Congrats! You’ve started your first real job and you’re ready to sail right up that corporate ladder, right? Maybe… Maybe not. Unless you’re working out of your house, you are likely making real, honest-to-goodness, face-to-face contact with the other human beings that inhabit your office space. Uh, oh. That means you need “people skills.” A course in office etiquette was perhaps not a pre-requisite for graduation, but if you want to make it in the real world you’ll need to this first: Master the “don’ts” of the modern workplace.
When at work, don’t dress like a college student. And no, that doesn’t mean you have to break out the pantyhose and use starch on your shirts. However, it does mean you have to take some serious fashion cues from the hotshots where you work. Remember though – some things are inappropriate no matter what. Sagging pants and tube tops should be given to Goodwill. Or torched.
Don’t neglect your workspace. Make it homey. Display pictures of your family and friends on your desk but limit it to just a few – and make sure they are tasteful. Also, stay away from vulgar pictures or calendars. Not only are they are offensive, they often initiate visits from curious HR departments…
Don’t use a speaker phone unless the room you are in has a door and a roof.
Don’t send jokes or other junk email to your colleagues. People have enough trouble just managing the real work-related emails they get each day. Plus, if your email gets in the wrong hands you could be totally humiliated and, depending on the content, even fired!
Never barge into a colleagues’ cubicle! Knock on the desk or gently let the person know you are there. And, be sure not to hover over someone who is on the phone. That’s creepy. Leave and come back later.
Don’t play music at your desk during work. If you like to listen to music while you work, use earphones. You may enjoy rap but your cube-mate might prefer peace and quiet.
Don’t let your cell phone ring at work. They should be turned off or set on vibrate mode in an open office. Cell phone calls can be very disruptive to those around you. Besides, some ring tones are just plain obnoxious.
Don’t take off your shoes and roam the office in your socks, or worse – bare feet! You’re not in your living room! It looks unprofessional, and it stinks. Literally.
Don’t warm up your lunch anywhere but in the lunchroom. Last night’s Tandorri Chicken might be appetizing to you, but maybe not to your co-workers.
Lastly, don’t forget those office etiquette basics: Get to know everyone in your office by name. Be on time for work and meetings. Shake hands firmly when introduced. Keep voice mails short and to the point. Use proper spelling and capitalization in emails. Avoid office gossip and don’t date co-workers – especially your boss!
By now, if you’re thinking all of this is common sense, just wait. What is obvious to some is less obvious to others. Go ahead. Go to work. You’ll see what we mean. Good luck!
With today's online resources for college students seeking jobs, it may be easy to overlook the simple venues for job postings. Don't forget to check out your campus career center, career fairs, and of course your local newspaper. If these options don't pan out, then begin to look into alternative search methods such as recruiters and online resume databases. I know that I am already updating my resume, registering with job sites and looking at government job databases. Although I am sufficiently confident in my interview skills and my resume has some standout points on it, I do wonder how I can make the leap from finding a job advertisement to getting my resume looked at to landing an interview. There seems to be huge gaps between these steps and that is where I could get filed in the "maybe" or "no" pile of applicants. Also, I have always wondered if there is truth in the saying that the best jobs are hard to come by. It seems logical because a job that is rewarding would not be vacant for long, but does that mean the jobs that are constantly available are any less rewarding? If a job is always in the newspaper and trying to recruit for multiple positions, does this mean that the job is undesirable?
Applying for your first post-graduation job can be an exciting and intense time. You may seek out multiple positions in a variety of fields, or prioritize one main job and look for the right company fit.
Some things to keep in mind as you go out into the applicant pool include maintaining a positive attitude, allowing your skills to shine both in person and on your resume and consider the old adage: if at first you don't succeed, try, try again.
There's nothing wrong with not getting a follow-up interview on your first try. Many graduates lack experience with interviewing for full-time positions and struggle to stand out the first time around. Just keep at it and know that you will end up at a company not only that you work for, but that works for you!
Spherion, a leading recruiting and staffing company, partnered with MonsterTRAK, Monster.com's college division, to visit a local college campus and find out how seniors are preparing themselves for the transition from campus life to the working world.
I'm going to be graduating soon and like most college seniors, I'm getting nervous about the looming transition from college to the real world. To try to prepare, I've been reading everything I can get my hands on to brace myself for this dog-eat-dog world that I'm about to be thrown into.
The article stated that about 1.5 million undergraduates will receive their bachelor’s degrees this year and those graduates will collide with 1.85 million workers with bachelor’s degrees or higher who are currently unemployed. Pretty scary, right?
The article goes on to say -- "While the recession accounts for a large part of the drop in college hiring and the rise in unemployment among workers with degrees, the numbers also reflect a long-term trend toward producing more college graduates than labor markets can absorb. This trend is exacerbated by an equally long-standing mismatch in the fields of study that students pursue and the skill sets that employers require."
This is the first time I've heard anything like this... I mean, the whole reason I went to college was to prepare for my future career. So my question is: As a soon-to-be grad, what should I be doing to make myself more marketable to employers?
When it comes time to accept or negotiate a job offer make sure that you know what is important to you and what you are willing to compromise. This takes a great deal of self reflection and knowing what you are worth. Some people may not have an accurate view of what type of salary they actually deserve and may think too highly of themselves. But when it comes to getting what you deserve, it is important to keep in mind that job security affects all aspects of your offer. Just because they will offer seasonal bonuses or a lot of perks with travel and cell phones, doesn't mean that it can't easily go away also. Even the biggest companies are affected by today's market and these perks could be cut or the company may start cutting salaries or jobs. So while you may even be offered a secretary or great car, this is usually a year by year situation. Even if you do a great job and work hard, this doesn't mean you are 100% secure in your job. So instead look for health care benefits or salary options that you are assured will remain so you can start building your life and depend on this source of income.
Graduation time is quickly approaching and hopefully, you’ll soon be receiving your first “official” job offer. Have you given any thought to how you’ll respond when that big call comes? Will you accept whatever is offered on the spot like a recent graduate who’s broke and desperate for a job? Will you have a panic attack and be at a total loss for words? Or, will you play it cool and have a few smart questions in your back pocket?
If you don’t like the idea of negotiating a job offer because it feels like you’re bargaining for a better price at a garage sale, think again. You aren’t haggling over used dinnerware. Rather, you are working to get what you need in order to start your career (and your post-college life) in the right direction. And besides, it is expected that you will negotiate.
It is common to worry about finding the right balance between being courteous and asking for what you want. So give some thought to your priorities. Is your salary your main concern? Probably. But, are you also worried about your health and retirement savings benefits? How about special training opportunities or tuition reimbursement? What are your travel limitations, if any? Think about the things that are most important to you – your deal breakers – and focus only on them because if you negotiate every single aspect of an offer, you will appear overly demanding. Greed is NOT good.
So what are some of the most common negotiating items? Certainly, your salary comes to mind first. Remember the cardinal rule when dealing with money: He or she who names a number first loses. So, wait to be given a number, and if it is not what you want, don’t tear up…don’t explode…don’t say a word. Wait for your prospective employer to soak up the silence and read the consternation on your face. If you’re asked to name a number, give them a range or ask the employer for the typical range they offer employees with your educational background.
There are a host of other negotiating points to consider as well, such as your start date, annual bonuses, relocation assistance, stock options, car allowance, an early salary review, and hardware – such as a laptop or Blackberry. Whatever items for which you decide to negotiate, remember that when an employer makes a move to accommodate your terms, be ready to accept the offer. After all, you and your employer want this to be a win/win situation. If the process is long and painful, and you’re grudgingly given what you want, you’ll be at a real disadvantage beginning with your very first day on the job.
You should also give some thought to the intangibles that go with a job, like the work atmosphere and the prestige of the company. These are things you can’t negotiate for but are important to consider. Finally, remember that your first job is not a life sentence. However, the relationship you build with your employers, beginning with your first artful negotiation, can serve you well throughout your entire career.
This week, I've been enjoying a lovely week off from school, known as none other than Spring Break! I have not gone the way of many of my peers however, as I have used the time away from textbooks, assignments and deadlines to do some job hunting of my own.
It can be very wise to utilize your free time for productive things that will help you in your future career. Visit local businesses to get a feel for the company, research their policies and see when they are most likely to hire, or contact your local recruiters to get a head start.
Another option is to invest your unscheduled time into classes or activities offered in your community that will round out your resume. See what the community college or YMCA in your area offer and start learning! These things can not only make you a more well-rounded person, but also make you feel more productive as a young person.
What you do with your time off is up to you, so even if you're sailing away on a fabulous cruise, network! There are limitless possibilities when you seek out resources available to you.
While I have been in college I have worked some small part time jobs and also have been a member of clubs on campus. I have learned that while my part time jobs give me a pay check at the end of the week, the best thing I have gained while in college was the knowledge I've acquired around USF. I have been able to learn skills that will help me deal with office politics and how to have gain respect and work through tough situations. Although those qualities may seem vague and hard to measure, I have also learned qualities that are more tangible. Since working with Student Government I have learned how to work efficiently with Outlook calendar and mail and Excel. Giving presentations in my classes has perfected my skills with PowerPoint and speech writing. But most importantly I have learned "e-mail etiquette". Although these skills may seem basic, I know that when I was a college freshman I struggled with making PowerPoints and my public speaking skills were sub-par. So even though some peope look at college as just a source of thier credits and a diploma, everyone should see their four years as much, much more. For lack of a better term, college provides additional "miscallaneous" knowledge too.
My family has been teaching me the ways to budget money since before I can remember, but it wasn't until I entered college that I finally got to use all the skills I'd learned over the years. It is important to understand the difference between needs and wants when properly budgeting your money. Needs are the essentials that we need to carry out our daily lives (food, water, gas, etc), while wants are the things that we desire but most of the time can live without (iphones, big-screen TVs, designer purses). When living on a budget it is your needs that should be catered to, not your wants. There are many simple ways to cut your costs of living. For instance, it is never advisable to pay top dollar for a brand name product when you can get the same quality and product, for much less, by simply buying a generic brand. Doing simple things like buying generic can save you hundreds of dollars in annual living expenses.
Although college may be the first time that many people start budgeting money, it is definitely not the last time. Living on a budget is something that everyone should do, whether you are a highly paid executive or a bottom-of-the-barrel temp. Paying off those thousands of dollars worth of college loans can be a lot easier if people learn how to budget their money properly and distinguish between what they actually need and what they want.
In today's competitive job market some say that you should try to stand out. This is true but I would just like to add that you should try to stand out in a good way. For instance, when going to an interview it is important to be calm and make a good impression on the interviewer. But companies are not just evaluating their candidates based on how they act or what they know, they are looking at how you present yourself overall. And this includes dress because they want an employee who may one day meet with clients and represent the company as a whole. So when you are entering into that job market, look at your wardrobe as an investment. Put money into nice clothes that are tailored and appropriate and you will see a return. If you do the math, you will spend just as much time in your work clothes at work as you will at home in your comfy clothes. But not everyone can afford designer clothes, instead look at getting the essentials that you can mix and match. And don't worry about the label or name brand, instead focus on whether you are comfortable and whether your clothes look as professional as you want people to see you as.
So, you graduated. And your parents are ready for you to be in "the real world." You however, may not be so eager to jump right into a career and the 9-5 routine. Taking a break sounds perfect to you, after completing 17 years of school.
I've found that many of my friends from college feel the same way after donning their caps and gowns. The job market isn't promising and they just don't feel like joining the workforce right away. Is it really that bad if they don't get a "real" job right away?
In my opinion, not necessarily. You've probably been told to use your degree following graduation, but I can understand and empathize with the burnout that earning a degree brings upon students. I think students should just remember that there are a multitude of resources to help them find their perfect job and ease into post-graduation life.
Recruiters, for example, are an excellent outlet to alleviate some of the stress and find your dream job. Using aids like that will surely help to find a good job without freaking out about being out on your own. They can serve as a mentor and guide the process along.
Whatever you do, just make sure you think long-term. Taking a few months off may still sound like a good idea, until you work out your income and expenses and realize you're seeing red. Before making a big decision about your future, consider all of the awesome resources you have available!
When selecting references, there are many things to consider in order to wow prospective employers. One of the most simple, yet often overlooked tips to follow is to provide multiple references. Remember that one is the loneliest number and you should have a few options listed! Not only will that make you look like you have plenty of people to say great things about you, but it can also help to cover all aspects of your work experience and personal ethics.
Another tip is to keep in mind that the relationships you have or have had with your references should not be affected based on your job search outcome. Just because you may not be selected for a position, don't blame your references or question them on what they said. The information they provide is confidential for a reason and that secrecy should be honored.
Finally, when selecting your references be sure to LET THEM KNOW! There is nothing worse than finding out when your phone rings that someone has listed you as a reference on their superior skills. Have the common courtesy to inform them about the company and job you're looking into for employment.
Ramen Noodles: The Secret to a High Paying Career?
Yes. It’s true. Ramen Noodles, one of the most beloved staples of the American college student’s diet, can lead to a higher paying career. In fact, studies show that if you remain faithful to cheap eats, like Ramen and Mac-N-Cheese, which are consistent with your continuously broke financial state, it will pay off in the end – thanks to that little slip of paper known as a diploma.
Sure it’s tough when most all your other financial resources go toward your education. And, it doesn’t get much easier when you land your first entry-level position, which will likely come with a lower wage as you hone your professional skills in the workplace. But, even enduring the dreaded non-paying internship will be worth your while on down the road. You have to think of your education, or that first job or internship, as a stepping stone to a pantry full of non-generic cereal.
Over time, you and your college degree or vocational school certification will earn more than your non-degreed, non-certified counterparts. Why? First, employers tend to view employees who pursued and obtained an education as more task focused, goal-oriented, and more likely to meet challenges put before them (like feeding yourself with little to no money). Secondly, college educated employees have greater experience with public speaking, critical thinking, and writing which all contribute to greater success in the workplace. Finally, employees with a degree or certification have typically been exposed to the skills necessary to succeed in management – so they tend to secure management positions more rapidly than those without.
Taking responsibility for your budget while you acquire the skills you need to succeed in the workplace builds character and, ultimately, builds a resume. So while you’re hitting the books or hitting the pavement, savor that Ramen. Learn to embrace your PB & J. Because chances are, you won’t be eating like that for very long.
Employees use references to get an inside look at how you are. Your resume tells them where and for how long you worked somewhere, but only a boss or coworker can describe your work ethic and character. It seems like common sense, but do not write down a former employer of a job that you got fired. If you know a reference might say something less than flattering, do not write them down! That being said, make sure your job references show that you are a well-rounded person. I know that I personally though that jobs and grad schools were looking for applicants who are described as "hardworking" "driven" and "ambitious". But I had no idea that employers will look what a recommendation does say and what it does not say. A recruiter told me that a recommendation such as that may make the candidate seem power-hunger and says nothing about their character, loyalty or ethics. They said they would rather hear that someone is "self-motivated" but also a team player. So remember to let your reference know that they should emphasize your best qualities, but also say that you are well rounded.
Why Your Mom Shouldn't Be a Professional Reference
Yes, it’s true… when selecting a job reference; you definitely want someone who will sing your praises to a potential employer! Who better to do the job than your dear old mom… dad… or even your favorite Aunt Sue?
Here’s the catch: you may be every bit as wonderful as your mom claims but let’s face it; she’s your mom and she’s biologically-obligated to feel that way! Same goes for any family member, college roommate or best friend. While they could give you a great reference, employers really don’t want to know that you are a true friend, a reliable designated driver or that you always make your bed!
What you really want in a reference is someone who can account for your work-related qualities. Of course your first choice should be past and present employers since they can account for reliability, initiative, time management and your ability to work with others. Remember that even if your job experience was not career-related, it is still valuable! So, go ahead and ask the director of the camp where you worked last summer, the manager of the restaurant where you worked during college, or the head lifeguard at local pool where you worked in high school—they’re all are great resources!
Ok, so the store you worked at every summer closed down and you didn’t “friend” your old manager on Facebook. Where else can you find a reference? Teachers or college professors can be great references. They have worked closely with you and know about your academic ability, productivity, and timeliness. Others, such as advisors, group leaders and coaches, can also provide information about you, which could be relevant to a potential employer. So, take some time to really think about people who have worked, coached or taught you in the past. Those are the people who are able to offer a good picture of who you are to a potential employer.
Once you have a list of people who you want to represent you, it is important to make sure you ask them if they would be willing to be a reference. Once they have agreed, keep them up-to-date about your job search, provide them with your current resume, the names of the companies you are seeking employment, the types of jobs you are applying for and if possible, even the job descriptions. This type of information will help prepare them to give you the best recommendation possible. And, although they may not know you as well as your mother—they will still be able to give you the glowing reference that you need to get the job. Good luck!
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