A credential file is a packet of information, sent to prospective employers or graduate programs during a candidate's application process. Credential files may be used by candidates of any major. Education majors have traditionally made use of these files to pursue teaching positions.
Credential Files are a professional, convenient and dependable aid in the application process. It is a way to organize and send your application materials to potential employers and graduate schools. 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.
You want to be prepared to accommodate the employer's request! Some are still requesting hard copies of credentials, but more and more employers are requesting documents electronically.
To establish a credential file, collect the necessary application documents. There are options: 1) collecting hard copies of all documents and personally keeping a file; 2) collect documents electronically; or 3) collect documents and manage them through an outside vendor. How to self-manage a credential file
For self-maintained credential files you collect, manage, and send documents directly to prospective employers or graduate schools. Your credential file may contain: resumes, cover letters, non-confidential letters of recommendation, transcripts, evaluations, teaching certificates and anything that supports the application.
Outsource - What is Interfolio?
Interfolio is an online credential management service that allows you to create and manage a portfolio of application materials and coordinate their distribution as needed. Your portfolio may include: confidential and non-confidential letters of recommendation, resumes, cover letters, writing samples, evaluations, transcripts and more.
Here are some of the advantages Interfolio will provide:
Self-managed - add or update letters of recommendation or documents to your file on your time. With Interfolio, you are in complete control of your life!
24-hour availability - you can make mailing requests and view mailing history around the clock.
High quality contents - instead of photocopying, documents can be electronically uploaded to your file, including confidential letters of recommendation.
Fast, customized deliveries - Interfolio sends every delivery (paper or electronic) within one business day of your request. If you need to meet a deadline, express deliveries can be arranged the same day (as long as you make the request by 2 p.m. Eastern).
Payment options - online credit card payments are accepted as well as checks or money orders.
Customer Service - Interfolio offers one business day turnaround on questions submitted via email to help@interfolio.com
Low cost - It is cheaper to send a 30 page delivery through Interfolio than to go to Kinkos and the US Post Office.
(If you have signed up with Interfolio and would like to have your letters of recommendation from Career Services transferred; please complete Interfolio's Credential File Transfer Request Form and submit it to Northwest Career Services.)
Career Services | Administration Building 130 | 660.562.1250
