Student Branding Blog - Dan Schawbel » College

Five Things To Do Right After (Any) Event

Anna Manasova — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:44:47 +0000

As a college student or a graduate you probably meet people in class, at club meetings, sports events, talks, seminars, conferences, during internships or at social events that are an inseparable part of university life. It may be a case of meeting external speakers coming to your student organization or a barbecue with some faculty members.

Take advantage of all events

These are not "networking events" designed to help you in professional life. No one will be waving a business card in your face and often they will feel very casual. Yet many students miss an important point: these events are as valuable as any intentionally networking event can be. They help you meet new people or catch up with someone you haven't talked to in a while and they do so whilst giving you some common ground and a starting point for conversation. Yet just meeting someone and then never talking to them again is not useful in itself. You want to be able to keep in touch with the people you meet, to share ideas and maybe build a longer-lasting relationship. How do you do that?

Here are 5 things to do immediately after an event:

1. Add the people you met on Facebook and/or LinkedIn This is especially useful if you don't have their email address as both these networks let you search by name. Plus it gives you opportunity to contact them even if they graduate, change jobs or move to a different city as their profile on these networks will simply incorporate such changes. Tip: Create a list called "Professional" on Facebook and customise what contacts in this list can see from your Facebook profile.

2. Send a "nice to meet you" message

Do this right away, or the next day, but don't wait too long. This is an opportunity to remind them about the recent meeting and a chance to "re-introduce" yourself whilst the meeting is still in their fresh memory and they remember who you are. Tip: Include a link to your blog or profiles online so that they can find out more about you.

3. Include something personalized

Was there something from your conversation that you can comment on? Did they maybe mention an upcoming job interview that you could wish them good luck for? Or a recent success that you can congratulate them on? If you promised to do something during your conversation, be sure to deliver. For example: "Hi Joe, It was great to meet you yesterday. Hope the job interview goes well next week and here's a link to the article I mentioned in our conversation..."

4. Jot down important points from your conversation

While the conversation is fresh in your mind, jot down any important information or facts that you may need in a follow-up. This could include the topics that you talked about, the name of the school they go to or what clubs they are involved in, any names of friends or relatives or events they mentioned. This will allow you to be topical and to refer to specifics in your next conversation. We all like to feel special when we notice someone took the effort to remember bits of information about us.

5. Set yourself a follow-up reminder

Use your calendar or to-do list and set up a reminder for a week/a month or whatever is appropriate in the future when you will get in touch again and see if there's anything you could do for them. Get in the habit of doing these and you'll set yourself up for some great relationships. What do you do to take advantage of various events? Do you have any tips to add?

Author

Anna is a Social Media Marketing Assistant at Pepsmedia, based in Cambridge, UK. Having graduated from the University of Cambridge in 2010 with a degree in Social and Political Sciences, she joined the small team straight out of university and is now helping businesses engage with customers online and build communities. She is passionate about the use of social media both in business and for individuals. To find out more, read her Life With Social Media blog, or connect with her on Twitter @annamanasova and LinkedIn.

Diversity Career Resources: African American

Karen Obringer — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:08:30 +0000

This week I’m introducing you to a couple websites that focus on African Americans and careers. The first one, The Black Collegian, provides information on career resources for black college students. Job search strategies, graduate school opportunities, career and industry reports are abundantly explored. This site is the cyberspace partner of The Black Collegian magazine, serving the career and self-development interests of African American collegians throughout America since 1970. The second one, Black Career Women, is an organization founded in 1977 and serves as a nucleus of support to identify and address the critical needs of black women in the workforce as it relates to their career mobility and achievement. Here are some key elements of the websites.

The Black Collegian

Employer Profiles – Read about featured employers plus a total of 17 employer profiles “that support diversity and actively recruit on college campuses nationwide.”
The Diversity Registry – Connect to DiversityRegistry.com and research companies with “active diversity programs."
Job Tools & Career Center – Search for jobs within The Black Collegian’s database, get career advice and tips on internships.
Study & Campus Section– Learn about graduate studies, working and studying abroad, scholarships and grants, and more.
Extracurricular Section– Additional information just for fun, like music, poetry, and films.

Black Career Women

Career Coaches – Get expert advice on your career path.
Careers Section – Read articles and advice on assessments, career exploration, decision making, job searching, and negotiations like salary.
Join the Organization – Provides you discounts on programs, free access to Virtual Career Workshop, members only career content, and more.
Useful Websites – Lists additional websites that can help with your career development, like Black Career Zone and Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

There are many other great career resources out there for African Americans. Check out some of these additional handouts and websites.

Career Resources for Black and African American Students: The University of Texas at Austin
Black Voices
The African American Village
Empower Me! – Accredited business through the Better Business Bureau!
National Society of Black Engineers

Author:

Karen is a Career Counselor and Internship Coordinator at Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW). At IPFW she assists students in finding internships, coordinates and assists with campus-wide events, teaches a Career Planning course, and meets with students individually to assist them with all aspects of career development. Connect with Karen via LinkedIn or Twitter.

Using the Internet to Find the Perfect Job

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:13:35 +0000

In my last piece I discussed online job applications but I’d like to take a step back for a bit. I am always amazed when I ask people where they found or came across a particular job posting. Hopefully, by now you have some sense of the type of career you’d like to pursue and some of the positions out there that may get your career off the ground. But what if you are not sure of the companies out there offering these types of roles? Let’s take a closer look at the best way to search online for job opportunities and learn more about those organizations.

Job Search

When looking for a job most people instinctively go to the major job boards. However, this is not the most efficient way to find job opportunities. Instead of visiting the major job boards try a job board aggregator like indeed.com or simplyhired.com. These boards pull jobs from the major job boards, company websites, and various other sources. It doesn’t get better than one-stop shopping! However, please be aware that your search results may yield quite a few listings and by no means should you apply for all of them. Use the filtering options to identify a handful of opportunities and companies that you’d like to learn more about or target.

Job Match

Before applying for just any and every position, or before you interview, be sure to research the company you are considering. It’s very important that you learn about the company’s culture, values, mission and goals. Ask yourself, are they aligned with my personal goals? Visit the company’s website(s) to learn about what the company has to say about itself. Keep in mind, this may be written to ensure the company is seen in the best light or from a marketing perspective. Make sure you know what the company is in business for. There is nothing worse than going to a job interview and not even knowing what product or service they represent. Also, take note of what’s going on with the company in the news. Are they launching a new product? Are they closing down a bunch of stores? I also recommend going after the authentic or organic perspective of the organization. To do this, get out on the Social Media channels and follow, become a fan or search for the organization. This will give you a true glimpse of the company’s reputation. What is being tweeted about the company? What is happening on their Facebook fan page or group?

Job Connect

While you are out researching the company, be sure to check out LinkedIn also. It is a great Social Media tool for business networking. Search for the company and then seek out current or former employees of the company that you may want to apply and connect with. You may also find job postings, and learn more about companies by following their profiles. It’s also a good idea to join groups and associations on LinkedIn that relate to the field you are hoping to join. Perhaps, determine what groups your connections are part of as a starting point. Spending all day on the internet looking for a job is history. So, make it easy on yourself and go to one spot. But before you too far, do yourself a favor and research the company so you know exactly what you are applying for.

Author

Heidi is one of 3 College Recruiting Managers for Hyatt. She is responsible for recruiting top talent at hospitality universities across the country, primarily for Hyatt’s Corporate Management Training program and Corporate Internship program. Heidi visits up to 14 campuses twice a year to promote the Hyatt brand and college programs. Most recently Heidi has become involved with External Functional Recruitment for Culinary Management positions in North America. She earned her BS Degree in Interpersonal Communication with a minor in Business from Ohio University in 2001. Heidi has been with Hyatt for 9 years and started in the programs she now recruits for. To learn more about opportunities with Hyatt please visit explorehyatt.jobs, follow Hyatt on twitter @hyattcareers, become a Hyatt Facebook fan at Hyatt Hotels and Resorts Careers and follow the Campus blog at hyattrecruiting.blogspot.com.

Diversity Career Resources: Part 1

Karen Obringer — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:34:48 +0000

How do you identify yourself? Personal Branding is all about showcasing yourself and marketing your unique characteristics, interests, and skills. The way you identify yourself (woman/man, African American, LGBTQ, etc.) is protected information and employers cannot refuse to hire based upon these personal identities. There has also been research that states a person’s acceptance of self translates into confidence which employers look for in candidates. What I mean is take the time to know yourself, where you come from, and be confident with those unique characteristics that makes you special. There are some great career resources out there for everyone. I’m going to take a few weeks and share with you some very useful and diverse career webpages. I’m starting off with a general site and then will share more specific websites in the upcoming weeks.

DiversityWorking.com

DiversityWorking claims to be the “largest diversity job board online.” This may be true, but it doesn’t have postings for every US state. It is still a good resource for a number of reasons.

Key Elements of the Website

Job Board – You can browse and search for jobs in 72 industries. There is also a section entitled Search Agent where you can schedule your own search agent that notifies you via email when a position that you’re interested in becomes available.
Resume Posting – Post your resume to the website and allow employers to search for you!
Organization – Provides the job seeker with basic information about the various companies that DiversityWorking showcases. They also provide a link to each company’s website which makes it easy for you do additional research.
Career Expo – Take part in the Virtual Diversity Career Expo. 10 weeks with a different career industry each week. There are still 5 career expos that will run throughout the end of 2010 calendar year. The only downside to this element is that it costs to attend, but once you pay it is available 24/7 throughout the weeks.

Additional Resources for the Job Seeker

FAQ Section – Good information with resume and interviewing tips. There’s only one criticism I would give with the resume tips. It suggests adding personal information to your resume, but this is not recommended because some personal information, like age, race, marital status etc. is protected information. There’s also some information on what to do if you experienced discrimination and why diversity is so important to companies.
Community Channels – Provides job seekers with specific search agents based on ethnic groups and recent news that have impacted the work place.
Diversity News – Recent news articles that impact the world of work, especially related to diversity.
Newsletter – Sign up for an email newsletter which provides you with the latest job openings, news, events, and more. You can even select to specify your newsletter to how you identify yourself, choices include ethnic, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, military, and more.

Check out this resource and watch for more website and resource reviews to come in the upcoming weeks.

Author

The Worst Things That Have Ever Happened to You

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:36:34 +0000

You've heard the phrase, "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger," right? Well, what doesn't kill you also makes for good interview material. Some of the trickiest interview questions are those that ask you to recall a negative experience or talk about your weaknesses. Questions like:

Tell me about a time when you failed.
What are your greatest weaknesses?
What is the greatest obstacle you've overcome?
What is the most difficult decision you have ever had to make?

These kind of questions can often catch candidates off guard. They might bring up painful, embarrassing and negative experiences. It is challenging to convey what happened without complaining or coming across as overly negative. At the same time, negative experiences or challenges usually provide for lots of growth and learning. They will allow you to demonstrate to an employer how you tackle tough issues and show them you aren't afraid of making mistakes. Nobody wants to hire someone who will run from problems.

Some tips for handling these types of interview questions:

Don't dwell on the negative. State the situation and swiftly move on to how you dealt with the issue.
State the facts and avoid interjecting negative opinions about other people (For example, "my boss was very demanding" is much better than, "my boss was rude and mean")
Make sure to discuss the skills you used to overcome a challenge or deal with a problem.
Always end on a positive. What did you learn? How did the situation affect future decisions and actions?
Prepare in advance. These situations are tough to talk about and usually the questions we dread most. Practice your responses in advance.

Even if you're not explicitly asked about a challenging situation, discussing those type of situations allows you to demonstrate how you've grown or used your skills in difficult circumstances. What's the most difficult interview question you have ever been asked?

Author

Kelly is a career advisor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she assists undergraduate business students with all aspects of their career development. Connect with Kelly on Twitter, her blog, LinkedIn or BrazenCareerist.

Don’t be Steven Slater: Quit Your Job Professionally

Karen Obringer — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:40:22 +0000

If you've been watching the news lately, then you know who Steven Slater is. He’s the Jet Blue flight attendant who quit his job in a very unorthodox manner and is now facing felony charges. CLICK HERE for a video with CNN reporters interviewing one of the passengers on the plane who witnessed the occurrence. Even though he seems to be turning into a modern folk hero, the way he quit his job is far from recommended. If this is the WRONG way to quit a job, then what’s the right way? How do you quit a job without burning bridges? And, what's so wrong with burning a few bridges if the company and/or supervisor were bad to you?

Quitting the Job Properly

Give at least 2 weeks notice, but a month would be preferred. This demonstrates professionalism and courtesy to the company and your boss.

They will eventually have to replace you and by giving them a heads up, they can initiate a search for your replacement with hopes for only a small gap between you and the new recruit.

Type a resignation letter. Use professional language and business letter format. Approach your boss with this letter and explain to him/her as to why you're choosing to resign.

I once heard of a teacher that submitted her resignation letter on a piece of construction paper and written in crayon. You can be assured that she was not given a reference letter upon departure. Sample Resignation Letters.

Choose your words wisely. When you approach your boss about quitting the job, be sure to give solid reasons for your departure, but keep it positive. If it's a touchy subject, then make sure to discuss it with a trusted friend/family member or a career counselor to adequately prepare. This will help you choose your words properly and leave on a good note.

Don't Burn Bridges

It's a small world after all. It's amazing who knows who and how much people network and talk within professional industries. If you quit your job unprofessionally, then it's likely your previous boss will talk about it and it may end up affecting your job search.
Get the good reference. Even if you didn't like the job, you can still leave with a good reference from your supervisor or a colleague. Most employers require three references before hiring a new employee.
Make it easy on yourself. If you leave in a professional manner, then it's a lot easier to interview with a new employer. A common question used in interviews is, "Why did you leave your previous job?" It will reflect better on you if you can answer positively than figure out how to spin it, or risk lying. The company you're interviewing with can call your previous employer and inquire whether or not they would consider hiring you back, and a positive response will increase your chances for hire.

There are some additional suggestions at BEST-JOB-INTERVIEW.com, including offering to train your replacement, be productive until the last day and tie up any loose ends, and more specific information on writing the resignation letter.

Author

What Everybody Ought to Know About Online Applications

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:34:15 +0000

It’s crazy to think that when I started working for Hyatt, back in 2000, candidates visited the hotel property’s HR office and completed paper applications. Wow how things have changed in such a relatively short amount of time! Now, almost all companies, including Hyatt, only accept applications online. To some, filling out online applications and sending them into cyberspace can feel hopeless. I am here to tell you how to increase your chances of getting a phone call versus a generic “thanks but no thanks” letter or even worse, nothing at all. So read on and consider my advice before hitting the “submit” button because whether you like it or not, paper applications aren’t coming back.

Finding the right opportunity

Most companies have a career site linked from their company website that will allow you to view available positions by location and department. Once you have determined the company that is the right fit for you it’s time to find a position that is a match as well. Applying to anything and everything is not the answer to finding a job. Most companies use an applicant tracking system that allows the HR representatives to view every position you have applied for within the company. If you are applying to multiple opportunities, in different departments, all over the country, or even the world, this can give a negative impression. Start by viewing opportunities closest to you. Candidates looking for an entry level position, even an entry level management position, will most likely not be provided relocation. Even if you are willing to relocate on your own dime, applying for opportunities in your area first will better your chances of being considered. If you are planning to relocate (regardless if you get the job) to the location you are applying, make sure you indicate this on your application and follow up by contacting the HR department via phone after submitting your application. Take a thorough look at the job descriptions for the opportunities you are interested in. Most likely the company will list the job duties and qualifications required for the position. If you do not meet these qualifications don’t waste your time. If you do, make sure it is a job you are truly interested in versus applying just to apply.

Completing the Application

Now you that you have determined the right position for you it’s time to complete the application. Although applying online can feel more informal than meeting with a company representative face to face it’s important to treat it the same and maintain professionalism. For example, I have the bad habit of not capitalizing when emailing with friends--this is not ok on a job application. Punctuation, grammar, spelling, etc are all extremely important when applying online. The application is your foot in the door and if you are not putting your best foot forward then you are hurting your chances of getting that coveted face to face time. Most application systems allow you to attach your cover letter, resume and references. Take advantage of this as the HR representative reviewing your application may use these attachments to forward to the Hiring Manager. Make sure the information you submit and attach is up to date and accurate as well as professional. If the HR representative wants to reach out to you and your phone number is no longer in service or your email address ends in @bootylicious.com they will be on to the next candidate in no time. This also applies to your voicemail. Although you may love the song that your friends have to listen to while they wait for you to answer, your potential employer may not feel the same. Keep it simple and realize all of these little things add up to an overall impression. My mom, and I’m sure yours, has always said “honesty is the best policy”. This is true when it comes to applications as well. Lying about your background, employment experience, qualifications, compensation, etc will only cause problems later. So be honest and the right opportunity will come your way.

Follow-up

Last but not least, make sure if you are contacted regarding your application that you respond whether you are still interested in the opportunity or not. A lack of response can only hurt your chances of other employment opportunities with the company that may come up in the future. If you have applied to an opportunity and a week or more has passed, it is ok to call and follow-up. By following up you are confirming your interest in the position and the HR representative may even be able to provide you with an update on the position. Now that you have the skinny it’s time to get online and start applying. Career opportunities are waiting for you in cyberspace.

Author

BrazenCareerist Wants to Know: What Does It Mean to Be in the Driver’s Seat of Your Career?

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 09:25:07 +0000

This Wednesday, BrazenCareerist is hosting a nation-wide meetup called "Meetup Everywhere: Crowdsource Your Career". Across the country, people will gather to discuss what it means to take control of their career and life. These meetups will be filmed and Brazen will compile the conversations into one awesome video montage of what is sure to be an amazing collection of ideas. Pretty cool, right? I'm curious what our readers think about this topic. How do you take control of your career/life? Do you feel like you are in the driver's seat? Or do you feel out of control and unsure? To me, taking control of your career means a couple of things:

Being honest with yourself.

One of the fastest ways to end up in a job you dislike is to ignore that inner voice in your head that is telling you the job is not a good fit.

Taking some risks.

I'm pretty risk-averse, so quitting a job before I have something else lined up freaks me out. But before I had my current position I decided to leave my former job and it turned out to be exactly what I needed.

Doing things other people aren't willing to do to be the best at whatever you care about.

I am the queen of overpreparation when it comes to job interviews. It's not efficient, but I know that I probably will be way better prepared than most other candidates. It's not always easy or possible to do these things because inevitably, we will sometimes feel like we aren't in the driver's seat. But these are the things I come back to when I feel like I need to re-gain some control. If you're interested in participating, you can check out the meetups that have been organized here or organize your own wherever you live. It's not only sure to generate some great ideas, but it would be a fantastic networking opportunity for college students and recent college grads. In the meantime, please share in the comments what taking control of your career means to you!

Author

Do You Have A Personal Branding Success Story?

Bret Simmons — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:37:42 +0000

I want to hear from you. If you have a personal branding success story, or know someone that has a good success story, please share it with me. If I like it, we can discuss how we can share your story with the other readers of The Student Branding Blog. Bret L. Simmons: Share Your Personal Branding Success Story from Bret Simmons on Vimeo. I am particularly interested in how you have used LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook or your blog to help you get a job, get an internship, start a business, or otherwise advance your career. Our premise here at The Student Branding Blog is that personal branding will help you achieve the success you desire. So let’s hear from you – how has personal branding helped you successfully achieve a career related goal? If you have a success story, contact me at contact@bretlsimmons.com. And my previous invitation for you to show me your personal brand is also still open. Show me your brand; tell me about your success.

Author

Bret Simmons is an Associate Professor of Management in the College of Business at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), where he teaches courses in organizational behavior, leadership, and personal branding to both undergraduate and MBA students. He has a Ph.D. in Business Administration from Oklahoma State University. Bret practices personal branding at his website Positive Organizational Behavior where he blogs about leadership, followership, and personal branding. His purpose is “to change your mind about the value of partnering with others to build healthy, responsible organizations where everyone can thrive.” You can also find Bret on Twitter, Facebook, and Linkedin.

Authenticity vs. Persona

Anna Manasova — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:44:47 +0000

Take advantage of all events

Here are 5 things to do immediately after an event:

2. Send a "nice to meet you" message

3. Include something personalized

4. Jot down important points from your conversation

5. Set yourself a follow-up reminder

Author

Diversity Career Resources: African American

Karen Obringer — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:08:30 +0000

The Black Collegian

Employer Profiles – Read about featured employers plus a total of 17 employer profiles “that support diversity and actively recruit on college campuses nationwide.”
The Diversity Registry – Connect to DiversityRegistry.com and research companies with “active diversity programs."
Job Tools & Career Center – Search for jobs within The Black Collegian’s database, get career advice and tips on internships.
Study & Campus Section– Learn about graduate studies, working and studying abroad, scholarships and grants, and more.
Extracurricular Section– Additional information just for fun, like music, poetry, and films.

Black Career Women

Career Coaches – Get expert advice on your career path.
Careers Section – Read articles and advice on assessments, career exploration, decision making, job searching, and negotiations like salary.
Join the Organization – Provides you discounts on programs, free access to Virtual Career Workshop, members only career content, and more.
Useful Websites – Lists additional websites that can help with your career development, like Black Career Zone and Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

There are many other great career resources out there for African Americans. Check out some of these additional handouts and websites.

Career Resources for Black and African American Students: The University of Texas at Austin
Black Voices
The African American Village
Empower Me! – Accredited business through the Better Business Bureau!
National Society of Black Engineers

Author:

Using the Internet to Find the Perfect Job

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:13:35 +0000

Job Search

Job Match

Job Connect

Author

Diversity Career Resources: Part 1

Karen Obringer — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:34:48 +0000

DiversityWorking.com

DiversityWorking claims to be the “largest diversity job board online.” This may be true, but it doesn’t have postings for every US state. It is still a good resource for a number of reasons.

Key Elements of the Website

Job Board – You can browse and search for jobs in 72 industries. There is also a section entitled Search Agent where you can schedule your own search agent that notifies you via email when a position that you’re interested in becomes available.
Resume Posting – Post your resume to the website and allow employers to search for you!
Organization – Provides the job seeker with basic information about the various companies that DiversityWorking showcases. They also provide a link to each company’s website which makes it easy for you do additional research.
Career Expo – Take part in the Virtual Diversity Career Expo. 10 weeks with a different career industry each week. There are still 5 career expos that will run throughout the end of 2010 calendar year. The only downside to this element is that it costs to attend, but once you pay it is available 24/7 throughout the weeks.

Additional Resources for the Job Seeker

FAQ Section – Good information with resume and interviewing tips. There’s only one criticism I would give with the resume tips. It suggests adding personal information to your resume, but this is not recommended because some personal information, like age, race, marital status etc. is protected information. There’s also some information on what to do if you experienced discrimination and why diversity is so important to companies.
Community Channels – Provides job seekers with specific search agents based on ethnic groups and recent news that have impacted the work place.
Diversity News – Recent news articles that impact the world of work, especially related to diversity.
Newsletter – Sign up for an email newsletter which provides you with the latest job openings, news, events, and more. You can even select to specify your newsletter to how you identify yourself, choices include ethnic, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, military, and more.

Check out this resource and watch for more website and resource reviews to come in the upcoming weeks.

Author

The Worst Things That Have Ever Happened to You

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:36:34 +0000

Tell me about a time when you failed.
What are your greatest weaknesses?
What is the greatest obstacle you've overcome?
What is the most difficult decision you have ever had to make?

Some tips for handling these types of interview questions:

Don't dwell on the negative. State the situation and swiftly move on to how you dealt with the issue.
State the facts and avoid interjecting negative opinions about other people (For example, "my boss was very demanding" is much better than, "my boss was rude and mean")
Make sure to discuss the skills you used to overcome a challenge or deal with a problem.
Always end on a positive. What did you learn? How did the situation affect future decisions and actions?
Prepare in advance. These situations are tough to talk about and usually the questions we dread most. Practice your responses in advance.

Author

Don’t be Steven Slater: Quit Your Job Professionally

Karen Obringer — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:40:22 +0000

Quitting the Job Properly

Give at least 2 weeks notice, but a month would be preferred. This demonstrates professionalism and courtesy to the company and your boss.

They will eventually have to replace you and by giving them a heads up, they can initiate a search for your replacement with hopes for only a small gap between you and the new recruit.

Type a resignation letter. Use professional language and business letter format. Approach your boss with this letter and explain to him/her as to why you're choosing to resign.

I once heard of a teacher that submitted her resignation letter on a piece of construction paper and written in crayon. You can be assured that she was not given a reference letter upon departure. Sample Resignation Letters.

Choose your words wisely. When you approach your boss about quitting the job, be sure to give solid reasons for your departure, but keep it positive. If it's a touchy subject, then make sure to discuss it with a trusted friend/family member or a career counselor to adequately prepare. This will help you choose your words properly and leave on a good note.

Don't Burn Bridges

It's a small world after all. It's amazing who knows who and how much people network and talk within professional industries. If you quit your job unprofessionally, then it's likely your previous boss will talk about it and it may end up affecting your job search.
Get the good reference. Even if you didn't like the job, you can still leave with a good reference from your supervisor or a colleague. Most employers require three references before hiring a new employee.
Make it easy on yourself. If you leave in a professional manner, then it's a lot easier to interview with a new employer. A common question used in interviews is, "Why did you leave your previous job?" It will reflect better on you if you can answer positively than figure out how to spin it, or risk lying. The company you're interviewing with can call your previous employer and inquire whether or not they would consider hiring you back, and a positive response will increase your chances for hire.

Author

What Everybody Ought to Know About Online Applications

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:34:15 +0000

Finding the right opportunity

Completing the Application

Follow-up

Author

BrazenCareerist Wants to Know: What Does It Mean to Be in the Driver’s Seat of Your Career?

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 09:25:07 +0000

Being honest with yourself.

One of the fastest ways to end up in a job you dislike is to ignore that inner voice in your head that is telling you the job is not a good fit.

Taking some risks.

I'm pretty risk-averse, so quitting a job before I have something else lined up freaks me out. But before I had my current position I decided to leave my former job and it turned out to be exactly what I needed.

Doing things other people aren't willing to do to be the best at whatever you care about.

Author

Do You Have A Personal Branding Success Story?

Bret Simmons — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:37:42 +0000

Author

Authenticity vs. Persona

Anna Manasova — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:44:47 +0000

Take advantage of all events

Here are 5 things to do immediately after an event:

2. Send a "nice to meet you" message

3. Include something personalized

4. Jot down important points from your conversation

5. Set yourself a follow-up reminder

Author

Student Branding Blog - Dan Schawbel » College

Anna Manasova — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:44:47 +0000

Take advantage of all events

Here are 5 things to do immediately after an event:

2. Send a "nice to meet you" message

3. Include something personalized

4. Jot down important points from your conversation

5. Set yourself a follow-up reminder

Author

Diversity Career Resources: African American

Karen Obringer — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:08:30 +0000

The Black Collegian

Employer Profiles – Read about featured employers plus a total of 17 employer profiles “that support diversity and actively recruit on college campuses nationwide.”
The Diversity Registry – Connect to DiversityRegistry.com and research companies with “active diversity programs."
Job Tools & Career Center – Search for jobs within The Black Collegian’s database, get career advice and tips on internships.
Study & Campus Section– Learn about graduate studies, working and studying abroad, scholarships and grants, and more.
Extracurricular Section– Additional information just for fun, like music, poetry, and films.

Black Career Women

Career Coaches – Get expert advice on your career path.
Careers Section – Read articles and advice on assessments, career exploration, decision making, job searching, and negotiations like salary.
Join the Organization – Provides you discounts on programs, free access to Virtual Career Workshop, members only career content, and more.
Useful Websites – Lists additional websites that can help with your career development, like Black Career Zone and Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

There are many other great career resources out there for African Americans. Check out some of these additional handouts and websites.

Career Resources for Black and African American Students: The University of Texas at Austin
Black Voices
The African American Village
Empower Me! – Accredited business through the Better Business Bureau!
National Society of Black Engineers

Author:

Using the Internet to Find the Perfect Job

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:13:35 +0000

Job Search

Job Match

Job Connect

Author

Diversity Career Resources: Part 1

Karen Obringer — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:34:48 +0000

DiversityWorking.com

DiversityWorking claims to be the “largest diversity job board online.” This may be true, but it doesn’t have postings for every US state. It is still a good resource for a number of reasons.

Key Elements of the Website

Job Board – You can browse and search for jobs in 72 industries. There is also a section entitled Search Agent where you can schedule your own search agent that notifies you via email when a position that you’re interested in becomes available.
Resume Posting – Post your resume to the website and allow employers to search for you!
Organization – Provides the job seeker with basic information about the various companies that DiversityWorking showcases. They also provide a link to each company’s website which makes it easy for you do additional research.
Career Expo – Take part in the Virtual Diversity Career Expo. 10 weeks with a different career industry each week. There are still 5 career expos that will run throughout the end of 2010 calendar year. The only downside to this element is that it costs to attend, but once you pay it is available 24/7 throughout the weeks.

Additional Resources for the Job Seeker

FAQ Section – Good information with resume and interviewing tips. There’s only one criticism I would give with the resume tips. It suggests adding personal information to your resume, but this is not recommended because some personal information, like age, race, marital status etc. is protected information. There’s also some information on what to do if you experienced discrimination and why diversity is so important to companies.
Community Channels – Provides job seekers with specific search agents based on ethnic groups and recent news that have impacted the work place.
Diversity News – Recent news articles that impact the world of work, especially related to diversity.
Newsletter – Sign up for an email newsletter which provides you with the latest job openings, news, events, and more. You can even select to specify your newsletter to how you identify yourself, choices include ethnic, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, military, and more.

Check out this resource and watch for more website and resource reviews to come in the upcoming weeks.

Author

The Worst Things That Have Ever Happened to You

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:36:34 +0000

Tell me about a time when you failed.
What are your greatest weaknesses?
What is the greatest obstacle you've overcome?
What is the most difficult decision you have ever had to make?

Some tips for handling these types of interview questions:

Don't dwell on the negative. State the situation and swiftly move on to how you dealt with the issue.
State the facts and avoid interjecting negative opinions about other people (For example, "my boss was very demanding" is much better than, "my boss was rude and mean")
Make sure to discuss the skills you used to overcome a challenge or deal with a problem.
Always end on a positive. What did you learn? How did the situation affect future decisions and actions?
Prepare in advance. These situations are tough to talk about and usually the questions we dread most. Practice your responses in advance.

Author

Don’t be Steven Slater: Quit Your Job Professionally

Karen Obringer — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:40:22 +0000

Quitting the Job Properly

Give at least 2 weeks notice, but a month would be preferred. This demonstrates professionalism and courtesy to the company and your boss.

They will eventually have to replace you and by giving them a heads up, they can initiate a search for your replacement with hopes for only a small gap between you and the new recruit.

Type a resignation letter. Use professional language and business letter format. Approach your boss with this letter and explain to him/her as to why you're choosing to resign.

I once heard of a teacher that submitted her resignation letter on a piece of construction paper and written in crayon. You can be assured that she was not given a reference letter upon departure. Sample Resignation Letters.

Choose your words wisely. When you approach your boss about quitting the job, be sure to give solid reasons for your departure, but keep it positive. If it's a touchy subject, then make sure to discuss it with a trusted friend/family member or a career counselor to adequately prepare. This will help you choose your words properly and leave on a good note.

Don't Burn Bridges

It's a small world after all. It's amazing who knows who and how much people network and talk within professional industries. If you quit your job unprofessionally, then it's likely your previous boss will talk about it and it may end up affecting your job search.
Get the good reference. Even if you didn't like the job, you can still leave with a good reference from your supervisor or a colleague. Most employers require three references before hiring a new employee.
Make it easy on yourself. If you leave in a professional manner, then it's a lot easier to interview with a new employer. A common question used in interviews is, "Why did you leave your previous job?" It will reflect better on you if you can answer positively than figure out how to spin it, or risk lying. The company you're interviewing with can call your previous employer and inquire whether or not they would consider hiring you back, and a positive response will increase your chances for hire.

Author

What Everybody Ought to Know About Online Applications

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:34:15 +0000

Finding the right opportunity

Completing the Application

Follow-up

Author

BrazenCareerist Wants to Know: What Does It Mean to Be in the Driver’s Seat of Your Career?

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 09:25:07 +0000

Being honest with yourself.

One of the fastest ways to end up in a job you dislike is to ignore that inner voice in your head that is telling you the job is not a good fit.

Taking some risks.

I'm pretty risk-averse, so quitting a job before I have something else lined up freaks me out. But before I had my current position I decided to leave my former job and it turned out to be exactly what I needed.

Doing things other people aren't willing to do to be the best at whatever you care about.

Author

Do You Have A Personal Branding Success Story?

Bret Simmons — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:37:42 +0000

Author

Authenticity vs. Persona

Karen Obringer — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:08:30 +0000

The Black Collegian

Employer Profiles – Read about featured employers plus a total of 17 employer profiles “that support diversity and actively recruit on college campuses nationwide.”
The Diversity Registry – Connect to DiversityRegistry.com and research companies with “active diversity programs."
Job Tools & Career Center – Search for jobs within The Black Collegian’s database, get career advice and tips on internships.
Study & Campus Section– Learn about graduate studies, working and studying abroad, scholarships and grants, and more.
Extracurricular Section– Additional information just for fun, like music, poetry, and films.

Black Career Women

Career Coaches – Get expert advice on your career path.
Careers Section – Read articles and advice on assessments, career exploration, decision making, job searching, and negotiations like salary.
Join the Organization – Provides you discounts on programs, free access to Virtual Career Workshop, members only career content, and more.
Useful Websites – Lists additional websites that can help with your career development, like Black Career Zone and Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

There are many other great career resources out there for African Americans. Check out some of these additional handouts and websites.

Career Resources for Black and African American Students: The University of Texas at Austin
Black Voices
The African American Village
Empower Me! – Accredited business through the Better Business Bureau!
National Society of Black Engineers

Author:

Student Branding Blog - Dan Schawbel » College

Anna Manasova — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:44:47 +0000

Take advantage of all events

Here are 5 things to do immediately after an event:

2. Send a "nice to meet you" message

3. Include something personalized

4. Jot down important points from your conversation

5. Set yourself a follow-up reminder

Author

Diversity Career Resources: African American

Karen Obringer — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:08:30 +0000

The Black Collegian

Employer Profiles – Read about featured employers plus a total of 17 employer profiles “that support diversity and actively recruit on college campuses nationwide.”
The Diversity Registry – Connect to DiversityRegistry.com and research companies with “active diversity programs."
Job Tools & Career Center – Search for jobs within The Black Collegian’s database, get career advice and tips on internships.
Study & Campus Section– Learn about graduate studies, working and studying abroad, scholarships and grants, and more.
Extracurricular Section– Additional information just for fun, like music, poetry, and films.

Black Career Women

Career Coaches – Get expert advice on your career path.
Careers Section – Read articles and advice on assessments, career exploration, decision making, job searching, and negotiations like salary.
Join the Organization – Provides you discounts on programs, free access to Virtual Career Workshop, members only career content, and more.
Useful Websites – Lists additional websites that can help with your career development, like Black Career Zone and Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

There are many other great career resources out there for African Americans. Check out some of these additional handouts and websites.

Career Resources for Black and African American Students: The University of Texas at Austin
Black Voices
The African American Village
Empower Me! – Accredited business through the Better Business Bureau!
National Society of Black Engineers

Author:

Using the Internet to Find the Perfect Job

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:13:35 +0000

Job Search

Job Match

Job Connect

Author

Diversity Career Resources: Part 1

Karen Obringer — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:34:48 +0000

DiversityWorking.com

DiversityWorking claims to be the “largest diversity job board online.” This may be true, but it doesn’t have postings for every US state. It is still a good resource for a number of reasons.

Key Elements of the Website

Job Board – You can browse and search for jobs in 72 industries. There is also a section entitled Search Agent where you can schedule your own search agent that notifies you via email when a position that you’re interested in becomes available.
Resume Posting – Post your resume to the website and allow employers to search for you!
Organization – Provides the job seeker with basic information about the various companies that DiversityWorking showcases. They also provide a link to each company’s website which makes it easy for you do additional research.
Career Expo – Take part in the Virtual Diversity Career Expo. 10 weeks with a different career industry each week. There are still 5 career expos that will run throughout the end of 2010 calendar year. The only downside to this element is that it costs to attend, but once you pay it is available 24/7 throughout the weeks.

Additional Resources for the Job Seeker

FAQ Section – Good information with resume and interviewing tips. There’s only one criticism I would give with the resume tips. It suggests adding personal information to your resume, but this is not recommended because some personal information, like age, race, marital status etc. is protected information. There’s also some information on what to do if you experienced discrimination and why diversity is so important to companies.
Community Channels – Provides job seekers with specific search agents based on ethnic groups and recent news that have impacted the work place.
Diversity News – Recent news articles that impact the world of work, especially related to diversity.
Newsletter – Sign up for an email newsletter which provides you with the latest job openings, news, events, and more. You can even select to specify your newsletter to how you identify yourself, choices include ethnic, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, military, and more.

Check out this resource and watch for more website and resource reviews to come in the upcoming weeks.

Author

The Worst Things That Have Ever Happened to You

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:36:34 +0000

Tell me about a time when you failed.
What are your greatest weaknesses?
What is the greatest obstacle you've overcome?
What is the most difficult decision you have ever had to make?

Some tips for handling these types of interview questions:

Don't dwell on the negative. State the situation and swiftly move on to how you dealt with the issue.
State the facts and avoid interjecting negative opinions about other people (For example, "my boss was very demanding" is much better than, "my boss was rude and mean")
Make sure to discuss the skills you used to overcome a challenge or deal with a problem.
Always end on a positive. What did you learn? How did the situation affect future decisions and actions?
Prepare in advance. These situations are tough to talk about and usually the questions we dread most. Practice your responses in advance.

Author

Don’t be Steven Slater: Quit Your Job Professionally

Karen Obringer — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:40:22 +0000

Quitting the Job Properly

Give at least 2 weeks notice, but a month would be preferred. This demonstrates professionalism and courtesy to the company and your boss.

They will eventually have to replace you and by giving them a heads up, they can initiate a search for your replacement with hopes for only a small gap between you and the new recruit.

Type a resignation letter. Use professional language and business letter format. Approach your boss with this letter and explain to him/her as to why you're choosing to resign.

I once heard of a teacher that submitted her resignation letter on a piece of construction paper and written in crayon. You can be assured that she was not given a reference letter upon departure. Sample Resignation Letters.

Choose your words wisely. When you approach your boss about quitting the job, be sure to give solid reasons for your departure, but keep it positive. If it's a touchy subject, then make sure to discuss it with a trusted friend/family member or a career counselor to adequately prepare. This will help you choose your words properly and leave on a good note.

Don't Burn Bridges

It's a small world after all. It's amazing who knows who and how much people network and talk within professional industries. If you quit your job unprofessionally, then it's likely your previous boss will talk about it and it may end up affecting your job search.
Get the good reference. Even if you didn't like the job, you can still leave with a good reference from your supervisor or a colleague. Most employers require three references before hiring a new employee.
Make it easy on yourself. If you leave in a professional manner, then it's a lot easier to interview with a new employer. A common question used in interviews is, "Why did you leave your previous job?" It will reflect better on you if you can answer positively than figure out how to spin it, or risk lying. The company you're interviewing with can call your previous employer and inquire whether or not they would consider hiring you back, and a positive response will increase your chances for hire.

Author

What Everybody Ought to Know About Online Applications

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:34:15 +0000

Finding the right opportunity

Completing the Application

Follow-up

Author

BrazenCareerist Wants to Know: What Does It Mean to Be in the Driver’s Seat of Your Career?

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 09:25:07 +0000

Being honest with yourself.

One of the fastest ways to end up in a job you dislike is to ignore that inner voice in your head that is telling you the job is not a good fit.

Taking some risks.

I'm pretty risk-averse, so quitting a job before I have something else lined up freaks me out. But before I had my current position I decided to leave my former job and it turned out to be exactly what I needed.

Doing things other people aren't willing to do to be the best at whatever you care about.

Author

Do You Have A Personal Branding Success Story?

Bret Simmons — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:37:42 +0000

Author

Authenticity vs. Persona

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:13:35 +0000

Job Search

Job Match

Job Connect

Author

Student Branding Blog - Dan Schawbel » College

Anna Manasova — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:44:47 +0000

Take advantage of all events

Here are 5 things to do immediately after an event:

2. Send a "nice to meet you" message

3. Include something personalized

4. Jot down important points from your conversation

5. Set yourself a follow-up reminder

Author

Diversity Career Resources: African American

Karen Obringer — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:08:30 +0000

The Black Collegian

Employer Profiles – Read about featured employers plus a total of 17 employer profiles “that support diversity and actively recruit on college campuses nationwide.”
The Diversity Registry – Connect to DiversityRegistry.com and research companies with “active diversity programs."
Job Tools & Career Center – Search for jobs within The Black Collegian’s database, get career advice and tips on internships.
Study & Campus Section– Learn about graduate studies, working and studying abroad, scholarships and grants, and more.
Extracurricular Section– Additional information just for fun, like music, poetry, and films.

Black Career Women

Career Coaches – Get expert advice on your career path.
Careers Section – Read articles and advice on assessments, career exploration, decision making, job searching, and negotiations like salary.
Join the Organization – Provides you discounts on programs, free access to Virtual Career Workshop, members only career content, and more.
Useful Websites – Lists additional websites that can help with your career development, like Black Career Zone and Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

There are many other great career resources out there for African Americans. Check out some of these additional handouts and websites.

Career Resources for Black and African American Students: The University of Texas at Austin
Black Voices
The African American Village
Empower Me! – Accredited business through the Better Business Bureau!
National Society of Black Engineers

Author:

Using the Internet to Find the Perfect Job

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:13:35 +0000

Job Search

Job Match

Job Connect

Author

Diversity Career Resources: Part 1

Karen Obringer — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:34:48 +0000

DiversityWorking.com

DiversityWorking claims to be the “largest diversity job board online.” This may be true, but it doesn’t have postings for every US state. It is still a good resource for a number of reasons.

Key Elements of the Website

Job Board – You can browse and search for jobs in 72 industries. There is also a section entitled Search Agent where you can schedule your own search agent that notifies you via email when a position that you’re interested in becomes available.
Resume Posting – Post your resume to the website and allow employers to search for you!
Organization – Provides the job seeker with basic information about the various companies that DiversityWorking showcases. They also provide a link to each company’s website which makes it easy for you do additional research.
Career Expo – Take part in the Virtual Diversity Career Expo. 10 weeks with a different career industry each week. There are still 5 career expos that will run throughout the end of 2010 calendar year. The only downside to this element is that it costs to attend, but once you pay it is available 24/7 throughout the weeks.

Additional Resources for the Job Seeker

FAQ Section – Good information with resume and interviewing tips. There’s only one criticism I would give with the resume tips. It suggests adding personal information to your resume, but this is not recommended because some personal information, like age, race, marital status etc. is protected information. There’s also some information on what to do if you experienced discrimination and why diversity is so important to companies.
Community Channels – Provides job seekers with specific search agents based on ethnic groups and recent news that have impacted the work place.
Diversity News – Recent news articles that impact the world of work, especially related to diversity.
Newsletter – Sign up for an email newsletter which provides you with the latest job openings, news, events, and more. You can even select to specify your newsletter to how you identify yourself, choices include ethnic, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, military, and more.

Check out this resource and watch for more website and resource reviews to come in the upcoming weeks.

Author

The Worst Things That Have Ever Happened to You

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:36:34 +0000

Tell me about a time when you failed.
What are your greatest weaknesses?
What is the greatest obstacle you've overcome?
What is the most difficult decision you have ever had to make?

Some tips for handling these types of interview questions:

Don't dwell on the negative. State the situation and swiftly move on to how you dealt with the issue.
State the facts and avoid interjecting negative opinions about other people (For example, "my boss was very demanding" is much better than, "my boss was rude and mean")
Make sure to discuss the skills you used to overcome a challenge or deal with a problem.
Always end on a positive. What did you learn? How did the situation affect future decisions and actions?
Prepare in advance. These situations are tough to talk about and usually the questions we dread most. Practice your responses in advance.

Author

Don’t be Steven Slater: Quit Your Job Professionally

Karen Obringer — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:40:22 +0000

Quitting the Job Properly

Give at least 2 weeks notice, but a month would be preferred. This demonstrates professionalism and courtesy to the company and your boss.

They will eventually have to replace you and by giving them a heads up, they can initiate a search for your replacement with hopes for only a small gap between you and the new recruit.

Type a resignation letter. Use professional language and business letter format. Approach your boss with this letter and explain to him/her as to why you're choosing to resign.

I once heard of a teacher that submitted her resignation letter on a piece of construction paper and written in crayon. You can be assured that she was not given a reference letter upon departure. Sample Resignation Letters.

Choose your words wisely. When you approach your boss about quitting the job, be sure to give solid reasons for your departure, but keep it positive. If it's a touchy subject, then make sure to discuss it with a trusted friend/family member or a career counselor to adequately prepare. This will help you choose your words properly and leave on a good note.

Don't Burn Bridges

It's a small world after all. It's amazing who knows who and how much people network and talk within professional industries. If you quit your job unprofessionally, then it's likely your previous boss will talk about it and it may end up affecting your job search.
Get the good reference. Even if you didn't like the job, you can still leave with a good reference from your supervisor or a colleague. Most employers require three references before hiring a new employee.
Make it easy on yourself. If you leave in a professional manner, then it's a lot easier to interview with a new employer. A common question used in interviews is, "Why did you leave your previous job?" It will reflect better on you if you can answer positively than figure out how to spin it, or risk lying. The company you're interviewing with can call your previous employer and inquire whether or not they would consider hiring you back, and a positive response will increase your chances for hire.

Author

What Everybody Ought to Know About Online Applications

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:34:15 +0000

Finding the right opportunity

Completing the Application

Follow-up

Author

BrazenCareerist Wants to Know: What Does It Mean to Be in the Driver’s Seat of Your Career?

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 09:25:07 +0000

Being honest with yourself.

One of the fastest ways to end up in a job you dislike is to ignore that inner voice in your head that is telling you the job is not a good fit.

Taking some risks.

I'm pretty risk-averse, so quitting a job before I have something else lined up freaks me out. But before I had my current position I decided to leave my former job and it turned out to be exactly what I needed.

Doing things other people aren't willing to do to be the best at whatever you care about.

Author

Do You Have A Personal Branding Success Story?

Bret Simmons — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:37:42 +0000

Author

Authenticity vs. Persona

Karen Obringer — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:34:48 +0000

DiversityWorking.com

DiversityWorking claims to be the “largest diversity job board online.” This may be true, but it doesn’t have postings for every US state. It is still a good resource for a number of reasons.

Key Elements of the Website

Job Board – You can browse and search for jobs in 72 industries. There is also a section entitled Search Agent where you can schedule your own search agent that notifies you via email when a position that you’re interested in becomes available.
Resume Posting – Post your resume to the website and allow employers to search for you!
Organization – Provides the job seeker with basic information about the various companies that DiversityWorking showcases. They also provide a link to each company’s website which makes it easy for you do additional research.
Career Expo – Take part in the Virtual Diversity Career Expo. 10 weeks with a different career industry each week. There are still 5 career expos that will run throughout the end of 2010 calendar year. The only downside to this element is that it costs to attend, but once you pay it is available 24/7 throughout the weeks.

Additional Resources for the Job Seeker

FAQ Section – Good information with resume and interviewing tips. There’s only one criticism I would give with the resume tips. It suggests adding personal information to your resume, but this is not recommended because some personal information, like age, race, marital status etc. is protected information. There’s also some information on what to do if you experienced discrimination and why diversity is so important to companies.
Community Channels – Provides job seekers with specific search agents based on ethnic groups and recent news that have impacted the work place.
Diversity News – Recent news articles that impact the world of work, especially related to diversity.
Newsletter – Sign up for an email newsletter which provides you with the latest job openings, news, events, and more. You can even select to specify your newsletter to how you identify yourself, choices include ethnic, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, military, and more.

Check out this resource and watch for more website and resource reviews to come in the upcoming weeks.

Author

Student Branding Blog - Dan Schawbel » College

Anna Manasova — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:44:47 +0000

Take advantage of all events

Here are 5 things to do immediately after an event:

2. Send a "nice to meet you" message

3. Include something personalized

4. Jot down important points from your conversation

5. Set yourself a follow-up reminder

Author

Diversity Career Resources: African American

Karen Obringer — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:08:30 +0000

The Black Collegian

Employer Profiles – Read about featured employers plus a total of 17 employer profiles “that support diversity and actively recruit on college campuses nationwide.”
The Diversity Registry – Connect to DiversityRegistry.com and research companies with “active diversity programs."
Job Tools & Career Center – Search for jobs within The Black Collegian’s database, get career advice and tips on internships.
Study & Campus Section– Learn about graduate studies, working and studying abroad, scholarships and grants, and more.
Extracurricular Section– Additional information just for fun, like music, poetry, and films.

Black Career Women

Career Coaches – Get expert advice on your career path.
Careers Section – Read articles and advice on assessments, career exploration, decision making, job searching, and negotiations like salary.
Join the Organization – Provides you discounts on programs, free access to Virtual Career Workshop, members only career content, and more.
Useful Websites – Lists additional websites that can help with your career development, like Black Career Zone and Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

There are many other great career resources out there for African Americans. Check out some of these additional handouts and websites.

Career Resources for Black and African American Students: The University of Texas at Austin
Black Voices
The African American Village
Empower Me! – Accredited business through the Better Business Bureau!
National Society of Black Engineers

Author:

Using the Internet to Find the Perfect Job

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:13:35 +0000

Job Search

Job Match

Job Connect

Author

Diversity Career Resources: Part 1

Karen Obringer — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:34:48 +0000

DiversityWorking.com

DiversityWorking claims to be the “largest diversity job board online.” This may be true, but it doesn’t have postings for every US state. It is still a good resource for a number of reasons.

Key Elements of the Website

Job Board – You can browse and search for jobs in 72 industries. There is also a section entitled Search Agent where you can schedule your own search agent that notifies you via email when a position that you’re interested in becomes available.
Resume Posting – Post your resume to the website and allow employers to search for you!
Organization – Provides the job seeker with basic information about the various companies that DiversityWorking showcases. They also provide a link to each company’s website which makes it easy for you do additional research.
Career Expo – Take part in the Virtual Diversity Career Expo. 10 weeks with a different career industry each week. There are still 5 career expos that will run throughout the end of 2010 calendar year. The only downside to this element is that it costs to attend, but once you pay it is available 24/7 throughout the weeks.

Additional Resources for the Job Seeker

FAQ Section – Good information with resume and interviewing tips. There’s only one criticism I would give with the resume tips. It suggests adding personal information to your resume, but this is not recommended because some personal information, like age, race, marital status etc. is protected information. There’s also some information on what to do if you experienced discrimination and why diversity is so important to companies.
Community Channels – Provides job seekers with specific search agents based on ethnic groups and recent news that have impacted the work place.
Diversity News – Recent news articles that impact the world of work, especially related to diversity.
Newsletter – Sign up for an email newsletter which provides you with the latest job openings, news, events, and more. You can even select to specify your newsletter to how you identify yourself, choices include ethnic, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, military, and more.

Check out this resource and watch for more website and resource reviews to come in the upcoming weeks.

Author

The Worst Things That Have Ever Happened to You

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:36:34 +0000

Tell me about a time when you failed.
What are your greatest weaknesses?
What is the greatest obstacle you've overcome?
What is the most difficult decision you have ever had to make?

Some tips for handling these types of interview questions:

Don't dwell on the negative. State the situation and swiftly move on to how you dealt with the issue.
State the facts and avoid interjecting negative opinions about other people (For example, "my boss was very demanding" is much better than, "my boss was rude and mean")
Make sure to discuss the skills you used to overcome a challenge or deal with a problem.
Always end on a positive. What did you learn? How did the situation affect future decisions and actions?
Prepare in advance. These situations are tough to talk about and usually the questions we dread most. Practice your responses in advance.

Author

Don’t be Steven Slater: Quit Your Job Professionally

Karen Obringer — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:40:22 +0000

Quitting the Job Properly

Give at least 2 weeks notice, but a month would be preferred. This demonstrates professionalism and courtesy to the company and your boss.

They will eventually have to replace you and by giving them a heads up, they can initiate a search for your replacement with hopes for only a small gap between you and the new recruit.

Type a resignation letter. Use professional language and business letter format. Approach your boss with this letter and explain to him/her as to why you're choosing to resign.

I once heard of a teacher that submitted her resignation letter on a piece of construction paper and written in crayon. You can be assured that she was not given a reference letter upon departure. Sample Resignation Letters.

Choose your words wisely. When you approach your boss about quitting the job, be sure to give solid reasons for your departure, but keep it positive. If it's a touchy subject, then make sure to discuss it with a trusted friend/family member or a career counselor to adequately prepare. This will help you choose your words properly and leave on a good note.

Don't Burn Bridges

It's a small world after all. It's amazing who knows who and how much people network and talk within professional industries. If you quit your job unprofessionally, then it's likely your previous boss will talk about it and it may end up affecting your job search.
Get the good reference. Even if you didn't like the job, you can still leave with a good reference from your supervisor or a colleague. Most employers require three references before hiring a new employee.
Make it easy on yourself. If you leave in a professional manner, then it's a lot easier to interview with a new employer. A common question used in interviews is, "Why did you leave your previous job?" It will reflect better on you if you can answer positively than figure out how to spin it, or risk lying. The company you're interviewing with can call your previous employer and inquire whether or not they would consider hiring you back, and a positive response will increase your chances for hire.

Author

What Everybody Ought to Know About Online Applications

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:34:15 +0000

Finding the right opportunity

Completing the Application

Follow-up

Author

BrazenCareerist Wants to Know: What Does It Mean to Be in the Driver’s Seat of Your Career?

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 09:25:07 +0000

Being honest with yourself.

One of the fastest ways to end up in a job you dislike is to ignore that inner voice in your head that is telling you the job is not a good fit.

Taking some risks.

I'm pretty risk-averse, so quitting a job before I have something else lined up freaks me out. But before I had my current position I decided to leave my former job and it turned out to be exactly what I needed.

Doing things other people aren't willing to do to be the best at whatever you care about.

Author

Do You Have A Personal Branding Success Story?

Bret Simmons — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:37:42 +0000

Author

Authenticity vs. Persona

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:36:34 +0000

Tell me about a time when you failed.
What are your greatest weaknesses?
What is the greatest obstacle you've overcome?
What is the most difficult decision you have ever had to make?

Some tips for handling these types of interview questions:

Don't dwell on the negative. State the situation and swiftly move on to how you dealt with the issue.
State the facts and avoid interjecting negative opinions about other people (For example, "my boss was very demanding" is much better than, "my boss was rude and mean")
Make sure to discuss the skills you used to overcome a challenge or deal with a problem.
Always end on a positive. What did you learn? How did the situation affect future decisions and actions?
Prepare in advance. These situations are tough to talk about and usually the questions we dread most. Practice your responses in advance.

Author

Student Branding Blog - Dan Schawbel » College

Anna Manasova — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:44:47 +0000

Take advantage of all events

Here are 5 things to do immediately after an event:

2. Send a "nice to meet you" message

3. Include something personalized

4. Jot down important points from your conversation

5. Set yourself a follow-up reminder

Author

Diversity Career Resources: African American

Karen Obringer — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:08:30 +0000

The Black Collegian

Employer Profiles – Read about featured employers plus a total of 17 employer profiles “that support diversity and actively recruit on college campuses nationwide.”
The Diversity Registry – Connect to DiversityRegistry.com and research companies with “active diversity programs."
Job Tools & Career Center – Search for jobs within The Black Collegian’s database, get career advice and tips on internships.
Study & Campus Section– Learn about graduate studies, working and studying abroad, scholarships and grants, and more.
Extracurricular Section– Additional information just for fun, like music, poetry, and films.

Black Career Women

Career Coaches – Get expert advice on your career path.
Careers Section – Read articles and advice on assessments, career exploration, decision making, job searching, and negotiations like salary.
Join the Organization – Provides you discounts on programs, free access to Virtual Career Workshop, members only career content, and more.
Useful Websites – Lists additional websites that can help with your career development, like Black Career Zone and Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

There are many other great career resources out there for African Americans. Check out some of these additional handouts and websites.

Career Resources for Black and African American Students: The University of Texas at Austin
Black Voices
The African American Village
Empower Me! – Accredited business through the Better Business Bureau!
National Society of Black Engineers

Author:

Using the Internet to Find the Perfect Job

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:13:35 +0000

Job Search

Job Match

Job Connect

Author

Diversity Career Resources: Part 1

Karen Obringer — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:34:48 +0000

DiversityWorking.com

DiversityWorking claims to be the “largest diversity job board online.” This may be true, but it doesn’t have postings for every US state. It is still a good resource for a number of reasons.

Key Elements of the Website

Job Board – You can browse and search for jobs in 72 industries. There is also a section entitled Search Agent where you can schedule your own search agent that notifies you via email when a position that you’re interested in becomes available.
Resume Posting – Post your resume to the website and allow employers to search for you!
Organization – Provides the job seeker with basic information about the various companies that DiversityWorking showcases. They also provide a link to each company’s website which makes it easy for you do additional research.
Career Expo – Take part in the Virtual Diversity Career Expo. 10 weeks with a different career industry each week. There are still 5 career expos that will run throughout the end of 2010 calendar year. The only downside to this element is that it costs to attend, but once you pay it is available 24/7 throughout the weeks.

Additional Resources for the Job Seeker

FAQ Section – Good information with resume and interviewing tips. There’s only one criticism I would give with the resume tips. It suggests adding personal information to your resume, but this is not recommended because some personal information, like age, race, marital status etc. is protected information. There’s also some information on what to do if you experienced discrimination and why diversity is so important to companies.
Community Channels – Provides job seekers with specific search agents based on ethnic groups and recent news that have impacted the work place.
Diversity News – Recent news articles that impact the world of work, especially related to diversity.
Newsletter – Sign up for an email newsletter which provides you with the latest job openings, news, events, and more. You can even select to specify your newsletter to how you identify yourself, choices include ethnic, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, military, and more.

Check out this resource and watch for more website and resource reviews to come in the upcoming weeks.

Author

The Worst Things That Have Ever Happened to You

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:36:34 +0000

Tell me about a time when you failed.
What are your greatest weaknesses?
What is the greatest obstacle you've overcome?
What is the most difficult decision you have ever had to make?

Some tips for handling these types of interview questions:

Don't dwell on the negative. State the situation and swiftly move on to how you dealt with the issue.
State the facts and avoid interjecting negative opinions about other people (For example, "my boss was very demanding" is much better than, "my boss was rude and mean")
Make sure to discuss the skills you used to overcome a challenge or deal with a problem.
Always end on a positive. What did you learn? How did the situation affect future decisions and actions?
Prepare in advance. These situations are tough to talk about and usually the questions we dread most. Practice your responses in advance.

Author

Don’t be Steven Slater: Quit Your Job Professionally

Karen Obringer — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:40:22 +0000

Quitting the Job Properly

Give at least 2 weeks notice, but a month would be preferred. This demonstrates professionalism and courtesy to the company and your boss.

They will eventually have to replace you and by giving them a heads up, they can initiate a search for your replacement with hopes for only a small gap between you and the new recruit.

Type a resignation letter. Use professional language and business letter format. Approach your boss with this letter and explain to him/her as to why you're choosing to resign.

I once heard of a teacher that submitted her resignation letter on a piece of construction paper and written in crayon. You can be assured that she was not given a reference letter upon departure. Sample Resignation Letters.

Choose your words wisely. When you approach your boss about quitting the job, be sure to give solid reasons for your departure, but keep it positive. If it's a touchy subject, then make sure to discuss it with a trusted friend/family member or a career counselor to adequately prepare. This will help you choose your words properly and leave on a good note.

Don't Burn Bridges

It's a small world after all. It's amazing who knows who and how much people network and talk within professional industries. If you quit your job unprofessionally, then it's likely your previous boss will talk about it and it may end up affecting your job search.
Get the good reference. Even if you didn't like the job, you can still leave with a good reference from your supervisor or a colleague. Most employers require three references before hiring a new employee.
Make it easy on yourself. If you leave in a professional manner, then it's a lot easier to interview with a new employer. A common question used in interviews is, "Why did you leave your previous job?" It will reflect better on you if you can answer positively than figure out how to spin it, or risk lying. The company you're interviewing with can call your previous employer and inquire whether or not they would consider hiring you back, and a positive response will increase your chances for hire.

Author

What Everybody Ought to Know About Online Applications

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:34:15 +0000

Finding the right opportunity

Completing the Application

Follow-up

Author

BrazenCareerist Wants to Know: What Does It Mean to Be in the Driver’s Seat of Your Career?

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 09:25:07 +0000

Being honest with yourself.

One of the fastest ways to end up in a job you dislike is to ignore that inner voice in your head that is telling you the job is not a good fit.

Taking some risks.

I'm pretty risk-averse, so quitting a job before I have something else lined up freaks me out. But before I had my current position I decided to leave my former job and it turned out to be exactly what I needed.

Doing things other people aren't willing to do to be the best at whatever you care about.

Author

Do You Have A Personal Branding Success Story?

Bret Simmons — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:37:42 +0000

Author

Authenticity vs. Persona

Karen Obringer — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:40:22 +0000

Quitting the Job Properly

Give at least 2 weeks notice, but a month would be preferred. This demonstrates professionalism and courtesy to the company and your boss.

They will eventually have to replace you and by giving them a heads up, they can initiate a search for your replacement with hopes for only a small gap between you and the new recruit.

Type a resignation letter. Use professional language and business letter format. Approach your boss with this letter and explain to him/her as to why you're choosing to resign.

I once heard of a teacher that submitted her resignation letter on a piece of construction paper and written in crayon. You can be assured that she was not given a reference letter upon departure. Sample Resignation Letters.

Choose your words wisely. When you approach your boss about quitting the job, be sure to give solid reasons for your departure, but keep it positive. If it's a touchy subject, then make sure to discuss it with a trusted friend/family member or a career counselor to adequately prepare. This will help you choose your words properly and leave on a good note.

Don't Burn Bridges

It's a small world after all. It's amazing who knows who and how much people network and talk within professional industries. If you quit your job unprofessionally, then it's likely your previous boss will talk about it and it may end up affecting your job search.
Get the good reference. Even if you didn't like the job, you can still leave with a good reference from your supervisor or a colleague. Most employers require three references before hiring a new employee.
Make it easy on yourself. If you leave in a professional manner, then it's a lot easier to interview with a new employer. A common question used in interviews is, "Why did you leave your previous job?" It will reflect better on you if you can answer positively than figure out how to spin it, or risk lying. The company you're interviewing with can call your previous employer and inquire whether or not they would consider hiring you back, and a positive response will increase your chances for hire.

Author

Student Branding Blog - Dan Schawbel » College

Anna Manasova — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:44:47 +0000

Take advantage of all events

Here are 5 things to do immediately after an event:

2. Send a "nice to meet you" message

3. Include something personalized

4. Jot down important points from your conversation

5. Set yourself a follow-up reminder

Author

Diversity Career Resources: African American

Karen Obringer — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:08:30 +0000

The Black Collegian

Employer Profiles – Read about featured employers plus a total of 17 employer profiles “that support diversity and actively recruit on college campuses nationwide.”
The Diversity Registry – Connect to DiversityRegistry.com and research companies with “active diversity programs."
Job Tools & Career Center – Search for jobs within The Black Collegian’s database, get career advice and tips on internships.
Study & Campus Section– Learn about graduate studies, working and studying abroad, scholarships and grants, and more.
Extracurricular Section– Additional information just for fun, like music, poetry, and films.

Black Career Women

Career Coaches – Get expert advice on your career path.
Careers Section – Read articles and advice on assessments, career exploration, decision making, job searching, and negotiations like salary.
Join the Organization – Provides you discounts on programs, free access to Virtual Career Workshop, members only career content, and more.
Useful Websites – Lists additional websites that can help with your career development, like Black Career Zone and Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

There are many other great career resources out there for African Americans. Check out some of these additional handouts and websites.

Career Resources for Black and African American Students: The University of Texas at Austin
Black Voices
The African American Village
Empower Me! – Accredited business through the Better Business Bureau!
National Society of Black Engineers

Author:

Using the Internet to Find the Perfect Job

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:13:35 +0000

Job Search

Job Match

Job Connect

Author

Diversity Career Resources: Part 1

Karen Obringer — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:34:48 +0000

DiversityWorking.com

DiversityWorking claims to be the “largest diversity job board online.” This may be true, but it doesn’t have postings for every US state. It is still a good resource for a number of reasons.

Key Elements of the Website

Job Board – You can browse and search for jobs in 72 industries. There is also a section entitled Search Agent where you can schedule your own search agent that notifies you via email when a position that you’re interested in becomes available.
Resume Posting – Post your resume to the website and allow employers to search for you!
Organization – Provides the job seeker with basic information about the various companies that DiversityWorking showcases. They also provide a link to each company’s website which makes it easy for you do additional research.
Career Expo – Take part in the Virtual Diversity Career Expo. 10 weeks with a different career industry each week. There are still 5 career expos that will run throughout the end of 2010 calendar year. The only downside to this element is that it costs to attend, but once you pay it is available 24/7 throughout the weeks.

Additional Resources for the Job Seeker

FAQ Section – Good information with resume and interviewing tips. There’s only one criticism I would give with the resume tips. It suggests adding personal information to your resume, but this is not recommended because some personal information, like age, race, marital status etc. is protected information. There’s also some information on what to do if you experienced discrimination and why diversity is so important to companies.
Community Channels – Provides job seekers with specific search agents based on ethnic groups and recent news that have impacted the work place.
Diversity News – Recent news articles that impact the world of work, especially related to diversity.
Newsletter – Sign up for an email newsletter which provides you with the latest job openings, news, events, and more. You can even select to specify your newsletter to how you identify yourself, choices include ethnic, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, military, and more.

Check out this resource and watch for more website and resource reviews to come in the upcoming weeks.

Author

The Worst Things That Have Ever Happened to You

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:36:34 +0000

Tell me about a time when you failed.
What are your greatest weaknesses?
What is the greatest obstacle you've overcome?
What is the most difficult decision you have ever had to make?

Some tips for handling these types of interview questions:

Don't dwell on the negative. State the situation and swiftly move on to how you dealt with the issue.
State the facts and avoid interjecting negative opinions about other people (For example, "my boss was very demanding" is much better than, "my boss was rude and mean")
Make sure to discuss the skills you used to overcome a challenge or deal with a problem.
Always end on a positive. What did you learn? How did the situation affect future decisions and actions?
Prepare in advance. These situations are tough to talk about and usually the questions we dread most. Practice your responses in advance.

Author

Don’t be Steven Slater: Quit Your Job Professionally

Karen Obringer — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:40:22 +0000

Quitting the Job Properly

Give at least 2 weeks notice, but a month would be preferred. This demonstrates professionalism and courtesy to the company and your boss.

They will eventually have to replace you and by giving them a heads up, they can initiate a search for your replacement with hopes for only a small gap between you and the new recruit.

Type a resignation letter. Use professional language and business letter format. Approach your boss with this letter and explain to him/her as to why you're choosing to resign.

I once heard of a teacher that submitted her resignation letter on a piece of construction paper and written in crayon. You can be assured that she was not given a reference letter upon departure. Sample Resignation Letters.

Choose your words wisely. When you approach your boss about quitting the job, be sure to give solid reasons for your departure, but keep it positive. If it's a touchy subject, then make sure to discuss it with a trusted friend/family member or a career counselor to adequately prepare. This will help you choose your words properly and leave on a good note.

Don't Burn Bridges

It's a small world after all. It's amazing who knows who and how much people network and talk within professional industries. If you quit your job unprofessionally, then it's likely your previous boss will talk about it and it may end up affecting your job search.
Get the good reference. Even if you didn't like the job, you can still leave with a good reference from your supervisor or a colleague. Most employers require three references before hiring a new employee.
Make it easy on yourself. If you leave in a professional manner, then it's a lot easier to interview with a new employer. A common question used in interviews is, "Why did you leave your previous job?" It will reflect better on you if you can answer positively than figure out how to spin it, or risk lying. The company you're interviewing with can call your previous employer and inquire whether or not they would consider hiring you back, and a positive response will increase your chances for hire.

Author

What Everybody Ought to Know About Online Applications

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:34:15 +0000

Finding the right opportunity

Completing the Application

Follow-up

Author

BrazenCareerist Wants to Know: What Does It Mean to Be in the Driver’s Seat of Your Career?

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 09:25:07 +0000

Being honest with yourself.

One of the fastest ways to end up in a job you dislike is to ignore that inner voice in your head that is telling you the job is not a good fit.

Taking some risks.

I'm pretty risk-averse, so quitting a job before I have something else lined up freaks me out. But before I had my current position I decided to leave my former job and it turned out to be exactly what I needed.

Doing things other people aren't willing to do to be the best at whatever you care about.

Author

Do You Have A Personal Branding Success Story?

Bret Simmons — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:37:42 +0000

Author

Authenticity vs. Persona

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:34:15 +0000

Finding the right opportunity

Completing the Application

Follow-up

Author

Student Branding Blog - Dan Schawbel » College

Anna Manasova — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:44:47 +0000

Take advantage of all events

Here are 5 things to do immediately after an event:

2. Send a "nice to meet you" message

3. Include something personalized

4. Jot down important points from your conversation

5. Set yourself a follow-up reminder

Author

Diversity Career Resources: African American

Karen Obringer — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:08:30 +0000

The Black Collegian

Employer Profiles – Read about featured employers plus a total of 17 employer profiles “that support diversity and actively recruit on college campuses nationwide.”
The Diversity Registry – Connect to DiversityRegistry.com and research companies with “active diversity programs."
Job Tools & Career Center – Search for jobs within The Black Collegian’s database, get career advice and tips on internships.
Study & Campus Section– Learn about graduate studies, working and studying abroad, scholarships and grants, and more.
Extracurricular Section– Additional information just for fun, like music, poetry, and films.

Black Career Women

Career Coaches – Get expert advice on your career path.
Careers Section – Read articles and advice on assessments, career exploration, decision making, job searching, and negotiations like salary.
Join the Organization – Provides you discounts on programs, free access to Virtual Career Workshop, members only career content, and more.
Useful Websites – Lists additional websites that can help with your career development, like Black Career Zone and Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

There are many other great career resources out there for African Americans. Check out some of these additional handouts and websites.

Career Resources for Black and African American Students: The University of Texas at Austin
Black Voices
The African American Village
Empower Me! – Accredited business through the Better Business Bureau!
National Society of Black Engineers

Author:

Using the Internet to Find the Perfect Job

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:13:35 +0000

Job Search

Job Match

Job Connect

Author

Diversity Career Resources: Part 1

Karen Obringer — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:34:48 +0000

DiversityWorking.com

DiversityWorking claims to be the “largest diversity job board online.” This may be true, but it doesn’t have postings for every US state. It is still a good resource for a number of reasons.

Key Elements of the Website

Job Board – You can browse and search for jobs in 72 industries. There is also a section entitled Search Agent where you can schedule your own search agent that notifies you via email when a position that you’re interested in becomes available.
Resume Posting – Post your resume to the website and allow employers to search for you!
Organization – Provides the job seeker with basic information about the various companies that DiversityWorking showcases. They also provide a link to each company’s website which makes it easy for you do additional research.
Career Expo – Take part in the Virtual Diversity Career Expo. 10 weeks with a different career industry each week. There are still 5 career expos that will run throughout the end of 2010 calendar year. The only downside to this element is that it costs to attend, but once you pay it is available 24/7 throughout the weeks.

Additional Resources for the Job Seeker

FAQ Section – Good information with resume and interviewing tips. There’s only one criticism I would give with the resume tips. It suggests adding personal information to your resume, but this is not recommended because some personal information, like age, race, marital status etc. is protected information. There’s also some information on what to do if you experienced discrimination and why diversity is so important to companies.
Community Channels – Provides job seekers with specific search agents based on ethnic groups and recent news that have impacted the work place.
Diversity News – Recent news articles that impact the world of work, especially related to diversity.
Newsletter – Sign up for an email newsletter which provides you with the latest job openings, news, events, and more. You can even select to specify your newsletter to how you identify yourself, choices include ethnic, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, military, and more.

Check out this resource and watch for more website and resource reviews to come in the upcoming weeks.

Author

The Worst Things That Have Ever Happened to You

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:36:34 +0000

Tell me about a time when you failed.
What are your greatest weaknesses?
What is the greatest obstacle you've overcome?
What is the most difficult decision you have ever had to make?

Some tips for handling these types of interview questions:

Don't dwell on the negative. State the situation and swiftly move on to how you dealt with the issue.
State the facts and avoid interjecting negative opinions about other people (For example, "my boss was very demanding" is much better than, "my boss was rude and mean")
Make sure to discuss the skills you used to overcome a challenge or deal with a problem.
Always end on a positive. What did you learn? How did the situation affect future decisions and actions?
Prepare in advance. These situations are tough to talk about and usually the questions we dread most. Practice your responses in advance.

Author

Don’t be Steven Slater: Quit Your Job Professionally

Karen Obringer — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:40:22 +0000

Quitting the Job Properly

Give at least 2 weeks notice, but a month would be preferred. This demonstrates professionalism and courtesy to the company and your boss.

They will eventually have to replace you and by giving them a heads up, they can initiate a search for your replacement with hopes for only a small gap between you and the new recruit.

Type a resignation letter. Use professional language and business letter format. Approach your boss with this letter and explain to him/her as to why you're choosing to resign.

I once heard of a teacher that submitted her resignation letter on a piece of construction paper and written in crayon. You can be assured that she was not given a reference letter upon departure. Sample Resignation Letters.

Choose your words wisely. When you approach your boss about quitting the job, be sure to give solid reasons for your departure, but keep it positive. If it's a touchy subject, then make sure to discuss it with a trusted friend/family member or a career counselor to adequately prepare. This will help you choose your words properly and leave on a good note.

Don't Burn Bridges

It's a small world after all. It's amazing who knows who and how much people network and talk within professional industries. If you quit your job unprofessionally, then it's likely your previous boss will talk about it and it may end up affecting your job search.
Get the good reference. Even if you didn't like the job, you can still leave with a good reference from your supervisor or a colleague. Most employers require three references before hiring a new employee.
Make it easy on yourself. If you leave in a professional manner, then it's a lot easier to interview with a new employer. A common question used in interviews is, "Why did you leave your previous job?" It will reflect better on you if you can answer positively than figure out how to spin it, or risk lying. The company you're interviewing with can call your previous employer and inquire whether or not they would consider hiring you back, and a positive response will increase your chances for hire.

Author

What Everybody Ought to Know About Online Applications

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:34:15 +0000

Finding the right opportunity

Completing the Application

Follow-up

Author

BrazenCareerist Wants to Know: What Does It Mean to Be in the Driver’s Seat of Your Career?

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 09:25:07 +0000

Being honest with yourself.

One of the fastest ways to end up in a job you dislike is to ignore that inner voice in your head that is telling you the job is not a good fit.

Taking some risks.

I'm pretty risk-averse, so quitting a job before I have something else lined up freaks me out. But before I had my current position I decided to leave my former job and it turned out to be exactly what I needed.

Doing things other people aren't willing to do to be the best at whatever you care about.

Author

Do You Have A Personal Branding Success Story?

Bret Simmons — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:37:42 +0000

Author

Authenticity vs. Persona

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 09:25:07 +0000

Being honest with yourself.

One of the fastest ways to end up in a job you dislike is to ignore that inner voice in your head that is telling you the job is not a good fit.

Taking some risks.

I'm pretty risk-averse, so quitting a job before I have something else lined up freaks me out. But before I had my current position I decided to leave my former job and it turned out to be exactly what I needed.

Doing things other people aren't willing to do to be the best at whatever you care about.

Author

Student Branding Blog - Dan Schawbel » College

Anna Manasova — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:44:47 +0000

Take advantage of all events

Here are 5 things to do immediately after an event:

2. Send a "nice to meet you" message

3. Include something personalized

4. Jot down important points from your conversation

5. Set yourself a follow-up reminder

Author

Diversity Career Resources: African American

Karen Obringer — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:08:30 +0000

The Black Collegian

Employer Profiles – Read about featured employers plus a total of 17 employer profiles “that support diversity and actively recruit on college campuses nationwide.”
The Diversity Registry – Connect to DiversityRegistry.com and research companies with “active diversity programs."
Job Tools & Career Center – Search for jobs within The Black Collegian’s database, get career advice and tips on internships.
Study & Campus Section– Learn about graduate studies, working and studying abroad, scholarships and grants, and more.
Extracurricular Section– Additional information just for fun, like music, poetry, and films.

Black Career Women

Career Coaches – Get expert advice on your career path.
Careers Section – Read articles and advice on assessments, career exploration, decision making, job searching, and negotiations like salary.
Join the Organization – Provides you discounts on programs, free access to Virtual Career Workshop, members only career content, and more.
Useful Websites – Lists additional websites that can help with your career development, like Black Career Zone and Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

There are many other great career resources out there for African Americans. Check out some of these additional handouts and websites.

Career Resources for Black and African American Students: The University of Texas at Austin
Black Voices
The African American Village
Empower Me! – Accredited business through the Better Business Bureau!
National Society of Black Engineers

Author:

Using the Internet to Find the Perfect Job

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:13:35 +0000

Job Search

Job Match

Job Connect

Author

Diversity Career Resources: Part 1

Karen Obringer — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:34:48 +0000

DiversityWorking.com

DiversityWorking claims to be the “largest diversity job board online.” This may be true, but it doesn’t have postings for every US state. It is still a good resource for a number of reasons.

Key Elements of the Website

Job Board – You can browse and search for jobs in 72 industries. There is also a section entitled Search Agent where you can schedule your own search agent that notifies you via email when a position that you’re interested in becomes available.
Resume Posting – Post your resume to the website and allow employers to search for you!
Organization – Provides the job seeker with basic information about the various companies that DiversityWorking showcases. They also provide a link to each company’s website which makes it easy for you do additional research.
Career Expo – Take part in the Virtual Diversity Career Expo. 10 weeks with a different career industry each week. There are still 5 career expos that will run throughout the end of 2010 calendar year. The only downside to this element is that it costs to attend, but once you pay it is available 24/7 throughout the weeks.

Additional Resources for the Job Seeker

FAQ Section – Good information with resume and interviewing tips. There’s only one criticism I would give with the resume tips. It suggests adding personal information to your resume, but this is not recommended because some personal information, like age, race, marital status etc. is protected information. There’s also some information on what to do if you experienced discrimination and why diversity is so important to companies.
Community Channels – Provides job seekers with specific search agents based on ethnic groups and recent news that have impacted the work place.
Diversity News – Recent news articles that impact the world of work, especially related to diversity.
Newsletter – Sign up for an email newsletter which provides you with the latest job openings, news, events, and more. You can even select to specify your newsletter to how you identify yourself, choices include ethnic, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, military, and more.

Check out this resource and watch for more website and resource reviews to come in the upcoming weeks.

Author

The Worst Things That Have Ever Happened to You

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:36:34 +0000

Tell me about a time when you failed.
What are your greatest weaknesses?
What is the greatest obstacle you've overcome?
What is the most difficult decision you have ever had to make?

Some tips for handling these types of interview questions:

Don't dwell on the negative. State the situation and swiftly move on to how you dealt with the issue.
State the facts and avoid interjecting negative opinions about other people (For example, "my boss was very demanding" is much better than, "my boss was rude and mean")
Make sure to discuss the skills you used to overcome a challenge or deal with a problem.
Always end on a positive. What did you learn? How did the situation affect future decisions and actions?
Prepare in advance. These situations are tough to talk about and usually the questions we dread most. Practice your responses in advance.

Author

Don’t be Steven Slater: Quit Your Job Professionally

Karen Obringer — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:40:22 +0000

Quitting the Job Properly

Give at least 2 weeks notice, but a month would be preferred. This demonstrates professionalism and courtesy to the company and your boss.

They will eventually have to replace you and by giving them a heads up, they can initiate a search for your replacement with hopes for only a small gap between you and the new recruit.

Type a resignation letter. Use professional language and business letter format. Approach your boss with this letter and explain to him/her as to why you're choosing to resign.

I once heard of a teacher that submitted her resignation letter on a piece of construction paper and written in crayon. You can be assured that she was not given a reference letter upon departure. Sample Resignation Letters.

Choose your words wisely. When you approach your boss about quitting the job, be sure to give solid reasons for your departure, but keep it positive. If it's a touchy subject, then make sure to discuss it with a trusted friend/family member or a career counselor to adequately prepare. This will help you choose your words properly and leave on a good note.

Don't Burn Bridges

It's a small world after all. It's amazing who knows who and how much people network and talk within professional industries. If you quit your job unprofessionally, then it's likely your previous boss will talk about it and it may end up affecting your job search.
Get the good reference. Even if you didn't like the job, you can still leave with a good reference from your supervisor or a colleague. Most employers require three references before hiring a new employee.
Make it easy on yourself. If you leave in a professional manner, then it's a lot easier to interview with a new employer. A common question used in interviews is, "Why did you leave your previous job?" It will reflect better on you if you can answer positively than figure out how to spin it, or risk lying. The company you're interviewing with can call your previous employer and inquire whether or not they would consider hiring you back, and a positive response will increase your chances for hire.

Author

What Everybody Ought to Know About Online Applications

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:34:15 +0000

Finding the right opportunity

Completing the Application

Follow-up

Author

BrazenCareerist Wants to Know: What Does It Mean to Be in the Driver’s Seat of Your Career?

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 09:25:07 +0000

Being honest with yourself.

One of the fastest ways to end up in a job you dislike is to ignore that inner voice in your head that is telling you the job is not a good fit.

Taking some risks.

I'm pretty risk-averse, so quitting a job before I have something else lined up freaks me out. But before I had my current position I decided to leave my former job and it turned out to be exactly what I needed.

Doing things other people aren't willing to do to be the best at whatever you care about.

Author

Do You Have A Personal Branding Success Story?

Bret Simmons — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:37:42 +0000

Author

Authenticity vs. Persona

Bret Simmons — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:37:42 +0000

Author

Student Branding Blog - Dan Schawbel » College

Anna Manasova — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:44:47 +0000

Take advantage of all events

Here are 5 things to do immediately after an event:

2. Send a "nice to meet you" message

3. Include something personalized

4. Jot down important points from your conversation

5. Set yourself a follow-up reminder

Author

Diversity Career Resources: African American

Karen Obringer — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:08:30 +0000

The Black Collegian

Employer Profiles – Read about featured employers plus a total of 17 employer profiles “that support diversity and actively recruit on college campuses nationwide.”
The Diversity Registry – Connect to DiversityRegistry.com and research companies with “active diversity programs."
Job Tools & Career Center – Search for jobs within The Black Collegian’s database, get career advice and tips on internships.
Study & Campus Section– Learn about graduate studies, working and studying abroad, scholarships and grants, and more.
Extracurricular Section– Additional information just for fun, like music, poetry, and films.

Black Career Women

Career Coaches – Get expert advice on your career path.
Careers Section – Read articles and advice on assessments, career exploration, decision making, job searching, and negotiations like salary.
Join the Organization – Provides you discounts on programs, free access to Virtual Career Workshop, members only career content, and more.
Useful Websites – Lists additional websites that can help with your career development, like Black Career Zone and Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

There are many other great career resources out there for African Americans. Check out some of these additional handouts and websites.

Career Resources for Black and African American Students: The University of Texas at Austin
Black Voices
The African American Village
Empower Me! – Accredited business through the Better Business Bureau!
National Society of Black Engineers

Author:

Using the Internet to Find the Perfect Job

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:13:35 +0000

Job Search

Job Match

Job Connect

Author

Diversity Career Resources: Part 1

Karen Obringer — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:34:48 +0000

DiversityWorking.com

DiversityWorking claims to be the “largest diversity job board online.” This may be true, but it doesn’t have postings for every US state. It is still a good resource for a number of reasons.

Key Elements of the Website

Job Board – You can browse and search for jobs in 72 industries. There is also a section entitled Search Agent where you can schedule your own search agent that notifies you via email when a position that you’re interested in becomes available.
Resume Posting – Post your resume to the website and allow employers to search for you!
Organization – Provides the job seeker with basic information about the various companies that DiversityWorking showcases. They also provide a link to each company’s website which makes it easy for you do additional research.
Career Expo – Take part in the Virtual Diversity Career Expo. 10 weeks with a different career industry each week. There are still 5 career expos that will run throughout the end of 2010 calendar year. The only downside to this element is that it costs to attend, but once you pay it is available 24/7 throughout the weeks.

Additional Resources for the Job Seeker

FAQ Section – Good information with resume and interviewing tips. There’s only one criticism I would give with the resume tips. It suggests adding personal information to your resume, but this is not recommended because some personal information, like age, race, marital status etc. is protected information. There’s also some information on what to do if you experienced discrimination and why diversity is so important to companies.
Community Channels – Provides job seekers with specific search agents based on ethnic groups and recent news that have impacted the work place.
Diversity News – Recent news articles that impact the world of work, especially related to diversity.
Newsletter – Sign up for an email newsletter which provides you with the latest job openings, news, events, and more. You can even select to specify your newsletter to how you identify yourself, choices include ethnic, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, military, and more.

Check out this resource and watch for more website and resource reviews to come in the upcoming weeks.

Author

The Worst Things That Have Ever Happened to You

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:36:34 +0000

Tell me about a time when you failed.
What are your greatest weaknesses?
What is the greatest obstacle you've overcome?
What is the most difficult decision you have ever had to make?

Some tips for handling these types of interview questions:

Don't dwell on the negative. State the situation and swiftly move on to how you dealt with the issue.
State the facts and avoid interjecting negative opinions about other people (For example, "my boss was very demanding" is much better than, "my boss was rude and mean")
Make sure to discuss the skills you used to overcome a challenge or deal with a problem.
Always end on a positive. What did you learn? How did the situation affect future decisions and actions?
Prepare in advance. These situations are tough to talk about and usually the questions we dread most. Practice your responses in advance.

Author

Don’t be Steven Slater: Quit Your Job Professionally

Karen Obringer — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:40:22 +0000

Quitting the Job Properly

Give at least 2 weeks notice, but a month would be preferred. This demonstrates professionalism and courtesy to the company and your boss.

They will eventually have to replace you and by giving them a heads up, they can initiate a search for your replacement with hopes for only a small gap between you and the new recruit.

Type a resignation letter. Use professional language and business letter format. Approach your boss with this letter and explain to him/her as to why you're choosing to resign.

I once heard of a teacher that submitted her resignation letter on a piece of construction paper and written in crayon. You can be assured that she was not given a reference letter upon departure. Sample Resignation Letters.

Choose your words wisely. When you approach your boss about quitting the job, be sure to give solid reasons for your departure, but keep it positive. If it's a touchy subject, then make sure to discuss it with a trusted friend/family member or a career counselor to adequately prepare. This will help you choose your words properly and leave on a good note.

Don't Burn Bridges

It's a small world after all. It's amazing who knows who and how much people network and talk within professional industries. If you quit your job unprofessionally, then it's likely your previous boss will talk about it and it may end up affecting your job search.
Get the good reference. Even if you didn't like the job, you can still leave with a good reference from your supervisor or a colleague. Most employers require three references before hiring a new employee.
Make it easy on yourself. If you leave in a professional manner, then it's a lot easier to interview with a new employer. A common question used in interviews is, "Why did you leave your previous job?" It will reflect better on you if you can answer positively than figure out how to spin it, or risk lying. The company you're interviewing with can call your previous employer and inquire whether or not they would consider hiring you back, and a positive response will increase your chances for hire.

Author

What Everybody Ought to Know About Online Applications

Heidi Radakovich — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:34:15 +0000

Finding the right opportunity

Completing the Application

Follow-up

Author

BrazenCareerist Wants to Know: What Does It Mean to Be in the Driver’s Seat of Your Career?

Kelly Cuene — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 09:25:07 +0000

Being honest with yourself.

One of the fastest ways to end up in a job you dislike is to ignore that inner voice in your head that is telling you the job is not a good fit.

Taking some risks.

I'm pretty risk-averse, so quitting a job before I have something else lined up freaks me out. But before I had my current position I decided to leave my former job and it turned out to be exactly what I needed.

Doing things other people aren't willing to do to be the best at whatever you care about.

Author

Do You Have A Personal Branding Success Story?

Bret Simmons — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:37:42 +0000

Author

Authenticity vs. Persona

Gary Alan Miller — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 18:05:42 +0000

This post isn't intended to dispense career or personal branding advice. Rather, I'm hoping it will stir conversation, or at least thought. This morning as I drove to work, NPR was airing a piece (text version is here) on what they present as something of a new trend of female pop stars creating and, in some ways, hiding behind personae. Through the piece, which focuses on acts like Lada Gaga and Nicki Minaj, the implication is made that this is increasingly comfortable for audiences due to individual's ability to re-create themselves online via social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter. Here is part of the piece: "This generation really gets alter egos. They also have a personal stash of identities for different situations — they're constantly deploying different versions of themselves online: one for Facebook, one for Twitter, one for going out at night." While I really find nothing particularly new about persona shifting acts like Lada Gaga and Nicki Minaj (have these folks never heard of Ziggy Stardust or Alice Cooper?), I did see a connection between three ideas: 1) social media allows for persona development; 2) people are comfortable with the concept of the persona; 3) personal branding and social media are supposed to be driven by authenticity. Is it not the case that authenticity, which we hear (and hear and hear and hear and, even from my colleagues here) is a foundation and touchstone of online marketing and personal branding, trumps persona? Or is it the case that the authenticity vs. persona debate is contextual? For some groupings of people, does not having a persona make total sense as a personal brand? Clearly we have many examples in pop culture of successful personal brands that are based on persona. But, does it only work in the pop culture world? Who else would a persona work for? What about the entrepreneur, digital or otherwise? Does Penelope Trunk's story not fit into this dialog somewhere? So, this is going to be a short post. But, I'd love to have folks comment and share their thoughts. Here's a poll to get things started:

Authentic always
Personae as you please
Both are totally fine, as context dictates

Please chime in!