"RIT Career Matters"

Tips for Interviewing Using a Webcam

11 Jan 2010 21:24:10 GMT

Interviewing remotely is becoming more and more common for initial interviews. Keep these things in mind to make the experience a good one!

Find a quiet place to do the interview.
Test your webcam and the software or site you will be using.
Make sure your microphone and sound settings are working correctly. Be sure that the microphone is set to a good volume, and that goes for your speaker volume as well. Practice speaking clearly through the microphone; you may find that you need to speak more slowly during a video conference, since there are sometimes lags when communicating over the internet.
If possible, practice for the interview with a friend or your contact in the career services office.
You might think the situation is informal, but it's not perceived that way by the people interviewing you. Dress-up for the interview, even though it will be conducted over a webcam.
Good video interview software will have a window that shows what you look like to the interviewer. Try to look into the camera when talking instead of the image on the screen. Posture is probably more important in this situation than it is in person. Make sure the area in which you're sitting is neat and nothing strange or interesting is showing that might distract the interviewer or make you look bad.
Usually better to use an Ethernet connection instead of a wireless connection to reduce the possibility of video delay or loss of connection.
Good idea to get your interviewer’s name and phone number, ahead of time just in case you experience technical difficulties.
Find out who is connecting with whom and make sure you have their IP address (or they have yours) if you are using software that requires it.
Shut off your cell phone or any other potential distractions within your control prior to the interview.
Find out how much time has been set aside for your interview – people have a tendency to rush online, so this will help you to pace your answers better.
Many people haven't done a video interview before and it's okay to tell the recruiter or hiring manager that you are new to the process.
Avoid leaving the confines of the camera until the interview is completely administered and remember to thank the employer for his/her time and consideration of the interview session.
Go about the interview much the way you would a face-to-face interview. As with any kind of interview, being prepared is the most important thing.

Making the Most of Your Holiday Break

2 Dec 2009 12:53:29 GMT

Ahh, holiday vacation…a time for lounging around, eating too much food, sleeping late and just vegging at home, right? Think again! Whether you are graduating next spring or looking for a co-op in upcoming quarters, holiday break is the perfect time to kick your job search into gear. Take advantage of your down time and a more relaxed atmosphere to put yourself a step ahead of the competition by considering the following tips.

Do some company research; find out what’s new in your field and what are some of the “hot industries” to explore? Consider all industries, not just the one(s) you’re interested in, and also look at non-profits and government to uncover possible employers.
Review your resume – get some input and feedback from family, friends and neighbors to help critique and make suggestions.
Do an informational interview with a professional in your field or shadow someone for a day to help you better shape your career goals.
Now is the perfect time to look for a mentor – someone with whom you can establish an on-going relationship and who will continue to give you career guidance and advice throughout the process.
Ask your parents for help with brainstorming ideas, uncovering new leads and discussing career goals. Really, they might surprise you!
Network – use all of those holiday get-togethers as opportunities to connect with neighbors, friends, former teachers, etc. Check out other networking events at home that might put you in contact with people in the community who might be able to help you. Put that “60 second commercial” to good use in all social and professional situations!
Volunteer! Helping others by giving your time not only makes you feel good, but can potentially lead to some good personal connections and/or give you a chance to gain some additional professional experience to enhance your resume.
Sending out cards or email greetings this year? Writing thank you notes? Include a note to let others know you are on the job hunt and to keep you in mind if they come across anything that might be of interest.
While you have a little more free time on your hands, familiarize yourself with some of the social networking sites like LinkedIn and Facebook – how can using these sites help you with your job search?
Check out some job search sites you haven’t used before like Vault, Careerbuilder.com, and Indeed.com – are there any sites specific to your field?
Take advantage of those after Christmas sales to find some good discounts on clothes to wear to an interview!
And finally, make it your New Year’s resolution to get organized and get that job search in motion!! Happy New Year!!

Objective or Not Objective, That Is The Question

16 Nov 2009 15:37:17 GMT

by Gretchen Burruto
RIT Office of Co-op and Career Services

"I was told you don't need an objective." But without an objective, how will a prospective employer quickly categorize you? Do you want them to guess what job you want to be considered for? What level -- co-op, internship or full-time job?

Of course, by leaving it off you keep your options open -- but you also may give the impression that you are not focused and are applying to any and all jobs. Employers like to believe your career interests are right in line with what they have to offer. And if you are trying to make a shift in your career path -- all they have to go on is your job history or degree qualifications which may not be the direction you are hoping to go in.

Resumes are quickly scanned -- so if you leave off an objective you are making that employer do a little too much work to find out who you are and where you might fit. You want to make it easy for an employer to move you ahead in the hiring process.

So, by taking a few minutes to make your objective fit their industry or type of candidate, you will give the impression you are a good match for their organization and that leads you closer to the interview.

Evaluating Job Offers

12 Nov 2009 20:34:09 GMT

Important Factors to Consider
Congratulations! After a long job search you have a job offer and are waiting to hear from other employers. Evaluating the job offer to make sure that it's the right one for you needs as much effort as writing a resume or preparing for an interview. Being prepared to discuss salary is also an important part of the process.

Evaluating Job Offers
Carefully weigh all the important factors listed below in considering the offer:

Job content or nature of the work
Your future boss
Salary and benefits
Co-workers and corporate culture
Typical work week
Location

You should promptly acknowledge receipt of all job offers and promptly inform the employer of your plans, which are outlined next.

Accepting/Rejecting an Offer
Job Offer Options
• Stall - Not Ready To Make A Decision: Express appreciation for the offer. Tell them that because this is an important decision you would like some time to carefully think about it. Agree on a reasonable time frame to get back to the company. You should not need to accept any offer on the spot. If you are waiting to hear back from other companies with whom you have interviewed, contact those companies and find out when they will be making a decision, informing candidates, and, if you can, find out whether you are being considered for the position.
• Accept - You Really Want This Job: Show your appreciation for the offer. Ask the employer to confirm the offer in writing. Do not interview for any other positions. Reject all other offers immediately by telephone or e-mail.
• Reject - Thanks, But No Thanks: Express appreciation for the offer. Say something positive about the organization and be diplomatic. Let them know that the position is not a good fit at this time.

Ethics Of Accepting Or Rejecting An Offer
Once you accept a job offer, even verbally, you must not back out, or renege on the job, to work for another employer. Reneging on an offer could damage your chances of future employment with that company. Therefore, consider carefully before accepting a position.

• Discuss offers thoroughly with employers so you understand the terms and reach a mutually acceptable date to respond to their offer.
• Request extensions from employers if you need more time to consider other offers. Do not ignore deadline dates you have agreed upon.
• Notify employers that you are accepting or rejecting an offer as soon as you make your decision - never later than the arranged date.
• Once you accept a job offer, immediately inform other employers who have offers pending. Honor your acceptance of an offer as a contractual agreement with the employer.
• Cancel any other scheduled interviews or on-site visits.

38 Job Search Hashtags on Twitter

3 Nov 2009 19:09:35 GMT

You're on Twitter and you want to read tweets about job searching. How do you find them? Type a job search hashtag into the search box on your Twitter page. That'll take you to another Twitter page with tweets containing the hashtag term.

According to Wikipedia:

Twitter allows the use of hashtags, a word or phrase prefixed with a #, such as #beer. This enables tweets on a specific subject to be found by simply searching for their common hashtag.

To learn how to use and create hashtags, read Ultimate Guide to Twitter Hashtags by Ann Smarty.

The following 38 hashtags that are related to job searching:

#____jobs (fill in the blank with your city or state)
#career
#careercoach
#careerconsultant
#careermanagement
#careers
#employment
#greenjobs
#hire
#hireme
#hiring
#hr
#job
#jobadvice
#jobhunt
#jobhunting
#jobinterview
#jobpostings
#jobs
#jobsearch
#jobseeker
#jobseekers
#jobtips
#laidoff
#needajob
#negotiate
#recession
#recruiters
#recruiting
#resume
#resumes
#resumeservices
#resumewriter
#resumewriting
#salary
#success
#tweetmyjobs
#unemployment
#work

What Do Common Interview Questions Really Mean?

28 Oct 2009 18:48:17 GMT

By Robert Half International

You've probably been on quite a few job interviews in your career, and you know that there are certain questions that every hiring manager seems to ask. Because you've heard them so often, you feel you can practically answer them in your sleep.

But are you providing the best responses possible?

Often, a seemingly simple question can have hidden layers of meaning. What is the interviewer really hoping to learn when he or she asks why you want to work for the firm?

Following are a few interview questions you're likely to hear the next time you meet with a prospective employer and insight into the qualities employers may be assessing with each one. Armed with this information, you can get to the heart of what a potential employer truly wants to know.

Question: "Why do you want to work here?"
Many people talk in vague terms about how they feel they could excel in the role, why the job sounds appealing or what they admire most about the company. But hiring managers want you to cover more than the basics in your response.

What it really means: "How much do you know about this company, and why are you hoping to work here instead of for one of our competitors?" When answering this question, mention specifics. You might note, for example, that you're excited by the firm's cutting-edge research, a recent merger or the company's corporate social responsibility programs. A detailed response will tell the interviewer that you are interested in more than just a paycheck. At the same time, showing that you've done your research lets the hiring manager know that you came prepared and are serious about the opportunity.

Question: "What are your strengths?"
Answers such as "I work well with others" or "I have a can-do attitude" may in fact be strengths, but many job candidates make the same type of statements, and a generic response will do little to distinguish you from other applicants.

What it really means: "How have you used your strengths to add value to your employer?" The interviewer wants to know how the particular talents you bring to the table will benefit the firm if you're hired, so put your best qualities in context. Talk about how your strengths can help meet a prospective employer's specific needs. In this economy, many firms are trying to cut costs, for instance. Your experience negotiating vendor contracts, for instance, could be a boon to your chances.

Question: "What are your weaknesses?"
People usually try to list weaknesses that can actually be seen as strengths, such as "I'm too much of a perfectionist" or "I never say no when people ask for help." These types of answers can seem canned and could make the interviewer wonder what you're hiding.

What it really means: "How honest and self-aware are you?" and "How have you successfully dealt with a challenge in your career or adversity on the job?" Everyone has weaknesses, but not everyone will admit to it. Employers look for workers who can recognize their own weaknesses and also take steps to overcome them. Show the hiring manager you can do both. If one of your weaknesses is a fear of speaking in public, for example, you could point out how you had to speak in front of your executive team to present a project proposal. Although nerve-racking, the situation forced you to confront your weakness and take steps, such as first presenting at smaller meetings with your colleagues, to improve in this area prior to the big meeting. Since then, you've also joined Toastmasters International and continue to improve.

Question: "Would you rather work alone or in a team?"
This borders on being a trick question, because it's rare that someone would be required to just do one or the other in today's workplace.

What it really means: "Can you work with minimal direction?" and "Can you describe a time when you worked with a colleague or group to solve a workplace challenge?" Managers seek individuals who can take the ball and run with it. They may not always have the time to walk you through a project step-by-step, so you need to be able to work autonomously and devise solutions on your own.

At the same time, you need to be able to work with individuals from different levels, departments, offices or even companies, so the hiring manager is trying to gauge how well you can collaborate with others. You might cite an instance when you led a project team, for instance, to improve your chances of securing the job offer.

By knowing what types of responses interviewers truly seek with seemingly simple questions, you give yourself a much better chance of impressing the hiring manager. After all, he or she has probably gotten used to hearing the same responses over and over again. Distinguish yourself with a response that gets to the heart of the matter.

Robert Half International Inc. is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 360 offices worldwide. For more information about our professional services, please visit www.rhi.com.

How To Modify Your Resume For A Full-Time Search

19 Oct 2009 14:07:34 GMT

Many of you may be on your last co-op and are now ready to focus on a job after graduation. Your resume may need some tweaking to get you ready for a full time job search! Some things to think about:

Contact information - is it current and will you be easy to find? Include contact information that isn't about to expire.

Change objective - a well written objective should now be tailored to a specific company or job description to show the reader that you know the position requirements. No more than one or two concise sentences, it should also make it clear why you are looking for a job in that field. Writing an objective should make you think about the specific job and why you are applying for the opening.

Summary statement - may include in addition to or in lieu of your objective. Specify three or four skills you have developed that match the company's needs to demonstrate that you are a good candidate for the position. These can be in short bullet form or a short paragraph format.

Remove courses - emphasizing your work experience, skills and projects is far more relevant at this point - if they just want to see a list of your classes, they can ask for a copy of your transcript.

Review your class projects - are they relevant to the type of job you are applying for? Do they just repeat the same skills you have described in your work experience or elsewhere? Remove those that are unrelated and are just taking up space on your resume.

Skills section - make sure it includes experience from your co-op jobs as well as from classes. Continually check this section to keep current with newly acquired skills.

Work experience - don't shorten your co-op work experience description - fully describe it. Don't just talk about responsibilities - use action words to describe what you actually did, the skills you utilized and if possible, what resulted from your actions. Now may also be the time to remove some of your unrelated work experience. Emphasize the jobs and experience that would be of interest to the particular company to which you are applying.

As always, proofread - your resume should be concise, neat and well organized with no errors!

Millennials At Work: Why Paying Your Dues Sucks

12 Oct 2009 14:54:46 GMT

by Blake Sunshine on Brazen Careerist

A common complaint about Millennials that I hear pretty often is that they don't want to pay their dues at work. Even though I always here this complaint, this past week I found myself complaining to my mom about something work related. (Now I wasn't sure I even wanted to write about this topic since my boss and lots of people I work with read my blog, but I think this is a common problem with Millennials at work. Since I am always honest on my blog and with the people I work with, I figured it would be a good idea to talk about it anyway.) Anyway, back to my story. I was complaining about a specific task that I find to be both mundane and painful to complete at work. As I was complaining, my mom stopped me mid-sentence and said, “suck it up you have to pay your dues at work."

And I think she is right. Millennials at work have to do tasks that they find mundane, painful, useless and terrible. But an important part of climbing up the corporate ladder is proving yourself, and the best way to prove yourself is to do a fantastic job at a terrible task that no one else wants to do. Now doing a fantastic job at a sucky task, doesn't mean that it will suck any less, but it does mean that people will respect you for not complaining and will appreciate that the task is getting completed.

That being said, I still don't want to do this task. And that made me wonder, why is it so important for Millennials to pay their dues at work? If I hate doing a task and I'm not good at it, wouldn't it make more sense for me to do something else that I am really good at instead? Wouldn't I be benefiting the business by working on something where my skills and talents can be properly utilized?

Probably, yes. But I have been assigned to the task and I have to complete it. Which is why I am going to suck it up and do a damn good job at this task that I hate, even though I don't want to.

Tips for Emailing Employers

7 Oct 2009 14:41:51 GMT

E-mail is often the primary way you communicate with prospective employers during your job search. Keep these tips in mind so that you impress them with your professionalism.

Use a meaningful subject header
Be business-like
Address the recipient as Mr., Ms., Mrs; and always spell their name correctly
Be brief - don't overload your message with lots of questions
Ditch emoticons :(
Don't use slang
Don't use strange fonts, wallpapers or colored backgrounds
Sign e-mail with your full name
Don't send large file size attachments
Proofread, spell check!

Your Best Job References

28 Sep 2009 16:00:56 GMT

by Gina Chung, Gotta Mentor

Most job seekers focus all of their energy on resume and interview preparation, forgetting to gather information for their references. They typically remember this detail when asked by the hiring manager. References are generally checked near the end of the recruiting process. It is important to remember that the job reference can be the deciding factor in whether or not you get the a offer.

Be strategic about who would be the best references for you: ideally select a mix of people to get different viewpoints. Select a minimum of three people who you have worked with; former managers or co-workers are ideal, as they are most familiar with your work style and character. They can vouch for your knowledge, skills and accomplishments. If possible, include a reference from your most recent job. Avoid listing personal friends or family members. If you are a college student you can use references from internships or volunteer work in addition to your professors or coaches.

Once you establish your choices, ask permission to use them as a reference. Collect their current contact information, like: company, title, email and phone number. Prepare them to talk about you by keeping them informed of your search. Provide the basic details of the job and ask them to call to let you know they have been contacted. Be grateful and remember to thank your references for their help. Finally, don`t forget to share your news with them once you`ve landed your job.

Finding a Job Through Social Media

23 Sep 2009 18:19:28 GMT

By Tara Lane, Staff Writer

Finding a job in a down economy can seem overwhelming, endless and discouraging. As opposed to the last major economic downturn, job seekers can tap into peer and employment networks using social media. Not only can one expand their search throughout the country, it's also easy, fun and effective.

Social Networks

Facebook doesn't have to be just for uploading photos and taking quizzes -- it can be a valuable asset to the job search for any age group. Facebook's largest area of growth has been with those ages 35 and above, many of whom have valuable networking connections. Posting a link to a portfolio or resume is a good place to start, as well as sending out a message to those friends who may be able to provide help in your search.

LinkedIn is another growing network that provides and unique and powerful way to network and search for jobs. It is a professional network where users can be recommended by their colleagues and peers-a very important aspect in any job search. Many influential people are members of the network, and can play a big part in the job hunt, as long as it's done right. The helpful "Answers" section allows professionals from all areas and industries to weigh-in questions asked by other users. This can be especially useful to someone looking for suggestions about networking or who are looking for insight into their field of work. Another helpful tool on LinkedIn are groups, which allows users to connect to an even wider audience and network with others as well.

Innovative Job Sites

Monster, Career Builder and Hot Jobs may provide a few leads, but they don't provide many options beyond the ability to e-mailing a resume to some unknown person. In this climate, entrepreneurs have created and developed new job search and career networks that benefit frustrated job seekers at the same time. Sites such as CareeRealism, Career Rocketeer, Come Recommended, and Brazen Careerist provide a 2-in-1 option for career minded individuals: a unique social networking opportunity combined with powerful tools for the job search.

CareeRealism offers job seekers an opportunity to have their resumes and cover letters reviewed to find areas of improvement. Brazen Careerist, one of the hottest career networks on the rise, offers a unique blog network of people who were once in the same position. Come Recommended challenges applicants to seek recommendations from former colleagues and employers before gaining full access to the site as way to screen applicants, but also to motivate applicants to get a head start on the job hunt. Employers have access to these sites as well, so they can browse through a pool of potential applicants whom they know are serious about the process and their futures.

Twitter It

More and more companies are turning to Twitter as a way to get the word out about job opportunities. Not only does it save them time and money, it expands the applicant pool by thousands. Mashable recently posted a list of companiesactively advertising job opportunities, as well as advice on how to make your Twitter profile job-hunt friendly. Just as on Facebook, letting people know you're looking for a job can have a great outcome. Someone can simply "re-tweet" your message, giving you more exposure in just a few seconds. One of the best ways to network on Twitter is to follow influential people in your field and communicate with them through the service. Many of these influencers also post links to helpful articles about the career field, advice on branding yourself for the search, and even leads to the jobs themselves.

With social media, you can still be visible without being physically there, by putting yourself out there and getting the attention you need. New technologies have given job seekers young and old a great opportunity for networking and job hunting beyond the classifieds. Leveraging these technologies to your advantage is key for making them work for you. Although it can be a long road, it is almost always worth it.

Developing Your Career Portfolio

21 Aug 2008 21:39:45 GMT

Usually we associate portfolios as part of the hiring process in occupations where creativity is a necessary skill. However, a portfolio can also help document work experience, achievements and skills in any field. A portfolio is excellent way to market your qualifications to an employer for co-op or full time employment following graduation. Your portfolio can serve as an invaluable tool for you to demonstrate your skills to a potential employer during an interview

To Friend, or Not to Friend: That is the Workplace Question

15 Sep 2009 13:45:14 GMT

A couple of new surveys released last week illustrate how the rise of social networks like Facebook are affecting the way we relate to co-workers or job candidates.

First, Menlo Park temporary services agency OfficeTeam commissioned a survey that found 48 percent of executives at large companies are uncomfortable about friending their boss on Facebook, and 47 percent of them weren't comfortable with friending employees they manage.

The results indicate those executives probably fear giving up too much information about themselves or knowing too much about their co-workers "because they don't know they can use filters in Facebook," said Jackie Kim, manager of OfficeTeam's San Francisco branch.

But to friend a co-worker or not shouldn't be a question if you learn how to use Facebook's privacy settings, Kim said.

Facebook can be a useful networking tool that can help someone's personal career, if you set privacy filters to create different levels of friends, such as professional and personal, and select how much information each group can see.

"The fear is more of the unknown,'' she said. "You can protect your professional image in every way, shape or form."

Filters could also solve the dilemma of deciding whether to turning down a friend request from a boss or co-worker you don't like. Turning them down could make your real-life office relationship uncomfortable because it would like blowing off a lunch invitation without giving a reason, Kim said.

But filters or no, Kim said you still shouldn't post anything that would cause you "remorse and embarrassment five years down the road.''

And that was the subject of the other survey.

Commissioned by online job search site CareerBuilder.com, this survey said 35 percent of employers rejected potential job candidates because of content they found on their social networking sites.

The top reason? Posting "provocative or inappropriate photographs or information.'' And that was followed by posting "content about them drinking or using drugs.''

So if a friend tags you on photos at a nude beach holding a glass bong, that will probably send your job application right to the round file.

Other reasons included bad-mouthing or sharing confidential information about previous employers, co-workers or clients, showing poor communication skills, making discriminatory comments and lying about qualifications.

And some employers sent a candidate packing for sending an e-mail with an emoticon like a smiley face or with a common texting abbreviation like "GR8.''

But 18 percent surveyed also listed reasons why they decided to hire someone based on their social media background check, such as learning the candidate was a good personality fit for the firm, showed creativity and possessed solid communications skills.

The survey was conducted by Harris Interactive of 2,667 hiring managers and HR professionals between May 22 and June 10. Of those surveyed, 29 percent did their background checks on Facebook, 26 percent on LinkedIn, 21 percent on MySpace and 11 percent on blogs. Another 7 percent used Twitter to follow candidates.

CareerBuilder.com also recommends the use of privacy or "block comments'' filters and to "clean up digital dirt before you begin your job search.''

- Posted by Benny Evangelista

Dismissing the 3 Myths of Job Searching After Graduation

31 Jul 2009 14:31:39 GMT

By Kelly Lux, LinkedIn Blog author

I have recently spent a great deal of time in my office talking to students who are very confused about what their options are after graduation. The problem is, they are limiting their options before they even get started. Students think that 1) major = job, 2) job boards = job, and 3) NYC (or Chicago, LA, you pick) = job. I'd like to address these three myths.

1) Take a look at the profiles on LinkedIn and see what people really do with their majors. A quick review of profiles for people in marketing & advertising revealed degrees in creative arts, sociology, business administration, economics and journalism. Do some searching and see what people with your degree are doing. Remember that as you search for jobs, the more you open yourself up to possibilities, the more you increase your chances of landing a job you that you really want. Where might you be able to apply the skills you have learned in college? Where can you combine those skills with your interests? Answering these questions will help you come up with some options to check out.

2) I can't tell you the number of students I've met with who have told me that they have applied to everything they can find online and they aren't even getting a response...nothing! I ask what else they are doing and inevitably they look at me blankly, like there's something else I should be doing? Online job boards have done a very good job with their advertising and therefore students think that they are the keeper of all jobs. Don't fool yourself into thinking that you can get a job without talking to people (OK, some can, but not many. The true value of your LinkedIn network is the opportunity to connect with these people offline, live, either on the phone or in person. Find people who are doing what you want to do and ask them for 5-10 minutes of their time. Search out people in the companies you are interested in and do the same thing. You will yield much better results than throwing your resume down the black hole of on-line job boards.

3) This is my favorite and probably the hardest thing for students to wrap their heads around. THERE ARE JOBS OUTSIDE THE TOP FIVE CITIES IN THE COUNTRY! In fact, there are good jobs in places like Austin, TX, Kansas City, MO and Salt Lake City, UT. Consider checking out a place other than where millions of other students are heading to at the same time you are, especially now when the big cities have been hardest hit by layoffs, increasing your competition exponentially.
Try to look at your job search as a treasure hunt, where you have to dig to find clues to the best route to take. Keep a vision of where you want to end up and don't worry so much about the exact steps you will have to take to get there. Just keep in mind that your first job after college is not the biggest decision you will ever have to make in your life, it just seems that way.

End Your Co-op on a Good Note

20 Aug 2008 21:53:47 GMT

Don't leave your co-op job regretting the way you handled your final days. Ending your co-op on a positive note could be critical to your future career success. You never know when you may need a recommendation, a letter of reference, or possibly end up interviewing with the company again. Here are a few ideas on how to leave a good lasting impression on your co-op assignment: Don’t burn bridges! If there were people you did not like or get along with, be gracious to them before you leave. Don’t bother with the dramatic exit speech on how much you disliked them. Write personal thank you notes to those who mentored you, worked closely with you or helped you while you were there. Especially your direct supervisor. Make sure all of your projects are completed before your last day. Request a final review or evaluation before you leave. Ask for any feedback or things you could have done better. Make sure you turn over any proprietary materials before you leave. Remove any personal information from the computer and workspace you used. Make sure you have contact information for key people and ask them if you can keep in touch. Ask for a letter of recommendation from your supervisor. Good luck and plan to make the most of your co-op experience!

Top 4 Tips for Recent Graduates Looking for a Job in 2009

14 Jul 2009 19:35:38 GMT

If you're a recent college graduate, the current economic situation and news about rising unemployment may have you concerned about getting a job, particularly if you've already searched and come up short. Don't panic. There are a few tactics that can make your resume stand out, improve your chances of getting one of those fantastic entry-level jobs, and give you something worthwhile to do with your time.

1. Keep a Positive Attitude
According to the Wall Street Journal, the unemployment rate in April among those with only high school diplomas was about three times that of college graduates the same age. Even if job opportunities aren't abounding at the moment, you've still got an edge over those without a degree. Many companies are still hiring; it's just a matter of matching your particular skills to those most needed by employers. Eventually, waiting longer means you may appreciate the job you get even more.

2. Consider Rewiring Your Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Think outside the box: just because you graduated with a degree in math doesn't mean you have to teach math or work in finance. People have used elementary education degrees as a step toward social work. What sub-skills, extra training, and uncommon volunteer experience do you have? You may have the necessary skills to get your dream job, but no employer knows that unless you pull them out from hiding under your degree and job titles and make them explicit in your resume. What happened when you helped out at the food bank? Did the administration go wireless? Did efficiency increase? Were you key in recruitment of new volunteers? Now may be a good time to revise your resume or CV, highlighting volunteer experience and remembering to focus not just on tasks, but also on results.

3. Prepare Yourself As Best As Possible
Take advantage of tools and advice that can help you in your job search. Many career fairs offer networking opportunities, and some offer free resume consultation. If the school where you graduated offers career counseling or mock interviews, take advantage of these resources to hone your interviewing skills and find new fields that match your coursework. College preparation Web sites such as CollegeGrad.com can give you resume, interviewing, and job search tips.

In the meantime, see what is missing from your education or experience. Some jobs require a particular skill or knowledge set that you might not have. If you are unable to find employment, take advantage of the extra time to take classes, earn a particular certification, or even go to graduate school. If you think you may eventually need a master's degree to get ahead in your career and you're having trouble finding a job now, why not consider starting the master's degree now, or at least taking some graduate courses?

4. Keep Looking
Don't give up the search. CollegeGrad.com and dozens of other career Web sites post new job ads every day. Finding employment can be like a full-time job, but harder you work at it, the better your chances are of stumbling upon your dream career. Good luck!

About the Author
Melissa Bullard earned a Bachelor's degree in English Literature, then a Master's Degree in Spanish Language and Literatures from the University of Nevada, Reno. She has taught writing, literature, and Spanish classes, and is currently working as a freelance writer, translator, and piano teacher.

Twitter Tips: How to Use Twitter to Job Hunt

22 Jun 2009 16:14:13 GMT

Though LinkedIn tops the list of professionally-oriented social networks for job seeking, you can also use Twitter to get the word out about your skills and talents to relevant people in your industry.

Dressing for an Interview -- Dos and Don'ts

23 Jun 2009 14:13:56 GMT

Dos and Don'ts
So what are you supposed to wear? You've got some employers wanting you to dress a little better than the code for interviews, but if you overdress you appear ignorant of the culture.

While no strict universal rules exist for dress code, there are some guidelines you can think about when dressing for interviews and work:

- Know your audience
Whether you're dressing for an interview or just a Tuesday on the job, you want to show that you fit in. Jeans and a T-shirt won't work for a lot of industries, but a suit and tie might not work for others. Look at the industry and the workplace and take cues from other people.

- Don't get lazy
Once you've been on a job long enough, you can be tempted to throw on whatever's clean (or clean enough) and stumble to work. Employers don't stop assessing your work ethic once you pass your first-year anniversary. Your appearance is a constant factor in how others perceive you and your professionalism.

- Use common sense
In most circumstances, you can be certain that the kind of clothes you'd wear to a club or the beach don't translate to the workplace. Torn or extremely faded jeans, shirts that show a lot of skin, flip-flops, t-shirts with skulls on them, ragged tennis shoes and purple hair don't belong in workplaces. Of course, if you work on the beach or in a club, you probably can wear some of these things.

- Read the dress code
If your company has an official dress code in its employee handbook, read it. Maybe everyone in the company bends the rules, and that's fine, but you should be aware of what the official guidelines are in case you ever have to deal with a complaint.

- Dress for the position you want
Yes, it's a cliché, but it's a cliché for a reason. Dressing for the position you want and not the one you have is a good way to make a strong impression on your boss and clients or customers. If you want to be the manager and notice that everyone at that level has a more sophisticated look than yours, emulate them.

What (Not) to Wear
By Anthony Balderrama, CareerBuilder.com writer

Stay on Contacts' Radar Screens: 4 Vital Post-Interview Moves

19 Mar 2009 20:40:45 GMT

Imagine spending three months training for a race, launching your body to a strong start and sprinting past the competition on your way to a victory. After so much preparation and effort, you wouldn't give up and walk through the finish line, would you?

This scenario represents how many job seekers misstep in the interview process. They begin doing everything right, like researching the company and preparing questions in advance. They make a great first impression and dazzle recruiters and hiring managers with their knowledge and ideas. But too often they fail to finish strong, because they underestimate the importance of following up after their interviews. [More]

Ten Ways to Use LinkedIn to Find a Job

2 Jul 2009 18:45:37 GMT

Searching for a job can suck if you constrain yourself to the typical tools such as online jobs boards, trade publications, CraigsList, and networking with only your close friends. In these kinds of times, you need to use all the weapons that you can, and one that many people don't -- or at least don't use to the fullest extent, is LinkedIn.

LinkedIn has over thirty-five million members in over 140 industries. Most of them are adults, employed, and not looking to post something on your Wall or date you. Executives from all the Fortune 500 companies are on LinkedIn. Most have disclosed what they do, where they work now, and where they've worked in the past. Talk about a target-rich environment, and the service is free.

Here are ten tips to help use LinkedIn to find a job. If you know someone who's looking for a job, forward them these tips along with an invitation to connect on LinkedIn. Before trying these tips, make sure you've filled out your profile and added at least twenty connections

1.Get the word out. Tell your network that you're looking for a new position because a job search these days requires the "law of big numbers" There is no stigma that you're looking right now, so the more people who know you're looking, the more likely you'll find a job. Recently, LinkedIn added "status updates" which you can use to let your network know about your newly emancipated status.

2.Get LinkedIn recommendations from your colleagues. A strong recommendation from your manager highlights your strengths and shows that you were a valued employee. This is especially helpful if you were recently laid off, and there is no better time to ask for this than when your manager is feeling bad because she laid you off. If you were a manager yourself, recommendations from your employees can also highlight leadership qualities.
3.Find out where people with your backgrounds are working. Find companies that employ people like you by doing an advanced search for people in your area who have your skills. For example, if you're a web developer in Seattle, search profiles in your zip code using keywords with your skills (for example, JavaScript, XHTML, Ruby on Rails) to see which companies employ people like you.

4.Find out where people at a company came from. LinkedIn "Company Profiles" show the career path of people before they began work there. This is very useful data to figure out what a company is looking for in new hires. For example, Microsoft employees worked at Hewlett-Packard and Oracle.

5.Find out where people from a company go next. LinkedIn's "Company Profiles" also tell you where people go after leaving the company. You can use this to track where people go after leaving your company as well as employees of other companies in your sector. (You could make the case that this feature also enables to figure out which companies to avoid, but I digress.)

6.Check if a company is still hiring. Company pages on LinkedIn include a section called "New Hires" that lists people who have recently joined the company. If you have real chutzpah, you can ask these new hires how they got their new job. At the very least you can examine their backgrounds to surmise what made them attractive to the new employer.

7.Get to the hiring manager. LinkedIn's job search engine allows you to search for any kind of job you want. However, when you view the results, pay close attention to the ones that you're no more than two degrees away from. This means that you know someone who knows the person that posted the job -- it can't get much better than that. (Power tip: two degrees is about the limit for getting to hiring managers. I never help friends of friends of friends.) Another way to find companies that you have ties to is by looking at the "Companies in Your Network" section on LinkedIn's Job Search page.

8.Get to the right HR person. The best case is getting to the hiring manager via someone who knows him, but if that isn't possible you can still use LinkedIn to find someone inside the company to walk your resume to the hiring manager or HR department. When someone receives a resume from a coworker even if she doesn't know the coworker, she almost always pays attention to it.

9.Find out the secret job requirements. Job listings rarely spell out entirely or exactly what a hiring manager is seeking. Find a connection at the company who can get the inside scoop on what really matters for the job. You can do this by searching for the company name; the results will show you who in your network connects you to the company. If you don't have an inside connection, look at profiles of the people who work at the company to get an idea of their backgrounds and important skills.

10.Find startups to join. Maybe this recession is God telling you it's time to try a startup. But great startups are hard to find. Play around with LinkedIn's advanced search engine using "startup" or "stealth" in the keyword or company field. You can also narrow by industry (for example, startups in the Web 2.0, wireless, or biotech sectors). If large companies can't offer "job security," open up your search to include startups.

11.Build your network before you need it. As a last tip, no matter how the economy or your career is doing, having a strong network is a good form of job security. Don't wait until times are tough to nurture your network. The key to networking (or "schmozing"), however, is filled with counter-intuitiveness. First, it's not who you know -- it's who knows of you. Second, Great schmoozers are not thinking "What can this person do for me?" To the contrary, they are thinking, "What can I do for this person?" For more on schmoozing, read "The Art of Schmoozing."

by Guy Kawalski

http://blog.guykawasaki.com

10 Worst Work Habits

16 Jun 2009 13:55:17 GMT

Here are 10 work habits that you should try to break:

1. Procrastination

A lot of people work best under pressure, or at least they say so. With everyone having a different personality, you can't say a strict schedule works best for all employees. Putting tasks off until the last minute, however, invites plenty of problems, even if you think the final result will be glorious.

When you leave yourself no wiggle room to complete a task, you run the risk of encountering an unexpected obstacle that makes you miss the deadline. Even if the situation is out of your hands, everyone will be left wondering why you didn't plan better and account for last-minute emergencies.

2. Being a sloppy e-mailer

E-mails are second nature to most people these days, and in informal communications they've become a digital Post-it note. We type out a message and send it without proofreading or double-checking the recipients. That's a recipe for disaster.

If you haven't learned your lesson by now, the day will soon come when you accidentally "Reply All" to an e-mail and a slew of unintended readers receive a silly note you intended only your co-worker to read.

3. Confusing informal with disrespectful

In many workplaces, the boss might be the decision maker, but he or she isn't the stern, humorless caricature you saw on TV. Using your supervisor's first name and going for some drinks after work are common in many industries. Still, you are the employee and the boss is the boss -- the one who can fire you and tell you what to do. Don't cross the line by talking to her as if you're talking to one of your direct reports or even your best friend. You need to show some respect for her authority.

4. Taking advantage of leeway

Some companies are strict about the time you clock in and out. Others have guidelines but no hard rules, so you can arrive at 8:35 a.m. and no one cares. If over time you're arriving at 9:10 a.m. and leaving at 4 p.m. (with plenty of breaks in between), your reputation will suffer.

This also goes for dress codes. Business casual is up to interpretation, but ripped jeans and concert tees probably don't fall under your company's accepted definition.

5. Refusing to mingle

Plenty of wisdom lies in the advice not to mix personal and professional lives. However, refusing to take part in any social activity -- such as the office potluck or a happy hour -- will not help your career. You don't need to be the resident party animal, but being personable with your colleagues helps build camaraderie. You get to know other people better and they get to know you as more than the person they pass in the halls.

6. Always running late

This isn't the same as abusing leeway; this is a matter of trust. If you're late to work, to meetings and with projects, your boss and colleagues will associate that trait with you. When it's time for a promotion or to deal with an important client, everyone will think twice before giving you the opportunity. Who wants to trust the person who can't manage his or her time?

7. Being rigid

One of the unfair aspects of the working world is that sometimes it seems you can't win. If you're hired to do a job, most bosses don't want you passing the day by reading your favorite book. The reason: You were hired to do a job, so do it. But if the boss comes to you with a new project that's outside the parameters of your usual duties, it's still yours to do. "You don't pay me to do that" isn't something you want to tell your supervisor.

8. Acting as the resident contrarian

We all love your spirited personality, but try not to be the person in the meeting who always has a better idea and can tell you why everyone else's idea is dumb. Voices of opposition are often missing in many workplaces because too many eager employees want to be "yes" men and women. But too much negativity grates on nerves and makes people dread hearing your voice. Continue to be a critical thinker, but make sure you're doing what's best for the company and not just trying to be the loudest voice in the room.

9. Badmouthing the company

With blogs, Facebook, Twitter and a host of other sites, you have plenty of opportunity to vent your frustration with life. If you're going to complain about how dumb your boss is and how much you hate your job, keep those rants private. The Internet is public domain and comments have a way of finding their way back to all the wrong people. If you wouldn't stand outside your boss's office and tell a co-worker how ready you are to quit, don't express the same thoughts in an open forum.

10. Politicking

Office politics are often unavoidable, and sometimes having a grasp on what's going on can benefit you, but you shouldn't spend more time masterminding office warfare than you do working. Getting caught in the crosshairs of a workplace controversy can be out of your control, but if you're the one instigating the drama, you're earning a bad reputation. You're the person who starts trouble and whom no one trusts. That's the kind of notoriety that follows you from one workplace to another.

Anthony Balderrama is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz. He researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues.

A 'Thank You' Can Land the Job

19 Aug 2008 15:02:43 GMT

Article from CareerBuilder

How to Apply Online and Get an Employer's Attention

5 Jan 2009 19:37:57 GMT

You've found an ad for an entry-level position at XYZ Inc. With your skills and qualifications, you fit the bill perfectly. But XYZ requires an online application—and that means (you think), you fill out a cookie-cutter application that distills your skills so that it appears you're one-of-a-million applicants, not one-in-a-million. And then—when you click "send"—your application swirls away into the black hole of electronic waste. Should you or shouldn't you use an online application? And if you do submit your resume online, how can you get it the attention it deserves?

What Works When Working with Recruiters

19 May 2009 13:49:48 GMT

With an explosion of job seekers competing for fewer jobs, many people are turning to recruiters to try to tap into little-known opportunities in the job market. If you're enlisting this strategy in your job search, it's critical that you understand the possibilities and limitations of working with a recruiter, as well as how to present yourself throughout the process.

Louise Kursmark, author of "15-Minute Cover Letter," says the most important thing to remember about recruiters is that they don't work for you; they work for hiring companies. "They are not 'your' recruiter and will not try to 'find a job for you.' That said, recruiters can be your best friends during a job search -- provided you have the skills, experience and industry expertise their client is looking for," Kursmark says.

She suggests the following tips for making the most out of your relationship with recruiters:

· Uncover a recruiter's specialty areas before contacting him or her.
· Remember whom you're writing to.
· Follow up after sending a recruiter your résumé and cover letter.
· Be patient. · Understand the realities of recruitment.
· Help recruiters to help yourself.
· Never work with a search firm that charges you a fee to get a job.

By Selena Dehne, JIST Publishing

Are You Looking For a Job Backwards?

4 Jun 2009 17:58:49 GMT

Too many people run their job hunts backwards.

Meaning: They spend too much time on the activities that are least likely to land them a job. And not enough time doing the things that are most likely to result in actual employment.

For example, are you spending your days fine-tuning your cover letter, scouring the want-ads, shotgunning your résumé all over the Internet, and chasing down posted job openings?

Those activities sure feel like looking for a job, and they can’t actually hurt. The trouble is they take up time you could be devoting to far more productive pursuits. Like networking. And researching potential employers. And—most of all—directly approaching those potential employers.

We’ve all read the newspaper articles about the position that 500 people applied for. We’ve seen the photos of the long lines at job fairs. It’s discouraging. It makes getting hired seem like winning the lottery.

Better to forge your own path by (a) identifying the companies that need your skills and experience, (b) choosing, from that list, the companies you’d like to work for, and (c) pitching yourself to those companies.

Here’s a secret: Employers want to reduce the time and money and risk associated with the hiring process. Make it easier for them by proactively seeking them out—catching them at that point where they’ve identified a need but not yet moved to fill it—and showing them you have what they need. It’s hard work. But it might get you what you need: A Job.

Karen Burns, Working Girl, is the author of The Amazing Adventures of Working Girl: Real-Life Career Advice You Can Actually Use, to be released by Running Press in April 2009. She blogs at karenburnsworkinggirl.com.

What To Do After You Get Advice

1 Jun 2009 18:31:25 GMT

by GL Hoffman

This is for recent college graduates, networkers, and friends of friends.

You may have already discovered the one universal truth about relationship building, career advancement, and mentoring: People love giving advice. Asking “would you help me?” and “may I get some career advice from you?” nearly always get you to third base. Say it aloud: People love giving advice. It fascinates me to hear there are people who still think otherwise.

OK. Just remember it is not a one-way street. With advice cometh responsibility, saith someone like Socrates, and this is what was meant:

You have a responsibility to keep your advice-giver “in the loop” as we say. He or she does derive some amount of ego-pleasure in the moment, when you are rapt and taking notes on each little utterance. But he wants to know how you applied his advice, and if it worked, or not. It takes five seconds to jot a note or send an E-mail, and trust me--this will pay huge dividends for you.

Because most advice-takers don’t take the time. They take your networking contacts and never let you know how the future meeting went. They forgot. I think it is just plain rude and poor manners.

So the next time you get some advice, plan to be a future correspondent--maybe for a long, long time. There are a few people I have helped over the years who, even now, jot me notes on their achievements and the basics of their lives--a nice friendly update, as it were. I never find it weird. In fact, it makes me want to help even more--if not them, others.

G.L. Hoffman is a serial entrepreneur and venture investor/operator/incubator/mentor. Two of his companies have traveled the entire success path from the garage to IPO. Currently, he is chairman of JobDig, and his blog can be found at WhatWouldDadSay.com or at JobDig.com.

6 Blogs You Should Be Reading

2 Dec 2008 18:48:00 GMT

There's a great deal of career information available to job seekers on the Internet. And some of the most important, timely content can be found in blogs. General work blogs, like CareerBuilder.com's The Work Buzz, cover a wide array of topics and trends and give readers resources to help them search for a new job. Here are six other blogs that are filled with compelling content and sound advice for today's job seekers and workers.

1. Personal Branding

About the blog: Writer Dan Schawbel has written extensively about personal branding. "Personal branding is how we market ourselves to others," Schawbel explains.

His blog looks at ways to solidify "Brand You," including extensive information on social networking. He's also written an upcoming book, "Me 2.0," on the subject.

Why you should read this blog: Though much of the information is geared towards the Generation Y audience, it's important information for job seekers of any age. Having great skills and a great résumé isn't enough -- job seekers need to know how to package and promote themselves and their abilities.

2. Penelope Trunk's Brazen Careerist

About the blog: Columnist and author Penelope Trunk shares career advice as well as professional observations and personal experiences.

Why you should read this blog: Trunk's advice isn't sugarcoated; she gives direct, practical advice to her readers. She also revisits and revises conventional wisdom about career choices. This blog is also peppered with personal content; Trunk often speaks about the balance between work and home.

3. Careerealism

About the blog: The Careerrealism blog was created by noted career strategist and consultant J.T. O'Donnell. As she explains in the site's mission statement, the site is for "any person who recognizes that in today's workplace, the old methods for job searching no longer apply."

Why you should read this blog: Careerealism takes a comprehensive approach to providing advice and guidance and gives the readers ideas about finding and keeping their jobs in a brave new career world. O'Donnell also engages the reader with frequent guest writers and video entries.

4. Shifting Careers

About the blog: Marci Alboher, the author of "One Person/Multiple Careers," writes a monthly column for The New York Times. She also writes ongoing content for this blog, which discusses tips and ideas about blending or changing career paths.

Why you should read this blog: The traditional model of staying at one company for years is rapidly disappearing. Alboher's blog gives readers ideas on when and how to change direction in their careers. The blog bridges traditional career advice with contemporary content, explaining new ideas and concepts in easy-to-understand ways for the beginner.

5. On Careers: Outside Voices

About the blog: The Outside Voices blog is featured as part of the business coverage in U.S. News and World Report. It's a collaborative effort, with staffers from the magazine and several career experts all contributing content.

Why you should read this blog: It's a collection of diverse viewpoints from some of the leading experts in the field, collected and published in one blog. The subject matter addresses a wide range of ideas, from practical résumé fixes to the psychology behind our workplace behavior.

6. Punk Rock HR

About the blog: Human resources expert Laurie Ruettimann posts her thoughts about the corporate world and HR's role in it. Ruettimann's expertise comes from her tenure in HR at various Fortune 500 companies.

Why you should read this blog: To succeed in a job search, it's a good idea to be familiar with the workings of HR, often the initial point of contact for any job seeker at a company. And Ruettimann's humorous, irreverent blog can give job seekers insight to what the "other side" of the process is like.

Patrick Erwin is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com. He researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues.

When a Job is a Scam

18 Nov 2008 14:41:05 GMT

Here are some good tips for you to figure out if a job is probably a scam:

You must give your credit card or bank account numbers, or copies of personal documents - but you get nothing in writing.
You must send payment by wire service or courier.
You are offered a large payment or reward in exchange for allowing the use of your bank account - often for depositing checks or transferring money.
You receive an unexpectedly large check.

When You're the Youngest Person on the Team

12 Nov 2008 14:12:09 GMT

By Anthony Balderrama, CareerBuilder.com writer

If ever your parents were so cruel as to drag you to a dinner party during your childhood, you probably remember the inescapable discomfort. The adults, in high-pitched voices, asked what grade you were in, while the people who hated children sent cold stares your way. You didn't belong there and it showed.

Fast forward a decade or so. You're wearing your new suit and sporting your best smile. It's the first day of your new post-graduation job and you're meeting your new co-workers. You hear the same questions and receive the same icy stares.

The workplace is getting older as baby boomers are waiting longer to retire; therefore, there's a good chance your first job out of college will be filled with colleagues who are several years, or decades, older than you. While most people will be glad to have you on the team, not everyone will welcome you with open arms. However, unlike that 8:00 a.m. psychology class you admirably signed up for but quickly dropped, you need to stick with this job.

So how do you convince your co-workers that you belong on the team when you're the youngest member?

Find your place
Part of establishing your role on a team comes with understanding what you can learn from others and what you can offer them.

"While it is important to be knowledgeable, it is more important to understand your status," advises Tina Hamilton, president and CEO of hireVision Group, a human resources firm. If you show a willingness to learn more about your new position and the company, others will be eager to assist you. "Most will be pleased to do so and as such will look at you in a positive light ... If you are inexperienced and attempt to act otherwise, you risk coming across as difficult to work with or immature."

So if you aren't experienced, how do you give back anything to the team? Simple: Use the knowledge you already have.

Lauren Garfield is the youngest person in her public relations agency, and she realizes that her age can be an asset. "Many employers value the new techniques and information you know because you are younger and know a younger audience. Make sure you use your age to your advantage. This is especially true with my knowledge of Facebook and other social networking Web sites."

Caution: Youth doesn't automatically make you an authority on cutting-edge technologies like social networking and new media. Avoid arrogance and ageism by assuming anyone over 40 has no clue what social networking sites are. Offer your view on the subject as a member of the young demographic, not as the only person at the table whose opinion counts.

Earn respect
Thom, a 25 year-old who asked to remain anonymous, recalls his first job in marketing at 18. Not only was he the youngest member of the team, but he was also the only one without a college education.

"I felt that I had to work twice as hard to prove that I actually deserved to be there. It meant that I was the first one in, last one out and had to be more reliable than anyone else in the office," he remembers. "It likely didn't make me popular, but each time the boss had to make sure something got done right and chose me, it made me just a little bit more invincible."

Put in the effort
Learn from Thom's dedication. You might not become the office darling in a day, but good work will earn you the reputation of a dependable and hard worker. Keith Pillow, vice president of public relations firm Abelson Group, offers the following advice to young professionals trying to fit in:

Communicate like a professional
Speak clearly, intelligently and authoritatively, Pillow suggests. "Make sure to consistently use standard business and workplace vocabulary, not buzzwords or clichés."

Participate in problem-solving and brainstorming
"Take steps to consistently offer fresh ideas, perspectives and solutions that can resolve specific problems or situations," Pillow recommends. "[These ideas] prove that the young associates are experienced, insightful and initiative takers."

Dress the part
"There is no way a supervisor or senior executive will take an employee seriously if he or she is not attired appropriately," Pillow warns. "Revealing or casual attire indicates a lack of respect -- for oneself and for the organization -- and a lack of judgment, neither of which will get an employee anywhere."

Be respectful
"Follow the golden rule," Pillow advises. Treat your colleagues like you want to be treated.

Make Yourself a Strong Candidate

7 Nov 2008 13:56:07 GMT

It's always a good idea to take steps to make yourself the strongest job candidate possible, but during times when competition for jobs is even more intense, this becomes especially important. So, what can you do to stand out from the crowd? Here are some ideas for you to consider:

- Study and keep your grades up: Grades are one key variable many employers review. Aim to keep your GPA above a 3.0 and you'll be in great shape!

- Join clubs/organizations: Participate in activities (team-based would be optimal), and consider taking on some type of leadership role. By getting involved you demonstrate to a potential employer that you're well-rounded, can manage your time effectively, and can work well with others.

- Network: It's never too early to start building your professional network! Faculty, friends, lab partners, family, upper-class students, TA's - All these folks can offer leads to potential employers.

- Get work experience: Even if co-op isn't required for your major, take advantage of the opportunity to work in your field before you graduate. Not only will you learn new skills, you'll gain a better understanding of the type of position you want when you graduate and develop professional contacts!

- Part-time jobs on-campus also are beneficial - your part-time work experience can help you strengthen your communication and time management skills, among others, which are valued by all employers.

- Attend on-campus company presentations - Employers are on-campus throughout the year conducting info sessions. Attend these sessions to learn more about what employers look for in candidates and to connect with company recruiters! You can find a full list of upcoming employer info sessions by visiting Job Zone - just click on the "Events" tab!

9 Sure-fire Ways to Get Fired

16 Oct 2008 21:18:01 GMT

By Anthony Balderrama, CareerBuilder.com writer

Mistakes help us grow as individuals and make us better people, or so we're told. At work that's definitely true. Call the CEO by the wrong name once and you'll never do it again. For this reason, level-headed bosses aren't looking to fire anyone for the occasional gaffe.

Still, even the nicest of bosses will reach a limit. Oversleeping one morning probably won't get you fired; doing it three times a week probably will.

In the spirit of keeping you in your supervisor's good graces (and employed), here are nine moves that will get you fired.

10 Things that Scream, "Don't Hire Me!"

30 Sep 2008 13:07:15 GMT

You just don't get it. You've applied to numerous jobs, been to countless interviews and made several new contacts in your network -- yet here you are -- still sitting on the unemployment list. What gives? Well ... have you ever stopped to consider that what gives might in fact be ... you? Red flag No. 1: You don't have any contact information on your résumé Red flag No. 2: You have long gaps between jobs on your résumé Red flag No. 3: You aren't prepared for the interview Red flag No. 4: You didn't provide any references Red flag No. 5: You only have negative things to say about previous employment Red flag No. 6: You've held seven different jobs -- in the past six months Red flag No. 7: You give inconsistent answers in your interview Red flag No. 8: You lack flexibility Red flag No. 9: Your application was, in a word -- lazy Red flag No. 10: You lack objective or ambition

Starting Your Job Search (for Women)

23 Sep 2008 15:53:44 GMT

Women for Hire has developed a list of job search suggestions that include:The First Step...Self Esteem & Confidence, Questions Every Jobseeker Should Ask Herself Today, Getting Positive & Energized, Self Promotion, Developing Your Pitch, Defining Your Focused Path, Creating Your Digital Identity,and Getting Great References

Playing Fair—Your Rights as a Job Seeker

2 Sep 2008 19:18:17 GMT

Rights and Responsibilities as a Job Seeker by the NACE Principles for Professional Conduct Committee Choosing and attaining meaningful post-graduation employment is an important challenge for college students. To aid this process, your career center and employers develop connections and programs, such as on-campus recruiting, resume referral services, and job fairs. You and your fellow students are expected to be active participants; for this process to be successful, everyone involved must work together.

Your Internet Presence

21 Aug 2008 21:47:23 GMT

A number of recent surveys have reported that 77% of recruiters utilize Internet search engines and social networking sites to screen candidates and that 35% of those recruiters have eliminated candidates based on what they’ve learned. As a job seeker you can minimize your risk and contribute positively to your job search efforts by conducting this simple self audit.

Make Your Cover Letter Count in a Competitive Job Market

27 Jan 2009 13:37:17 GMT

by Kelli Robinson, JobWeb.com

Today’s primary modes of communication are e-mail, text messages, and web pages. The job search process is no different. Most job searches are done on the Internet, and job seekers e-mail their resumes or complete online applications.

Given these facts: Are cover letters still necessary?

While the answer varies, the majority of human resource representatives and recruiters say yes. Done the right way, a cover letter can capture the second glance needed in a competitive job market.

There are two tips for crafting a catchy cover letter: follow the formula and personalize it.

Tip #1: Follow the formula Cover letters contain four components with one essential question answered in each.

Paragraph One – Introduction Who are you and why are you writing?

Paragraph Two – Highlight of Qualifications How has your education, previous employment, or other experiences repared you for the position?

Paragraph Three – Connection to the Company Why is this company or job a good fit for you?

Paragraph Four – Closing Statement How interested are you and where can you be reached for an interview?

Tip #2: Personalize it Paragraphs one and four follow standard formats. The opportunity for your application to connect with a recruiter is in paragraphs two and three.

Paragraph Two: Draw attention to yourself When you read the job description and you declared, “I’m perfect for this job!” Tell the recruiter why. Is it because of a particular course you studied? Did you complete an internship that allowed you to perform similar duties and responsibilities? Were you able to develop a skill set through a part-time job or campus activity that is applicable to this position? Make the connection between your past and this job. Don’t repeat your resume, but rather make reference to items on it that you especially want the recruiter to be aware of.

Paragraph Three: “Professional Flattery” Your job search will reveal many positions for which you are qualified, but not all of them are of interest. What makes this position or company different? Pinpoint specifics about the job description that catch your eye. Research the organization. If the company product or workplace philosophy is appealing, tell the recruiter why. Avoid empty compliments. Recruiters can spot meaningless sweet talk a mile away.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Applicants sometimes forget professionalism, and even common sense, when it comes to e-mailing and the job search. If your e-mail contains any of the following, hit the delete button.
A risqué e-mail address. Use a basic e-mail address comprised of your name, initials, or something similar. Save Partygirl@hotmail.com or Rugbyrocks@gmail.com for corresponding with friends.
Greeting the recruiter by their first name. If you know the recruiter’s name, don’t forget that Mr. or Ms. is still necessary. Just because Ms. Jane Doe lists her first name doesn’t mean you can call her Jane.
A salutation that doesn’t begin with “Dear.” This is a business letter. Beginning the correspondence with “Greetings,” “Hello,” or “Hi There!” is not acceptable.
Emoticons. 8-) :-( ;-) Emoticons are used to convey attitudes or emotions, both of which are irrelevant in a cover letter.
Acronyms. LOL, COB, FAQs. As with emoticons, acronyms have no place in job-search correspondence, unless they are standard acronyms, such as that used for a company or association. For example: NACE (National Association of Colleges and Employers) is appropriate. “The 411 about NACE is very positive” is not.

Turning Your Co-op Into A Full-time Job

19 Aug 2008 15:06:13 GMT

What best piece of advice can you give to a co-op student to help him/her turn their co-op job into a full time job after graduation? Once you decide you like the place your currently have a co-op with, start talking with other recent hires about their experience and why they work there. When talking with your manager, have an open mind and discuss big picture thoughts. Always tell the truth and express what you think of the other companies you have in mind. Always ask plenty of questions to co-workers and your managers. In my experience, you will probably need to go through the same application process as all other potential employees. If the company has recruiting events (you should know because you currently work there), attend all of them and meet the managers who are looking for people and again, ask lots of questions. Sometimes you can get the idea your manger does not want to hire you if they rarely talk to you, do not show interest in you, do not provide comments on your work, give broad answers to hiring questions, and do not respond to call/emails. Bottom Line: Know where you want your career to progress, express a genuine interest to the work and company, ask plenty of questions, and always tell the truth when asked where you potentially want to work. by: Chris Kolodziejczyk RIT Computer Engineering Technology Major Northrop Grumman Corp. Co-op

Develop A Firm Grip To Get A Job

19 Aug 2008 15:05:17 GMT

Before you head out to the interview, check your suit for lint, your résumé for typos, your teeth for spinach and your hands for a firm grip. A new survey finds that all of your years of experience and the hard work you put into preparing for an interview can disappear if you extend your hand and offer a languid shake.

12 Ways to Use LinkedIn Today

27 Jul 2009 16:45:35 GMT

Ari Herzog on Social Media Today offers 12 ways how you should use LinkedIn today.

-If you have a LinkedIn profile, please keep it updated. If you want to know why, ask your friend to open his or her web browser and search your name. Chances are, unless you are omnipresent everywhere online or your name is very common like John Smith (not that I've ever met anyone with that name), your LinkedIn profile will appear in the top 5 search engine results. That's why it should be updated.

-Fill your profile with colorful language, not drab resume-speak. There is a reason why the site is called LinkedIn, not ResumePlace. Verify the headline either is a mirror of your job title or a description of what you do. Change your headline as often as you'd like; mine currently states, Online media strategist and community manager for business and government, and Newburyport City Council candidate. Flesh out the summary and don't be afraid it's too long. Most summaries I see are too short. Which leads me to...

-Write in first person, not third. Unless you introduce yourself in third person at job interviews, cocktail hours, and networking mixers, keep your page about you in your words. Be transparent to who you are, not a third-person essay of what you'd like people to think you are.

-Upload the same photo you use elsewhere online. Ensure the picture is what you look like today, or within the past few months. Don't use a picture that's more than a year old. Again, think of the cocktail hour; unless you wear a mask to the event, show me who you are and what you look like.

-Join a group. Prove to me that you can connect to random people who share your beliefs. The more groups you join, the better. But don't overdo it. You can also choose, when joining groups, whether they appear on your public page or not. If you look at my page, I am displaying a fraction of the groups in which I belong. Don't display irrelevant groups to the rest of your profile.

-Ask and answer questions. Social media is about a dialogue; and the more questions you ask, the more frequently your connections will see the questions you ask in their streams. The more questions you answer, the more likely your answer will be marked "the best" and appear next to your name for future questions and answers. There are dozens of topics you can participate in, so go crazy. I was selected for having the best answers in selected questions on blogging, organizational development, and using LinkedIn.

-Don't accept every connection request. This is a controversial topic, as some people prefer to use LinkedIn like a typical job recruiter and be connected to anyone and everyone; I am in the other camp. If we've met in person or communicated enough times online-if you're someone I trust and respect and wouldn't hesitate to recommend to someone who asks for a referral, then I'll connect with you. But if I don't know who you are, I'll archive your request, nicely reply no thanks, and ask you to connect with me elsewhere as a precursor. The caveat is if you're seeking to hire me and indicate that in your introductory message, I'll say yes.

-Don't mirror your LinkedIn network with other social networks. Just because we're friends on Facebook or mutually connected on Twitter doesn't necessarily imply I will connect with you on LinkedIn. Point is, you can always decline. (Try not to click the "I Don't Know" button which has negative consequences; just archive the request.)

-Recommend your connections. Whether someone is a friend, a colleague, a co-worker, a teacher or student, or any other connection to you, recommend the person. Some suggest you should recommend a new person every day, a strategy I sometimes commit for a few days and then forget to continue. You don't have to work with someone to recommend him or her. I've recommended (and been recommended by) people whose blogs I respect, for instance. Just don't add two sentences; make your recommendation prolific.

-Ask your connections to recommend you. Sometimes, people will recommend you if you recommend them first. Other times, they won't. Either way, if you don't ask, you'll never know.

-Add applications to your profile. If you have a blog, there are applications to add recent posts. If you travel a lot and like to share where you go, or attend networking events, there are applications you may want to add to your profile. If like me, you have a Slideshare account for your presentations, link that.

-Most importantly, be a person, not a robot. If you're not connected to someone on LinkedIn and would like to be connected, don't accept the default invitation text that would arrive in my inbox like this:

Dear Ari,

I'd like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn.

-John

Tell me why you want to connect with me, for your assumption may be different than mine. Again, think of the cocktail party. If you give the same business card to every person with the same line, "Call me," then please send the default invitation. But if you give the business card to people and personalize the action, why not echo that on LinkedIn?

More people are visiting LinkedIn every day. Maybe these tips will enrich your online experience.