3. GENERATION Y: STARTING YOUR CAREER AT YOUR TIME
Originally Posted on Sep. 08, 2010 by Martha G. Chavez
A few weeks ago, the New York Times Magazine ran an article by Robin Marantz
Hening that made me feel like it was written to me. It was about Gen Y and the new
life phases and development we’re going through. It describes how more and more
young adults are taking their time transitioning from adolescence to adulthood.
There was a letter to the editor written by Lindsey Pollock. She came to the defense
of 20-somethings, and further cemented the fact that times are a changin’.
In her letter, Pollock says, “I consider it progress that every young person doesn’t
feel the need to complete school, leave home, marry and have a child by a certain
deadline. There is no ‘one size fits all’ adulthood.”
This hit me at my core. I read this and was affirmed that things happen at their own
due time. And when I mean things, I mean my career. I’m a late bloomer in life. I’m in
my mid 20’s and have yet to experience a lot of career and life firsts. It took me
longer to graduate from college. Not because I wanted to, but because for many
reasons, I didn’t have a choice.
I graduated later, older, and with limited experience. When most of the people I
went to high school with already working their way up the career ladder, getting
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4. married, and even owning homes, I sometimes feel like I’ve missed the boat. I know
many people feel the same way.
That’s when I realized; I’m not like everyone else. So many of us aren’t. We live in a
different time. Things don’t always have to happen at x times. Life always hits us
with curveballs, and we have to learn to take them.
I’ve learned that age has nothing to do with the ability to learn, grow, and be a great
employee. Us Gen Y’ers are optimistic, ambitious, and extremely hard working. We
are revolutionizing the workplace.
I may not be 22-years-old, or have a minimum of three years work experience, yet.
But I have motivation and drive. That will take me as far as I’m willing it to take me,
and will make me and my fellow Gen Y’ers better professionals in the end.
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5. 3 CREATIVE WAYS TO GET YOUR FOOT IN THE DOOR
Originally Posted on Dec. 01, 2010 by Lisa Atufunwa
While the holiday season is in full swing, job seekers are finding ways to heighten
their job search to end the year on a good note. While some job seekers are
attending final networking events of the year and giving their resume and cover
letters one more look over, other job seekers are looking for “outside of the box”
ways to get a call back for an interview or a job offer. Job seekers are using creative
tools to help them get noticed by employers, like The Google Job Experiment. Here
are ways to incorporation creativity into your job search.
30/60/90
Create a 30/60/90 plan. In one to three pages, write how you will be an asset to the
company in the first three months. Creating this plan will show employers your
preparation, that you have done your research on the company and showcases your
transferable skills, i.e. writing. This article explains in detail how to create your own
30/60/90 plan.
Differentiate yourself
Find ways to that will make you stand out amongst the other applicants. Create your
own website, such as twittershouldhireme.com that targets the company you are
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6. interested in and show why you will be a great candidate for their company. Some
candidates have gone the route of creating a video resume, a good way to showcase
your communication skills. This job seeker created a musical video resume, showing
his creativity and outside talents.
Be visible
There are subtle ways to be creative during your job search. Being visible
consistently will show employers your dedication and enthusiasm to your chosen
profession. Be vocal during open discussions at professional meetings, e.g. ask
questions and provide your own opinions to key concepts. Volunteer with
committee groups and showcase the skills you have learned at internships or in
classes. Those who are visible and doing outstanding work are memorable by key
professionals.
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7. JOB VS. GRADUATE SCHOOL: WHICH ONE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Originally Posted on Aug. 29, 2010 by Lisa Atufunwa
As seniors around the nation begin their final year (or semester) in college, the
stress of classes and grades are almost over. However, the stress of post-graduate
plans begins to form. Should you take your chances in the job market? Should you
further your education and go to graduate, professional or medical school?
Ultimately the choice is yours, but each choice needs time and thought to be
executed. Here are tips that can help you begin the thinking and planning process.
Is my college degree enough?
Depending on the industry you are interested in pursuing, you may or may not need
an advance degree. By doing research and talking to other professionals, you can
determine if it would be beneficial for you to go to grad school first or if you can
wait a few years to further your education.
Motivation
Finding your first professional job and going to grad school takes motivation and
heart. You have to determine where your heart and mindset are at currently. It
would be a waste of time and finances if you feel forced or unmotivated to pursue
something you know you do not want to do.
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8. Map it out
List your goals; both short-term and long-term, and determined how work and
school will fit each other. Talk to family, friends, fellow students and professors
about their choice of going straight to work or going to graduate school. Think about
your finances and other resources that you may need for your choices.
Remember that ultimately it is your choice. Do not feel that you are being forced to
make one decision over the other because of your support system’s opinions. To
read more about grad school vs. work debate, check out this article here.
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9. WHAT HIRING MANAGERS LOOK FOR DURING INTERVIEWS
Originally Posted on Mar. 03, 2010 by Heather R. Huhman
Preparing for interviews to the best of your ability is time consuming but extremely
important. You must know and understand the interviewer(s), organization,
clients/products/services and the industry itself—plus how you fit into that big
picture.
So, what exactly is the hiring manager looking for? No matter what field you are in
or what position you’re applying for, there are some similarities across the board
that all hiring managers seek in ideal candidates.
1. Likeability. Do you get along with the hiring manager? Does the hiring manager
feel you will get along with his or her team? This is a big factor. I know when I see
myself in candidates, I find myself leaning toward them more than individuals who
remind me nothing of me. (That sounds self-centered, but hiring managers want a
cohesive team!)
2. Strategic thinking. Are you thinking ahead about the future of the organization?
Do you have a suggestion already in mind you’d like to brainstorm with the hiring
manager? In this economy—or any, for that matter—organizations want (and need)
results. If you can show you’re a results person—or at a minimum thinking about
results—you will prove a strong candidate.
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10. 3. Clear communication. Is your tone and word choice professional? Do you get
your message across effectively the first time? Chances are, you’re going to have to
communicate with others in some fashion in order to do your job. Throwing in any
type of slang word, giggling or other methods of unprofessional communication will
make the hiring manager forget what you’re actually trying to say.
Also, be aware of any strong accent you might have. For example, if you’re from
Boston or New York and you’re speaking to someone from Chicago, your accent
might be a little off putting. If you think it might be costing you jobs, there are
professional speech therapists who can help you lose the accent.
4. Professional appearance. If you’re interviewing at an organization where you
know the hiring manager will be wearing ripped jeans and a T-shirt, you can
probably get away with far less than a suit and tie. However, at most organizations,
you want to not only dress the part for which you are interviewing, but one step
above. Again, it’s these little things that stack up in a hiring manager’s mind about
whether or not to hire you.
5. Enthusiasm. Be happy you are there! And not just because this is the first
interview you’ve had in weeks (or months), but because you are genuinely looking
forward to the possibility of working at the organization.
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11. 6. Good eye contact and “engaged behavior.” Don’t stare and not blink
throughout the whole interview, but make sure you have decent eye contact. Also,
lean forward slightly when the hiring manager is speaking—this is what I call
“engaged behavior.” Both tactics show the hiring manager you are listening and
interested in what he or she has to say.
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12. 5 STEPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL INTERNSHIP
Originally Posted on May. 05, 2010 by Annie Kohanek
As the days get longer and warmer, school is wrapping up and summer internships
are underway. Whether this is a first internship or you are a veteran, here are some
tips to make the transition to your new job go more smoothly.
1. Mistakes are inevitable – what matters is your reaction. The company didn’t
hire you for your expertise. Say you mess up on an assignment or upset a client;
instead of getting defensive, show your boss you both regret what happened and
learned from the experience. It won’t only save your job, but keep communication
between you and your boss open.
2. Don’t be afraid to ask the seemingly simple questions. Your co-workers are
going to throw a lot of information at you that after a few years of working there
seem basic. Don’t be afraid to ask them to slow down or repeat themselves later. By
learning how to get tasks done during the ‘honeymoon’ part of your internship, your
job will progress a lot more smoothly in the long run.
3. Be proactive! Couldn’t stress this enough: during down time at your job, stay
proactive and ask co-workers what you can do to help them. It not only keeps you
busy and learning, but you teach yourself how to be helpful around the office later
without asking your boss what to do.
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13. 4. Be eager to learn. Similar to keeping proactive – if you take care to show your
coworkers you are eager to learn, the more likely they will let you sit in and help
with their more interesting projects.
5. Take notes and sit in meetings. With the loads of information that will be
dumped into your head, take notes of what’s happening to jog your memory later.
Also, don’t be afraid to sit in meetings (of course ask first)! Chances are your boss
will forget to mention some things, and sitting in on meetings can help you learn the
office dynamic and pieces of information your boss may have forgotten to share.
The success of your internships is entirely up to you. By staying proactive,
interested, and flexible to the difficult moments of transition, you’re experience and
role in the company will quickly grow and prosper.
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14. ARE MILLENNIALS THE ‘VERUCA SALT GENERATION’?
Originally Posted on Oct. 15, 2010 by Katie Farrell
Earlier this week, Paul Carr at TechCrunch wrote a piece about why he’s relieved not
to be a Millennial (if you haven’t read it, check it out here). He starts the article with
a quote from Veruca Salt, the spoiled little girl featured in both versions of Willy
Wonka/Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (in one, she wants a golden egg; the other,
a squirrel). Further along in the article, he says this about Millennials:
There was a time when society would react with horror at the prospect of an entire
generation of such whiny, spoilt little brats. For some unfathomable reason, though,
instead of condemning this army of latter-day Veruca Salts, we’ve decided to pander to
them.
Unfortunately, there may be a few Millennials who fall into this category. But it’s
unfair to categorize an entire generation because of what a few are doing.
Take our founder and president, Heather Huhman, for example (if you didn’t know,
yes, she’s a Millennial!), Even while working a full-time job in public relations, she
was still dedicated to building Come Recommended and spent much of her time
helping students and recent graduates find jobs.
Being a Millennial myself, I don’t feel I fall into this generalization, either. From the
time I was 16, I worked a part-time job after school — often paying for my own
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15. clothing, entertainment, car insurance and gas. During college, I worked diligently
during the summer and school year in order to afford being away from home, and
paid for half of my schooling on top of that. I was part of several volunteer groups at
my university, dedicating much of my time to promoting events and participating on
an executive board of my peers.
I’m sure there are plenty of other examples of Millennials defying this broad
generalization of our generation. And I wouldn’t call any of them whiny, spoiled
brats. In fact, I’d say that many of these Millennials are:
High achievers
Well-educated
•
Successful entrepreneurs
•
Dedicated
•
Innovative
•
Passionate
•
Hard workers
•
•
In fact, Tom Miesen wrote a whole post in defense of Generation Y that definitely
deserves a read. For statistics about Generation Y in the workplace, click here to
download our infographic.
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16. 5 TIPS TO SEARCH FOR A JOB ABROAD
Originally Posted on Sep. 28, 2010 by Lisa Atufunwa
One of my goals in life is to live and work abroad in my dream country. While I am
still researching companies here in the United States, I have thought of expanding
my long-distance job hunt further — across the ocean. Here are some tips I have run
across on how to pursue a job hunt for positions outside of the U.S.
Study abroad
If you are still in school and know that you would like to move abroad after
graduation, participate in a study abroad program. Studying overseas can help you
establish connections with professors or employers that you meet throughout the
duration of your program. There are also programs that are specifically for
internships. Check out your study abroad office to see if there are programs for your
major in your choice of country or an internship program in that country.
Travel there
Plan a trip to your dream country. If you have the resources to travel to your dream
country, plan to stay an extended time. Gain an understanding of the city, housing,
language, cost of living, currency exchange and the culture. Visit companies you
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17. have researched and find out their job application process for international
applicants.
Build your experience
Gain experience first by working a few years or interning. Like the U.S., some
companies in foreign countries will hire those who have work experience before
those who just graduated without experience.
Relocating program
While you may choose to stay and work for a company in the U.S., some companies
have a job exchange program for employees who have worked at the company for a
certain amount of years. Also, ask about openings or advancement opportunities in
an office in another country.
Tailor yourself to the country
Some companies in foreign countries may have different criteria when it comes to
the job materials you submit for a position. Learn how to format your resume and
cover letters to their standards. Also, learn the interviewing process. If you know the
language, use it in your job materials and during your interview. It will help make
you stand out and makes an excellent impression on prospective employers.
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18. Research all the possibilities of relocating overseas. Know if you can withstand
being homesick and moving without having someone within distance for support.
Keep in mind of programs like the Peace Corps or teaching English to students can
be your ticket to working in another country.
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19. HOW TO TACKLE TOUGH INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
Originally Posted on Oct. 05, 2010 by Lisa Atufunwa
You’re in the middle of your interview, when the interviewer throws you a curveball
and asks, “Tell me about yourself.” There is a long pause, staring at the interviewer
while you think deeply on how to tell them about yourself.
For some, answering interview questions can be a difficult task. However, it is
possible to answer these difficult questions. Here are the a few of the common tough
questions that are asked during interviews (in no particular order):
Tell me about yourself.
Keep your answer short and focused on why you are qualified for this position. Your
answer should be one to three minutes long. Do not fall into the habit of disclosing
personal information, like where you are from, marital status, age, etc. Answer with
your targeted job skills that meet the requirement of the job posting, your
transferable skills that make you a great candidate, and explain why you are exactly
what the company is looking for in an employee.
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20. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Talking about your strengths is easier than picking out your weaknesses. Both parts
of this question should relay back to the characteristics and requirements for the
position. When you are talking about your weaknesses, be honest and turn it from a
negative into a positive. For example, I have trouble with time management due to
wanting my work to be correct and superb, but I have received advice from
professionals and created a time management system for myself.
Why should I hire you?
In order to fully answer this question, you will have to do comprehensive research
on the company. Use the information to help you put together your answer. Explain
how your skills and experience will benefit the company. Do you know a way to save
or make the company money, how to get them more clients or a new way to build
the company’s brand? Explain it to the interviewer. Show the interviewer you are
passionate and will be a dedicated employee.
What are your salary requirements?
Research what the company pays current employees using websites
like Glassdoor.com. If nothing on the company is listed, check what their
competitors may pay their employees in a similar position. This will help you
develop a range. During your interview, never mention a salary value. Ask the
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21. interviewer what the salary range is for someone with similar experience as you.
The rule with this question is whoever answers first loses.
Remember to be honest and brief with your answers. Relate them back to the
criteria for the position. If you still feel nervous answering these questions or want
to know how to answer the other tough interview questions, read WiseBread’s How
to answer 23 of the most common interview questions and george’s employment
blawg’s Job Interview Advice: How to Answer “Tell Me About Yourself” and Other
Tough Job Interview Questions.
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22. 3 WAYS TO HANDLE ILLEGAL JOB INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
Originally Posted on Sep. 22, 2010 by Lisa Atufunwa
Last week, I read “When Job-Interview Questions Become Too Personal“ in The Wall
Street Journal. After reading the article and comments, I got to thinking about what I
would do or say if I were in that situation. Before this article, I have never heard of
this topic (or have heard of it once and stored it somewhere in my mental file). Like
myself, some Gen Y job seekers may not know of these illegal questions, the rights
they have as job seekers and how to answer such questions.
What makes an interview question illegal?
Questions that are about your age, religion, race, nationality, sexual preference,
marital and family status, health, or political affiliation are illegal for an interviewer
to ask you during an interview. If you filled out a formal application form or were
offered a job, you will have to provide information for a few of these questions.
However, during an interview, questions should be about the job, company and
what you can offer to them as a potential employee.
What to do if asked
First thing is to stay calm and professional. You can answer the question a few ways:
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23. 1. Refuse to answer the question. Ask the interviewer how the question is
about the job opening or let them know that you are uncomfortable
answering the question and that it was inappropriate. However, do not use
the word “illegal” in your statement.
2. Answer a question with a question. Turn the question into a way to show
the interviewer that it not an appropriate question to ask and getting the
company’s concerns at the same time. For example, if they ask about your
family status, ask the interviewer if they are concerned you will not be able
to work overtime.
3. Answer the question — in the way it should have been asked. For example,
if they asked if you are a U.S. citizen, answer that you are authorized to
work in the United States. It is ok to provide truthful information to these
questions. However, know that your answers could either hinder or help
your chances of getting the position.
Remember you are interviewing the company as much as they are interviewing you.
Be watchful of the professionalism displayed during your interview. Prepare for all
questions that could be asked during your next interview, including the illegal
questions. For a list of these questions, read JobWeb’s article on interviews and
WiseBread’s “How to recognize and answer illegal interview questions.”
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24. 5 WAYS TO JUMP START YOUR JOB SEARCH IN 2011
Originally Posted on Dec. 15, 2010 by Lisa Atufunwa
For many, the New Year is a sign of new beginnings. For some, it may be the
beginning to their job search; while for others, it may be another year on the job
hunt. With 2011 around the corner, it is a great time to sit down and write down
your vision of your job hunt. Here are some ways to help you establish your job
search vision.
Be an expert
Show your skills in and knowledge of the industry in which you are looking for
employment or internship. Attend local and national seminars and conferences.
Take classes and work toward getting a certification. Share your insight through a
personal blog or writing articles. Comment on other influential blogs that have an
impact on your industry.
Stay active
Being active will not only help you continue to build your skills and network with
professionals, but also it will keep you from sitting at home majority of the time and
keep your mind clear. Get involved with your community, volunteer your time with
a committee for a local organization, or become a mentor. That way you have plenty
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25. to talk about when asked what you have been doing while you were searching for a
job and a way to add experience to your resume.
Short-term goals
Your ultimate goal is to find a full-time job or an internship. By creating short-term
goals, whether they are monthly or weekly, will help you stay on track of your
search and help you evaluate your progress. Accomplishing these goals will
motivate you to continue to reach higher milestones and learning new tips.
Stay one step ahead
You want to find a way to stand out among other applicants. Create a website
showcasing your work and market yourself as a great candidate, similar to how this
candidate markets themselves. Follow companies’ social media accounts to get up-
to-date information, giving you something to talk about in your cover letter or
interview.
Change things around
Evaluate what may or may not be working for your job search. Try working with a
recruiter to help you evaluate and pinpoint aspect of your job search that needs
improvement. Work on building your online brand if you have not done some
during this year.
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26. 2011 is a whole new slate to work on moving your job search to a new level and
eventually getting your dream job.
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27. 4 THINGS TO CHECK ON YOUR RESUME
Originally Posted on Dec. 08, 2010 by Lisa Atufunwa
As we approach the holidays, one of the things to do during the break is work on
your resume. While you do so, remember some key tips that will help make your
resume stronger and stand out amongst the other applicants.
Me, myself & I
It is already implied that the resume is about you, your experience and
accomplishments. Remove personal pronouns from your resume. Re-work your
bulleted points to show what you did, without saying the word “I.”
Challenges, actions & results
Employers want to see a beginning, middle and end to the tasks that you list on your
resume. Use CAR to show employers how your accomplishments can benefit the
company. What challenges did you have to face? What actions did you take? What
was the result of the challenge?
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28. Quantify your accomplishments
Whenever it is possible, quantify your accomplishments. It shows employers your
results with facts and figures. Here are examples of how to quantify your
accomplishments from Miriam Salpeter’s article, “Quantify Accomplishments on
Your Resume to Stand Out in a Crowd.”
Up-to-date & relevant
Is your resume current? If you finished an internship or job, double-check to make
sure the dates are correct and your resume does not still indicate you are currently
at the position. Include any other tasks you have completed at each position. Make
sure that the information listed on your resume is relevant to the job description
and company.
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29. 3 EASY WAYS TO HANDLE JOB REJECTION
Originally Posted on Sep. 21, 2010 by Martha G. Chavez
Rejection never feels good. We’ve all had those moments when we go to an
interview, feel we did a great job, and come to find out later, we didn’t get the job. I
know this feeling all too well. It’s depressing.
Job searching is probably one of the hardest and most frustrating experiences you’ll
ever go through. Being rejected does a number on one’s self-confidence and
motivation, but I’m slowly realizing that how you deal with rejection can make you
come out on the other side stronger and more prepared.
Don’t take it personally
Everyone wants to be liked; it’s human nature. When you’re going on interviews you
obviously want to be liked and nab the job. When I didn’t get the job, the first thing I
thought was, “They didn’t like me. Why? What did I do? Did I say something wrong?”
I took it really personally. You shouldn’t. You shouldn’t place your worth on the fact
that you didn’t get the job. There are so many people looking for a job right now.
Some are looking for the very same one you are. Unfortunately, only one person can
get it. This doesn’t mean you’re not a good professional, it just means you may not
have been the right fit for that particular job.
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30. Knowing is learning
If you didn’t get the job, ask why. Send the person who interviewed you a thank you
and ask for some feedback. Most employers are very willing to get back to you. Ask
how you could’ve been a better candidate. Maybe there are small things you’re
doing that you’re not noticing or meaning to do.
This should all being taken as a means to make you more aware of things when
you’re interviewing. It’s a learning experience that will only make you better.
Don’t give up
After several rejections you may feel like just throwing your hands in the air, giving
up, and just having a pity party for yourself. Trust me, I’ve felt that way many times.
There are so many of us in the same position.
I know it’s rough, and it’s easy to get discouraged, but there is a job out there for
everyone. You may just have to go through several trials before you get to it. Work
on the areas you may need some improvement on and be ready for next time. Keep
your chin up and keep searching. Soon enough, the right job will come.
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31. 3 SIMPLE WAYS TO BUILD YOUR LEADERSHIP SKILLS
Originally Posted on Dec. 08, 2010 by Claudia Hualde
Employers are not only looking for a candidate with experience and good grades. In
a competitive market, you must also have activities on your resume that showcase
your leadership skills. In today’s workforce, you have to be able to lead and take
charge. With busy lives and schedules, this may be hard to do. But it may also be the
factor that will give you a competitive advantage. Take a look at these three simple
ways to build your leadership skills:
Take leadership in the classroom
A good place where you’ll find ways to start building your qualities as a leader is in
the classroom. Throughout college, we are given group projects in which there was a
designated group leader. From now on, that’s going to be you. With these projects,
you can start practicing your time management skills, relationship building skills,
and delegating practices. I have learned to work with many different personalities,
schedules and the art of prioritizing through group projects. Being responsible for a
team says a lot about your determination and ability to lead a project to success.
This looks great on your resume and it will give you something to talk about in your
next interview.
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32. Join on-campus organizations
Find an organization that shares the same values and goals as you. You need an
organization that will help you gain the tools you need to be successful. Once you
find it, seek ways to become a leader. Look for opportunities with the professional
chapters where you can showcase your initiative and determination to be a better
leader. These organizations, depending on which one you join, will host luncheons,
workshops and other activities where professionals may be invited. These
professionals are potentially your future boss. You want them to know you are
involved, and you want them to remember that you are taking initiative to further
yourself. These are all steps that will help you be a better leader.
Participate in local & national competitions
If you have some extra time and imagination, this is a great opportunity to build
upon your leadership skills and work with people from different places. Various
organizations are often times affiliated with corporations that are willing to give
students a shot at working with their projects. Now nobody likes to lose, but this
isn’t just about winning, this is about you taking an opportunity to lead a group
through a competition. Leaders must be relatable, have good decision making
abilities and good time management skills. This is what employers are looking for.
Those qualities translate from the resume into the workplace.
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33. Not only should you be a leader, but also you have to strive to a be a good leader.
Not everyone can lead a country to independence or take sales to an all-time high.
But leaders never give up. And by taking into consideration these three tips, you are
taking the opportunity to be a good leader and learn from some mistakes. Let’s face
it, nobody wants to make mistakes in their first real life job right after college. Take
the time you have now to make mistakes and learn from them so, for the rest of your
career, you’ll only become that much better.
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34. HOW TO CLOSE A JOB INTERVIEW SUCCESSFULLY
Originally Posted on Oct. 21, 2010 by Lisa Atufunwa
Your interview is drawing to a close. You feel you did a wonderful job answering the
interviewer’s questions and portraying yourself as a great candidate. While how you
begin your interview is the first impression interviewers make outside of your
resume, how you end your interview leaves a permanent impact and could be the
last memory an interviewer has of you as a potential employee. How you end your
interview can allow you to figure out if you are interested in working at the
company and make final statements of why you should be hired.
Do you have any questions?
At the end of an interview, most employers will give you the opportunity to ask
questions. Not having any questions prepared to ask for your interview comes
across that you were not prepared or not an independent thinker. There isn’t a
maximum number of questions to an employer, however a good range of questions
to prepare is 5-8 questions.
Final statement
Express your enthusiasm about the company and the position. Make a final
statement of your strengths and what value you can bring to the company. Your
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35. closing statement should be 2-4 sentences long. Restate some of the strong points
expressed during the interview and patch up any concerns the interviewer may
have about you.
What’s next?
Find out what’s the next step in the application process. Ask if there is any final
information that you need to provide to the interviewer (i.e. writing samples,
references or transcripts). If you are asked to provide additional information,
follow-up with the interviewer within 24 hours of the interview. Establish a
timeframe for the hiring process, if possible.
A gracious candidate is a good candidate
Thank the interviewer for their time at the end of the interview with a firm
handshake. Ask them for their business card to follow-up with them. Write a thank
you note, express your interest in the company again, and one thing you and the
interviewer talked about during the interview.
Remember to be confident and enthusiastic. End your interview on a positive lasting
impression. How do you want the interviewer to remember you once you leave their
office?
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36. 3 WAYS TO DITCH THE ANXIETY & ACE YOUR INTERVIEW
Originally Posted on Sep. 02, 2010 by Martha G. Chavez
Congratulations! Your resume impressed, and now you scored an interview. You
have only one chance to impress prospective employers.
Successful interviewing is essential in grabbing that dream job you’ve always
wanted. People freeze up and tense with the mention of the impending “I” word, but
with preparation and research you can have the confidence and handle to go in
there and impress your future employer. Here are just a few tips to help you have a
seamlessly smooth interview.
Research
The first thing you need to do is research the company you’re interviewing with.
Find out as much as you can about the company and the person interviewing you.
Researching keeps you up to speed about the company and their history. A lot of
questions during the interview deal with your knowledge of the company.
Employers expect you to know about them and why you want to work there. If you
don’t know what you’re talking about it will show.
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37. Practice makes perfect
Go over the typical questions asked during an interview. Most interviewers ask the
same set of “getting to know you” questions. Two common questions are, “What’s
your biggest strength?” and “What’s your biggest weakness?” Pick something you
really do well and state it simply. You don’t want to seem cocky or overconfident by
listing out how perfect you are. Some career books tell you to pick another strength
and present it as a weakness. Please don’t do this. Using a strength and presenting it
as a weakness is deceiving, and just makes it seem like you’re dodging the question.
Talk about a real weakness and show what you are doing to overcome it.
Put them in the hot seat
Remember, they need you just about as much as you need them. Don’t be afraid to
ask why this position is open. Toward the end of the interview, when they ask if you
have any questions, take the opportunity to find out what the future of the position
is, if there is room to grow with the company, how the person interviewing you got
where they are. Being vocal shows interest and ambition. Employers are not only
looking for someone who can do the job, but also someone who’s genuinely excited
and interested in the job.
There are no repeats or second chances when you interview. Being prepared will
help you feel calm and give you the confidence to win over any employer.
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38. HOW TO CREATE A PERSONAL BRAND WITHOUT BEING A JERK
Originally Posted on Aug. 10, 2010 by Joshua Waldman
There are those talking about personal branding who are nothing more than ego-
maniacs used to leading their high-school click. Personal branding is NOT the same
as being the center of attention or creating a cult of your own personality.
In fact, a good brand is quite the opposite. Let me explain what I mean.
Your personal brand, their emotions
Think about Steve Jobs. What emotions come to your head….I think: “innovative,”
“polished” and “underdog power.”
On the other hand, think about Paris Hilton. What emotions come to your head…I
think: “conceited,” “spoiled” and “lost at sea.”
Now, think about yourself and how you want others to remember you. What three
emotions come to your head?
Demanding popularity will typically get you enemies. However, being authentic,
honest and real gets you respect.
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39. But I don’t want to put myself out there
There isn’t much of a choice. People who deny they have a personal brand simply
end up with a very bad one. But people who proactively manage it are ahead of the
game.
I was at a project managers networking event the other night. Project managers
remind me of engineers…technical, to-the-point and not necessarily comfortable
networking. And that’s exactly why they are so good. They get their jobs done, don’t
let emotions get in the way of delivery and don’t waste time.
During one conversation, a man told me that even just coming to this event was a
huge challenge for him. And that running his job search around building a personal
brand was WAY outside his comfort zone.
So I explained that a personal brand doesn’t mean you have to jump around the
room pretending to be something you are not. Think about Spock from Star Trek. He
certainly has a brand: “meticulous,” “professional” and “straight to the point.”
What qualities do you have that can help you do your job well? How do you want to
be remembered by potential employers?
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40. How to start creating a personal brand
By reading and following the suggestions in Personal Branding for Job Search
Success: How to Uncover, Align & Pitch Your Brand So You End Up in the ‘Yes’ Box, you
have already differentiated yourself from the other 299 people applying to your
dream job. Click here for a preview.
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41. WHY WEAK TIES ARE ACTUALLY BETTER THAN STRONG ONES
Originally Posted on Jun. 16, 2010 by Annie Kohanek
Who have you turned to during your job search? Your family? Your best friend’s
parents? Your teachers? That’s all well and good – all these people are strong
resources when looking for a job, but you may be missing out on a lot more
opportunities than you realized.
Consider the power of your weak social ties (i.e., those who you aren’t related to or
very close with). Old high school classmates, friends of your previous employer,
even old volunteer colleagues. All of those who fall under the category of distant
acquaintances – these people are the ones who may very well be offering you your
next job.
Family members and friends are great support, but not necessarily great job
sources. Sure they are easy to approach for help, but the numbers are small and
your opportunities are limited to their immediate resources. Especially if you’re
interested in a different career, these strong social ties are pretty limited.
Searching for jobs without any networking is plausible, but daunting. Thanks to the
Internet, it’s possible for job seekers to hit the Google button and search for posted
jobs without any network ties. However, with hundreds of other people doing the
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42. exact same thing, the likelihood of actually landing the job borders on near-mythical
standards.
What’s so special about weak social ties? While initially more difficult to maneuver,
your weak social connections provide both a real person to contact about jobs,
while at the same time, allows you to branch out of your immediate social circle to
find greater employment opportunities.
Thanks to social networking groups like Come Recommended, linking up with these
weak social ties has never been easier. Keep in touch with infrequent, brief, e-mails.
There are so many different jobs out that that you may not have even heard of, and
sending out brief letters with your qualifications and job goals is a way to send a line
out there to check if anything bites. Networking doesn’t end when your friends or
family don’t produce job leads, get out and create a greater job search network with
any and everyone you can.
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43. 3 LITTLE THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW
EMPLOYERS ARE LOOKING FOR
Originally Posted on Nov. 16, 2010 by Martha G. Chavez
We’ve been through this before. We know how important it is to be prepared for
interviews. When you go into an interview, you want to not only be prepared for the
questions they throw at you, but also you should stop for a second and think about
the bigger picture.
Yes, you obviously want to stand out from the sea of other candidates and sell
yourself with the oodles of experience you have, but don’t forget that employers also
want to make sure you’re someone who will fit in their work environment. Are you
friendly? How well do you work with others? How do you handle office situations?
These are all vital questions. Here are a few more things employers are looking for.
Communicate effectively
Make sure you have a clear tone and be loud (not too loud). I know you’re going to
be nervous, but it’s not very appropriate to crack jokes or be a chatty Cathy. You
don’t want to carry on and on. Just keep it simple. This shows how well you’ll be
able to communicate, which you more than likely will in some sort of manner, with
others.
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44. Show some interest
You applied for the position because you want to work there, right? I hope so.
Employers are looking for someone who knows their company, so make sure you
know who they are, some important or relevant facts about the company, even any
big names. You want to let them know you’re genuinely excited about being there
and a part of their team.
Confidence, confidence, and more confidence
The more confidence you show, the better for you. Now, this doesn’t mean you need
to be arrogant and cocky, but you should let whoever is interviewing you know you
are confident in yourself and your abilities. This doesn’t have to be all verbal, either.
Eye-contact, a good, firm handshake and bright smile go very far in the confidence
department.
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45. 3 LITTLE THINGS TO REMEMBER POST-INTERVIEW
Originally Posted on Dec. 14, 2010 by Martha G. Chavez
You’ve done your research, gussied yourself up, aced those tough questions, and are
now exhaling a huge sigh of relief. You made it through the interview. Yay!
But wait, you’re not done, my friend.
The interview process is not completely over once you leave. There are still things to
be done. Remember, nothing is set in stone until you get the official offer. Until then,
here are some things to do after your interview.
Say thank you
This is the most important thing you need to do after your interview. A simple thank
you for your time goes very far. Make sure to send it that evening after you
interview or the next day at the latest. A thank you projects an image of a grateful,
well-mannered applicant who is serious about getting the job. Mention that you
enjoyed learning more about the position and why you’re the right candidate for the
job.
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46. Follow-up
There is nothing wrong with wanting to know your status after your interview, just
be tactful about it. If your interviewer does not tell you what the turnaround time is
for the decision to be made, ask. Wait until then to call. Some employers like these
follow-up calls as you are showing your determination. But don’t turn
determination to annoyance. One call, or even e-mail, is good.
Keep the search rolling
It’s not over till it’s over. An interview does not guarantee you the job. When I first
started interviewing, I thought I would automatically get the job. Well, several
interviews later, here I am still without a job. How silly of me! You weren’t the only
one interviewing for the position and there may be other equally qualified
candidates. So until you receive that phone call congratulating you for being chosen
to work for the company, continue sending those resumes. Keep looking out for job
vacancies and submit applications ASAP. It’s always better to have multiple offers
than to wait to see if you just get that one.
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47. 3 LITTLE TIPS TO HELP GET YOUR RESUME NOTICED
Originally Posted on Nov. 23, 2010 by Martha G. Chavez
When it comes to finding a job, everything starts with your resume. You have one
chance to sell yourself on one page.
Now, your resume is always going to change, as it should, as you gain more
experience, but don’t forget to change it as your career search marches on. We’re all
not finding jobs super fast these days. It’s essential that as you volunteer, intern,
blog, etc., you keep your resume updated.
Making an impact with a single sheet of paper may sound terrifying, but it doesn’t
have to be. I remember when I graduated from college and started to re-vamp my
resume. I just stared at it for minutes (felt like hours) not knowing what to do. Here
are a few little tips that’ll help your resume get you noticed.
It’s about results, not tasks
This was a major opportunity on my resume. When employers look at your resume,
they don’t really want to know what you did at your previous job or internship. They
want to know what you achieved there. Make sure to use quantities and statistics if
available.
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48. To objective or not to objective?
Putting an objective has always been a touchy subject in resume writing. I don’t find
it necessary. If you’re applying for a position, then that is your objective. You want to
get the job. Instead, write a list short summary of your qualifications. Again,
employers want to know what you can do for them.
Visual appeal
Be aware of what your resume looks like at first glance. Is it neat and streamlined?
Is it cluttered? If there is too much on there, chances are it’s going to be tossed right
out. Clean up the design and be sure to use relevant information. Essentially, you
want to keep your resume one page. You don’t want to overwhelm whoever reads it.
Keep it to the point, and you’ll see it’ll make a difference.
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