover letter and tailor it for the position you are applying for. Linkedin is a great option to try.
Hi Christopher,
As far as networking, I'd first take a look at the school where you're getting your MA. What kind of alumni support do they offer? I'd also suggest taking a look at http://www.meetup.com/ to see if there are any groups of events happening in your area. See if there are topics on criminal justice or security -- even if it doesn't lead to a job directly, you'll likely be meeting people with similar interests who may eventually know someone who is hiring.
LinkedIn is good, too -- join some groups there and research people who have come from your school or have served. Contact people selectively, though, because people use it very differently. I'd make a list of some companies that you might want to work for (what private security firms are in your area? http://www.yellowpages.com/saint-louis-mo/private-security-companies) and see if there are any connections between people you know and those companies.
Christopher,
I've spent over 40 years in law enforcement (retired FBI Agent) and security. I would be glad to discuss your goals and objectives. I can be reached at: (864) 96-9597.
Steve Romano
You may want to consider federal employment for several reasons.
1. You can buy back your military time towards retirement
2. Depending on your separation status, you may have up to 10 points hiring preference during the application process. This greatly increases your odds of being called for an interview, and subsequently receiving a firm offer.
I work for DoD, and my business partner works for DOJ. He has been in law enforcement for 10+. We would be glad to answer any questions you may have.
We also provide free resume critiques to all military service members. You can submit your resume to us via email or by using our secure online submission form:
Email: Info@ExpertResumeSolutions.com
Form: http://www.tinyurl.com/ERS-Critique
Feel free to also connect with me on LinkedIn to confirm my credentials: www.linkedin.com/in/kellywilliamsmaresca/
Thank you for your service. We are here to help!
Warmest Regards,
Kelly Williams
Resume Strategist & President
Expert Resume Solutions
Business: (732) 686-6455
www.ExpertResumeSolutions.com
Christopher- I would suggest that you begin to build a profile on Linkedin. From there, given the information you provide, they will suggest people and companies for you to "follow". A lot of time if you have at least one, for instance, private security company that you know you can branch out from there and find many others.
In regard to cover letters, my suggestion would be to develop one really great cover letter and simply customize the first few paragraphs depending on what the job is you're applying for and the company it is with. That will save you a good bit of time.
Hope this helps!
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