CareerAdvantage

Pain relief for the online job applicant

2009-07-10T15:44:00.000-07:00

Applying for jobs online can be frustrating, to say the least. I don’t want to scare you, but this is a true story that I’ve heard from more than one client:

“Recently I summarized my entire work history on a convoluted fill-in-the-blank form, only to have my computer crash right when I pressed “send.” Aargh! Half of the morning lost because of a system malfunction!”

Don’t let this happen to you!

Before you log onto the desired job board, make sure you’ve created your resume in all of these file formats: .doc, .pdf, and .rtf. Double-check each document for accuracy and readability. Save these different versions in a folder that you can access easily.

Now for the tricky part: Some systems will allow you to upload your resume in any kind of format. When this is the case, opt for the .pdf since it will retain the desired appearance. Use the .rtf if you’re forced to cut and paste your resume into a window. (Its plain fonts and regular spacing will prevent strange symbols and funky formatting from appearing in your document.) You can also use text from this file (or the .doc file) for filling in the blanks of an online application. Having multiple formats prepared beforehand will allow you to complete the application more quickly and, hopefully, prevent the system from “timing out” at crucial points in the process.

Voila! No more headaches!

Too many resumes?

2009-05-18T13:59:00.000-07:00

A recent survey by College Grad.com indicates that most job seekers expect to send out more than 30 resumes during the course of their job search. As you can imagine, this practice can be problematic on several fronts:

Time. Tailoring a resume and cover letter to a particular job and company can take hours. Doing it 30 or more times can take days. Nonetheless, customized applications are far more effective than generic ones, so it’s critical that you come up with a reasonable schedule for your pending job search. Set a simple weekly goal – say three applications a week – then stick to it. You’ll feel better about your job search if you know that you’re accomplishing something.

Details. When you’ve got 30 “irons in the fire,” it’s hard to keep track of everything. Why not create a spreadsheet to monitor your efforts? List details like the position you applied for, when you submitted your application (and to whom), if and when you heard back, next steps, etc. That way, when the recruiter from XYZ Corporation calls for a screening interview in two months, you won’t be caught off guard!

Energy. Applying for the job doesn’t end when you hit “submit.” It’s important to manage your job search by networking with peers who are in the industry, keeping current on trends and best practices, managing your online presence, and following up with recruiters once you’ve initiated contact.

Although numbers are important when it comes to the job search, so are preparation, quality, and perseverance. Remember: You’re not just looking for a job, you’re building a reputation!

How should I handle letters of recommendation?

2009-04-24T13:09:00.000-07:00

When a supervisor, coworker, or client offers to write you a letter of recommendation, graciously accept! These endorsements can prove invaluable, especially if you use them strategically. My favorite way to capitalize on a letter of recommendation is during the interview process. Instead of twiddling your thumbs during that indomitable stretch between the interview and the call back, be proactive! Within 24 hours of the interview, send the recruiter a thank-you note. Several days later, follow up with correspondence reiterating your interest in the position. Be sure to include a letter or two of recommendation as evidence of your ability to… perform the job, work on a team, deliver quality service, trouble-shoot technical issues (or whatever point you’re trying to demonstrate).

If you’re applying for multiple positions – or delaying your job search until a later date – ask your contact for a “generic letter” that addresses the “Hiring Manager” as opposed to a specific person or “To Whom It May Concern.” In some situations, an employer will ask for letters of recommendation during the application process or at the interview, so it’s good to be prepared beforehand.

Finally, why not ask your references if they would also be willing to recommend you on LinkedIn, the online professional networking site? It’s a simple process and highly visible – to friends, colleagues, and potential employers around the world. That way, you can refer recruiters to your profile, which provides a comprehensive overview of your skills and abilities, i.e. portfolio, extended resume, white papers, websites, blogs, and more!

Six tips for job fair success

2009-03-13T14:36:00.000-07:00

Although hiring quotas have dropped in recent months, some employers still expect to boost their workforces at upcoming job fairs. In fact, historically, spring is the season for career-related events. Be ready for such recruiting extravaganzas by following these six easy steps:

1: Keep it simple. Select clothing, fragrances and jewelry that don’t detract from your professional image. The employer’s attention should be directed toward you and your qualifications… not the barbell in your eyebrow.

2: Don’t come empty-handed. Bring a current resume that presents your education, experience and accomplishments in a meaningful way. Make it compelling and concise – easily skimmed in 20 seconds or less!

3: Do your research. Take time to learn about the companies who will be at the fair – research their products, corporate culture, and job openings. Show the recruiter that you’re resourceful and well-prepared.

4: Practice makes perfect. Prepare a short statement about yourself and your background to share with employers. Say it out loud in front of the mirror a few times – and don’t forget to smile!

5: Don’t be shy. Don't forget to pick up a nametag when you check in at the Job Fair. Write your name in large, legible letters so that it can be read 10 feet away. Place the nametag securely on the right side of your chest.

6: Your future is in the cards. Be sure to collect business cards from the recruiters you meet. You’ll want to follow up with thank-you notes or other correspondence after the Job Fair. Small courtesies make big impressions and can lead to interviews and job offers!

How many references should I have?

2009-02-12T12:59:00.000-08:00

During the interview process, employers want to connect with folks who know you in different ways. Student, employee and team member/co-worker are the most common frames of reference, so be sure to include at least one employer and one faculty member on your list of references. (Avoid featuring personal friends and family members -- who are less objective -- as references.)

Provide the names of at least three people -- no more than five -- and be sure to note their connection to you, e.g. teacher, supervisor, colleague. List an email address and work phone number for each reference, too.

Finally, and most importantly, notify your references of your job search. Provide them a current copy of your resume as well as a description of the job you’re applying for and the name of the person who may be contacting them. They’ll be better able to offer an endorsement if they’re prepared for the call!

Help! I'm starting a new job!

2009-01-15T12:48:00.000-08:00

Congratulations! You've made it through the application and interview process. Now it's time to get to work. Transitioning into an unfamiliar work environment can be daunting: New people, policies and protocols. Here are a few tips to make the switch a little easier:

Prepare! First of all, do your research. Take some time to learn about your new employer. Review their web site to get a feel for the company’s culture. Talk to people in your network who have worked there. Find out about their clients – and competitors.

Think ahead. What should you wear? When should you show up? Where can you park? What about lunch? A quick call to Human Resources can help you avoid those first-day jitters.

Ask questions. It's better to do something right the first time than have to do it over. A few questions can help clarify expectations while increasing your productivity and confidence.

Be polite. Turn off your cell phone when you’re at the office, and refrain from using the company email account for personal correspondence. Many organizations monitor computer use, including internet access, IM and Facebook. (Any information shared via your employer’s network is “fair game,” so beware!)

Wait. Quietly watch how the team works together. How are ideas expressed and decisions reached? Who has the power (and who doesn’t)? There will be plenty of time for you to voice your opinion, share your ideas, and contribute to the team. In the meanwhile, try to hold your tongue and observe the group’s dynamics.

Work hard. Enjoy using the knowledge and skills you’ve acquired throughout your. After all, that’s why you’re there!

How to survive a layoff

2008-12-24T11:27:00.000-08:00

Last month, US employers cut 533,000 nonfarm jobs – a fact that makes even the most tenured employees feel a little anxious about their job security. If you’re like most people, a scary little question continues to creep into your consciousness, “What if it happens to me?” The answer? Be prepared!

BEFORE A LAYOFF

Update your resume. Don’t wait for the pink slip before you polish up your resume. Make sure your CV represents your education and experience in a compelling way that sets you apart from the competition. Why not feature evidence of your accomplishments and examples of professional development, too?

Re-evaluate your financial situation. Cut back on spending and start an emergency fund that could tide you over during a period of unemployment. Experts typically recommend a reserve that will cover six months’ worth of expenses.

Make new friends (and connect with the old ones). Start talking with colleagues and peers now. Make a point of going to trade association meetings. Attend conferences. Join online groups that are related to your industry or expertise. In other words, get out there!

DURING A LAYOFF

Don’t panic. When HR gives you the bad news, be sure to get the details, too. Can you expect severance pay (and for how long)? Will insurance coverage continue (and at what rate)? Will the company help with outplacement? What happens to your retirement plan, stock options and life insurance? Is there a separation agreement that prevents you from working for a competitor? Don’t rush to sign the severance document. Take some time and read it through. Then consider negotiating the terms if you feel it’s appropriate.

Be nice. This is not the time to burn bridges; make every effort to be cordial to your co-workers, respectful of your boss, and positive about the company. You never know who might be in the position to hire you on down the road.

Know your options. Check with your state’s Department of Labor to find out about unemployment insurance (which provides temporary income for workers who become involuntarily unemployed), including the amount and duration of benefits. Check into COBRA, a federal law that allows you to continue your health care coverage during a period of unemployment.

You may also want to take advantage of state and federal programs that provide support and networking events for displaced workers as well as online job banks, job fairs and job skill development classes.

AFTER A LAYOFF

Keep working. Conducting a job search is hard work that requires creativity and stamina. Resist the temptation to slack off. Instead, keep getting up at the “normal” time, continue getting dressed in the morning, and try to maintain a regular schedule. Tweak your resume. Perfect your cover letter. Post them online and distribute them to your network. In short, get the word out!

Build credibility. Use your spare time to gain additional skills by pursuing a certification or taking a class. If these options aren’t in the budget, why not start a blog or respond to questions in online forums? Establish yourself as a Subject Matter Expert; then refer recruiters to your posts.

Never eat alone. Invite former colleagues (and competitors) out for coffee and use the time to pick their brains… ask for leads and cultivate contacts… build your network.

Freelance. Look for projects, consulting work and other opportunities to get your foot in the door with potential employers. Not only will it generate some income, it just might position you to snag the company’s next job opening.

Hang in there. Perseverance is the key to a successful job search. So get started, and keep going. After all, tomorrow may be the day that you land a great new job!

Have you ever been arrested?

2008-11-24T13:30:00.000-08:00

If you've ever had a run-in with the law, chances are this is the most unsettling question you'll ever come across on a job application. Fortunately for you, it's illegal. Employers should not ask candidates about their arrest records; however, it is legal for companies to ask about convictions, especially if the offense is relevant to the job in question. For example, it makes perfect sense for a bank to ask potential tellers if they've ever been convicted of theft or fraud.

So, what should you do if you're asked about arrests during your job search? Here are several options to consider:

Fill in the blank with "N/A" (“not applicable” or, in this case, “not appropriate”) and hope that answer suffices.
Answer “yes” and jot a brief explanation on the accompanying line (e.g. “I was detained during a peace rally and the charges were later dropped”).

Ignore the original question and write in: "I have never been convicted of a felony (or misdemeanor)."

Some applicants choose to skip the question altogether -- an option that could raise a red flag for the employer. Regardless, your answer should be honest and one that you're comfortable sharing. USA Today covers this and other illegal interview questions online.

What to expect from a background check

2008-10-12T14:07:00.000-07:00

More and more companies are screening job applicants through the use of background checks. Employers use these investigations to verify identity and formulate predictions about performance, integrity, and ability to “fit” into an organization. In short, the background check is an effort to minimize a company's risk by ensuring productivity, security and safety.

So, just what does a background check involve? The employer usually hires an independent agent to collect an array of personal information, from employment history and places of residence to credit reports, court records, and insights from family, friends and coworkers. The process can take anywhere from a couple of hours to several months to complete (depending on the nature of the position and/or organization).

For more information about background checks, view the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse, Fact Sheet 16.

Employer Profile: Califorensics (Computer Forensics)

2008-09-02T07:30:00.000-07:00

Califorensics is an up-and-coming consulting company that provides litigation support and investigative services to a list of clients that spans the spectrum of government and industry. Located in Roseville, CA, the firm was started by Don Vilfer, a lawyer and former FBI agent. Don is constantly on the look-out for new talent to serve as Investigative Assistants and Forensic Examiners; he also hosts internships for students pursuing careers forensic technology and information security.

According to Don, people seeking employment in the field will do well to supplement their technical knowledge with robust communication skills. He encourages students to take electives in professional writing, public speaking, debate, and logic. He’s adamant that students hone their writing skills while in college. “[They] need to be able to express their technical knowledge in a report that is understandable and professional,” he said. Writing skills are even more important than having extreme technical skills in his opinion. “We can take a person who has basic computer and forensic training and bring them up to the level of expertise we require, but teaching writing skills is not so easy and not something we want to do,” he said.

The ability to speak confidently is also key. Don said that he and his partners generally provide the testimony on behalf of the firm during litigation; however, associates occasionally are called to testify to aspects of the cases they may have worked on. “They should feel comfortable speaking in front of people, whether in court or at a client meeting.”

For additional information about Califorensics, visit www.califorensics.com.

Don’s Preferred Resources

Professional Memberships: Licensed Investigator associations, Association of Certified Fraud Examiners

Web sites: Guidance Software’s bulletin board.

Other: Plenty of good technical resources in print. Our library seems to grow monthly.

Avoid vexing voicemail

2008-08-31T15:29:00.000-07:00

The start of the new academic year is a great time to conduct a "First Impression Inventory." Often, initial contact with future employers occurs when you're not even around! Just what does the outgoing message on your voicemail say about you? Project a positive image by following these tips:

Hello! After a brief greeting, clearly state your name so callers know that they've reached the right person.

Short and sweet. Don't provide a lengthy explanation about where you are and why you're not available. Instead, tell callers when they can expect a response, e.g. “I will return your call within 24 hours.” After all, that's what they really want to know!

Offer options. Consider providing an alternative form of contact (such as your email address) so callers can connect with you online if they'd like.

Beyond words. Before recording your message, practice what you're going to say. Then sit up straight, smile, and speak slowly. This little trick helps ensure a friendly and professional delivery!

Keep it current. If your outgoing message is still wishing people a Happy 4th of July, go change it right now! This small oversight can say volumes about your timeliness and attention to detail.

No joke. Avoid using jingles or humor in your message; although some may find them amusing, others may be offended. It's just not worth the risk. Instead, let people get to know your “lighter side” in person.

Listen! Don't forget to review your message after you record it. Check for accuracy, clarity and personality.

The job offer: What you should know before you say no

2008-08-20T10:57:00.000-07:00

The job search can be daunting: Research, resumes, interviews, and thank-you notes. Finally, you get the offer! And the doubts begin. How do you know if the package they're offering is really worth accepting? Here are a few things you should know before you make your final decision:

Know your intentions. Are you looking for your first big break into the industry? Or are you in it for the money? Often the opportunity to work for a particular company or with a specific technology is far more important than having a big paycheck. Be sure to consider the implications this job may have on your career path and professional network.

Know your geography. What's the cost of living for the area you're considering? Look at economic indicators and salary calculators to determine if that salary is really as big as it appears. Sure it looks good to be offered $60,000 for an entry-level job in DC, but not when you consider that $40,000 will afford you the same standard of living in Dallas.

Know your industry. Company size and classification can also impact earning potential. For example, finance and health care typically pay better than government and education. In addition, larger companies usually offer more comprehensive benefit packages than their smaller counterparts. On-the-other-hand, where will you find stability and job security? Where's the best opportunity for professional development and/or advancement? Who offers the least bureaucracy and greatest flexibility? Know what's important to you – and where to look for it!

Know your needs. Perform an inventory of your finances: Expenses, investments, goals, etc. Be sure to distinguish between how much you have to earn versus how much you'd like to earn.

Know your value. If you're a recent college graduate with limited experience, an employer is going to have to invest a significant amount of time (and money) in your orientation to the company and the position. This is especially true in fields that require certifications, such as computer networking, radiography, and digital forensics. If, however, you bring credentials with you, you're in a much better bargaining position.

Know how to evaluate your compensation package. When you first get the job offer, it's easy to focus on salary alone; however, compensation covers so much more. Consider the value of having a flexible workweek, tuition reimbursement, matching contributions to your retirement plan, and on-site childcare before you slough off that mediocre paycheck. Some benefits are worth more than money!

Know your limits. Are creditors beating down your door? Then you may not want to hold out for more money. Does the job promise a high salary but compromise your values? If you're committed to spending time with your family and the company expects you to travel 80% of the time, you may need to re-examine the offer – and count the costs!

Get the low down on top jobs

2008-08-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Most job seekers are pretty savvy about how to research careers on-line. Two of the more popular sites for generic employment information are the O*Net and the Occupational Outlook Handbook. Here, you can evaluate jobs according to industry, function, education, working conditions, compensation, trends, and projections.

However, sometimes it's helpful to hear from someone who actually works in the field -- a first-hand account, so to speak. That's the beauty of The Career Project. This site features profiles of professionals who are working in the very positions you're interested in. Want to know what a Chief Technology Officer does every day? Curious how she got the job? How much money she makes? What kind of training she had? Enter the job title you're researching (or click on the industry you'd like to learn about) and, voila! Complete profiles -- including work histories and words of advice -- appear!

Granted, the site is new, so the database is not complete by any means. But it's growing. And, true, The Career Project protects each professional's identity, so you can't use the site for networking. But it does tell you the person's age and gender, so you you can speculate and make comparisons. Of course, nothing beats the real thing -- talking with someone face-to-face. However, when the informational interview is not an option, The Career Project is a nice alternative.

Nice niche job boards for IT pros

2008-08-06T16:54:00.000-07:00

With names like "Monster," generic job boards can be scary to navigate. So why not target sites that are geared toward your experience and expertise? With fewer, more relevant positions, these job boards won't be quite so daunting to search. Start with the more popular boards, like Dice and Just Tech Jobs, but don't neglect some of the lesser known sites listed by Champlain College. Of course, you'll want to check with your professional and trade organizations, too. Just keep in mind that some job boards will require membership or charge a fee to view positions, so job seekers beware!

Need a job? e-Networking works!

2008-07-29T05:48:00.000-07:00

Facebook and MySpace have gotten a lot of negative press lately. HR managers and career counselors lament the personal -- and sometimes crude -- details that are revealed on "walls" and in pictures. But what about the merits of e-networking? Could an online profile ever prosper the job search process? You bet!

More and more college students and new grads are connecting with potential employers and industry professionals on LinkedIn, the professional networking venue with more than 25 million users around the world. In fact, a well-crafted profile on the popular site is a great way to gain entry into the business world. Not only does it promote your experience, education and abilities, it also demonstrates initiative and drive, two traits employers value.

LinkedIn is like many of the other social sites in that it starts with a profile page. However, since LinkedIn targets a professional network, your profile is more of a resume than a billboard or photo album. It features your education, experience, interests, expertise, and more. Once you create a profile, you can begin building your network by giving and gaining recommendations, responding to questions, joining groups, and inviting others to connect.

Think you're ready to get LinkedIn? View my profile, then invite me to join your network... it's an offer I won't refuse!

Where's the best place to work?

2008-07-16T14:30:00.000-07:00

Every year Fortune Magazine surveys more than 100,000 employees at 400+ companies to identify the best places to work. In 2008, Google came out on top. With on-site fitness centers and child care, liberal professional development policies, and a generous profit-sharing plan, it's no wonder Google's number one.

But what if you're more motivated by making the big bucks than general perks or company name? No worries! Fortune tracks those statistics, too. In fact, you can target your next job search using a variety of criteria, including ethnic diversity, biggest bonuses, and fastest rate of job growth. An online search tool matches your employment requirements with offerings at the top 100 companies.

If you've got it, flaunt it!

2008-07-14T10:09:00.000-07:00

The job market is much like any other retail environment: To sell your "product," you've got to know what the "buyer" wants. Find out what employers are looking for in recent grads and new-hires by checking out these resources:

College Grad ranks the top eight criteria employers consider when hiring recent college graduates. (Keep in mind that this survey spans the spectrum and isn't focused on technical jobs and/or technology companies).

Tech Republic identifies the top 10 soft skills IT pros need to advance their careers.

Highlighting such attributes and abilities will convince recruiters that you're a good fit for their company and improve your chances of securing that important job offer!