Tag Archives: Job

Are We There Yet?

3 Dec

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Remember when you were younger, and would ask your parents over and over during road trips “Are we there yet? How much farther do I have to go?” This would repeat over and over until they pulled over, screamed or started some game of i-spy to distract you (sorry parents). As a young professional, I often find myself asking the same question, “Am I there yet? How many more years of internships, filing and copying until I get to be a big time CEO!” (in my head of course). Lucky for me, there’s many people out there, established in their careers, that will share what it took to get where they are today. One such example, is Ron Culp from the PR blog culpwrit.

I’ve blogged before about culprwrit, and if you haven’t yet read it you must check it out. Besides the loads of great advice it has for young professionals, I think the reason I love it so much is why it was started. Ron Culp, Director and Midwest Managing Director at Ketchum (one of the largest public relations agencies) launched the blog to help millennials develop their careers in public relations. He could have been satisfied with his personal success with his 35 years in the industry, and turned his back on us millennials, but instead he chose to share his experiences and advice with us so we could succeed as well.

The coolest part of the blog (in my personal opinion) is the Career Capsules. I can’t count how many time a day I read or meet someone who has my dream job, and spend hours searching and guessing how they got there. What internships did they have? What was their previous position? How many years were they with the company? This section profiles the backgrounds of Ron, and other veteran PR practitioners, giving a brief intro and career summary so we don’t have to guess. They have some great advice and it’s interesting to see the roads they took to get to the top of their careers.

Of course, every situation is different and only we will know when we are “there.” But taking the advice of those who have been in our shoes, can help us get there a little faster and introduce us to opportunities and paths that we weren’t aware of. The next time you find someone (online or in person) that has your dream job, don’t be afraid to ask them how they got there.

What is the Deal with Informational Interviews?

20 Nov

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So if you are like me, and knew in the past certain companies you wanted to target to work but knew that you were not yet at a point where you have enough experience to work or they are not hiring. The best thing to do in this situation is to ask for an informational interview with someone from the company in the department you would like to work in.

Information interviews are beneficial for many reasons, here are some tips and advantages:

  • They are a great networking tool, the best thing you can do is when looking for a job is meet as many people as possible! You never know who knows someone who knows someone who has the job you want! Even if the position is unavailable after meeting with someone at the company they could recommend you to their friends, co-workers and any other company they may see as a good fit for you.
  • Do your homework. Treat the informational interview as if it were a real interview for the actual position because you never know what will develop from the meeting.
  • Dress appropriately as you would going to an actual interview, make sure you apparel is in accordance with the company.
  • Take notes, since it is informational soak in everything you can and be sure to bring a pen and jot a few things down to reference in the future.
  • Come prepared with a plethora of questions. Since you already know the purpose of the interview is to find out more about the specific profession make sure you come prepared with lots of questions to make the most of the meeting.

Here are some good example questions to think about or ask from ww.iseek.org

  • What is a day on this job really like?
  • What do you like about your job? Dislike?
  • Is your job typical of others in this field?
  • What’s the corporate culture like here? (Hours, salary, titles)
  • Which firms do you think are your toughest competitors, and how do they differ from your company?
  • How did you get into this field?
  • How do you stay current in your knowledge?
  • What kind of experience or training is required?
  • What are employers looking for? (Skills, education, experience)
  • May I have a copy of a job description?
  • What is the potential for advancement?
  • What are current job prospects like?
  • Are there related fields I might want to look into if few jobs are available in my primary career goal?
  • What’s the best way to find out about jobs in this field?
  • Can you refer me to someone else in this field?

For some extra advice check out these Pet Peeves About the Informational Interview from the NYT Business Section.

How Long Should You Stay at a Job?

27 Oct

How long should you stay at your job for? I’ve been thinking about this question a lot lately. I’ve heard it all from, “Life’s too short to stay at a job if you’re not happy” to “Stay at least three to five years.” I know it looks bad if you change positions too often. If I was hiring someone for a position, and saw a resume filled with 6 month job positions, I’d be worried they’d do the same to me. But, if you took a position you aren’t happy with, should you be forced to stay to improve your resume?

After doing a lot of thinking on this, I realized the solution: Take longer to choose a job, and you won’t find yourself in this situation. True, there really is no way of knowing exactly what a position will be like until you take it. However, instead of rushing into a job once it’s offered, take awhile to really think about the job description, read the employee manual, ask people who have worked there, and think about how it will help fulfill your life goals. Looking back at the positions I had for less than 6 months, I don’t blame myself for leaving too soon, I blame myself for jumping into the positions too soon. In fact, I think I stayed at most of them a lot longer than I should have.

 Before you sign on the line, make sure your vision of what your job responsibilities will be, is in line with what the person hiring you envisions. Be specific, and if two months down the line you find yourself doing things that are not even close to what you were promised, let your boss know. Nicely bring up the fact that you, when choosing the position, were told you’d be doing something different. They may have forgotten that you were promised these responsibilities and appreciate you being honest with them. If they deny what they originally agreed upon, and make it clear these will never be your job responsibilities, it’s probably time to move on. 

Ask yourself, “Is this a Job I can see myself doing for awhile and being happy with?” If not, then, “Is the job at least giving me the necessary experience and knowledge for the position I’d like to eventually have?” If it isn’t, then grab your monogrammed mug, bamboo desk plant and find another job that will make you happy. I don’t believe in quitting, but I think quitting can also mean staying at a job you aren’t satisfied with, because you don’t think you deserve better.

Q&A With a Young Graphic Design Professional

22 Oct

I’m always intrigued with what recent grads like myself are doing- how long it took them to find a job, how they like their first job after college, tips for saving etc. Working at a design firm, I’m very impressed by the graphic designers that I work with and interested in how they became involved in graphic design (besides their innate creativity gene that I apparently was not born with). Their fantastic work is everywhere, from magazines, to advertisements, product packaging and web design. Eager to learn more, we sat down with our good friend Lindsay, who graduated in 2008 from Chico State University and is working as a graphic designer. 

Madgrad: What is your current position?

Lindsay: Junior Graphic designer at a large Design Company. It is my first job since graduation, and I’ve been there about 7 months. 

Madgrad: How did you find this job?

Lindsay:  I knew I wanted to work in the Bay area, so I looked up companies that I wanted to work for in this area and then contacted them directly. I think this was the best way, because I knew the company I was applying for and could tailor my resume, which often isn’t the case on Craigslist. I do know lots of people that have found jobs through Craigslist though, so I wouldn’t overlook it as a resource.

Madgrad: Why Graphic design?

Lindsay: As my fellow classmates voted me “most likely to be found in photography” I knew I had to do something with art, but I still wanted a BA. A teacher told me I’d like graphic design, so I thought I’d declare it as my major and try it out. I figured I’d change it a few times like everyone else does, but ended up loving it!

Madgrad:  Did you find a job right out of college? How long did it take? 

Lindsay: No, I did some freelance work while interviewing for permanent positions. It took me about a month and a half to find the right job.

Madgrad: Seems like you lucked out with the Job search! Did any former jobs, internships or classes prepare you for this position and help you get it?

Lindsay:  YES! I had two internships in college. One through the school and one I found on my own. I also took a really helpful class where you prepare your portfolio as well as run though practice interviews, presentations and critiques. 

Madgrad:  What do you most enjoy about being a graphic designer?

Lindsay: I get to be creative every day! Depending on the projects, I will usually get to do something new and different each day. 

Madgrad:  What’s the most challenging part of your work?

Lindsay:  Hands Down-the client. Normally a client will ask for something and you will provide them with options based on their visions. But I would say 9 out of 10 times they don’t choose the option you like the best. So sometimes you have to toss your best ideas to please a client. 

Madgrad: If you had one piece of advice to give to recent graduates looking to enter the design field, what would it be?

Lindsay:  Work on your portfolio! If you are able to get a version online always do that too. And once you have a job, always be updating your portfolio anyways. Eventually you will have to replace all your school projects with actual printed work. This is something I just realized I should be doing.

Madgrad: Living on an entry-level salary can be tough. Any advice you’d give to recent grads in similiar positions?

Lindsay: I lived at home for 6 months after college. This was the best thing I’ve done because I saved a lot of money and now actually have money to spend living in the city I recently moved to. Instead of spending money on rent every month, I was able to put that into savings. It definitely was hard at times, but it allowed me to focus on my work and now have money to spend going to dinner, shopping, and going out to meet new people. Oh, and I also recommend shopping at H&M and Forever 21 for work clothes- they’re cute without a hefty price tag. 

Thanks Lindsay! If you have any questions for her on how to start your career in graphic design, email us at themadgrad@gmail.com 

Employee Handbooks: Read Every Line Before You Sign

13 Oct

Remember when you were signing the papers accepting your last job offer, and read through the employee handbook? If you are like me, you probably don’t remember doing so because you skipped over it. In the excitement of being offered a new job, you discuss the major issues with the employer such as salary and insurance and then eagerly sign on the dotted line before reading through the policy details.  This may be okay for awhile, but what happens when 6 months down the road, you request two days off for vacation time only to find you don’t qualify for paid vacation days until a year?

This may seem like a pretty far off example, but actually happened to a fellow employee recently. When she asked me about it, I was very surprised as I’d not read the employee handbook either. When discussing this subject with others, the most common response was ” But that’s illegal!” Well, a quick Google search into California Employment Laws, found that it actually is not. You may sign up with an employer only to find out you will not be sipping Mai Tai’s on the beaches of Maui until you’ve been with the company for 20 years. (Scary thought I know)

Before signing the offer letter, make sure to read the employee handbook very carefully. Personal days, sick days, paid-time off and dental insurance may seem trivial now, but they can really affect you in the future. Read every word and weigh each issue carefully- Can they take away your insurance at any time? Do they give you enough time off for Maternity or Paternity leave? How often are you up for review?

Taking an extra 30 minutes to read the fine print can save you lots of time and disappointment in the future.

Inspiration from Mad Men

27 Aug

I’m not sure if you have been watching Mad Men as religiously as I have been lately, but if not you must watch. It profiles an advertising agency in the 1960′s and deals with many issues from women rising in the workplace, to marriage and family. I was very inspired by a quote by one of the characters in last Sunday’s episode. She said to, “Pick a job and then become the person that does it.” Wow, all this time I had spent worrying over my future and current career and I had never thought of life this simply. 

I thought a lot about this quote, and realized what it is essentially saying: Pick a goal and actively pursue it. You can spend your entire life dreaming about one day becoming a writer, president of a company, counselor or athlete, or you can take charge and make it happen. Read books, find mentors, do an internship or another position in the same work environment, or get a second degree. Basically do whatever it takes to achieve your goal. 

As Tim Gunn says on Project Runway, ” Make it work!”

When Choosing a job… Follow your Instincts!

7 Jul

How many of you have heard something like this before:

“You’re so good with children, you should be a teacher!”

“I can really see you going into sales, you are just so outgoing!”

The truth? Just because you love children, doesn’t mean you want to pursue a career as a teacher, and there’s more to sales than having an outgoing personality. As we graduate and face so much uncertainty and opportunity we are told to take advice from as many people as possible. We are like two year olds again.. sponges absorbing information from people eager to impart their wisdom and life experiences on us (guilty) However, when is it okay to throw the bottle.. get up and walk on our own??

Advice is great to an extent- it is always helpful to hear from friends, family members and others who have been where we have and know what it’s like to struggle with finances, jobs and housing. However, when it comes to your career- only YOU know what is best for you. If friends and family see you in a career that is making you outwardly stressed, sick and a mess then it is okay for them to step in and suggest a career change. In the end, you are the one that will be on the computer all day, in front of the classroom, speaking to clients, traveling to meetings, or writing your column. So when it comes down to deciding what you want to do, sit down by yourself and instead of thinking what others want you to do or what looks good on paper, think what you would absolutely LOVE to do at work everyday. 

As Dr Seuss put it… “YOU have brains in your head. YOU have feet in your shoes. YOU can steer yourself in any direction YOU choose!”

Tips for Writing a Cover letter: A Brief Intro

5 May

If you don’t think a cover letter is important, imagine this situation: You walk up to a person you have never met before at a party and randomly start talking about yourself. The person is probably going to be a little confused and wonder, ” Wait this person is interesting.. but who are they, and what is their connection to me? A better approach (and one you probably do) is first introduce yourself (your name.. how you know the party hostess.. why you are approaching them (could be simple as “I haven’t met you before”) and THEN you can begin telling them about all of the wonderful volunteer work, and jobs you have done! Okay maybe you wouldn’t go that far.. but you are getting my point. Introductions are a necessary part of our everyday lives, and this is why a cover letter is so important. It is a way of introducing yourself to the company and giving them incentive to look at your resume. Imagine receiving a resume without one. You might think,  ”Wow this person is very experienced and seems like a great fit for this position, but who are they and why do they want this specific job at our company? “ 

There are many great books and website out there that have very helpful tips for writing an amazing cover letter. Before you begin, here are some tips to get you in line for an interview (instead of the paper shredder)

Have a great opening line: If you are applying for a good position (esp if you are using craigslist) chances are the person is reading a lot of applications besides yours. Grab their attention immediately and either mention a name who referred you, or connect to a common experience. Think of it like the conversation described above. When you meet someone and you both have a friend in common, it sparks conversation and keeps you both interested. 

Briefly Summarize your experience: Your resume will have this in detail, but using two or three relevant qualifications/experiences  will lure them in. For example, let them know a skill you posses, a time you used it and why that was unique. A lot of people might have “excellent communication skills” but using them to coordinate multiple events, and write excellent media briefs at your internship with NBC, is sure to grab their attention. Remember keep it short and sweet. 

Make a Powerful Closing: If you are saying goodbye to someone you just met and are interested in, chances are you aren’t going to end the convo with a simple  ”Bye see you later!” Always indicate that you wish to have further follow- up and look forward to meeting with them in person. 

Address it to a specific person:  Addressing your cover letter to the specific person reading it, is always more personal and effective than a simple ” To Whom it May Concern.” This may require some detective work, but this is well worth it, whether it be through Google or contacting the company directly.

Proof-Read!!!!! Ask any hiring manager, and they will give you countless stories where people made some pretty big goof-ups on their cover letters. “ Enclosed is a ruff draft of my resume,” and, “Thank you for your consideration. Hope to hear from you shorty!” are great ways to get your cover letter passed around the office, but not for the reason you intended. Always read it several times and have someone else review it as well for errors. 

Avoid using a generic cover letter. If you are applying to a bunch of different places, it might seem tiring to have to write a unique cover letter each time. However, each company and position is different. If you are applying to similar positions, some of your letter may stay the same, however you should take the time to research each company and position, and make each cover letter unique.

 

 

 

Stay Connected, Stay Informed

15 Apr

You’ve heard the saying, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know that matters.” And while being educated and intelligent is equally important, the benefit of forming and maintaining connections with classmates and coworkers is often overlooked. As jobs change, and people move it can be hard to stay in touch with only the use of email and cell phones. This is where LinkedIn, a professional networking site comes in.

 LinkedIn, an online network with over 20 million professionals, is a great way for finding jobs, that most  graduates don’t take full advantage of.  Joining LinkedIn is free, easy and makes managing your contacts simple. Once you create a profile, you can include your resume, accomplishments, interests and websites. You can then search for and be contacted by former friends, managers, clients and coworkers. Many companies post and distribute job listings through LinkedIn and will contact you if an opportunity arises that they feel you would be a great candidate for.

A friend of mine used this site to her advantage after graduating. She formed a connection with a coworker that she had worked with during college at a fashion magazine. This coworker saw her current location and contacted her about an office they were opening in her area with an open position. This certainly was a relief after many hours searching the internet and  temp agencies for a position similar to this one. 

As a recent graduate, you may not have as extensive a list of experience and connections as Steve Jobs does, but this is the perfect time to start. Even if your resume is limited, it’s a great way to get introduced to others and discover jobs through inside connections. I could go on about the many benefits, but I’d encourage you to create a profile and explore the site for yourself. If you already have one, expand your profile and really take advantage of this network. The earlier you start, the better.

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