Summer is quickly approaching and a lot of us college students are scrambling to secure internship opportunities, or just simply a job. It’s important to secure yourself, so your Summer can go as smoothly as possible. Here’s a few key tips that will help.
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LinkedIn is a major key:
If you haven’t created a LinkedIn account, Now is the time. LinkedIn is a business-oriented social networking service. Many college students shy away from the site but in today’s working climate, it’s all about personal branding and positioning yourself as a solution in the competitive marketplace of walking, talking brands. LinkedIn even provides students with a college portal. It’s mobile friendly and comes complete with videos and quick tip sheets to help you create a stellar profile as a college student. This is your chance to Network and get your name out there. Don’t be afraid to message those Hiring managers.
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Perfect your Resume and Cover Letter:
It’s important to gain experience while you’re still an Undergrad. Seek out as many internships as possible, or find volunteer work, and participate in clubs and organizations on campus. This will not only help your resume stand out from the crowd, but will provide you with the opportunity to explore options and career paths for your future.
The next step is to make your resume shine. Your resume is all about selling yourself. Use action verbs like “Orchestrated”, instead of passive verbs that seem bland.
Details count—Make sure the formatting is consistent and text is aligned. Resumes that stand out are usually the ones that not only have excellent content but an appealing simple design (depending on what field you’re in). Simplicity is key but make it unique.
If you want your resume to end up being perfect, you will have to review it obsessively. You cannot allow any grammar or spelling mistakes to go by unnoticed under your radar. Don’t be afraid to ask for constructive criticism from your mentor, parents, advisors, and career services staff.
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Don’t stop searching:
When it comes to internship opportunities it’s important to be persistent. You may have an interview here and there, but don’t stop looking. Line up your opportunities just in case one falls through. Many successful students often end up with several interviews occurring at the same time; and, with any luck, will get more than one offer in which they will be able to make a decision.
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Secure the Job- Be prepared for the Interview:
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Research the organization:
This will help you answer questions — and stand out from less-prepared candidates.
Seek background information. Visit the organization’s website to ensure that you understand the breadth of what they do. Review the organization’s background and mission statement and know what the company is about. Read recent press releases for insight on projected growth and stability.
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Compare your skills and qualifications to the job requirements:
Analyze the job description. Outline the knowledge, skills and abilities required.
Examine the hierarchy. Determine where the position fits within the organization.
Look side-by-side. Compare what the employer is seeking to your qualifications.
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Prepare responses: Most interviews involve a combination of resume-based, behavioral and case questions. We encourage you to meet with us to practice telling your story in the best possible way.
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Wear business Professional:
Go neutral. Conservative business attire, such as a neutral-colored suit and professional shoes, is best.
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Ask questions:
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In your opinion, what makes this organization a great place to work?
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What do you consider the most important criteria for success in this job?
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Tell me about the organization’s culture.
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How will my performance be evaluated?
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Bring a notepad or professional binder and pen. A portfolio with samples of your work, if relevant