Picture this. You have just applied for your “dream job” and have been told there are 3 other qualified applicants gunning for the same position. Considering that all applicants have similar educational backgrounds and experience, what factors make one candidate stand out? Do you ever wonder what employers might regard other criteria during the hiring process? And, what can you do to make an impactful “first impression?”
If you are reading this, chances are that you are looking to pursue a job after finally completing your degree or certification. But, before you start dreaming about what to buy with that first paycheck, you need to complete a job search, fill out an application, and go through a formal interview process. Fortunately, the students at Owens Community College have access to a most invaluable resource, the Career and Transfer Services Department.
According to the manager, Angie McGinnis, the Career & Transfer Services Department “is committed to supporting Owens students and alumni as they explore careers and prepare for employment.”
This department offers a multitude of services including career assessments, networking/job search strategies, resume building, as well as mentoring for interviews and basic negotiation skill development. Students can also seek assistance with student employment or work-study options as well as transfer planning to those wanted to further their education.
Since job searching can be stressful and time-consuming, Ms. McGinnis notes that one of the key elements in landing an interview is a strong, professional resume. Students can get help in creating a resume and other relevant paperwork, like a cover letter, using templates and a variety of online resources found on the Career and Transfer Services website. Staff or “career advisors” are available to ensure documents are well-formated, easy to read, error-free, and include relevant information such as key skills/experiences and reliable professional references.
With this foundation established, students can focus on preparing for an interview, Ms. McGinnis reports, “by practicing your answers, researching the company, and preparing your questions to ask of the employer.”
In addition to mock interview training, the Career and Transfer Service department offers guidance on selecting appropriate and professional attire, even furnishing free clothing, from the Career Closet, for students in need.
When making the transition from college campus to the workforce, it is also important to recognize the fundamental elements that can increase or decrease your chances of getting an employment offer. During the application process, the human resources department is typically the first point of contact for many job seekers. Frequently, the initial communication and interactions with HR staff determine the advancement of most applicants through the entire process, from resume submission to employment offer and acceptance.
Dr. Lori Reffert is the Senior Director of Talent Acquisition and Management at Toledo Public Schools, and her responsibilities include overall management of employee recruitment, onboarding, and training for all teaching, non-teaching, and administrators for the district. As Senior Director, she is qualified to provide some valuable insight into what human resource staff consider when considering a new applicant.
Echoing some of the same advice of Ms. McGinnis, Dr. Reffert reiterates the importance of having a resume/cover letter free of spelling or grammatical errors and taking the time to further research the company/position to increase your knowledge base before the interview process. When asked, Dr. Reffert identified some “Do’s & Don’t’s” that could influence hiring decisions:
- Do include all pertinent qualifying skills, training, and certifications as well as any previous employment history that could be relative to the position. Don’t over-inflate or exaggerate experience to appear more qualified.
- Do follow employment application directions as most use online platforms. Before submitting, make sure to fill out all the identified areas, including the uploading of any requested documents that are indicated. Incomplete applications or those missing requested documents are often rejected and not considered. Don’t mail in or drop off paper copies as a substitute. This could easily lead to an application getting lost without any method to track its submission.
- Do use references that will provide positive and relevant input. Family members typically do not qualify as a proper and professional reference. Try to utilize former supervisors, colleagues, or co-workers who will be able to attest to your character, confirm your employment history, and give details about personal work habits and strengths. Don’t use unreliable people who won’t respond/return calls when contacted.
- Do be aware that companies frequently review the social media and internet presence of potential applicants. This includes any public information available on platforms such as Facebook or Instagram as well as videos posted to YouTube or TikTok.
- Don’t share personal information that is irrelevant and could lead to bias or discrimination from the employer. Avoid “name dropping” as it could be interpreted as an attempt to gain favoritism.
- If applicable, Do decline an employment offer politely and professionally so as not to be “blacklisted” from future opportunities. Don’t “ghost” the company, by not returning phone calls or emails, even if another offer has already been accepted.
The perfect job opportunity may not always be available or even attainable, especially when seeking employment right after graduation. “Understand that it can take a while to find the job that fits you,” Dr. Reffert emphasizes.
“Be open to different opportunities. Don’t be afraid to take a ‘lesser’ position to get your foot in the door.”
As the months count down to the end of the school year and graduation approaches, students will begin their journey toward gaining employment in their respective career fields. By utilizing campus resources, like those available through the Career and Transfer Services department, students can find support and guidance with everything from accessing viable networking websites and creating a solid resume to personal mentoring in building valuable interviewing and negotiation skills.
Additionally, these “tips & tricks” can be advantageous in cultivating confidence as you finally navigate through the application process. Most importantly, remember that a little preparedness can make a big impact on your future and your chances of making a great “first impression”!
