The Career Development Center Blog

Posted by Tim Chen, OSU Student and Career Services Career Assistant

According to a national study by Grunwald Associates, 96% of Generation Y uses social media tools. Currently, Generation Y outnumbers the Baby Boomer population.

With that said, more and more businesses are switching over to social networking as means of interacting with the growing youth population. In an effort to draw attention from the youth while maintaining professionalism, LinkedIn was developed as a “professional” social network.

LinkedIn takes the traditional aspects of a job market and places it online for millions of users to interact. The profile page looks similar to the “Info” page on a Facebook profile, but more business oriented. For example, my LinkedIn profile immediately lists off my previous employers, the educational institutions I attended, the number of “connections” (friends) I have, and any websites that I choose to share (personal, company, etc…). Outside, it provides additional details regarding my information (that I choose to share), and then it displays groups involved and my most recent activities.

To use LinkedIn for job hunting, there are several general tips that you may choose to follow, from the Guy Kawasaki Blog:

1) Increase your visibility! This can be done by adding more connections and using keywords that best describe you. Make sure you add connections outside of your current employer (such as high school friends, friends from groups/organizations) to draw more attention in search results.

2) Improve search engine results. Aside from increasing your visibility, advertise your LinkedIn profile. Attempt to create your public profile URL with your name in it so it’s easier for employers to exclusively find you. Also, include your LinkedIn URL in your signatures if you ever post on blogs since it helps advertise yourself within the blog, and it increases the appearance of your name in search results.

3) Perform “reverse,” company reference checks. Given correct information, LinkedIn allows for users to search for previous title holders of a position within a company. This provides the user an opportunity to look at the resume of the interviewer and allows the user to see previous people who held the position. This search comes in handy since it provides a better idea about the company and that specific department and/or position.

4) Increase job search by skills! Rather than searching by people and/or employers, you can type in a skill and have a list of companies with positions seeking those specific skills. For example, by searching “Java” under the Job search, many “Java Developer” positions show up.

5) Research companies with LinkedIn! Rather than visiting the employer’s official website, LinkedIn has asked for companies to create a generic “profile” page for users to briefly review their information and testimonies from their employees.

Of course with all of those tips, there are a couple of things that you should be careful about. These tips come from Dr. Rachna D. Jain’s “Five Things you should never do on a social network:”

1) Do not leave negative feedback. That comment and feedback will generally stick around for a while.

2) Do not lie, and be honest. Companies look for integrity in their employers and their potentials.

3) Do not spam! Spam is NOT a push marketing strategy. Most people hate spam and would prefer not to hear about promotional material.

4) Do not gossip! It’s immature and makes you look very unprofessional and takes away any classy image you might have.

5) Do not oversell yourself. Arrogance is accepted to an extent. If you say you can do something, companies will expect that you can follow through.

With that said, start making your LinkedIn profile today! Be sure to join the Oregon State LinkedIn group after you signup.

Sources: BNET, Guy Kawasaki Blog

Posted by Linsey Stripling, OSU Junior and Carer Services Career Assistant

Do you often wonder what you should do after you have an interview? Well, the answer is follow up with the employer, of course! The follow-up is just as important as the interview itself. At the end of the question and answer portion, as you are thanking the employer for meeting with you, ask for a business card. This gives you all of their contact information which you will need in order to write a follow up thank you letter. Here is a simple letter outline to help you show your gratitude.

Applicant’s Current Address
City, State, ZIP Code

Phone Number

Date

Recipient’s Name
Title
Organization
Street Address
City, State, ZIP Code

Dear Recipient’s Name:

1st Paragraph: Express appreciation for opportunity; mention location and date of interview or meeting; make a positive statement about your interest in the organization.

2nd Paragraph: Emphasize a specific point which will make you stand out in the employer’s memory; supply any additional information which was omitted from the interview.

3rd Paragraph: Close with additional appreciation; make a positive statement about your qualifications for the position.

Sincerely,

(your name signed)

Type your name

Posted by: Silvestre Trujillo, OSU Junior and Career Services Career Assistant

Interviews are one of those things that scare us the most when searching for a job. However, the interview is not the only thing you should be worried about. When going to an interview there is one little thing that you must take into account, and that would be the way you treat the receptionist.

Though we may not think that the receptionist has a lot of influence, they do. While checking in for an interview it is important to pay attention to the receptionist. It is important to approach the receptionist in a polite and friendly manner. In a way, a receptionist could be seen as part of the interview. They are the first person that is a part of the company or organization that you are interviewing with. A receptionist could have plenty of influence in the hiring process and could be the deciding factor in you being hired for your dream job. While the receptionist is the main focus in this blog entry, that does not mean that the interviewer and the receptionist are the only ones to whom you should show politeness. It is important to take into account that there may be other people from the company that you may encounter. Common courtesy is something to remember as soon as you walk out the door and on your way to an interview.

Posted by: Tim Chen, OSU Student and Career Services Career Assistant

Now that you have finally attended the Spring Career Fair, it’s time for you to prepare for those interviews. Engineering interviews are very similar to a standard interview with employers. However, there are a couple of exceptions. Here are a few tips that will help prepare you for an Engineering Interview:

*First, come into the interview with some kind of background knowledge of the company and/or organization.

*Second, unless otherwise noted, make an attempt to dress to impress. Attempting to dress in professional attire will not only draw attention, but it will leave a lasting positive impression you.

*Third, if you’re applying for a position with desired engineering qualifications, expect for the employer to either question your skills or question your depth.

Here is a personal example: When I applied for a high school contracting internship with Intel, my position required a live identification examination on the parts of a server board.

*Finally, follow the general steps for preparing for a typical job interview. This includes knowing what to say and what not to say, addressing the difficult “weakness” interview question, and developing a portfolio to share with employers on the skills gained from your engineering degree.

As usual, Career Services does offer Mock Interview sessions. If you’re interested, please stop by our office or call us at 541-737-4085 to schedule an appointment today.

If you cannot make it in to practice an interview, Beaver Job Net has a special link to an Oregon State University exclusive access to Interview Stream. It also allows you to experience a “mock interview” and provides an option of receiving feedback from their service. Interview Stream is special because you can customize your mock interview towards questions specifically related to your major and/or desired career field.

Posted by: Rachel Erickson, OSU Senior and Career Services Career Assistant

The transition from college to a career allows us to expand. Expand our skill sets, our knowledge, and for many of us, our closet. The clothes many of us wear to classes do not fit the dress code at many of our future jobs. When it comes time to interview for positions, or attend Career Fairs, it is important to make a good first impression. Like it or not, much of the first impression comes from appearance. Even if the position you are applying for is with an organization that dresses quite casually, it is necessary to dress up for your interview or networking opportunity if you want to make a good impression. Investing in a conservative, solid colored suit is a wise decision. Your appearance is more than just what you are wearing however. Making sure your nails are trimmed and your hair is neatly groomed is also important. For further information on appropriate interview attire for both men and women go to THIS WEBSITE. You can also schedule a MOCK Interview with a counselor at Career Services and wear your interview attire to get a professional’s opinion.

Posted by: Rachel Erickson, OSU Senior and Career Services Career Assistant

Let’s face it, finding a job can be a full time job. If you are anything like me, the process can seem overwhelming. While the process will never be exactly the same for everyone, it is important to break down the steps you can take so your job search ends successfully. One of the best things you can do is take a little time out every day to work on one job search task. This will keep that overwhelming feeling from getting any worse.

Step One: Get to Know Yourself

Consider the experiences you have had that have been enjoyable for you. Also, consider your preferences in terms of environment, location, and working as a team member or independently. Group your 4 major strengths into categories you can specifically identify and give examples of.

Career Services offers the MBTI, Strong, and Discover career assessments that might help you identify some of the things you find most enjoyable.

Step Two: Know Where You Want to Work

Consider the classes you have enjoyed, the information you learned, and what industries they apply to. Look at your past work history, internships, and volunteer experience—what did you enjoy doing most? Research the possibilities that exist for recent college graduates in those industries. Do an informational interview with someone in a career you think you would enjoy. Ask the person specifics about their job, including what they like most and what they do not like. Research different industries and companies you are interested in.

Step Three: Get Ready for the Search

Start preparing your resumes, personal statements, cover letters, portfolios and your 30 second informational speech. I have found it most helpful to create one long resume, and then create a one page resume where I can copy and paste relevant information. This way you can tailor the resume you send for each position. Compile a list of networks you can use in your job search. Make a professional voice message on your phone and make sure you have a professional email address. Also, make sure you have appropriate attire for interviewing.

Step Four: Start Searching

Make a schedule of your search activities. Search all resources available. Consider making a list or excel sheet of positions you qualify for, when you sent your resume or application, and when you plan on following up with the employer. Consider targeting specific employers and occupations you are interested in, even if they don’t have jobs posted online. Personalized letters get more attention from employers and show your initiative.

Good luck on your job search and do not forget to use Career Services when you need help!

Interested in learning about more about a fabulous professional development opportunity? Interested in finding a rewarding and challenging experience when you graduate from OSU? Interested in giving back to students and the community? Interested in learning all this from the comfort of your own home? You’re in luck!

Teach for America is hosting several online events this spring to learn more about different aspects of their program. These are very low-key, and there’s no commitment, but these are great opportunities to become more aware of a way to work towards ending educational inequity in our country. If you’re interested in any of the events below, simply click on the link to RSVP, and you’ll get information to call into a conference line number when the event goes “live.” Please feel free to contact Matea Bozja (matea.bozja@teachforamerica.org) with any questions.

TUESDAY, APRIL 6

» Introduction to Teach For America: Learn about our mission and approach to closing the achievement gap and hear a firsthand account of what it’s like to be a corps member. 8 pm EST

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 7

» Pre-Med Webinar Featuring Medical School Deans: Hear a med school dean talk about the value of the Teach For America experience and how it will help you in your medical career. 4 pm EST

THURSDAY, APRIL 8

» Teach For America’s Graduate School Partnerships: You don’t have to choose between Teach For America and grad school! Learn about our 200+ deferral partnerships and hear alumni testimonials. 9 pm EST

Posted by Kelsey Johnson, OSU Senior and Career Services Career Assistant

I know, I know, why are we entering a blog post about Career Services the week before spring break?! I mean, most of us, regardless of our lingering finals, have already checked out, and are dreaming of sun and sandy beaches. Most of us are NOT thinking about jobs after graduation. I mean, why would we? Graduation is a whole 12 weeks from now and based on our experience with procrastination, we should easily be able to land a job in 2 to 3 weeks, right?!

Unfortunately, most organizations have either hired already, or will hire, well before June 11^th. So this is just a friendly reminder to all those seniors, super-seniors and super-super-seniors, to start the job/internship search early. Obviously, the assumption here is that many of us know exactly what we want to do and where we want to go; but I understand this isn’t the case for many of us, myself included. For all you seniors who may need some help with career direction or planning, it’s a good idea to come down to Career Services and schedule yourself a counseling appointment. Not only are these appointments free for students, but they are extremely helpful in reducing anxiety and focusing your career goals. Just be forewarned that appointments fill up fast…so if you call a couple weeks before graduation, you might be left high and dry. (Of course, Career Services is open in the summer too, though.)

One other thing to start looking into as soon as you return from break is the Career Fair coming up on the 21^st of April. Many employers will be attending and looking to fill positions with qualified OSU candidates. But again, the Fair is in week 4. Preparing in advance is key!

Now don’t get all restless, just because I brought up graduation. Definitely have a blast over break and forget thinking about anything serious. But if you’re like me and need to figure out plans for summer or beyond, make sure that you don’t wait until June 10^th to start preparing!

Posted by Anne Lapour, Career Counselor

If you’ve ever attended a Career Services workshop on networking, job searching, or career fair success, you’ve probably heard us talk about your “elevator pitch”, or your “30-second infomercial”. And you may have wondered…Is this something I really need to PRACTICE? I know how to talk about myself!

Sure, of course you know about yourself. But sometimes it becomes hard to talk about yourself purposefully. You’ve only got one chance (and about a minute) to make a first impression during the job search, so you want to make sure you’re selecting your most marketable qualities…rather than wasting 10 of those seconds talking about your dog Fido. (Even if Fido is super-cute.) So…get to work crafting that pitch! And click the link below for a great summary article on what you should include:

What is An Elevator Pitch and Why is It Important?

Posted by Anne Lapour, Career Counselor

Are you a liberal arts major? Do you take joy in the beauty of a classic novel, love a good historical drama, or perk up at the thought of your Abnormal Psychology class? If so, you’ve probably heard the following question at least once (if not 100) times…

So what are you going to do with a major in ______? (Insert major)

Now, if you’re anything like many of liberal arts students who make their way to Career Services, you haven’t quite figured out the answer to that question. (And that’s entirely okay, by the way.) There are very legit reasons for this. Perhaps you’re multitalented and can therefore envision yourself in multiple work settings. Perhaps you’re simply not sure what the options are for someone with your degree. Perhaps you’ve been told that all you can do with an English major is teach. Well, I have good news…

A Liberal Arts major is one of the most flexible, adaptable, well-rounded degrees you can earn.

It’s true. Liberal Arts majors are masters of communication, analytical reasoning, identifying patterns and themes, brainstorming ideas, and solving interpersonal problems. These are the skills you gain from completing a group presentation on Shakespearean sonnets. And they also just happen to be useful in the world of business.

Business expert (and former English major) Susan de la Vergne states: “[Businesses] need leaders who understand where people ‘are coming from,’ who can communicate vision and direction, who demonstrate adaptability and political awareness. They want leaders who are willing to slog through difficulty and navigate ethical complexity.” And she says businesses should look no further than a Humanities Department, or a College of Liberal Arts.

So, you might be thinking “Great, perhaps I am employable…now how do I convince others?” Here’s the thing: YOU need to believe it, in order to make EMPLOYERS believe it. That’s right—you need to perceive and tout your liberal arts degree for everything it is (challenging, useful, transferable), instead of doubting it for everything it’s not (engineering).

Are you ready to branch out? To look beyond the classroom for ways to use those transferable skills you’ve honed in your European History classes? Here’s how you can a) convince yourself of all those transferable skills, and then b) articulate those skills to potential employers:

1. Visit Career Services: We’ll help you revise and craft your resumes and cover letters to better communicate the ways you can contribute to today’s world of business (or non-profit organizations). Make an appointment with a career counselor by calling 541-737-0529.

2. Gain Experience: If you can build your repertoire of work and/or professional experiences (volunteer opportunities, internships, etc), you’ll begin to see first-hand how you might utilize your liberal arts degree in a work environment.

3. Check out the resources: The following blogs have excellent information for liberal arts students…
The Liberal Arts Advantage—For Business (For example, see this post on crafting your “elevator pitch” to a potential employer.)
For English Majors

4. Know Yourself: Spend some time getting to know your unique strengths. You never know when the professional opportunity you’ve been seeking will arise. Be ready.

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Explore. Educate. Empower. Engage.

Using LinkedIn to your Advantage

Following Up with Employers

You’re ALWAYS at an Interview

How to Handle an Engineering Interview

Career Fair Coming–Do you Have the Right Outfit?

Job Searching, Step by Step

Teach for America Info Sessions–In your PJs!

Spring Break for the Senior

The Elevator Pitch–Do I Really Need One?

Your Liberal Arts Degree: An Asset, Not a Liability

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