Five ways to prepare for a career long before graduation

 

When I meet students who are beginning college for the first time, they always ask, “When should I visit Career Services?” The short answer is, freshman year. By coming to Career Services long before you need us, we can help guide you in the direction you will need depending on your career choice. Although, we do offer yearly timelines on our website which outline what students should accomplish each year., It’s never too soon for a student to begin a conversation with their career services office.

 

While it doesn’t make sense to begin looking for a job and applying to companies as a freshman, it does make sense to begin gathering information on what careers require and what employers expect from college graduates.  By researching, asking questions, compiling relevant work accomplishments and getting good grades, you can help build a robust résumé and get ahead of the game.  With that, here are five things that can help students get started long before they walk across the stage to receive their diplomas.

 

 

1. Research your career field: Become familiar with the types of skills employers expect someone coming out of college to have. Depending on the industry, would you need to be proficient with certain computer applications, or what licenses would you be required to possess in the state where you reside? Also, you may need to understand what issues surround your industry and who the competitors are. It’s best to become aware of issues people may be worried about, or hiring trends that can have an impact on the career you choose. You can find that out, and more, by keeping up with trade publications, journals, newspapers and other periodicals for your field.

 

2. Network with people in your industry or join associations: One of the best ways to begin learning about your chosen industry is to talk with people who are currently working in it; another is to join related associations.  Trade associations are a great resource, and the fee for students to join is minimal. Regardless of when you graduate, you can start now to learn more about your field and the opportunities it could offer. This lets you build the important personal relationships that will help you launch your career and maintain it. It never hurts to begin talking now to your professors, your parents, relatives, and your connections on LinkedIn, and everyone else you run into day-to-day. Start by telling people you are gathering ideas and advice related to your potential career and you’ll be surprised at how much people want to share stories and help you.

 

3. Become aware of helpful search engines and job listings: At Post University, the Career Services Office has compiled a list of over 1,800 web links to help students research, and look for jobs. In the Degrees by Major section of the Career Services’ website, each major – undergraduate and graduate – is represented and displays a variety of helpful links that students can use, at any stage in their college career. By searching job postings and becoming familiarized with what is going on in any industry, a student can get a leg up on the competition when it comes time to interview for internships and jobs. By doing so, students can keep their eyes on current job listings –not so much with the idea of applying for them, but to learn from them. What skills do the employers seem to be looking for the most? What experiences do the employers seem most interested in? Also, where are the most positions becoming available?

 

4. Participate in internships or volunteer work: Not only does this give a student valuable skills and accomplishments to help build a robust résumé, it can help them decide if their path is one they really want to pursue. Also, many majors will require students to complete at least one internship before graduation. By knowing this, a student can take the necessary classes to help prepare them for future endeavors. Finally, if a student does decide that the major they chose is not the one for them, by knowing this ahead of time it will give them the opportunity to change majors while still having time to fulfill the requirements needed to graduate on time.

 

5. Begin compiling a résumé now: Create an account in Optimal Résumé and begin putting accomplishments on paper. There are a variety of formats in each major that we have created for Post University students. To get a good idea of what an effective resume could look like, we also encourage students to view other résumé formats related to their majors. I say to students, “If you think now that you don’t have anything to put on paper, you may be surprised.” This program can provide ideas to help you get started.

 

The timing may not always be right in regard to finding and interviewing for a position, but it’s never too early to begin career development. The personal relationships a student can build, and the potential knowledge they can gain will only help prepare them for the future. As graduation approaches, students have their minds on other things. However, I encourage them not to wait until the last minute. By graduation, there are already many graduates across the country who are ahead of the game and more prepared. With this competition, students need to be on mark and ready for the race.

 

Therefore, it is never too early to begin a conversation with the Career Services office. We are here to guide, provide ideas, and help students put their best foot forward once they find that perfect opportunity. Good luck and we look forward to meeting you.

Four key points in drafting an elevator pitch

Posted by Debra Manente

The term, “elevator pitch”, is jargon for a one-minute explanation of who you are.  It’s termed that because the length is typically the time it takes a person to ride an elevator; 30 to 60 seconds. Whether you are looking to sell yourself as a potential employee, sell a product or service, or collect information about a career, everyone needs a pitch.  An elevator pitch allows others to quickly zero in on the value you bring and understand your focus so they can help you reach your goal. It is something you can use while answering a question about yourself in a job interview or during any networking situation.

 

However, before anyone can help you, you need to understand yourself and what you bring to the table. You are the expert on yourself, and having a basic understanding of who you are is the key to creating a powerful pitch. Remember, no one knows you better than you, so it is your job to market yourself effectively. Your pitch will vary depending on your experience and networking situation. There are four basic parts to an elevator pitch and with a little practice, your message will come across as well thought out and professional. Here are the four parts you need to consider when preparing:

 

 

Know who you are:

 

It’s always best to begin with your name and current position, your educational background and any degrees you have or may be pursuing. This is also a good point to add any certifications or licenses.

 

Example: “Hi, I am Jane Smith and I’m a senior at Post University. My major is accounting with a concentration in legal studies.  Eventually, I hope to acquire my CPA license and work for a large corporation.”

 

Always remember to have a smile on your face and show enthusiasm for yourself. Without enthusiasm, others will not want to listen to what you have to say. Eye contact and body language also play an important role. If you come in contact with someone and they ask you who you are, put down the cell phone and give them the attention they deserve. It is only professional and courteous.

 

Talk about what you can offer:

 

Be able to discuss your expertise and how it can benefit an employer.  By understanding what your most notable past accomplishments are and what makes you a valuable candidate, you create a persona of someone with confidence and determination. You want to give examples that would make the listener excited to ask more questions.

 

Example: “Last summer I completed an internship with ABC Accounting Firm and I am hoping to find a second internship with a law firm for my final semester.  I’ve always had an interest with the legal field and I hope to be able to learn more about contracts and legal procedures regarding corporate business.”

 

Understand what makes you unique:

 

In this portion, you want to name some valuable skills you have and what results can you produce better than anyone else. Think of the areas of expertise you have in a subject or field. Whether it be a subject you have been studying in school, or a project you worked on during winter or summer break, think of what those results produced and how it may have set you apart from others. We all have things that we are good at. It’s all a matter of thinking about it and formulating the words eloquently.

 

 

Example: “I’ve maintained a GPA of 3.8 while attending school full-time and working a part-time job. Because of that, I feel my organizational and time management skills could benefit an employer. I am also currently the vice president of the Accounting Club and have volunteered on numerous occasions for local charities across Connecticut.”

If you have any awards or accomplishments related to your area of work, include those as well.  Anything you can think of that show you as a competent go-getter will set you apart from others and prove your worth.

 

Be able to share your goals:

 

By this point in your speech, your listener will either begin asking you questions or you can conclude your pitch with what your goals are.  Never be afraid to ask for the next step. In addition, it’s always best to have a personal business card handy. In the event you are stopped and you have to use your elevator pitch, you can conclude with a business card and a request to further the conversation.

Example: “I feel that this has helped me with my communication skills and I am hoping you might have an internship available at your firm, or know of anyone who may be looking for someone with my background. Here is my business card.”

 

 

In conclusion, you never know when you might come in contact with a person who can help make a difference in your career.  By fine-tuning your pitch, you can formulate an intelligent, informative elevator pitch that will convey your professionalism and desire to succeed. Think about a “wow factor” that can help you stand out from the crowd and use that to catch the listener’s attention.

Career development is a never-ending process and so is your pitch. Depending on the situation, you may have variations. The most important thing to remember, however, is that you need to constantly re-evaluate yourself. To be effective, you need to understand what you have to offer an employer in terms of experience, skills, accomplishments and goals.  Use that information to form a powerful pitch and you will always look prepared when faced with a networking opportunity.

 

Main campus students who are interest in more information and advice on formulating an effective elevator pitch are invited to Career Services’ Networking and Elevator Pitch Workshop, on March 19 from 12:30 -1:30 p.m. in North Hall, Room 103.  You will learn many helpful tips on how to navigate gracefully during networking events and what you can do to create an elevator pitch that will make you look like a rock star. For more information, or to reserve a seat, email: dmanente@post.edu. 

 

Debra Manente, M.Ed., CPRW, is the Associate Director of Career Services at Post University. Manente guides campus and online students to help them reach their career goals and secure employment. Manente holds a Master of Education from Cambridge College and a Bachelor's in Communication from Central Connecticut State University.

Four Etiquette Tips That Can Help You Look Professional

Four Etiquette Tips That Can Help You Look Professional

by Debra Manente

When I was a college student, professors rarely spoke about business etiquette. Transitioning into the workforce from college was just something we learned along the way. However, part of my job as a Career Services professional is to help students understand professionalism, and make their transition from college student to full-time employee a little easier.  

There are many things to take into consideration regarding etiquette, but to help combat the anxiety that comes along with graduating, looking for a job, and beginning a career, I’ve come up with four simple etiquette tips that can help you look more professional now.
1. Eliminate slang and improper use of communication

According to an article from the Wall Street Journal, managers are quite perplexed at how the English language has become somewhat informal due to social media and email; which can lead to bad impressions, poor customer service and inappropriate marketing. Knowing how to articulate proper sentences is the recipe for being taken seriously.

If you build a reputation for yourself as someone who consistently uses acronyms, or uses “ain’t” compared to “isn’t,” for example, you create a persona for yourself as someone who looks ignorant and uneducated. By simply using proper spelling, grammar and punctuation, you show that you not only care about how you are perceived, but you care about professionalism and decorum in the workplace.

2. Seek first to understand, then to be understood. Listening skills matter.

We were all born with one mouth and two ears. Meaning, we should make it a point to speak less and listen more.  Being a good communicator means being a good listener as well. Let’s face it; we are all guilty of not listening at times.  Maybe we are too busy thinking about what we are going to say next instead of giving someone our full attention.

In any case, as Steven Covey mentions in his book, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, by giving someone our full attention and asking thoughtful questions, we value what he calls “Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood.” By doing so, this builds respect and will show that you value your fellow employees and care about receiving the correct message they intend to deliver.

3. Take your appearance seriously

The way you dress outside of work is different from the way you dress while at work.  It’s all about civility and my rule of thumb is, if you would wear it to a night out on the town, it isn’t appropriate to wear to the office.  For example, if you wear your pants baggy, as if they are going to fall down, they need to be pulled up and professional looking. Along with that, if you have tattoos, make sure they are covered during interviews. The same goes for the color of your hair, piercings, jewelry and perfume.  Remember, you want to be viewed as an adult and someone who is competent. 

First impressions are what matter the most and without making a positive impression, you might not be given a second chance. What you think is appropriate and stylish may not be the same as what your boss, or clients, think is appropriate.  To be safe, visit our Pinterest pin board to get a firsthand view on what is, and isn’t, expected in the business world.

4. Respect your fellow employees

Unfortunately, there are going to come times when you have to work with someone you don’t like.  It’s inevitable and a part of life.  You do not have to be best buddies, but it can be beneficial if you are polite, listen well, don’t gossip, follow directions, work as a team player, and are willing to learn new skills without complaining.

For example, if you have to work in a fellow employee’s office or cubicle, respect their space. Do not rummage through their desk, rearrange their things, borrow items and not return them, or leave a mess. Also, gossip can destroy office morale. If you are speaking poorly about others, the people you are complaining to will begin to wonder if you talk poorly about them behind their backs, as well. Keep things professional and remember, if you don’t want the whole world to know what is going on in your life, don’t say anything.

POST MAIN CAMPUS STUDENTS:

For more information and advice on business etiquette, please come to our annual Etiquette Dinner and Networking event taking place Wednesday evening, February 11^th from 5 to 6:30 p.m.  It’s free to undergraduate students and dinner will include hors d’oeuvres, salad, main meal and dessert.  You will learn many helpful tips on how to navigate gracefully during business dinners and networking events. You will not only learn etiquette skills that will benefit you as an employee, but you will learn valuable skills that will help you in your everyday activities. For more information, or to reserve a seat, contact me at dmanente@post.edu.  

Debra Manente, M.Ed., CPRW, is the Associate Director of Career Services at Post University. Manente guides campus and online students to help them reach their career goals and secure employment. Manente holds a Master of Education from Cambridge College and a Bachelor's in Communication from Central Connecticut State University

5 ways volunteering can help your career

Posted by Debra Manente

For many, finding employment in a new line of work can be daunting; especially if you are a career changer or a college student looking to build up your resume. However, by becoming an avid volunteer, you can not only make a difference in your community, you can also build the necessary skills needed to land a job in this unpredictable economy.

Here are some ways volunteering can help your career:

1. Gain experience

Being proactive and creating growth opportunities show employers you value hard work. According to an interview with Nicole Williams in Forbes magazine, it’s hard for graduates and career changers to gain experience when they are constantly being turned down for not having any. By acting as a volunteer, you can gain experience that will show you are invested in the big picture. By turning your values and passion into action, you demonstrate to your potential employer that you are committed to—and educated about—a variety of issues. It also shows that you value the steps it takes in order to build valuable accomplishments that will prove you have the experience needed.

2. Learn new skills

Volunteering can help you build new skills and can also help you decide if your path is one you really want to pursue. For example, a college student accustomed to doing research for school assignments could volunteer to research an issue or demographic for a nonprofit. By doing this, they prove how they have used the skills they learned in college and they have something tangible to write on their resume. Everyone has skills that they can apply from one job to the other. It’s all a matter of how it’s written on a resume and how you qualify yourself when it comes time to apply and interview for a job.

3. Grow your network

People who are already working in the field you aspire to work in are full of knowledge and are a great source for connections. They also have firsthand knowledge on what may become available in job opportunities, or how to go about taking the next step if you plan to further your education. If you don’t have any connections in a desired field, by placing yourself strategically, you not only surround yourself with knowledge that will help you grow, but it may just put you in the right place at the right time if something comes available. Not to mention, if you prove that you are a valuable worker, the people you work with may be able to put in a good word for you.

4. Explore possible careers

Volunteering allows you to try different rolls, companies and atmospheres. This way, you get an inside view on how departments are run, and how issues are handled.  Of course, by being a volunteer, it isn’t the same as being an employee, but it can expose you to an organization in a deeper way than if you were to just follow them on Twitter or LinkedIn. 

5. Build a track record of accomplishments

Volunteering is a terrific way to get life experience and build accomplishments that can help you qualify for future positions. Whether you mailed flyers to raise awareness for a local charity or built a house with Habitat for Humanity, you gained valuable real world experience through hands-on interaction. Volunteering adds structure to your resume and all those experiences can be formatted in a way that showcase you as a person who accomplished goals.     

Overall, if those examples aren’t proof of how valuable volunteerism can be, research proves that being a volunteer can lesson depression and prolong your life. According to an article written by Dr. Sara Konrath, PhD., in Everyday Health, volunteering has been associated with lower depression and increased well-being. 

Tell me in the comments how volunteering made a difference in your career!