One of the recent trends in the job search is the use of QR codes in résumés and business cards. QR (which stands for Quick Response) codes are those small, square, barcode-looking images that you’ve probably seen in magazines, print ads, and product packaging. With a smart phone, users can scan the image, which will take them to the website of that product or service.

For job seekers who use QR codes on their résumés or business cards, an employer can scan the codes, which will then open the applicant’s website. TheLadders, a staffing and recruiting company, listed QR codes as one of the “7 Personal Branding Trends for Job Search in 2012.”

Pros and Cons

As with many trends, you’ll hear pros and cons. Career columnist and employment expert Joyce Lain Kennedy describes two benefits in her article for the Chicago Tribune: First, “a quick response code helps you to stand out from the crowd of job candidates who’ve never even heard of them.” Second, “Ageism-threatened seniors can project an image of being technologically vital by incorporating a QR code on their business cards and in their resumes.”

If you have examples of your work that you would like to show employers (e.g. a portfolio, a blog, video clips), then including a QR code on your résumé or business card may be an appropriate and effective decision.

As for negatives, if a recruiter isn’t familiar with QR codes, doesn’t have a mobile device (or a scanning app), or doesn’t have access to the Internet, then the space that the QR code took on the résumé might have been used more effectively. Although QR codes are becoming more commonly used, some people view their use in the job search as being too gimmicky.

Tips for Using QR Codes

If you’re considering incorporating a QR code on your résumé or business card where recruiters can view your work, here are some tips:

• Consider your audience and the type of position you’re applying for. The more tech savvy, multimedia, or marketing oriented the position/employer, the more accepted the QR code will be.
• Make sure that the site to which your QR code goes is easily accessible and viewable on a mobile device.
• Include the website’s URL in addition to the QR code so recruiters know exactly where the code is taking them or so they can access the site without a QR code reader.
• Make sure your website that the QR code links to is professional (such as your LinkedIn page or your portfolio) and not to a site that may contain information that is too personal (such as your personal Facebook page).

Imagine this scenario: you’re going for a job interview and your interviewers take you to lunch. As you sit, you see that the place setting has several utensils, a bread plate, and more than one glass. Would you know which bread plate is yours, which fork to use, even which way to pass the salt and pepper? Of course, you know how to eat, but do you know the proper etiquette for a business meal?

The Fall 2012 Networking Etiquette Dinner provides you with the basics of proper dinner etiquette while giving you the opportunity to network. It will be held Tuesday, October 23, beginning at 6:00 in the JQH Arena PrimeOvertime Club. Menu, details, and registrations are available on the Career Center’s website: http://careercenter.missouristate.edu/EtiquetteDinner.htm

On Wednesday, October 24, is Mock Interview Day, which enables you to practice your interviewing skills with area employers or Career Center staff. At this time, participating employers include Conexus, AG Financial, Jack Henry, Commerce Bank, Modern Woodmen, and Auto-Owners Insurance. For more information and to register for a mock interview time, visit the Career Center’s website: http://careercenter.missouristate.edu/MockInterviewDay.htm

The Career Center will host its next Exploring Careers Panel on Wednesday, November 7, in the Plaster Student Union Traywick Room (room 313). Presented each fall and spring semester, these panels are wonderful opportunities not only to learn about occupations but also to meet and network with professionals. Exploring Careers is free and open to all students, alumni, faculty, and staff who are interested in attending.

Finance and Accounting is the topic of the first panel on November 7. This panel will last from 11:00 a.m. until noon. The second panel’s topic is Counseling, Social Work, and Psychology and goes from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. Previous panels have included careers in technology, government, healthcare, arts and communication, non-profits, and science.

For information on the panelists or to register to attend, visit the Career Center’s website: http://careercenter.missouristate.edu/ExploringCareersPanel.htm

In today’s world there is a big emphasis on social media and using the internet to find jobs/internships. Many students have several accounts using different social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. It is becoming more popular for employers to search online to find out more about potential employees. A good way to see what employers see is to Google yourself. Students should be very thoughtful when setting up these social media profiles and keep future employers in mind. Even with your profile set on private, there are ways for employers to see it. With a professional social media site you can catch employer’s attention and even find out what openings they have by following them on Twitter or “liking” them on Facebook.

The first thing to remember when setting up any online account is the name you will be using. Make sure you use a professional name for your profile and email account. You might not want to use a nickname because potential employers might not recognize the profile as yours. Also having a professional email account on your resume is very important; it represents the image you want the employer to have of you.

Next, think about what information you want employers to see. You can create a professional account and a non-professional account using a nickname so that it will not be found by employers. On your professional profile, remember your profile picture represents the image you want the employer to have of you. The tagged pictures of you on Facebook should not include alcohol even if you are 21; make sure all of your pictures do not reflect badly on you. On Twitter and Facebook use the bio section as your 30 second commercial (see 30 Second Commercial handout). This is a chance for you to brag about your accomplishments. You can also use the Facebook status update and Tweets to show your positive side and highlight your professional and academic accomplishments. Things to keep out of your status updates and tweets are anything negative about a person, company, or group. Along those same lines, watch the kind of language you are using in your posts, employers won’t appreciate curse words being posted for everyone to see.

LinkedIn is a professional social networking site that can be used for job searches. It allows you to upload your resume as well as write your own summary of what you are pursuing now and where you hope to go in the future. There are sections for you to write in your experience, education, and any other information you think is helpful. There are groups where you can join professional conversations and gain other professional information.  “Friends” are called “connections” on LinkedIn. Your connections can write recommendations for you that are linked to your profile for others to see. You are also “connected” to all of the contacts of your contacts and are able to send messages to them. This is great for networking and informational interviewing. You will also receive emails from LinkedIn that show you updates on your groups and job listings that you may be interested in. This is a great site to start your online job search profile. You can even put your LinkedIn profile address on your resume next to your contact information.

What makes a personal social media site professional?

1)     Use a professional name for your profile and email address

2)     Think carefully about what information you put into your profile

3)     Set up a professional profile picture and make sure all pictures of you are responsible

4)     Keep tweets and status updates clean and respectful

5)     Start a LinkedIn profile and connect with potential employers

By: Sara Arnette

Graduate Assistant in the Career Center and student earning a Master of Science in Community Agency Counseling

As many of you might have noticed, not every degree program requires you to complete an internship. When I was an undergraduate here at MSU I was in a program like that and I remember thinking, “why would I take extra time (that I don’t have) to work for free?” So I did what many students do and I did only the things required of my degree program. When I got my degree and began my job search I was hit with employers telling me I did not have enough experience for their position. I was finding out the hard way that a degree does not always get you the job. You need a degree AND experience to land that dream job once you graduate.
I know that there seem to be a lot of down sides to taking on an internship. The main concerns for students are that they don’t have time to add in an internship between class, work, and student organizations and that they might not be getting paid for their time. Both of these concerns are valid and true to some extent. It is difficult to add in an internship to a busy schedule, especially when you might have to give up an activity to fit it in.
Now that we have gotten the down sides out in the open, let’s get into the up sides. First is the most obvious, you get hands-on experience working in your field. This is something that every employer is looking for from a candidate. It’s the most valuable thing you have in combination with your degree. Second, you get a chance to network in the workplace. You build your network of connections just by being in the work setting with others. Just think of the references you will make! Third, you don’t have to work 40 hours a week at an internship. The experience still valuable even if you only work 10 hours a week, or however many hours you can fit into your schedule. Internship sites are usually very flexible with intern hours, so don’t be afraid to voice how much time you can commit to them. Fourth, you may be able to get class credit for the time you put in at your internship site. Talk to your advisor to see how many internship hours equal a credit hour. Fifth, you will be able to explore the career field more in-depth and figure out if it is really the right fit for you. There are many facets to every field and major, wouldn’t you like to figure out if you like your options BEFORE you graduate? Sixth, completing an internship, especially when not required, shows your genuine interest in your career and demonstrates your willingness to go above and beyond basic requirements. Both of these are very important to your future employers. Lastly, if the other reasons aren’t enough, some internships are paid. Make sure you check with the employer if it is not specified on the job description.
To recap, here’s a list of the pros and cons of getting an internship:

Pros:
• Hands on experience
• Networking opportunity
• Flexible hours
• May receive class credit for your time
• Some are paid internships
• Explore career field and find your fit
• Shows an employer you are truly interested in this career field and are willing to go above and beyond basic requirements

Cons:
• Not enough time between class, work, and student organizations
• Not all are paid internships
As you can see there are more pros than cons for getting an internship. Next semester is coming up fast, have you considered finding an internship yet? The Career Center can help you find an internship opportunity, look over your resume before you apply, and help you write a great cover letter. Check out what opportunities are out there waiting for you today!

By Sara Arnette, GA in the Career Center and student in the Master of Science in Community Agency Counseling program

Do you get nervous before an interview? Don’t worry, everybody does. What can you do about it? How do you overcome those sweaty palms and nervous twitches that we all have? I’m here to tell you some tips to help you manage this interview anxiety.

As a member of the Career Center staff, I have conducted numerous mock interviews over that past two semesters and have seen a lot of nervous students. First, let me say that practice will go a long way to helping you with those interview jitters. Practice with a friend, by yourself, or make an appointment with the Career Center. The more experience you get, the more confident you will feel before and during your interview because you will have an idea of what to expect.

What if practice doesn’t make perfect, you ask? What if you do numerous practice interviews yet still find yourself nervous as you sit in the waiting area for the employer to call your name? The answer isn’t simple. The truth is you might always feel anxious before an interview. So now that you have landed an interview and are about to meet the employer, what can you do to manage your anxiety in the moment?  Read on for answers!

Think about the interview this way: this isn’t just the employer’s opportunity to get to know you; it’s also your opportunity to get to know them. What kind of atmosphere would you be working in? Are they a good fit for you? Don’t be afraid to ask the employer questions as well, they often give you the opportunity to ask at the end of the interview. This is your opportunity to interview them, so go ahead and ask those questions that have been running through your head ever since you researched them online (I know you have done your research on the employer by now).

Take a few deep breaths as you are waiting to go into the interview room. If you focus on your breath, it will be harder for your mind to race with anxious thoughts. While you are waiting, find a fixed point on a wall and don’t look anywhere else. Notice if you are breathing fast or slow. Breathing slowly will help get more oxygen into your body and help calm your nerves.

If deep breathing doesn’t work, try making a fist and focus on the muscles in your hand. Slowly relax your fisted hand until it is completely relaxed. This is called progressive muscle relaxation. This can be done in your car, while you are walking into the building, or when you are waiting for the employer. This technique helps you focus your mind on something other than your nerves. Combining deep breathing with progressive relaxation is a great way to help relax before an interview.

To review your anxiety management skills:

1)      Get as much practice as you can, make an appointment with the Career Center

2)      Think of the interview as your chance to get to know the employer

3)      Take a few deep breaths before you go into the interview

4)      Practice progressive muscle relaxation with your fist, either in your car or while you are waiting

So on your next interview don’t fret if you find yourself a bundle of nerves. Just remember these quick and easy tips and you will do just fine. Good luck and don’t forget to come practice your interviewing skills (and your newly acquired anxiety management skills) at the Career Center!

By: Sara Arnette, GA in the Career Center and student in the Master of Science in Community Agency Counseling program

On many occasions you have probably thought to yourself, “If I could just get in front of the hiring manager, then I’ll be able to land that job interview.”  This seems to be one primary obstacle applicants encounter due to the prominence of online job boards and increased competition.  So how you do overcome this obstacle?  In addition to a superb résumé, one of the best ways to land an interview is by attending a career fair.  The following tips will help you leverage the benefits of a career fair.

Prepare Yourself

• Arrive 10 minutes early with a firm handshake and smile in tow.
• Prepare questions for the employer.

What qualities are you looking for in a candidate?

                        Why did you choose to work for this organization?

                        What positions do you offer?

• Review the organization’s mission, achievements, and current initiatives BEFORE you speak to the recruiter.
• Have a purpose to your actions, rather than visiting every booth.  Select the employers with whom you wish to engage prior to the event.

Present Yourself

• Take a polished résumé for each employer you hope to meet, plus a few extra.
• Be sure to leave your belongings at home (e.g., pursue & backpack).  Use a hardcover portfolio or folder to carry your documents.
• Dress like you would for an interview- suits or blazers are encouraged.  Make sure your attire is looking sharp, yet conservative and subtle.
• Avoid strong perfumes or colognes.

Distinguish Yourself

• Never ask for a job.  Only seek advice or information regarding the company.
• Prepare a 30-second commercial to introduce yourself.

My name is…

                        I am majoring in…

                        Some of my experiences include…

                        I am looking for a position/company where I can…

                        I would be an asset to your company because…

• Collect business cards for follow-up communication.
• Within a few days, write a thank you letter to those you are genuinely interested in working for and refer back to your conversation at the career fair.

With these simple steps, you can set yourself apart from the crowd and truly be noticed by employers.  Remember this is your chance to set a memorable first impression.

We encourage you to apply this advice during COBA Career Days and our annual Fall Career Fair on September 28, 2011.  Please visit our homepage for additional event details!

By Joey Battelline

Graduate Assistant in the Career Center

The days when having a degree alone would guarantee you a job are over. However, I’m sure you are all aware of this fact, considering we seem to be bombarded with messages such as this on a daily basis. For that reason, the focus of this blog will not be to discourage you or warn of the increased competition out there, but rather to inform you of what you can do while you are in school to help you land the job you want after graduation.  

1.     Get work experience – part-time employment, seasonal employment, service-learning, volunteer, practicum/internship

When considering candidates, employers are primarily looking for relevant work experience and transferable skills. When trying out a possible career field through an internship, part-time experience, volunteer opportunity, etc., it’s okay if you learn that the work is not something you enjoy or are interested in. It is certainly better to find this information out before graduation. Get as much work experience as possible in college (while also maintaining a solid GPA) in order to improve your skill set to market to employers. Generally, the skills obtained carry more weight to employers than the position’s title

2.     Engage in student activities

Take advantage of the numerous opportunities available on campus. While being involved in student activities will not solely determine whether or not an employer chooses to hire you, it does help set you apart. Engaging in student activities demonstrates that you have communication skills, interpersonal skills, time-management skills (due to juggling multiple duties, i.e., school, extracurriculars, etc.), teamwork skills, motivation, and leadership skills (if you choose to assume a leadership position within an organization); all of which are important skills employers are looking for in applicants.

3.     Stay focused on your goals

Have fun and enjoy your time in college, but remember to focus considerable energy toward career goals. Do not lose sight of why you are in college. This is a time to develop and realize one’s potential. Remember to always put your best foot forward.

 4.     Prepare a professional cover letter and résumé

Gaining relevant work experience can only get you so far; it is important to also market yourself well to employers. When writing a cover letter and résumé, be confident. E.g., in a cover letter, do not include statements such as, “I think I am the best candidate for the position.” Instead say, “I am the best candidate for the position,” and then explain why. Your cover letter and résumé will be the first impression an employer has of you. Make sure it sells your skills effectively.

(Visit the Career Center for more information on preparing a professional cover letter and résumé.)

5.     Practice your interview skills

While there is no way to predict the exact questions that an employer will ask, it is helpful to prepare answers to general interview questions. You may want to refer to this list of common interview questions and tips on how to answer them: http://www.usatoday.com/careers/resources/interviewcommon.htm

Know your résumé and be prepared to give examples explaining your statements. When the interviewer asks if you have any questions at the end, make sure you do! Show your interest in the company and position.

Additionally, dress appropriately and professionally. If in doubt, always overdress. Arrive 10 minutes early. When meeting the interviewer, give a firm handshake and smile.

(The Career Center can help you practice these interview skills and give recommendations to help you market yourself most effectively.)

6.     Use the powers of networking

While in college, gather a network of professionals (professors, supervisors, peers, etc.) to which you can call upon as a reference and/or to inform you of possible job openings. Join professional organizations related to your career interests and utilize this resource to meet others in your field. These connections can provide valuable advice and information that will help you locate positions and companies you would enjoy. References are crucially important for applicants, and in some cases, you may land a position via networking before it is even open to the public.

 7.     Why you?

Think of ways to demonstrate how you stand out from the rest of the candidates. Let them know why they should hire you. Spend substantial time soul searching and trying to delve into this question; it could seal the deal on landing the job you want.

8.     Do not give up

Lastly, and most importantly, never give up. Keep sight of your dreams and find a way to make them reality. It will probably be a long, tedious journey, but once you reach your goal, it will all be worth it.

John C. Maxwell, author of Failing Forward: Turning Mistakes into Stepping Stones for Success, says, “Success is not a destination. It is the journey you take.” The decisions you make in your day-to-day life are what make you successful. If you are working through these steps listed above and exerting your best effort, you are already on the pathway to success. Stay determined and you will land the job you want that will set you on your career path.

Emily Clark, Practicum Student – M.S. in Student Affairs in Higher Education

The Career Center is proud to announce a few new additions to our website:

Going Global is a very helpful resource that can help you whether you are looking for a job in Missouri, another state, or another country.  In the USA/Canada Career City Guide, you will find information about many key cities including cost of living, lists of the largest employers, job search websites, cultural information, and a list of nonprofit/volunteer opportunities.  When looking for a position in another country, it is often difficult to navigate the visa process and cultural differences in the job search process.  For those looking for H1B visa sponsorship, Going Global will give you a list of H1B employers by state and city with links directly to the employer’s website.  With the Country Guides resource, you will find all of this key information in one place including job search resources, business and networking groups, and industry and employment trends. When conducting a job search, it is very important to research employers before applying for positions and the Employer Directory can help.  This tool provides basic information including a brief description, number of employees, link to their website, and contact information. There is even a place to search for job/internship postings both in the US and internationally.  Overall, you will find that Going Global is a wonderful resource no matter where your job search takes you.

**You can access Going Global from anywhere in the world through your Job Tracks account (contact the Career Center for Job Tracks login information- 417-836-5636).  The link on our website can only be accessed from an on-campus computer until you create a personal account.  After your personal account has been established, you may log-in from anywhere.

Uniworld allows you to search for either American firms operating in foreign countries or foreign firms operating in the United States using a variety of filter criteria.  It will provide you a spreadsheet with information about the different companies including locations, contact info, website, revenue, CEO names, and a brief description of services/products.  This is all very useful information when doing research and identifying possible employers to target.

**You can access Uniworld from anywhere in the world through your Job Tracks account (contact the Career Center for Job Tracks login information- 417-836-5636).  The link on our website can only be accessed from an on-campus computer.

The NACE Salary Calculator will allow you to research salary information specific to your industry, education, and location.  Using the Job Seeker link, you will enter your own information including major, GPA, experience level, university, and location.  From this you will see the starting salaries for the bottom 10%, median, and top 10% of those in your field as well as a starting salary you can expect to be offered giving your specific situation.  This is essential information for you to have for any job interview.

**The NACE Salary Calculator can be accessed from anywhere.

Stay up-to-date on all Career Center events and promotions, “Like” us on Facebook and join the Missouri State University Career Center group on LinkedIn.