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What is a Credential File?A credential file is a packet of background information that is sent to a prospective employer when a candidate is applying for a professional position. Files are most frequently established for elementary and secondary school teachers, school administrators, college and university professors, school counselors, speech pathologists and other school specialty areas. Candidates applying for jobs in business, private industry or government typically do not establish credential files with career services, however, the Center for Career and Calling will manage their files if they desire to use this service.
Why should I open a Credential File?Credential files provide a professional, convenient, dependable aid in the job application process. It is a way to organize and send your information to potential employers. It also eliminates the time-consuming process of continuously compiling the necessary documents for various applications. Finally, it allows your information to reach the employer in one complete package.
How Do I Establish a Credential File?In order to set-up a credential file, you must first log-in to SPU JobLink. Once you are successfully logged into JobLink, you will want to update your profile with your current contact information. This information will be included in your credentials file. After your profile is updated, click on the "Credentials" tab at the top of the page. Read through the instructions and click "I am Interested" to request a credentials account. At that point, you will enter your billing information for the $5.00 fee to open your file. Please allow 48 hours from the time payment is received to process your request. In the meantime, you can upload your unofficial transcript and resume to your JobLink profile (under "Documents.") Once your account has been activated, you will receive an email confirming your account. You can then log-in and begin requesting recommendations or ordering copies of your file to be send. If you currently have a credentials (placement) file at SPU, any documents you have in your file will be uploaded to your online Credential account when you request it to be created. It is your responsibility to set-up and maintain your credentials in JobLink. Your credentials will be sent at your request to school districts as part of the application process. Your online credentials include:
In order to complete your credentials on SPU JobLink you must: -Make sure the resume uploaded on SPU JobLink is your most updated copy, with current demographic information. -For information on ordering an unofficial transcript, please go to http://spu.edu/depts/sas/students/transcripts.asp. Your transcript can be mailed directly to you or sent to the Center for Career and Calling where we will scan and upload it for you. -Request recommendations online in the Credentials section of your profile. References should be completed by your university supervisor, supervising teacher(s), and other individuals you have asked to submit on your behalf. Under the “Request Recommendations” tab, click on “Add New”, complete the reference request forms and send them to your references. Make sure that you contact each reference before filling out this form to ask them if they are willing to provide you with a recommendation. You will need to decide if you want each reference to be confidential or non-confidential.
What items are contained in a Credential File?A typical credential file contains resume, transcript, and three to five professional references. Other materials can be included in your file. Some of the typical items may include: praxis results, copy of certification, etc. The items, however, must be job related. Check SPU JobLink periodically to verify that expected materials have arrived and are included in your file.
How do I use the Credential File?First you will want to log-in to your SPU JobLink account and request recommendations to be submitted. Once you have enough recommendations (3-5 typically), your file is ready to send by creating an "Order" and requesting it to be sent to a particular school district or employer. How do I update my Credential File?It is the responsibility of the student to keep all documents in the file accurate and up-to-date. You will need to provide the following information on your SPU JobLink account:
Who should I choose as a reference?A professional reference is a person who can attest to your skills in a work and/or educational setting. It is best to choose a person who has directly supervised you in a work or educational setting, a present or former work supervisor, supervising teachers or principals as well as professors or advisors who know you well. Do not choose personal friends or relatives as professional references. Before listing a reference, always seek pre-approval from your desired reference. It is helpful to provide your reference with a current resume listing your skills, educational and work experience. UNACCEPTABLE REFERENCES:
Confidential Non-confidential
Waiving your right to see your reference letters is a personal
choice. Keep in mind that if you waive your right, you have no access to these
records at any time. You may wish to seek the opinion of experts in your field
as to whether they prefer references that remain confidential. In any case, be
certain to select references who will present your skills in a positive
light.
How long are the files maintained at the Career Center?The Center for Career and Calling has a Renewal Policy in place
for placement/credential files. Credential accounts cost $5.00 per year to keep
active, and are good from November 1st-October 31st each year.
Sending your Credential File to a Potential School DistrictRequest an order online in the Credentials section of your SPU JobLink account. Under the "Orders" tab, click on "Add New", select the recommendations you want to include as well as additional documents such as resume and unofficial transcript, fill out the necessary information, and then click on "Submit Order". The Center for Career and Calling will forward your credentials upon receipt of your order. When submitting your request, make sure to provide all of the information requested on the Order Form. All requests are sent out by regular mail no sooner than one and no later than two business days after requests are received. The cost per set (domestically) is as follows...
MasterCard or Visa are accepted online. If you need to pay by cash or check, please call the Career Center at 206-281-2485 to arrange your order. Checks should be made payable to Seattle Pacific University. Returned checks and declined credit card fees are $10.00 and will require "cash only" payment for future mailings. Refunds are not available. You are always welcome to stop by the Center for Career and Calling in the Student Union Building, 2nd Floor to learn how to use JobLink and ask questions.
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