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ASK THE CAREER EXPERT
Good morning! Thank you for participating in our "Ask The Expert"
interactive chat session. Our host today is Cecelia Dwyer, President of
TrueCareers. Cecelia has more than 15 years experience in recruiting and spent a
dozen years as an executive at Robert Half International, a Fortune 500 search
and professional staffing services firm.
During the next hour, we will answer as many questions as possible. Thank you to
everyone who submitted a question in advance.
Let's get things started!
*Remember to "refresh"
your browser to see the latest posts...
Click here to read past discussions!
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Kay,
SC |
I graduated in May 2003 and was recently laid off from my first job. With less than two years of experience, I feel like I'm in the same position
(entry-level) as I was when I graduated. How can I differentiate from the new grads with no experience when all positions seem to require 3-5 years of experience? |
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Cecelia |
Believe it or not employers put a value on even one
year of experience. That first year out of school the learning curve is
tremendous, not to mention the lifestyle change. It truly counts for something.
And please remember when you see job descriptions that say 3-5 years required,
don't believe it. If you're a strong candidate that can prove you're right for
the job with only 2 years of experience, they will consider you. |
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Cindy,
NY
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I graduated from college in 2000 and have had many jobs since then. It always seems that within a few months of starting a job, I end up hating it and looking for something else. Is there something wrong with me, or is this normal? I feel like I'll never find a job that I enjoy doing. |
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Cecelia |
You need to figure out what it is you truly want to
do. Did you take a job for money, or for prestige? Did it sound cool to you, or
others? These things don't matter. The only thing that matters is that you'll
enjoy your job once you're in it, every day, for 40-some hours a week, all year
long. Think about the aspects of each job that you tended to enjoy, and try to
paint the picture of your perfect job. When you figure out what that is, you'll
find it doesn't feel like work any more. |
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Angela,
OK
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Is there anything I should do now that will help me get a job when I graduate from Architecture school in four years? I am currently working on my resume and tutoring math at a Community College. |
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Cecelia |
Be sure to intern at an architectural firm during
your school years. The more the better. Equally important is your ability to
understand and use the software architects use, which isn't always taught at
school, such as CAD. At your first job out of college you will most likely be
doing a lot of computer work, and employers will be looking for proficiency in
architectural software at your level. |
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Alfred,
IA
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I am trying to change careers from the financial services industry to the Bio-Medical industry. I am having trouble getting my foot in the door. If there is one suggestion for career changers in general, what would it be? Thanks! |
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Cecelia |
Target a few companies you think you'd like to work
for, and try to set up some informational interviews with key folks at the
company. Ask them what they like about the industry, what skills are needed to
succeed in the positions in which you're interested, and how they may suggest
you enhance your skill set to get in the door. The information will be valuable,
as well as the connections you make. |
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AP,
MA
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I've had many people tell me to network to get work, but I find that this approach isn't successful in these times. Mostly, my inquiries are ignored or hit a wall. I also happen to live in an area of the country where it's every man/woman for him/herself, and the added obstacle of not being from here originally. How to work around this attitude? I have the talent but not the connections. |
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Cecelia |
Be patient and your talent will shine through. Be
persistent and use every resource you have. Job boards, head hunters, your
alumni organization etc. Be sure to follow up when you send resumes, get the
name of the recruiter in charge of filling that position and check in regular.
Don't worry, as my dad always said, cream always rises to the top. |
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Alan,
CA
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I interviewed at a large, well-known electronics company recently for a Staff Financial Analyst position and they stated they were interested in me but the pay range was too low. The internal HR recruiter looked into having this increased
(which did happen) and then an even higher (Senior Financial Analyst) position became available when somebody left the company. When I followed up last week, the HR recruiter said the hiring manager has a lot to think about now but that she hasn't lost interest in me. *Question*
- Should I follow up again (it's been a week and a day)? And if so what would be in my best interest to say to the HR recruiter? |
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Cecelia |
Definitely follow up again. A week is a fair amount
of time. State what you're interested in, and what you will bring to that job. |
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Karen,
FL
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What is the best way to look for a job if you are many miles away from the actual city? For instance, I am in Florida and moving to Dallas, TX. I need a job in Texas but I am long distance. |
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Cecelia |
Apply as you would typically but just mention that
you plan to be permanently residing in the area on X date. If you get the
interview, larger companies will most likely pay for all your travel expenses.
So just concentrate now on getting an interview. |
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Erin,
CA
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I interviewed for a job that is
perfect for me and I really want it. They have about seven more people to go
through. I want to make an impression and show them that I still want the job so
thought about sending a box of dove bars to the office (we talked about ice
cream in the interview). Is that overkill? They seem the type of group that
would appreciate it.
Another question is that when
asked about my salary requirements I was way over what they were planning on
paying for the position. However, I did tell them that I really want the job and
that I'm sure I would be happy with whatever their offer was. Do you think I
ruined my chances? Should I say something in the thank you letter to reiterate
that part? Thanks for your help, I need it! |
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Cecelia |
The job market is tight so anything you can do to
stand out will help. The effort would be especially effective if you're applying
to a job in marketing or communications. On the salary question, I think you
handled it just fine. You basically said, "This is what I'm making now, but it's
negotiable because money is not important to me." It wouldn't hurt to reiterate
it in some form, but don't shoot yourself in the foot! |
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Shanitra,
TX
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I have worked in my current position for
three years and have yet to be promoted. My store managers see my potential but my district manager does not agree. How do I convey this as a reason for wanting a career change without sounding bitter? |
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Cecelia |
There are ways to express your desires without
sounding bitter. Try stating that you're looking for new challenges, or there
aren't any growth opportunities where you are right now. Three years is actually
rare in this job-hopping era, so don't be concerned about that tenure. |
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Larry,
OH
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I'm unlicensed MD, and fresh MBA in healthcare management with almost no experience. At what level and in what area should I start looking for job? |
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Cecelia |
I would suggest talking with your campus career
center. They can help guide you in your path and also would know who's hiring in
your field with your experience. I would assume they are working with companies
to place their graduates. You may also try just searching various job boards for
positions in your field. |
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Stephanie, MO
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I have been out of college a year and still have not found a job. I still have to pay bills so I have a job working in the mall. Will this reflect negatively on my resume when applying for jobs? |
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Cecelia |
Not at all. Recruiters and hiring managers know the
college job market has been tough. Companies just haven't been hiring in that
area and only now is it picking up. Employers understand when you graduate
you're not necessarily going to have a job right away. Working at the mall
temporarily actually shows you're hard-working. On your resume, be sure to
highlight the things you do on the job that reinforce your major, or the job
category in which you wish to work. |
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Renee,
CA |
After sending a resume to a company. How long should I wait before I contact the company?
Should I contact the company? |
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Cecelia |
You can contact the company the day you sent the
resume. In fact you could say, "I just faxed over my resume... I'd appreciate
you taking a moment to review it..." And make sure you state the position you're
interested in and why you think you're a top candidate for it. And yes,
definitely call. It will set you apart from other candidates. |
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Lekesha, NJ
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I have had employers not consider me because I was laid off. What's the best way to answer when a potential employer asks if me if I am currently working now when I was laid off? |
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Cecelia |
It's important to be honest. These items can always
be checked out. Was the company experiencing problems, like losing money, not
meeting shareholder expectations, or was there a merger or acquisition. These
scenarios are all common reasons for mass layoffs, or even small departmental
ones. |
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Devani,
CA
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Do you have suggestions on how I could obtain information on why I didn't get a certain job that I applied to? |
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Cecelia |
Sure, just ask for feedback. Thank the person for
the opportunity and ask for a favor. People like to help, and like to share
their opinions. Tell them their feedback could be very helpful in your job
search and you'd appreciate their candor. |
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Amber,
CA |
I have 5-7 years experience as a senior accountant. I don't have any supervisory experience but I do have a good understanding of accounting. How would long term consulting affect my career growth and chances of getting a management position eventually? |
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Cecelia |
Getting hired as a supervisor will be tough without
experience. You may be better off taking a job with a growing company, proving
your value, and convincing your manager how additional staff will help you add
more value and/or revenue. You could get your first employee and voila,
management experience. |
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Jeff,
WI |
I'm a 46 year old Sales
and Marketing Manager. I went to night school and graduated from a local university with honors 10 years ago, and I'm stuck in my current position. It's no longer fun or challenging and I'm bored out of my mind most days. I've spent
$400 to have my resume punched up and I've had three interviews in the last few months, but I seem to keep blowing the interview because of
two areas. I don't have the P&L responsibility and direct people management experience that they are looking for. I have managed people while at previous employers, but that was 25 years ago. Any advice how to overcome those hurdles? |
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Cecelia |
With the P&L piece, make sure you have them clearly explain what that means to them. Many companies use that term when all they're talking about are simple reports showing revenue and simple reports showing expenses. I'm sure along the way you've been responsible for those in some way if you've been in sales or marketing. Also you could let them know you'd be willing to take a class or two in that area if that would help. For managing folks. |
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Bernie,
MD |
1-1/2 years ago I graduated from Tesst College in Baltimore, Maryland for Entry
Level Networking and received my Microsoft A+ Certificate. Since graduating I
have had a difficult time getting a job in my field, because most companies want
at least one year of experience, which I don't have.
In the meantime, I am working for my friend's father who has a company in
construction. On my resume, I am using this job to show that I don't have a gap
in employment, but I only work a couple days during the week. I'm worried
because most IT companies require a background check or government clearance,
and I don't know how to handle this. |
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Cecelia |
Just be honest. Part-time work is OK. Just be sure to highlight everything you're doing, whether it's for an hour a week or 10 hours a week, you're gaining the same skills and knowledge. |
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Dale,
MI |
I have been out of the IT industry since Nov 2000. Since that time I had to take care of a parent, have been personally diagnosed with
two different kinds of cancer/surgery/treatment, plus another surgery.
When I could not find work in the IT industry with my skill sets, I took a job in retailing.
How do I account for my time away from the industry in my resume? Also, how do I show 24 years experience in IT without identifying myself as
"old"? |
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Cecelia |
Make sure you position yourself as "experienced" not old. Bring out those major accomplishments you did that no youngster could compete with, like a multi-million dollar data conversion, or systems merger. Make sure your technical skills are there so they know you have the goods to back it up, but be sure to highlight your experience with upper management, large corporations or projects, etc. You are valued in the workforce. As for the retail piece, IT took a hard hit over the past few years so your jump to retail shows you are willing to work hard and be resourceful. Just be honest and you should be fine. |
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Mellie, TX |
Within the next two years, I want to start working in a completely different industry than any I've worked in before. The problem is, I don't know anyone who works in the industry that interests me most. What's the best way to find professional contacts in other industries, especially if I don't already have a
"professional-level" job in my current industry?
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Cecelia |
You may consider trying to get some informational interviews at companies in select industries. You may also try attending a few association meetings or events to see if you can meet some folks who would share their views of and experiences in the industry. |
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Marshall,
WI |
I've been a stay at home Dad for the
last five years, taking a break from my career as newspaper editor and
journalist, but now ready to re-enter the workforce. What are the best ways I
can play up my years working at home so it looks good on my resume and in
interviews?
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Cecelia |
I read some good advice on this recently... turn the skills you
used at home into skills you could use on the job. Things like planning,
multi-tasking, communications (to teachers, kids, other parents), meeting
deadlines and the like. In this day and age it's acceptable and understandable
to most employers, especially those with children. Tell them your skills are
just as sharp as they were 5 years ago, and you've probably added a few, like
patience!
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