Preparing for Success in Corporate America— College Guide by La Shawn Samuel
Bloomington, IN
Milton Keynes, UK
AuthorHouse™ 1663 Liberty Drive, Suite 200 Bloomington, IN 47403 www.authorhouse.com Phone: 1-800-839-8640
AuthorHouse™ UK Ltd. 500 Avebury Boulevard Central Milton Keynes, MK9 2BE www.authorhouse.co.uk Phone: 08001974150
© 2006 La Shawn Samuel. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author. First published by AuthorHouse 5/22/2006 ISBN: 1-4259-3895-7 (sc)
Library of Congress Control Number: 2006904883 Printed in the United States of America Bloomington, Indiana This book is printed on acid-free paper.
Contents Acknowledgments
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Preface
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Chapter 1 Competing in a Competitive Job Market
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Learn what it takes to sell yourself to improve your chances of landing a job in a competitive job market. Chapter 2 Planning and Preparing for Success
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Find out what employers are looking for in an employee and what you need to do to stand out from the crowd. Chapter 3 Building a Slam-dunk Résumé
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Tips and techniques for building a résumé that is wellformatted, concise, and impressive enough to get the attention of any recruiter or employer. Chapter 4 Landing the Interview
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Proactive steps you can take to improve your chances of landing an interview. Chapter 5 Interviewing with Proficiency and Confidence
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“Ten Fundamentals for Effective Interviewing” will differentiate you from other candidates and ensure you make a lasting and positive impression on a potential employer. Chapter 6 Landing the Job
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Key elements to making the most of your talent as you begin your professional journey and enter the corporate work force.
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Chapter 7 Ingredients for Success: Initiative, Motivation, Confidence, Integrity, Mentoring, and Professional Attire
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The basics for establishing yourself as a professional and developing the skills you need to remain competitive in a highly competitive and changing job market. Chapter 8 Knowing When it’s Time to Move On
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Advice on knowing when it’s time to leave your present job in pursuit of bigger challenges, more responsibility, and career advancement. Chapter 9 Reaching Down and Lifting People Up
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What you can do to give back a little of what will be given to you over the course of your professional journey. Chapter 10 Bringing it All Together
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Words of inspiration as you pave your own professional career path and determine what success means to you. Appendices This section provides practical samples you can use to design your résumé and create a variety of job hunting letters that look good and will pack the kind of punch needed to get you notice. Appendix A – Career Action Plan
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Appendix B – Sample Chronological Résumé
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Appendix C – Action Verbs
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Appendix D – Sample Cover Letter
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Appendix E – Sample Employer Contact/Interview Log 113
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Appendix F – Thank-you Letter
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Appendix G – Acceptance Letter
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Appendix H – Declination Letter
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Appendix I – Post-rejection Letter
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Appendix J – Resignation Letter
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Suggested Reading
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A reading list on the subject of achieving success is provided for you as another resource. This list is by no means inclusive; however, the books listed have either been read by myself or strongly recommended by people I trust.
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Acknowledgments This book is dedicated to my family, who make getting up every day a joy. To my husband, James, who has always stood by me and pushed me to complete this book.
Thank you for your forward words of
encouragement. To my children, Nadja and Brandin, for their support and love during the highest and the lowest points in my life. I love you both very much. To my mother, who believed in me and always encouraged me to pursue my goals and dreams. Thank you for being such a good listener and my very best and dearest friend. To my editors, Debra Stafford, my dear sister who gave me unconditional support during the completion of this book, and to Jane Collura, a friend who believed in the need for this type of book and eagerly provided her support. Thank you both for your constructive words of criticism. To my family and friends for being in my corner and having faith in me. Special thanks go to the talented and professional publishing team at AuthorHouse for supporting me through the completion of this book. Also, special thanks go to the National Urban League’s Black Executive Exchange Program, which provides opportunities for senior professionals to give back to the community by sharing learning experiences about the demands and expectations of the corporate work force. My active
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participation in the program inspired me and had a significant impact on my desire to write this book. But most of all, I give thanks and praise to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ for living in my heart, and for giving me the courage and confidence to write this book. I can do all things in Christ, who strengthens me.
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Preface “Far away, there in the sunshine, are my highest aspirations. I may not reach them, but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in them, and follow where they lead.” During the course of writing this book, I continually found myself reflecting on my undergraduate days at Clafin University. As an African American female, I have a very special place in my heart for Claflin. It was at Claflin University — during the 1982 - 1986 school term — that my foundation for success was established. The campus was very closeknit and the faculty was like family, fully dedicated to the educational development and growth of its students. I believed that then, and having had the opportunity to visit the campus in April 2005, almost nineteen years later, I still believe that now. Needless to say, I was overjoyed when I read that the 2006 edition of U.S. News & World Report’s Guidebook to America’s Best Colleges and Universities rated Claflin University in the Top Tier for the eighth consecutive year (1999-2006) among comprehensive colleges in the South for students working toward bachelor’s degrees. Additionally, since 1994, enrollment has increased 80 percent, and is projected to grow to 2,000 by 2008. Amazing. I cannot begin to express the joy I feel today of having been a part of such a wonderful family. During my visit, I had the pleasure of sharing my story with at least ten classes, from freshmen to seniors. I talked about the highs and lows of my professional journey and the importance of preparing for the corporate work force and obtaining the tools needed to succeed in a very competitive xi
market place. The students were very receptive to my message and I was emotionally touched in a way that words cannot express. After returning home from my visit, I felt compelled to do whatever I could to support the great work of Claflin and other universities dedicated to educating the youth of our future. Until I returned and saw the impact Claflin continues to have on its students, I truly didn’t realize how blessed I was to have gone to this great university. Further, after receiving a number of thank-you notes from students expressing their sincere appreciation for my taking the time to share my experiences with them, I was even more compelled to write this book. Preparing for Success in Corporate America – College Guide will prepare students for what the real life is like outside of the safe haven of college. The tips and technique are here: How to prepare for a competitive job market. How to build a “slam-dunk” résumé. How to prepare for an interview and land a job. How to keep a job after landing one. And most of all: How to remain competitive in an ever-changing job market. Writing this book has allowed me to share my story through personal and professional experiences, and my only hope is that my story will help others succeed as they go through their own professional career journey. After reading this book, students will be able to amply prepare and market themselves as they begin to transition from college life to seeking employment in the corporate work force. It is my desire that this book will inspire others to go where there is no path…and leave a trail.
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Chapter 1 Competing in a Competitive Job Market “If you can’t run with the big dogs, you better stay on the porch.” Corporate America can be a “dog-eat-dog” world, but depending on whom you ask, it can also be “the land of milk and honey.” The job market operates like any other business — on supply and demand. If your field of specialization is under-saturated and looking for people with the skills you possess, finding a job may not be too difficult. On the other hand, if your field of specialization is over-saturated and has more applicants on the prowl than jobs, finding a job may not be as easy. In fact, it can be downright difficult. College students — by far — will have a harder time breaking into the job market after graduation because, in most cases, they enter the market without any practical or hands-on work experience. Just because you have a degree, the perfect job is not going to just land in your lap. Now don’t get me wrong; having a degree will get you noticed and separate you from those without a degree. However, like any other life-changing event, landing a job after graduation requires proper planning and preparation. Once you accept the fact that you are responsible for your destiny, you have a much better chance of realizing both your personal and professional goals and your unlimited potential.
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College life provides the perfect opportunity and environment to develop and gain skills and experiences that will make you more competitive when making the leap from college to the corporate job market. Remember, you will not only be competing against minorities and non-minorities; you will also be competing against your peers who are in the same field of study, and last year’s graduates (who are still looking for jobs). Reports reveal that in 2005, nearly 2 million graduates planned to receive their degrees in the spring: 1.3 million earned their bachelor’s degree, and 670,000 earned associate’s degree or other two-year credentials. So, if you are not up to the task of doing what it takes to effectively compete in a highly competitive job market, get out of the way so others can. In order to survive this “dog-eat-dog” job market, you have to be accountable for everything you say and do. Remember, the job market does not owe you a thing and it caters to one. It will not mold itself to fit the lifestyle of any one person or group of people. Even if you have a degree and some level of experience, there are still no guarantees of finding employment, and once you land a job, you will be directly responsible for your job security. Bottom line: If you want to land a job within the first year of graduation, you must stand out from the rest of the crowd, and that takes work. Also, because I am writing this book based on my personal experiences, I think it is important for me share with you that as a minority, throughout most of my professional career, I have had to work twice as hard as nonminorities just to receive the same level of recognition and rewards. However, that factor has never stopped me from excelling in anything I have ever attempted to accomplish. In fact, I believe I am a stronger professional in spite of it. Why? Because I went into the corporate work force with my eyes wide open, and regardless of your ethnic background, so must you. It probably seems like four years is a lifetime, but trust me, college days pass by very quickly. Make a commitment to yourself to make each 2
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of those years count by taking every opportunity available to increase your skills and knowledge and gain experience that will showcase your abilities. If you set achievable and attainable career goals, you will succeed in your endeavors. It’s never too early to begin documenting your experiences and those activities that make you a more marketable candidate. Standing out from the crowd is critical to landing a job in a competitive job market. Organizations are looking for employees who have a positive attitude, who can adapt to changing requirements, and who continuously finds ways to improve themselves in order to add value to the company. Reports indicate that in 2005, the undergraduate average salary for career positions was $41,233. The average starting salaries for students with internships were $3,662.00 higher than for students without — $44,895.00. Also, the National Association of Colleges and Employers indicates that employers plan to hire more graduates from the class of 2005 than they hired in 2004, and they plan to increase their salaries by 3 percent. In fact, employers say one of their biggest challenges in the coming years will be competition for hiring the best and the brightest of new graduates. This piece of information may be extremely valuable to juniors and seniors preparing to make the transition from college life to the corporate work force. As you read this book, you will discover that landing a job takes a lot of work and dedicated effort. It may seem like an overwhelming feat to find your place in today’s job market, but you can overcome all barriers — whether real or perceived — if you remain motivated and focused on achieving your goals. Your success will largely depend on taking an energetic and highly professional approach to your job search. The sky is the limit; so set high goals and prepare to do great things professionally. Look at yourself each day in the mirror and remember, everything begins and ends with you. If you are up to the task, read on, and let’s begin the planning process together.
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Chapter 2 Planning and Preparing for Success “If you are not prepared to go twelve rounds, then stay out of the ring.” Planning and preparing for your future success while in college is one of the biggest investments you will make during this period of your life. Somebody once told me that a journey of 1,000 miles begins with the first mile. Regardless whether you are a freshman or a senior, it is never too early — or too late — to begin documenting those skills and experiences that make you competitive — all the things that make you stand out from the crowd. Rather than rack your brain during your senior year, trying to remember all those wonderful things you did over the past four years, why not take the time to document significant accomplishments each year as they occur? If you are already a senior, your best bet is to take some time to reflect, recollect, and document your accomplishments now. This information will be invaluable to you when you begin building your résumé. In retrospect, if I had heeded the advice I am giving to you, who knows the impact that would have had on my professional career? In fact, I can vividly remember being called for my very first interview. On the surface, it looked like I had a pretty decent résumé, but underneath, it didn’t take a genius to realize that my résumé had some serious gaps. In comparing my résumé to that of my peers, my overall experiences were limited. It 4
Preparing for Success in Corporate America—College Guide
dawned on me that my problem was actually twofold: It wasn’t that I didn’t have any experiences to share, rather I could only remember the experiences that occurred during my senior year, and as I said, they were very limited. Further, I didn’t truly understand the value of internships and co-op programs. As a result, I am confident my lack of knowledge cost me many promising opportunities. Don’t stop now; it gets better. During the course of the interview, which appeared to be going well, I was asked if I had participated in any internship or co-op programs while in college. Unfortunately, my response had to be “no.” It wasn’t that there were no opportunities available, I just chose to spend my summers doing other things. You see, I was under the impression — falsely, of course — that if it wasn’t on the résumé, they wouldn’t ask the question. My goal was simply to tap dance around that little detail because I did have some work experience; however, it was not considered relevant work experience — big difference. As I went about the business of trying to reach for answers, my whole demeanor changed and my interviewers could sense my discomfort. Clearly, I was not prepared. Well, let me tell you, after seeing the expression on my interviewer’s face after responding to a series of questions about my work experiences, it didn’t take a ton of bricks to fall on my head for me to realize that just having a degree was not enough. It was then that I realized employers are looking for people who can bring more than just a degree to the table. Unfortunately for me, I didn’t stand out from the crowd, nor was I as competitive as I should have been or could have been. By the way, if you haven’t figured it out by now, I didn’t get that particular job; and yes, I was a little…okay, a lot disappointed…but I refocused, kept a positive attitude, and persevered. While I couldn’t turn back the hands of time to my freshman days, I had to regroup and begin the process of documenting all the experiences I gained during college to offset the experiences I didn’t gain through internship and other development programs. If only I had documented my
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accomplishments and experiences over the course of four years — as I strongly encourage you to do — my task would have been much simpler. Further, had I understood the value of internships and the like, I believe my outcome, at that time, might have been different. Now, that is my story, but this does not and should not have to be your story. Remember, learn from the mistakes you make, but also learn from the mistakes of others, every chance you get. As you prepare to take the leap from college to the corporate work force, you must understand that employers are looking for relevant experiences that give an indication of your abilities and how well you will perform. Candidates must be ready to present the right experiences and give notable examples of accomplishments, which is why accurate documentation is critical. A colleague of mine — who recruits for a major shipping company — told me that when he reviews college résumés for potential employment, without question, he will invariably select a college graduate with a GPA of 2.8 who has a variety of skills and experiences and is able to multitask, over a college graduate who has a 3.0 GPA without any variation of skills and experiences. Bottom line: One-dimensional graduates may not fare well in a highly competitive job market. More and more employers are seeking college graduates who performed academically and who can demonstrate leadership qualities and other skills and experiences gained through internship, co-op, and other development programs. Candidates with the skills, relevant experiences, and a personality that fit the culture of the organization will be looked upon favorably. Simply put: Varied experiences, coupled with interpersonal skills, will give you a major advantage over the competition. In order to successfully plan and posture yourself for the future, you must first have a plan of action. Remember, if you don’t know where you are going, you could end up anywhere. That said, there are three primary 6
Preparing for Success in Corporate America—College Guide
components that will help guide you to achieving success — career planning, professional development, and career opportunity. Let’s take a moment to explore each of these components in detail: Career Planning: Developing a career plan is your responsibility; however, I strongly encourage you to solicit the guidance of other resources such as your career development office or guidance counselor, as they will be able to provide you with information that will help improve your plan. The first step in developing a plan of action is to assess your own personal characteristics, which are your skills and interests, as well as your strengths and weaknesses — it’s called a self-assessment. You may also want to identify certain features of past jobs, projects, or assignments that appeal to your personality and career interest. For example: Do you like working closely with people or would you rather work independently? Do you work better in a fast-paced environment where things change continuously or do you perform better in an environment where the work requires more repetition and there is less ambiguity? Do you want to perform work that will challenge you intellectually, without burning you out physically, mentally, and emotionally? These are very important questions you need to address. Bottom line: You need to know yourself before you try to sell yourself. Once you determine your likes and dislikes and your strengths and weaknesses, establishing career goals — short-term and longterm — will be key to developing your career plan. Regardless of the choices you make concerning your career, reaching some level of clarity may be the most important thing you can do in the career-planning process. Career advancement will depend heavily on your ability to turn your vision of your future into tangible and achievable goals. You must be a visionary and a go-getter,
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because success depends on both. Be certain to leave college with something you can take with you into the real world to secure your future. (See Appendix A – Sample Career Action Plan.) Professional Development: Whether through a traditional classroom environment, distance learning programs, or on-thejob training, you should always seek training and development opportunities that enhance your discipline-specific skills, increase your knowledge base, and maximize your job performance. Employers want to know that if they make an investment in you, you will make an investment in yourself by remaining current in your field or discipline and bringing what you’ve learn back to the job. Contribution to the organization’s mission is key, and continual self-development can truly help advance your career and give you more career options. Career Opportunity: Opportunity doesn’t always come knocking on your door…sometimes you have to go looking for it. You should always seek opportunities that are challenging and expand your knowledge base. Sometimes, those challenges may take you out of your comfort zone and sometimes that’s what we need to grow and develop. Further, don’t overlook opportunities that might be under your nose. For example: If your goal is to obtain certain skills or experiences to increase your career options, a lateral move within an organization may be the answer. Also, seek opportunities that allow you to learn a set of skills or the expertise that someone else has that you can benefit from. Bottom line: Success doesn’t just fall into your lap. If you want to reach your career goals, it takes concentrated planning and preparation on your part. Remember, a plan of action is absolutely necessary if you are serious about your career and you want to realize your full potential. As you read on, you will see how the aforementioned career success components are linked to nearly every chapter in this book. 8
Preparing for Success in Corporate America—College Guide
Lastly, as you develop your plan of action, take a moment to determine what “career success” really means to you. As you may know, career success depends largely on what you value as an individual. My definition of career success and your definition of career success may be quite different…and that’s okay. Your objectives should be to know yourself, establish attainable career goals, acquire new skills, and seek opportunities to advance your knowledge base. If you focus on these primary components, your journey to a successful career will be well within your reach.
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Chapter 3 Building a Slam-dunk Résumé “The only place that success comes before work is in the dictionary.” Part I - Setting the Stage Your résumé is the foundation for your job search and it will land you a job interview, if you’ve done your homework. My kids will tell you that I am a firm believer in the quote above, and I try to find appropriate moments to use it every chance I get. Unless you put the necessary effort into developing a solid résumé, success just might be further away than you think. The primary goal of a well-formatted résumé is to convey your qualifications and experiences to a potential employer — in a clear, concise, and well-organized manner — while at the same time, highlighting the most interesting features of your background. At a glance, your résumé should be visually appealing and formatted in such a way that it offers optical ease for the reader. Remember, your résumé is a reflection of you and provides the reader insights into your skills and background. Studies show that employers typically spend less than three to five minutes initially reviewing résumés. That said, you have to catch their attention in the first minute or two to increase your chances of being called for an interview, which can ultimately lead to your landing a job. Otherwise, you can expect that your résumé will end up in the trashcan, if I may be so blunt.
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Aside from academic accomplishments, there are a number of ways to gain practical, hands-on experience while in college that will make you a more competitive candidate. Internship, work-study, and co-op programs are key experiences that can set you a part from the crowd. College is a temporary time and place, so during your college days, it’s up to you to be proactive and to find different types of opportunities that you can use to your advantage. Many sources for finding and securing opportunities exist right on your campus in the Career Center and/or Leadership Development Office. Staff members supporting these offices work tirelessly to ensure that the information they have on file is current and up-to-date. If you are smart, you will use your resources wisely. Let’s take a moment to review various types of experiences you can gain right now that are sure to get the attention of the person reviewing your résumé: Internships: Internships are typically one-time work or service experiences performed by students who have attained at least some academic preparation in a professional field. Many internships may pay, but many do not, as most are done for academic credit. Co-ops: A cooperative education experience is generally completed during one or two semesters. It normally includes work assignments related to the participant’s academic and career interests. Co-op students are usually paid and their work is considered valuable to the employer. The typical program plan has students alternating terms of full-time classroom study with terms of full-time, discipline-related employment. Most co-op programs involve some sort of academic credit. Practicum: A practicum is generally a one-time work or service experience participated in as part of an academic class. Some practicums offer pay, but many do not. Again, almost all are done for academic credit.
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Externships: Externships (also known as job shadowing) allow students to spend between one day and several weeks observing professionals on the job. Such experiences are unpaid. However, some colleges and universities pick up travel and/or living expenses; it really depends on the organization. Externships are generally not done for academic credit, but they look great on your résumé. Student Summer Program: Student summer programs are typically three-to-four-week experiences acquired in various disciplines. Such programs usually combine classroom, case studies, and other interactive activities to enhance the learning ability. Community Service: Community service is an excellent way to gain relevant experience. Most community service focuses on the concepts behind service learning, volunteerism, and civic responsibility. Work-Study Programs: Work-study programs provide parttime employment for students in a variety of areas. Work-study programs give students the opportunity to earn money to help pay educational costs, while also gaining work experience. Independent Study: In addition to the traditional classroom setting, some schools offer independent study programs in which students can independently conduct research or take on an innovative project while working independently under the supervision of a professor. Study Abroad: Study abroad programs allow students to study at universities or colleges in other countries for a semester or up to one year. These programs offer broadening cultural
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experiences beyond what is learned in the classroom, and can be extremely invaluable. Volunteerism: Volunteerism is an excellent way for students to gain hands-on work experience. It gives students an opportunity to choose activities or assignments that showcase their current talents, or students may choose to learn something new and exciting to gain and develop new skills. Volunteerism can be very flexible. Students may have a choice of working with individuals, groups, or independently. Regardless of which program you choose to gain experience and develop skills, don’t expect anything to just fall into your lap. Finding the right program or experience takes time and should not be treated like a last-minute project. You have to be persistent and take the time needed to research your options, prepare your application, and interview for the program. Remember, internships and the like are very competitive, so don’t wait until the last minute to get organized. Begin your search at least four to six months in advance. In the meantime, below are a few helpful hints that should get you moving and shaking in the right direction: Be Proactive: Opportunities to gain practical experience don’t come a dime a dozen. It is up to you to be proactive and find them, create them, and make them happen. There are a number of resources right at your fingertips; utilize them smartly. Your career or leadership counselor should be able to direct you to the resources that will help you find rewarding development programs. Their goal is to help you secure your future. The Internet also has a host of free online databases that offer a wealth of information. You should also check out the homepages of companies you have an interest in seeking employment with, as well as using your Internet search engine to locate other online resources. Below are a few Web sites that may yield results:
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1. http://www.wetfeet.internshipprograms.com 2. http://www.preferredjobs.com 3. http://www.cdsintl.org Take the Initiative: Programs are very competitive, so once you have identified a potential program, you need to make contact as soon as possible. Last-minute attempts to secure an internship or any other program usually prove unsuccessful. Remember, for every program you have interest in submitting an application to or making contact with, there are probably hundreds of other students with the same idea. Word to the wise: Big-name companies and organizations are the most difficult to obtain internships with. And while some of the smaller-name companies and organizations may not have a formal internship-like program, don’t discount them — chances are, they may be willing to give you an opportunity. What to Expect: When applying to a formal academic program, your first step is to request an application from the company or organization and return all required information as quickly as possible. Remember, the early bird really does catch the worm. Application requirements will typically include the following: Application form – An official application form from the company documenting your interest in their program and the skills you bring to the table must be completed. It is very similar to a job application because it requests much of the same type of personal information. Qualification Statement or Essay – Most companies or organizations require some form of an essay or qualification statement that describes the student’s background, experiences, and career goals.
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Résumé – Most employers will want to see documentation of your accomplishments and experiences. Tip: Keep your résumé updated at all times. It’s much easier to update a line or two than it is to update an entire résumé, especially when you are working with a deadline. Letter of Recommendation – Typically, organizations require two to three letters of recommendation. They want letters from people who are familiar with your personal character and your work ethic. Before you apply, make sure you select your references in advance. When identifying references, the following three rules apply: 1. Know your references – Don’t make the mistake of choosing friends rather than responsive people who can speak to your character, work experience, background, and skills. You should have a good idea of what your references will say about your personal and professional qualities. 2. Choose the right references – Select at least two professional letters of recommendation and one character letter of recommendation. For example, college faculty and staff are always eager to provide students with professional letters; church pastors and neighbors are great sources for character letters. Bottom line: Companies want to know the caliber of the person whom they are considering investing their time and energy. 3. Get permission from your references to use them – There is nothing more frustrating than for a potential reference to receive a call from a prospective employer, inquiring about the character or work habits of a person they know, but had no knowledge 15
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they were being used as a reference. This alone could be the difference between landing the opportunity or not. Contact potential references ahead of time and get their permission before you use them as a reference. It would also be wise to give your references an idea of the kind of questions they may be asked. For example: How long have they known the individual? Is the individual trustworthy? Is the individual reliable? What type of activities has the individual participated in? Would they recommend the individual for the program? Any other comments the reference can provide that speak of the individual’s skills and abilities. Do More than Just Apply: Anyone can fill out an application, and there are plenty of applications to go around. However, if you are serious about the program to which you are applying, you have to do your homework. Employers don’t know you from Adam. During the initial reviewing process, they are looking for people who stand out from the crowd and have a range of experiences. By the way, you will hear me say this a million times throughout this book. In any event, consider the following when separating yourself from the crowd: Conduct the appropriate research on the company or organization. If you are fortunate enough to get an interview, and then proceed without adequate knowledge about the company or the products and services it delivers, chances are, you will not be the successful candidate. 16
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Utilize your career placement or leadership development offices. If I have said it once, I’ve said it a thousand times — utilize the resources that are right at your fingertips. Counselors are available to help you land internships, summer programs, and jobs. This is what they do 24/7. You would not believe the number of opportunities that go unfilled each year simply because students don’t reach out to the resources available. Adequately prepare yourself for the competition. Don’t underestimate your competition. You will be up against some very well-qualified individuals who want the same thing — an opportunity to gain some practical, hands-on experience that will separate them from the crowd and increase their chances of landing a job after graduation. The more you prepare, the better your chances.
Part II – Résumé Format As you know by now, a résumé is a key marketing tool to help showcase your education, skills, experience, and accomplishments. Your résumé is a reflection of you, and your educational experience is all about preparing you for a promising and lasting career. One mistake I find that students often make is trying to overstate their skills and experiences. Being clear about your accomplishments is extremely important in order to give the potential employer a good understanding of your abilities. However, there is no need to embellish the truth, as it could cost you a job or an opportunity. Chronological résumés are the most traditional, and are organized by employment history — listing the most current employment first. Recruiters and hiring managers are very responsive to this format, particularly for college graduates, because it’s easy to read and shows progression and growth with each experience. This format may be your best choice if your
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work experience is limited. (See Appendix B – Sample Chronological Résumé.) Functional résumés are the least traditional and organized by skills and functions. Names, employment dates, and titles are purposely omitted. This format is least desired by recruiters and hiring managers and has very little use for college graduates making a transition to the corporate work force. I would also recommend attending a résumé-building workshop on your college campus. These workshops are excellent and provide you with extensive résumé building tips and techniques to help you build a strong, effective résumé. Counselors and faculty will be able to give you information on course availability.
Part III – Five Résumé Building Blocks Regardless of the format you select for your résumé, there are a number of common characteristics that apply across the board. Consider these five primary building blocks when preparing your résumé: 1. Contact information: Your primary goal is for the employer to be able to contact you — whether to schedule an interview, to clarify information on your application or résumé, or to follow up after an interview. Be sure to provide a variety of contact information, such as your full name, home phone, cell phone, college or university and permanent address, and e-mail address, to ensure you don’t miss what could possibly be one of the most important phone calls you will receive. Tip: When listing your e-mail address on your résumé or application, do not use addresses laced with suggestive descriptions. For example, e-mail addresses such as
[email protected], spankmedaddy@hotmail. com,
[email protected],
[email protected],
[email protected], or
[email protected] 18
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may send the wrong message and give an employer the wrong impression of you before the two of you even meet. Creating a negative image before you land an interview may result in a missed opportunity, and believe me, missed opportunities occur every single day — don’t let one of them be yours. Simple email addresses without provocative undertones work best. For example, e-mail addresses such as lashawnsamuel@yahoo. com,
[email protected], or
[email protected] are pretty safe. Also, if the intent is to have an employer contact you on your cell phone, first, ensure that your voicemail is set up; secondly, do not use music in the background from your favorite rap or R&B songs. For example, backgrounds from songs like “Lean Back...Lean Back,” “My Goodies, Not My Goodies,” “I’m a G…I’m a G,” “Lean wit it…Rock wit it,” or “Drop it Like it’s Hot…Drop it Like it’s Hot” may turn some employers off, and you could potentially end up without an interview. Furthermore, in some cases, the background music plays for about one or two minutes before the actual voicemail begins. That alone is enough to make a person want to hang up. Bottom line: Employers are extremely busy. At this point in the game, they are not interested in your personal music genres; so be smart and don’t waste their time. Voicemail messages like the following, or variations thereof, tend to yield good results: “Hello, this is La Shawn Samuel. I can’t come to the phone right now, but your call is important. Please leave a detailed message and I will return your call as soon as possible. Thank you.” “Hello, this is La Shawn Samuel. I am sorry I missed your call. Please leave me a detailed message and I will return your call as soon as possible. Thank you.” 19
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2. Education: Be sure to include all pertinent information relative to school, degrees, training, certificates, date of completion, and coursework. Please be sure to spell out the name and location of your college/university and degree. Abbreviations could be misinterpreted and cause unnecessary questions and explanations later in the process. Also, if you have not yet graduated, don’t forget to provide your expected date of completion. 3. Experience/Accomplishments: In addition to your work history, include pertinent experience such as internships, co-op programs, extracurricular activities, community service, summer student programs, and other significant volunteer or community work. Again, your goal is to stand out from the crowd. 4. Skills: List any computer systems, office equipment, and software programs you have experience with, including any other office or administrative skills. Employers tend to favor students who are computer literate and technically savvy. 5. Other Categories: If they are relevant, include publications, awards, languages, honors, leadership positions, or other notable achievements.
Part IV - Résumé Tips As I stated before, your résumé is a reflection of you, so looks are everything. A well-organized, well-formatted résumé with consistent headings, fonts, and bullets is sure to catch the attention of the reviewer. Consider the following tips when preparing your slam-dunk résumé: Overcrowded résumés tend to distract from the résumé’s overall appearance. White space is a necessity. Margins should typically be anywhere from .75” to 1” on all sides. Colors like ivory, beige, and soft white look extremely professional for printed résumés. 20
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Grammatical errors and typos will ruin even the most wellformatted, well-organized résumé. I can tell you from experience that résumés with typos and misspellings usually do not receive serious consideration and typically don’t make it through a second round of review. If you submit a résumé with typos, the interviewer may get the impression that the quality of your work might be the same if you are given an opportunity. That said, put in the time and effort needed to prepare an error-proof résumé… that’s right, error-proof. After rewriting and editing your résumé, I recommend having it proofread by someone with some editing skills (e.g. teacher, friend, or family member). A fresh pair of eyes may spot errors that a tired pair of eyes may overlook. Generic résumés are arcane and have no place in the competitive market, particularly for recent graduates. If you want to land an internship or job, you have to tailor your résumé to a specific program or employer. Remember, no two programs or employers are alike. Given that most college students have narrow work experience, limit your résumé to one page. When describing your experiences, skills, and accomplishments, use concise sentences and dominant action verbs. Remembering the following three-step method I developed and affectionately refer to as “ICE” will ensure that your résumé is succinct and the descriptions of your experiences are crisp and concise: 1. Identify the experience or accomplishment. 2. Convey the impact. 3. Emphasize the skill or knowledge gained. Lastly, there are a number of online résumé-building programs and applications you can use to jump-start the résumé process. However, a word of caution: Some of the templates found online 21
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or on many word processing programs do not create résumés in the proper format. Further, do not copy the text from the samples. Samples are provided only to give you an idea of what a well-formatted résumé will look like. Your résumé should be individualized and customized based on your own personal and professional experiences. Employers will be able to tell quickly if you are giving descriptions of your own personal and professional experiences or that of someone or something else. Bottom line: Your résumé is an important tool to achieving your career goals. Effective use of academic and career-development resources is critical to your overall success. As any financial broker will tell you, “If you don’t invest in your future, no one else will.” Receiving a high a return on your professional investment will depend heavily on the amount of time and energy you expend in preparing a solid, slam-dunk résumé.
Part V – Cover Letters I would be remiss if I didn’t cover a very important aspect of the résumé planning process – a cover letter. Listen up: Résumés without a cover letter or letters with a salutation of “To whom it may concern” usually end up in the trash. It is estimated that a cover letter gets less than thirty seconds of the reader’s attention. In drafting your cover letter, your overall goal is to pique the reader’s interest and get his or her undivided attention, even if only for thirty seconds. Your cover letter is the very first thing a reader will see, and a good cover letter sets the tone for what the reader will soon review — your résumé. If the cover letter and résumé do their job, an interview and job offer will soon follow. The following tips are provided to help you craft the cover letter that is right for you: Be sure to use the same font type and paper your résumé is printed on. Your cover letter should match your résumé, which sends a good impression to the reader that you are well-organized. 22
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Make every attempt to address your cover letter to an actual person. For example, contact the company’s Human Resource department and inquire if you can be provided with the name of the hiring official. The first sentence of the first paragraph should be the attention grabber; the balance of the paragraph should support your grounds for seeking employment with the company. Include a short paragraph that speaks to your special contributions, achievements, expertise, and talent. This will give your letter more of a personal touch. Make it clear to the reader that you are serious about the job. Provide contact information and advise the reader that you will follow up at a later date if contact has not been made. Cover letters need a strong, solid closing. The reader has to know that you are serious about landing the job and that you want to make contact. End your cover letter with a promise of action. Consider something like, “I will follow up with you in a few days to discuss the possibility of an interview. In the meantime, please feel free to contact me at 703-555-1212 if you have any questions.” Remember, if you say you will follow up, make sure you do. Lastly, if you want to get the attention of the employer, be sure to use verbs that demonstrate action. Action verbs tend to describe accomplishments or things that happened. They tell the reader what you did and how well you it. Action verbs can put the fire under any sentence and enhance the employer’s image of you before he or she makes your acquaintance. (See Appendix C for a list of commonly used action verbs that will add a solid punch to any cover letter or résumé.) Once you have developed a solid cover letter, it’s a piece of cake to customize it based on the employer or organization to which you are applying. (See Appendix D — Sample Cover Letter — for some great ideas that will get the reader’s attention and get you noticed.) 23
Chapter 4 Landing the Interview “It’s better to be prepared for an opportunity and not have one, than to have an opportunity and not be prepared.” If you haven’t already found a job by now, you might be thinking that all the time you spent preparing your cover letter and résumé was a complete waste. Let me tell you, that thought couldn’t be further from the truth. No one ever said finding a promising job would be easy, and as I said earlier, the job market is very competitive. So now is the time to put your money where your mouth is. Additionally, you will not be able to predict exactly when you will be called in for an interview, so you had best be prepared. Before you begin making contact with prospective employers, do your homework. Know some basic information about the company (e.g., kind of business, products/services, customer base) to ensure there is a match between their requirements and your skills and qualifications. This chapter focuses on proactive steps you can take to improve your chances of landing an interview.
Focus Your Efforts Don’t waste your time sending résumés to hundreds of companies. Focus on a region, industry, or company, and tailor your search to your area of interest. When I was a senior in college, I must have sent out over 100 cover letters and résumés to potential employers. Believe it or not, I 24
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only received about three (maybe four) responses and two of those were “Thank you but no thank you” letters. At that time, all I wanted to do was find a job. And while finding a job was important, I firmly believe that if I had narrowed my job search and focused on my chosen discipline and areas of interest, my results might have been different. This is where a personal career plan would have certainly come in handy. Applying to jobs just to be applying is a feckless effort and the results prove to be ineffective. Don’t waste your time or the time of others. Remember what I said earlier: You can always learn from the mistakes of others as you climb the professional ladder to success.
Make Contact Before Sending Your Résumé Unless you’re responding to an ad that requests “no phone calls,” try to contact the hiring manager before you send your résumé. Even if you don’t know the name of the person handling the job search, you can do some investigation to locate the correct person or a point of contact. Once you get the contact on the phone, be extremely brief. Remember, the purpose of your call is to express enthusiasm about the job and your ability to contribute to the organization. Prepare a short pitch about your qualifications ahead of time, articulating how you can add value to the organization. If for some reason you are unable to speak with the hiring manager — and that is a likely possibility — try your best to find out who the recruiting officer is in charge of hiring for the position, as well as the correct spelling of his or her name. This information will be extremely important to you later on in the preparation process.
Follow Up Quickly on All Résumés You Send For the best results, follow up within three to five business days of sending your résumé. You can follow up by phone or by e-mail if you are applying to a blind ad. If the ad specifies no calls, a follow up e-mail is 25
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acceptable. The following examples will provide ideas on the best followup technique for your individual circumstance. Telephone Follow-up — When following up by phone, try saying something like, “Hi, my name is La Shawn Samuel and I submitted my résumé for your data network position on August 15th. I’m very interested in working for Innovative Solutions and extremely excited about this opportunity. I just wanted to share with you some of my qualifications and I how can make a contribution to your organization. My degree in computer science…” E-mail Follow-up - If you are following up by e-mail, your message should be brief. Below is an example: Dear Mr. Jones (or name of hiring manager): I recently applied for your data network position, and I just wanted to follow up to make sure my résumé was received. My degree is in computer science and my solid background in data analysis, problem-solving, and report generation appear to be an excellent match to the qualifications you are seeking. I recognize you may not yet be at the interviewing stage, but I am more than happy to answer any preliminary questions about my qualifications and skills. I am very much interested in this opportunity and I can be reached at 703-555-1212. Thank you for your time and kind consideration. Sincerely, La Shawn Samuel
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Be Purposeful in Your Subsequent Follow-Up Contacts If several weeks pass after your initial follow-up without word from the employer, you can initiate another call or e-mail. Your purpose for following up could be to find out if a timeline has been established for interviews, or to leave an alternate contact number if you will be traveling or if your personal situation has changed. Most important, be polite, professional, and respectful.
Keep a Contact Log Your follow-up attempts will be much easier if you keep a contact log of all positions to which you apply. Your log should include a copy of the ad for the position (don’t rely on a job posting because it can be removed from the Web without any notice), the file name of the résumé and cover letter you sent (customization is really key, so organize your files accordingly), contact dates (this will prevent you from contacting a potential employer too many times before a reasonable amount of time has passed), names of hiring managers (now is not the time to rely on your memory; write it down), and a summary of information you gleaned during your contact with them (this information may prove to be quite valuable as you go through the interview process). (See Appendix E — Sample Contact/Interview Log.)
Don’t Be a Pest Recurring follow-ups can be very tricky unless you are positive you can walk the fine line between being persistent and becoming a pest. Apply moderation after your third or fourth follow-up contact. However, don’t give up hope if your follow-up efforts don’t yield immediate results. Remember, I told you this was not going to be easy. Depending on the employer, specific job, and number of applicants, the time frame between 27
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the application closing date and when applicants are called for an interview can sometimes be as long as two months. Be patient and continue your course of action in earnest. If you want to reach the ultimate goal of landing a job, you have to stay in this for the long haul.
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Chapter 5 Interviewing with Proficiency and Confidence “You saddled up that pony, so ride it.” Congratulations! Because of your slam-dunk résumé and persistence, you landed an interview. Now all the real fun begins. Regardless of whether you are interviewing for an internship or your first real job, the key to a successful interview involves careful planning, preparation, and lots of practice. For most, this can be a very stressful and nerve-racking experience, and if the truth be told, not everyone is born with natural, effective interviewing skills. However, lucky for us all, the skill can be mastered. The purpose of this chapter is to provide you with tips and techniques to ensure you make a lasting and positive impression on your interviewer. The goal is to present an assertive and self-confident you. In order to accomplish this, I want to introduce you to my “Ten Fundamentals of Effective Interviewing.” 1. Preparing for the interview 2. Researching the company 3. Practicing for the interview 4. Wearing appropriate attire 5. The greeting – a.k.a. “small talk” 6. Marketing yourself to the employer 7. Asking questions during the interview 29
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8. Closing the interview 9. Following up after the interview 10. Accepting or declining a job offer
1.
Preparing for the Interview In most instances, once you receive a call from a potential employer,
you will have anywhere from two to four weeks to effectively prepare for your interview. While that may not seem like a lot of time to prepare, if you use your time wisely, you will do just fine. The following tips will help you as you prepare for your big day. The first step in preparing for your interview is to know your résumé and its contents like the back of your hand. Just because you took the time to prepare your résumé, it doesn’t mean that you will remember every single detail when you are sitting in front of a panel of interviewers. If you are not able to confidently articulate your experiences and accomplishments during the interview or address certain details listed on the résumé, this could lead to the interviewer questioning your abilities — and that’s the last thing you want to do. So take some time to carefully review your résumé and prepare short answers to anything you think will raise questions. Research what the market is paying for your chosen profession. There are a number of free salary comparison tools available online. Compile the data of at least three sources before you come up with a salary range. This information will be invaluable as you begin your job search. The following Web sites are provided as point of reference but there are others available. Once you find the site, type the words ‘salary comparison’ in the search bar:
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•
http://www.salary.com
•
http://www.payscales.com
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http://www.monstertrack.com
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http://www.hotjobs.com
•
http://www.careerguide.com
Be sure to get directions and travel arrangements up front, to avoid last-minute mishaps. Get the location of designated parking and inquire if you will need a parking pass. If you are flying to an appointment, ask if you will be picked up at the airport or if you should rent a car, take a shuttle or taxi. Most of this information can be obtained from the human resources department or the recruiter. Plan to arrive at your appointment fifteen to thirty 30 minutes before the scheduled time. Traffic — as well as the arrival times of planes and trains — can be very unpredictable. Also, there could be a situation where you experience difficulty finding the office address or the location of the office building. Early arrival will reduce your stress level in the event of an unforeseen delay, so plan for the unexpected. In the event you have to wait in the lobby due to a delay on the interviewer’s part, use your time wisely by reviewing your résumé and any other material or information on the company, which is usually in the lobby or waiting area.
2. Researching the Company The best way to impress your interviewer is to show that you have done your homework, and that you actually know something about the company and the kind of products and services it provides or produces.
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No one expects you to be an expert on the company’s history and origin, but you have to take a noticeable interest in the company if you want to be taken seriously. The information highway, also affectionately known as the Internet, is key to gaining an abundance of information. In fact, much of the information you need is readily at your fingertips. Another method of gaining valuable information is simply to ask for it. Companies have informative printed materials available that can stand alone or augment the information you get off the company’s Web site. However, if you take this approach, you have to request the information as soon as the interview is scheduled and factor in the time it takes for the mail to be delivered. The company’s human resource department is a good point of contact for getting this type of information. If you tell them why you need the information, they will typically make an earnest effort to get the information to you as quickly as possible. Your goal is to let the interviewer know that you took time to learn more about the company beyond just simply applying. Finally, as you go through the process of researching potential companies for career opportunities, consider the following employee benefits, which are important to your overall compensation, to ensure the company offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package. Times have changed and employers are beginning to change with time. Employers realize that providing a supportive work environment that respects individuals and their differences, fosters teamwork, promotes flexibility, and supports a balance between work and personal lives is critical to recruiting and retaining a productive and diverse work force. Much of this information should be available on the company’s Web site. If not, you can always contact the company’s human resource department for more information: Compensation – Conduct some research up front to find out what the going salary is for your discipline or area of specialization. This information will be important as you seek competitive 32
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compensation packages.
Tip:
Before you try to negotiate
your salary, know the current range and be certain you have a bargaining chip to negotiate (i.e. internships, student coop and summer programs.) 401k Savings Plan – Employers that provide opportunities for employees to save for retirement is a plus. Many companies will match pre-tax, employee contribution up to a certain percent. Medical and Dental Insurance – Most organizations offer comprehensive benefits plans to employees. Plans will vary; however, the costs are usually shared between the employer and employee. Life Insurance – Life insurance benefits vary based on the employer. Some employers provide life insurance at no cost to the employee and offer benefits that equal up to two times the employee’s annual salary. Educational Reimbursement – It is not uncommon for employers to provide some form of educational reimbursement for workrelated courses, degrees, seminars, and certifications. For many organizations, there is a waiting period of up to six months.
3. Practicing for the Interview Remember the old cliché “practice makes perfect?”
Not only
does practice make perfect, it also builds confidence! Whether you are auditioning for American Idol or preparing for an important interview, the only way you can get better at something is repetition. If you can’t clearly and confidently articulate your assets, you may not be the most competitive candidate during the interviewing process. Also, if your personality is naturally reserved, practicing will be essential, as reserved individuals may not be at the top of their game if asked questions for which they are 33
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not given ample time to think. Interviewing is definitely an acquired skill and proper preparation is key to a successful interview. I can vividly recall the time I helped my colleague Anne — someone I mentored over the previous five years — practice and prepare for a very important interview. Anne was experienced and had skills key to the job requirements; however, she was having difficulty articulating her qualifications as they related to the job. After helping her develop some solid answers to a combination of about ten to twelve questions and conducting three mock interviews with her, I was thrilled when she phoned me several weeks following the interview and informed me that she got the job. Anne thanked me over and over for helping her, but honestly, she had it in her all the time, and I told her so. It was just a matter of putting in the effort and practice, which are key to acing an interview. That said, the following tips will help your practice run go smoothly: No need to deny it, you will probably be a little nervous on the big day and anxieties will be flaring. The good news is that these types of emotions are perfectly normal. The challenge for you is to use that nervousness and anxiety to your advantage. Adrenaline can be the boost you need to perform at your highest game. Don’t fight it; use it. Prepare your responses and make sure they effectively showcase relative experiences and unique qualities. Do they highlight your skills and abilities? Do they demonstrate your intellect? Do they reveal your character and personality? Also, as you prepare, it is important to think about and be able to articulate at least one accomplishment or acquired skill for each significant experience listed on your résumé. Making a link between your experiences and acquired skills can make a strong impact on the interviewer. Think of a couple of questions you hope no one will ask you, and then prepare a solid response for each of them. If you have
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to respond to a difficult question, be sure to maintain good eye contact and be as forthcoming as you can about the question without belaboring your response. Afterward, begin focusing on the more positive aspects of your résumé. When preparing your responses, speak clearly and loudly (but don’t yell) to ensure they have impact. Practicing in front of the mirror (something I used to do all the time) or conducting a mock interview with a friend or relative is an excellent way to get practice and constructive feedback. Remember my friend, Anne? Well, constructive feedback and plenty of practice helped her to land the job of her dreams, and she is loving life. You will be asked a number of questions during the interview process, but all roads lead to why you should be hired. It is extremely important to answer this question at some point during the interview, even though the interviewer may not directly ask you the question. Practice a good response that will confirm and reinforce all the positives you displayed during the interview. Lastly, there is always more that one way for an interviewer to ask the same question. For example: Why did you apply for this job? What was in the advertisement that piqued your interest? What are your strengths and weaknesses? What skills do you possess that make you qualified for this job? What are your areas of development? What are some of your personal and professional short- and long-term goals? Where do you see yourself over the next three to five years?
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Give an example of when you worked well on a team. Are you a team player? How do you prioritize competing responsibilities? Are you able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously? Memorizing responses to questions is really not necessary, nor is it recommended. However, if you are well-prepared and have a baseline of strong responses to a variety of questions, you should have no problem responding to even the most difficult questions, regardless of the variation. Besides, the last thing you want to do in an interview is to sound rehearsed. Your ability to exude confidence and intellect during the interview will impress the interviewer far more than your ability to memorize a script.
4.
Wearing Appropriate Attire Remember when your mama said, “You never get a second chance to
make a first impression?” Well, she was right. Before you even utter one single word out of your mouth, your interviewer has already formulated an opinion of you based solely on your appearance. Sorry, but it’s true. Your job is to make sure that the first impression is a positive and lasting one. An interview is not the place to show off your Friday nightclub or weekend attire. Don’t assume anything. Professional business attire is your best bet if you really want to land a job or secure an internship. The following tips will ensure you appropriately plan your attire to get the attention of your interviewer and make a long-lasting and positive impression:
General Tips for Everyone: Overall, your appearance should be neat and well-groomed. Iron your clothes the evening before. This will be one less thing you have to think about.
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Avoid wearing too much cologne or perfume. Strong colognes or perfumes are distracting and could take away from your interview. Try on your outfit on the evening before the interview. A lastminute surprise is the last thing you need. Well-groomed fingernails are very important and send a positive message. Dark-colored suits send a message of confidence to the employer. Black and navy blue are primary colors; gray and tan are secondary, all of which are very versatile. Avoid wearing too many rings on your fingers. One ring on each hand is the maximum — class ring and/or wedding ring. A light briefcase or portfolio is suitable. No visible body piercings (nose, eyebrow, or tongue rings). No gum, candy, or cigarettes before the interview.
Women: Business suits (pants or skirts) are ideal. Lacy or flowery dresses and skirts simply don’t fit the bill. Skirts should be only two inches above the knees and you should be able to sit down comfortably. Save the tight miniskirts for another occasion. Hosiery should be conservative without decoration and color. No fishnet hosiery, please. Makeup should be simple and natural. Don’t overdo it by piling on the foundation, eye shadow, and blush. It’s distracting and simply not necessary. Avoid wearing too much jewelry or jewelry that makes too much noise. Matching pearl earrings and necklace look very professional 37
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and make a good impression. Every graduating female should have a set. Regardless if you have multiple holes in your ears, only one pair of earrings should be worn during the interview process. No gigantic hoop earrings or clashing bangles, please. Shoes should be polished and heels should be no higher than two and a half inches. Shoes must be comfortable in case you have to walk long distances. Stilettos have no place in the interview process. Short, well-manicured nails in one tone are ideal. Long, exotic, and colorfully designed nails send the wrong message. Potential employers may think that you are more concerned about fancy nails than you are about producing quality work. Hair should be well-groomed and neat. For ladies wearing braids or extensions, make sure your hair is neatly pulled back or pulled up. Too much hair in your face can be distracting for the interviewer.
Men: Business suits (black or navy blue) worn with a white, long-sleeved shirt – even in the summer – are a must. Short-sleeve shirts are not appropriate under suits and may be considered tacky. Ties and socks should coordinate well with the suit. Save the colorful ties and socks for some other festive occasion. Conservative ties and solid-color socks (dark or black) work best. No earrings, please. Now is not the time to make a statement. Shoes should be polished. No unraveling shoestrings. Well-manicured/trimmed nails are a must for men, too. Dirty, unmanicured nails will send the wrong message. A fresh haircut is a must. Facial hair should be nicely trimmed and well groomed.
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No necklaces outside your shirt. Remove necklaces altogether or keep them inside your shirt. Braids should be pulled away from the face and neatly pulled back. No overstuffed pockets and no noisy coins.
5.
The Greeting, a.k.a. “Small Talk” The greeting, also known as “small talk,” is actually a very important
part of the interview process. The greeting is basically an exchange of niceties and begins the first two to three minutes of the interview, so first impressions are very important. It is also important for you to establish a good rapport with your interviewer during this time, as that rapport could set the tone for the remainder of the interview. Do your best to present a comfortable but professional appearance. The following tips will help you create a favorable impression during the greeting phase: Use a firm handshake and make good eye contact upon meeting your interviewer. This displays confidence and self-assurance. A pleasant smile sends a comforting message and is a good icebreaker. Again, make good contact – it could work to your advantage. Speak clearly and use a tone that is audible. The last thing you want is for your interviewer to ask you to repeat yourself simply because your tone was too low. Typically, the interviewer will ask if you had trouble finding the location. Keep your answers short and concise. Even if you had trouble finding the location, still be positive; your interviewer does not need to know all the details about a bad experience. Short, concise, and positive answers are best.
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Don’t have a seat until you asked to be seated. If your interviewer neglects to offer you a seat, simply say, “May I have a seat, please?” Remember your manners — they go a long way. Have all of your papers neatly organized in your briefcase or portfolio so that once you are seated, you can reach for your materials with ease.
6.
Marketing Yourself to the Employer As you know, the interview process has two primary purposes:
It is used as an assessment tool for the interviewer and it affords the interviewee an opportunity to market his or her skills and abilities to the prospect employer. During this dialogue and exchange of information, it is important to be open and honest during the entire interview process. Focus on your experiences and accomplishments as they relate to the organization’s overall mission. You are more likely to succeed if there is a mutual understanding of the skills needed by the company and the skills you actually possess. Miscommunication of either can sometimes lead to an undesirable situation. After providing you with an overview of the company, the interviewer will ask you series of questions in an effort to get to know you and acquire a better feel for your experience, skills, and interests. This is the time when your active listening skills will surely work to your advantage. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification on key points or additional information — the interviewer really is there to help. By the way, always ask the interviewer’s permission before taking notes. For example, “Do you mind if I take a few notes, please?” As you go through the actual interviewing process, do not try to dominate the conversation. Keep your responses concise and relative to the actual question. When responding, use every opportunity to draw upon and include other relative experiences that underscore your strengths in a particular area. Please try not to ramble. 40
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It may leave the interviewer with an impression that you are not able to gather your thoughts and communicate them effectively. That’s why practicing is critical. Employers will expect their employees to possess certain qualities and human traits, which they view equally important to academic accomplishments. It is your responsibility to make sure these important qualities and human traits are in effect conveyed during the interview, to ensure you reveal the “total person.” Unless you carefully think about responses to questions that may be asked during an interview, you may not reveal your best qualities. These qualities and traits may include: Building Relationships Communication Skills Enthusiasm Intelligence Interpersonal Skills Judgment Motivation Negotiation Organizational Skills Personality Reasoning Teamwork As you market yourself, remember that employers want to know that the person being considered for the position will be a contributor to the organization and will also be a good fit for the company. Your job is to alleviate their concerns by being enthusiastic and showing a genuine interest in the job. To that end, consider the following:
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Don’t be afraid to laugh or smile, if it is appropriate. These types of emotions reveal your personality, and that’s actually a good thing. Maintain good eye contact and listen carefully. Don’t interrupt when the interviewer is talking, unless it is absolutely necessary. Use simple language that is easy to understand. Remember, big words are only impressive if they are used appropriately and at the right time. Communication skills — or lack thereof — may be the determining factor between landing the job and not. If you can’t articulate your thoughts, expressions, and experiences in a clear and concise manner, you may have a difficult time convincing your interviewer that you really are the right person for the job; hence, you may not land the job. Avoid using any type of slang, jargon, or other corny expressions that leave the employer confused about your communication abilities and skills. The interviewee should not bring up the subject of compensation. However, if the interviewer asks your salary requirement, give a range and make sure it is consistent with any salary information previously given to the human resource department or your recruiter. If the interviewer brings up the subject and the salary discussed is within your expected range, you can simply say that the range appears to be appropriate. If the salary is lower than you anticipated, you do not have to make a decision on the spot. Final salary arrangements can be decided after you have been offered the job. Be prepared to talk about topics other than your work experiences or accomplishments. For example, special hobbies, musical interest, and sports are always good conversation pieces.
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Lastly, if you are genuinely interested in the position, don’t leave the interview without conveying to the interviewer why you are the right person for the job and how you plan to contribute to the company’s overall goals. Marketing yourself to a total stranger may not be as easy as you think. Preparation is critical if you want to stand out from the crowd. As I said before, there is more than one way for an interviewer to ask or phrase a question. The following are samples of questions the employer may ask during an interview. Use them to prepare for your big day:
Personal Information/Work Habits Tell me about yourself. How would you describe yourself? What are two or three accomplishments that have given you the most satisfaction? What do you consider to be your greatest strengths? Weaknesses? What are some of your personal and professional goals? What makes you qualified for this job? What motivates you? What do you find challenging? What would you like for me to know about you that is not on your résumé? In what type of environment are you most comfortable? How did you prepare for this position? Based on what you know about the responsibilities of this job, what do you think it takes to be successful on the job?
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Career Goals Why are you interested in this job and what attracted you to the position? Why should we hire you? What are your long-range and short-range goals? How are you preparing to achieve them? Where do you see yourself three to five years from now? How would you describe the ideal position for you? What aspects are most important to you in a job? How does this job align to your overall career goals/objectives?
Educational Background Why did you select your college or university? What were your favorite and least favorite courses? Why? Tell me, what is your GPA? Where do/did you rank in your class? How has college prepared you for the job market? Describe your most rewarding college experience.
Work Experience Describe your most recent work experiences. What did you like or dislike about the experiences? What skills have you developed as a result of those experiences? How is your work experience relevant to our company? 44
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Give an example of when you worked well on a team. What role did you play? How do you prioritize competing responsibilities?
Job Preferences Do you have a geographical preference? Why? What ties do you have to this area? Where else are you interviewing? How long have you been looking for a job? Have any other companies offered you a job?
Employer Turn-offs I would be remiss if I didn’t share with you some of the things that really irritate interviewers during the interview process. While I know that none of you will ever have a need for these tips, I thought I should include them, just to be on the safe side: Not being familiar with the organization or the services the company provides. Admitting that you don’t know anything about the company. Mispronouncing the name of the company or organization. Appearing arrogant, unenthusiastic, or sluggish. Appearing uninterested and causing the interviewer to drag or pull the information from you. Giving simple yes or no answers. Nodding or shaking your head to show agreement or disagreement. 45
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Asking questions, because you know it is the appropriate thing to do, then disregarding the answers. Asking questions that could have been easily answered simply by doing your homework and conducting thorough research on the company. Appearing as if you are reaching for answers or making them up as you go. Remember, it is critical to have a baseline of good answers to common questions. Be prepared for your interview because the competition is tough.
7.
Asking Questions If you haven’t figured it out by now, you actually get a say in where
and for whom you want to work. Yes, the beauty of the interview process is that it works both ways. Asking questions gives you an opportunity to put the interviewer in the hot seat. Even though at this point, your primary goal in life is to land a job, don’t pass up the opportunity to learn more about the company that could possibly be your employer. Believe it or not, you can actually impress the interviewer with the questions you ask, just as easily as you can with the responses you give. If you are genuinely interested in the position and you know you want the job, don’t you dare pass up this opportunity, because the last thing you want to do is send a message to the interviewer that you were just going through the interview motions. Three to five questions are usually sufficient. Questions should be insightful and set you apart from the rest of the crowd. Asking the right questions demonstrates that you’ve done your homework and can articulate how your career goals will align with the company’s organizational goals. There are a host of questions that you can ask that will help inform your final
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decision, should you be offered a position. Consider asking the following questions to learn more about the company and the benefits it provides: What career advancement or opportunities are available for people who begin in this position? How would you describe the management values of this company/ organization? Is financial support afforded to employees who want to continue their education? Or does the company offer educational reimbursement? If so, is there a waiting period before being eligible to apply? What are your expectations of the candidate who is selected for this position? Is this company supportive of alternative work schedules, also known as flextime, or some form of a flexible work schedule? If so, what options are available? Can you tell me anything about the person I would be reporting to if selected for the job? Where does this position fall in the organizational structure? Is there any travel involved with this position? How often are performance reviews/evaluations given? How much autonomy would I have in this position? Remember, time may be limited, so choose your questions carefully and be prepared to ask the most important questions first.
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8.
Closing the Interview After all the questions have been asked and all the responses have been
given, the interview will come to a close. If you have done your homework and prepared properly for the interview, your confidence level should be extremely high right about now. The closing segment of an interview is the perfect opportunity to reaffirm your interest in the position and how your contributions will be an added value to the company, almost like tying a pretty little bow on the package. This is also a good time to ask when you might hear about the status of your application and whom you should call if you have any additional follow-up questions. A word to wise: After each interview, while it’s fresh in your mind, be sure to write down the names of the people you met, their position, and any information about the company and/or the position you learned during the interview. Your Contact/Interview Log (Appendix E) will prove to be very useful. Whatever you do, don’t rely on your memory. Trust me, it may not work when you need it to because you’ll be gathering the same information from many different companies at the same time. Keeping this information organized and easily accessible should be one of your main priorities. Collection and documentation of this information will help you in the long run if you are called back for a second interview, or when making comparisons between companies.
9.
Following Up After the Interview Whatever you do, never underestimate the power of a thank-you note.
Contrary to popular belief, thank-you notes are still a very important part of the job search process and should be sent within one or two days after the interview. Thank-you notes are not optional; they are expected and reflect good social graces or good manners. Thank-you notes are a professional courtesy and are appropriate after every interview. Just because we live in a world heavily dependent upon electronic communication and devices, I
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am here to tell you that a quick e-mail is not a replacement for a thank-you note, and could actually send the wrong message. As a college student (or soon-to-be-graduating college student), it may be difficult for you to fathom the impact that a simple handwritten thank-you note can have on an employer, so let me give you the 411. Thank-you notes have the potential to grab an employer’s attention, particularly if the employer has narrowed the hiring process or decision down to the top three or four candidates. Think about it, you could be one of the three or four candidates, so don’t take any chances. Thank-you notes can be handwritten or typed, whichever method you are most comfortable with. While handwritten thank-you notes are deemed more personal, if your handwriting is not completely legible (like perhaps mine), then opt for typing the note. If sending a handwritten note, consider purchasing a pack of thank-you cards that look professional and are blank on the inside. Stay away from cards that are fancy and have flashy colors. You can usually find thank-you cards in packs of ten at any retail store (i.e., Wal-Mart, Target, or CVS) for less than $2.50. That’s about 25 cents per card, so there is simply no excuse for not sending one. Whether sending a handwritten or typed note, always use good-quality paper and the preferred colors white, cream, or ivory to get the best results. The interviewer has probably interviewed a number of different people for the position, so you want the employer to remember who you are and qualities you brought to the interview. Bottom line: You want to refresh the interviewer’s memory of why he or she should hire you. So, your note should include something about the interview that will enable the employer to make a connection to you. The body of the note should include your sincere thanks for the interview, restate your interest in the position and company, and remind the interviewer of how your personality and qualifications are a good fit for the organization. Close the note by gently reminding the employer of the next stage of the hiring process shared with
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you during the interview, and that you will look forward to hearing from him or her soon. (See Appendix F – Sample Thank-you Letter.) If you have not heard anything about the job you applied for after two weeks or so, it is appropriate to send a letter indicating your continued interest in the position. The interviewer may be having difficulty deciding between the top three or four candidates, and your letter could make a favorable difference. Although rude and somewhat inconsiderate, there will always be those employers who will not inform you of their hiring decision. If no one contacts you within four to six weeks of your interview, presume that there will be no offer. This is the part of the interview process where having tough skin really pays off. The simple truth is that you may land the first job for which you interviewed; however, on the other hand, it may take a couple of solid interviews before landing your first job. Don’t let this get you down. Suck it up and get ready for the next interview, and believe me, there will be other interviews. The ideal job could be right around the corner, so you don’t have time to worry or sulk about the employer who missed out on a great opportunity… YOU! Whether accepting or declining a position, number ten of the “Ten Fundamentals of Effective Interviewing” will help you when you reach that milestone.
10.
Accepting or Declining the Position
It is very rare that you will have to accept or decline an offer on the spot. Employers understand that the interview process is a two-way street and that you will be on the interview circuit over the next several months. Your goal is to treat each interview like your first and get all the pertinent information you need to weigh your options and make the best possible decision. If you never had an opportunity to discuss salary, this is the appropriate time to do so. Whatever you do, do not accept a position without knowing what your annual salary will be. If you have been offered a position but the employer did not indicate when you should get back 50
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to them, ask the employer for the time you think you need. One week is usually appropriate; however, if you ask for an extensive period of time to make your decision, this may be misconstrued as having no real interest in the job or that you are mulling over other potential job offers. When deciding whether to accept or decline a position, just remember to accept gracefully and decline respectfully. Accepting an offer: A verbal job offer is exactly what it is — a verbal offer. Always remember — and never forget — that no offer is final until you have it in writing. To facilitate this process, once you receive a verbal offer, you should forward the offering company a formal acceptance letter to confirm your position. The letter should send a message of appreciation to the company for selecting you for the position and it should also express excitement for your new job. Inclusion of the following in your acceptance letter will help you get off to a good start. (See Appendix G — Sample Acceptance Letter.) Acceptance of the terms and conditions of the employer’s job offer, which should have been outlined in the written offer. Give a specific start date. This date may have already been negotiated during the verbal offer. Now is your time to confirm that date. Give thanks to those who were involved in the hiring process. This is where your interview notes will come in extremely handy. Don’t lose them. Express your willingness to complete any preparatory items prior to your start date. This will almost always include drug testing and, in some cases, some form of psychological and/or aptitude evaluations.
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Convey enthusiasm and excitement for your new job. Highlight some of the most enjoyable aspects of the job. Let your new employer know that your energy level is high and that you intend to bring that same energy level with you to the job. Declining an offer: There will be a time during the course of your professional career when you have interviewed for a job, weighed all the options, and determined that a particular job may not be in your best interest. Should this happen, you have to handle your decline professionally and with poise. Declines are extremely important because you never know whom you might need or meet in the future. Even if you had a previous conversation with the employer about your decision to decline the position, it is professional etiquette to confirm your decision through a formal declination letter. Your letter should be brief but it should also express gratitude to the employer for taking the time to interview and consider you for the job. The following pointers should be included in your letter. (See Appendix H – Sample Declination Letter.) Include a reason for your decision. This is optional but it may make your decision to decline the position more palatable for the employer. Indicate the kind of employment you are looking for. By doing so, you are gingerly informing the employer that your skills and career goals at this point in your life may be a mismatch for the requirements of the position. Thank those involved in the hiring process. Again, your interview notes will definitely come in handy so keep them at arm’s length. Be brief. Generally, two succinct paragraphs should do it.
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Thank the employer for his or her consideration. Remember, a little gratitude goes a long way. Close with a positive note. Wishing the employer continued success usually works well. Post Rejection Follow-up: Notification that you did not get the job you really wanted can be a hard pill to swallow. I’ve been down that road a couple of times myself. However, if you really thought that your skills were a perfect match for the job and you really got a good feel for the company, there is a way for you to stay in the game by sending a post-rejection follow-up letter. Let’s face it, circumstances change and your never know — the person who was selected for the job you wanted may later prove to be a mismatch for the position, or other opportunities that align to your career goals may very well exist within the organization. While there is no guarantee that this approach will yield results, a postrejection letter can ensure you stay in the game if, of course, the employer also feels you are a good match for the company. (See Appendix I – Sample Post-rejection Letter.)
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Chapter 6 Landing the Job “You put all of the necessary ingredients into baking the pie… go ahead, have a slice.” - Sallie L. Ham This is the moment you have been waiting for: After crossing all the t’s and dotting all the i’s, you have landed your first job. Congratulations, this is your moment to shine! By the way, this is not a dress rehearsal… it’s the real thing. The time and effort you’ve invested during the earlier chapters really paid off. But now the real work begins…but so does the fun. I am so excited for you I can hardly finish this chapter. Now is the time for you to do all the things you told the employer you would do if you got the job. Bottom line: Your words and your actions must be congruent, and your dedication and commitment on the job will be extremely critical to your success. Employers know that there will be a learning curve, and in many cases, this may be your first time actually working in a professional environment and receiving a corporate paycheck. However, you now have an enormous responsibility on your shoulders to be productive and add value to the company that considered all the things you brought to the table and gave you this opportunity. There are a number of essential basics you need to consider as you begin your professional journey. Yes, it is good to learn from your mistakes, but it is also good to learn from the mistakes of others. I have been in the professional work force for over twenty years, and while even I still have a lot to learn, I have learned a lot. As a result, I’ve seen it; I’ve lived it; and I 54
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have survived it. I feel very privileged to be able to share my experiences with you, because landing a job is only the first step to your professional career journey. Being prepared and knowing what to expect as you enter the corporate work force will give you an advantage that will yield high returns in the long run. After seriously pondering all the qualities that made me the professional I am, I focused on the most important qualities that had — and continue to have — the most impact on my professional career. As you read on, think about how you can channel your energy towards establishing professional goals and objectives that will enhance your overall development. If you maintain high personal and professional standards and integrity, I guarantee you will achieve your goals. As you think about where you are and the qualities you possess, consider the following attributes and assess your skill level in these areas.
A.
Effective Communication Effective communication — both oral and written — is probably one
of the most important skills you must possess to be successful in today’s competitive job market. No matter how great of a communicator you think you are, there is always room for improvement. Below are several essential characteristics of effective communication: Clear and Concise Communication: Your ability to come across in a clear and concise manner will directly impact how well those with whom you are communicating understand you. This may sound like I am stating the obvious, but there are some folks who seem to think that superfluous language makes them appear to be very intelligent. Now, I am not saying that having a flattering and broad vocabulary will hurt you; however, you have to know when to break out the big words and when to keep it plain and simple. If the person with whom you are communicating does not understand you, not only have you wasted someone’s valuable 55
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time, you may also appear to be incompetent, which is the exact opposite of what you were trying to accomplish. Basically, you have failed to effectively communicate. Active Listening – Active listening plays a huge role in your ability to be an effective communicator. Listening and hearing are two totally different things. Actively listening to a person the first time will lead to a more productive conversation and you will likely spend less time repeating yourself; therefore, get your point across the first time around. I once knew a young lady who constantly tried to finish other people’s sentences instead of listening to what people were trying to say. Not only was her behavior extremely annoying, it was also very rude. Her inability to effectively listen before reacting became increasingly problematic and resulted in numerous miscommunications, which negatively impacted her overall productivity. Communication Style – Your ability to adjust your communication style to fit different personality types will make you a more flexible member of an organization. Consider for a moment that people come in all shapes and sizes, and those same people have different behaviors and communication preferences. Your ability to adjust your style to fit the person’s reception mode may be the difference between having your thoughts and ideas heard and not having them heard at all. One-on-One Communication – One-on-one is probably the most preferred method of communication for most organizations, as it allows the opportunity to build relationships and trust. It also gives the person communicating the advantage of observing how well he or she is being understood because a person’s body language can be very revealing.
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Being Direct – When communicating, make a concerted effort to be direct and to get right down to the point. Pontificating only irritates people and wastes their time. If you have a hard time getting to the meat of the discussion, the person to whom you are speaking may tune you out before you even get your point across. Trust me, that’s not a good thing.
The following helpful hints will help you improve your day-to-day communication on the job: Be confident in your ability to effectively communicate the knowledge and expertise you bring to the table. Be yourself and know your business area when communicating and your confidence level will significantly increase. Develop your own style of communicating. Whether writing a quick e-mail to a co-worker or formal report to your manager, always use the spell check. There is no excuse for errors, particularly in a formal document when there are tools available to prevent those mishaps from happening. If you want to gain credibility, make sure your communications are accurate and on par. Practice your writing skills every chance you get. You will find that people are often evaluated and judged on how well they can communicate. Written communication is high on the list. Volunteer for writing assignments that will challenge your current writing skills or consider taking a professional writing course. Don’t be afraid to let a trusted friend or co-worker review your work, especially if the distribution is wide-ranging. Better to be safe than sorry. Effective writing skills will benefit you greatly throughout the course of your career.
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Electronic communication is sweeping the corporate work force by leaps and bounds. However, professionalism should always be at the top of your list. Studies have shown that for optic ease, fonts such as Arial, Times New Roman, or Verdana are recommended. Font size should be either twelve or thirteen points — large enough to read from a distance but not too big as to cause strain to the eyes. Don’t use all caps and remember to use the spell check. Inevitably, professionals will — at some point in their careers — be called upon to make a formal presentation or briefing. While you may not desire to make public speaking a primary part of your career, effective public speaking is a fundamental success factor for professionals and your career will greatly benefit from mastery of this skill. Studies have shown that effectiveness and capability as a speaker were found to be stronger factors in advancing through the ranks than length of education, experience, or career discipline. However, if you want to be an effective briefer or public speaker, you have to practice and have confidence in your abilities. The more you practice, the more confident you will become. Whether briefing to a small or large audience, at a meeting or to a team, developing effective briefing skills and techniques will enable you to deliver well-thought-out briefings and presentations that get the attention of your audience and make you more competitive and valued as an employee. Let me digress for a minute to tell you that it didn’t take long for me to realize the importance of the art of public speaking early on in my own professional journey. I vividly recall my apprehension when it came down to public speaking. I sometimes felt a little nervous and a bit anxious about getting up in front of a bunch of strangers and presenting material on a certain topic. However, I clearly saw the advantages and the opportunities that came along with possessing and demonstrating the art of public speaking. I decided that if I wanted to get a piece of the pie, I had to 58
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move outside my comfort zone and do the unthinkable: become the expert on my topic and present it to a selected audience. The more I briefed or presented, the better I got, and less uncomfortable it became. The ability to effectively speak in front of an audience can be intimidating; however, I have found that people who possess the ability to effectively communicate by way of public speaking stand out from the crowd and, in many cases, rise as leaders within the organization. To tell you the truth, I still get a little nervous at times, but through practice, communication training, and examining the briefing styles and techniques of others whom I admire, I have learned to become an effective briefer and use my adrenaline to my advantage. I have also learned that the more comfortable I am with myself, the more effective my presentation. Also, knowing your audience is key to your delivery. Consider taking briefing courses to improve the quality, effectiveness, and impact of your briefings and presentations. Also, if you are not familiar with the software PowerPoint, get acquainted. PowerPoint is a wonderful tool for creating small- and large-scale briefings that are professional looking and well-designed. Your audience will appreciate a high-quality, well-designed briefing and you will shine. If you determine that public speaking is not your thing, that’s okay too. Remember, everything begins and ends with you. You really are your own career development manager. Last but not least, in written communication, use tact and diplomacy. Don’t send an e-mail or type a memo to someone when you are frustrated or angry, as emotions may drive the tone of the communication and send a negative message. I know plenty of folks who shot off e-mails and Lotus notes to people in anger or in frustration, only to regret it afterwards. Remember, written documentation, once sent, is on the record and can be referenced in the future. Always reread written communication to ensure the words and tone are appropriate.
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B.
Positive Attitude There is an old cliché that says “Your attitude almost always
determines your altitude in life.” A positive attitude means everything and I cannot stress enough how having a positive attitude about your personal and professional life can make a huge difference in your overall success. A positive attitude is how we perceive experiences and situations in our lives, and we all have the power to view life with a positive or negative attitude. I have personally witnessed the negative attitudes of people in the workplace and how those same negative attitudes have fatally wounded their opportunity for career progression. A negative attitude is debilitating and it can spread like an infectious disease. If you go through life thinking that someone owes you something or that you are entitled to certain privileges, you are setting yourself up for major disappointments. People with a negative attitude often believe that the world is out to get them or expect that things won’t or aren’t supposed to work out for them. Interestingly enough, people have often asked me why I am always in good spirits and ready to offer up a kind word or a friendly smile. Well, it’s not a mystery: it’s called a positive attitude! And the best part about having a positive attitude is that it’s free…it doesn’t cost a thing. You see, I am a firm believer that people with a positive attitude will see and find opportunities that others simply will not. Now, don’t get me wrong — I have my share of ups and downs, and my trials and challenges are right up there with the best of them. However, I believe that if you think positive, positive things will happen. I have also learned firsthand that the difference between a positive attitude and a negative attitude can very well mean the difference between success and failure; thus, I choose to be positive. Now, let me deviate for a moment to share with you a thoughtprovoking story that one of my colleagues shared with me. The story stuck with me for a while, even through the conclusion of this book, so I thought that must have been a sign for me to share it with you so that you, too, might benefit. The story involved a young man — whom I’ll call Jarrod — 60
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who received a full basketball scholarship to a well-known college. This young man was extremely talented. I guess you could say “the brother had game and he knew it.” Unfortunately, he took that same “I know I got game and you know it too” attitude with him to college. Needless to say, it wasn’t very long before he started having conflict with the coach and other members of the team. As talented as he was, he never gave anyone else a chance to compliment him about his skills; rather he praised himself and thought that everyone was supposed to do the same. Sadly, this young man lost sight of the fact that there is no “I” in the word “team.” As a result of his attitude — coupled with other academic challenges — he lost his scholarship. Furthermore, his perception of himself (you know, the “I know I got game and you know it too” attitude), eliminated any other prospect for him to be accepted by another college. You see, as talented as this young man was, he let his poor attitude ruin his opportunity for success. For me, the most difficult part of this story is all the wasted talent that could have flourished to be or do something great. If you display a negative attitude, you could be labeled as bad news, and as we all know, bad news travels fast. So I say to you with all sincerity, don’t let a negative attitude block your blessings. Sometimes, opportunity only knocks once. Will you be ready? Now let’s focus on ways to foster a positive attitude so that being positive is a part of your daily life: View a challenging situation as an opportunity to solve the problem rather than surrendering to it. Be proactive and look for positive solutions to challenging situations. Now is the time to put your creative thinking to good use. Forget about the “shoulda, coulda, wouldas.” Don’t hold on to useless baggage that can prevent you from moving forward and achieving your goals — it will only weigh you down. There are people still holding on to past failures, missed opportunities, or feelings of being wronged that prevent them from focusing 61
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of the positive aspects of life and moving forward. Remember, if you learn to let go of regret or disappointment, you have a wonderful opportunity to positively change your life. Substitute negative thoughts and feelings with positive ones, particularly about yourself, your work, and your skills. Steer clear of people who are negative…negativity is contagious and folk who are negative love to spread it. Make every effort to surround yourself with people who are positive and you will find it much easier to stay focused on the positive things in life. Expect a bump in the road from time to time — that’s reality. Every day will not be filled with peaches and cream. The corporate work force will challenge you in ways you may have never been challenged. Having a positive attitude may not always solve the problem — but it will definitely make the problem easier to manage. When negative thoughts begin to surface, consider venting to a trusted friend or family member. Better yet, consider writing your frustrations or the situation in a journal. Follow up by writing plans for resolving the situation. While I do have a trusted person with whom I can share my frustration, journaling is my preferred method. Give yourself a reasonable amount of time to deal with the issue, and then leave it in the past. Like my mama used to say, “Once you have done everything in your power to deal with the matter, shut the window, close the blinds, and move forward.” Believe me, it really works! If you have a chip on your shoulder, shake it off. Carrying around a chip can be an emotionally crippling habit and is very unproductive. Life is too precious to waste a single day, so deal with the chip and get on with life. 62
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Remember, people want to work with and be around other positive people. Focus on the positive aspects in your life; celebrate your accomplishments, and shape your perspective. Is the glass half empty or half full? I know what I would say. What about you?
C.
Negative Energy While writing this chapter, I started thinking about my first real
corporate job and how easy it is to get drawn into all the negative influences that can exist on the job if you are not focused. Now that I am a little older and a lot wiser, I can say with all honesty that no matter where you go or where you work, negative influences are alive and well; so get focused, put on your invisible suit of armor, and be prepared for any negative energy that may come your way. You should know that negative energy is very fluid and can take many shapes and sizes. The most common forms are complaining, gossiping, and making excuses. Needless complaining, partaking in gossip of any kind, or making excuses about why you can’t deliver results or come to work on time will gain you plenty of negative attention that will impact your ability to be a top performer. Bottom line: It will not make a good impression with your new employer. Remember, you have to be at the top of your game at all times, and your performance on the job is critical to your success and future with the company. That said, I’d like to take a moment to break down the simple truth about how complaining, gossiping, and making excuses on the job can impede career progression and your ability to be a high performer. Please read on.
D.
Complaining Complaining is counterproductive, has no room in the workplace,
and frankly, no one wants to hear it. If there is one thing that annoys an employer to no end, it is to have an employee complaining about his work, 63
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his co-workers, or the work environment, especially if the complaints are unwarranted and unfounded. You are not in Kansas anymore. You’re in the big leagues, so act like it. You will be working with other professionals in a very competitive work environment. We all have portions of our work responsibilities that we may not particularly like; that comes with the territory. The best advice I can give to you is to suck it up, because we all have to pay our dues before we sing the blues. You are no exception. Further, complaining may send the message that you are not a team player, and negative impressions can be difficult to undo. In contrast, legitimate complaints should be directed to your supervisor or manager, immediately.
E.
Gossiping Like my mama use to say “If you ain’t got nothing good to say, then
don’t say nothing.” This is the best advice my mama could have given me and the best advice I will pass onto to you. For the past twenty years of my professional career, I have followed this advice wherever I have been employed. Gossiping is contagious and you will find that there are people who feed, breed, and live off of it. Oftentimes, people have a hard time running their own race because they are so busy running the race of everyone else. Those same people will talk negatively about other people who are making every effort to be a contributor and professionally advance, simply because they don’t have the initiative or desire to rise to the occasion. Gossip usually carries a negative connotation. People choose to spread rumors and engage in gossip because it makes them look good, feel better, or casts an unfavorable light on another individual. While it may make the gossiper feel better, gossiping can also do irreparable damage. You will quickly find that misery loves company and you can see the signals a mile ahead. When you see it coming, stand your ground and don’t give in. You have a lot at stake. I trust that you will know when it’s time to cut certain folks loose…and you will — at some point in you career —have to cut some folks loose. By the 64
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way, people quickly realize who they can and cannot gossip with, so be firm and refuse to spread or listen to gossip.
F.
Excuses Leave the excuses at the door, please. This is the real world. While
your professional growth and development are important to your employer, meeting the company’s mission goals and objectives are equally, if not more important to your employer. As a manager, I can honestly tell you that employees who constantly have excuses for not delivering on time or coming to work on time usually do not advance too far in their careers and their credibility is diminished, as you might imagine. Don’t get me wrong; employers are genuinely concerned about an employee’s welfare. However, excuses like “I couldn’t come to work on time because I locked my keys in my car” or “I couldn’t deliver my report on time because my boyfriend and I had a fight and I didn’t get to come into work until late” really won’t cut it. Even calling in sick once or twice a week creates a negative perception about your ability to be an effective employee. If you have a medical condition, inform your employer upon your arrival. Otherwise, you will be labeled as an employee with excessive absenteeism and career progression may be limited. Ever hear of the phrase “Time is money?” It’s true. You have a responsibility and people are counting on you to do your best and deliver results. Don’t be just a warm body taking up space, and don’t give people a reason to place you in a certain category — called stereotyping. Companies are overcrowded with people doing just enough to get by — trust me, I know a few of these people. Be committed to your job and be committed to being a top performer and when the time comes that you do fall short — and you will, because we are all human — talk to your manager or supervisor and be honest with him or her about the circumstance. I can assure you that you will be respected and appreciated for your honesty, and you will receive the support you need from management. 65
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G.
Work Ethics Now that you know what not to bring to the job, there are five primary
work ethics I live by that have proven to be effective and have helped me to stand out from the crowd throughout my entire professional career. As I began putting my work ethics down on paper, to analyze their importance and impact to my life, I realized that once you establish good work ethics, you will carry those same ethics with you wherever you go. As I traced my career back to my first job — which was a hard task but a necessary one for the purposes of writing this book — I was convinced that my successes, achievements, and accomplishments where largely due to the work ethics I have lived by for the past twenty years. Having said all that, after getting over my amazement that five very simple but powerful work ethics literally made me the professional I am today, I became very excited at the opportunity to share them with you. I call them the “Five Bilities That Lead to Success,” and I am living proof that demonstration of the “Bilities” really does lead to success. (Just so you know, it is by mere coincidence that they all end with the suffix “-bility” but you have to admit, that’s pretty cool.) 1. Accountability – Take responsibility for your actions and know that employers are looking for employees who can stand behind the decisions they make and present sound judgment and reasoning for their actions. Don’t point fingers or shift the blame somewhere else. If you make a mistake, and you will — we all do — own up to the mistake and be prepared to fix it. Come to the table with solutions rather than excuses. Remember, there aren’t too many mistakes in life that can’t be corrected. 2. Capability – Employers want to know you are capable of performing, producing, and developing new skills that will continue to add value to the organization. Yes, we all come with tools in our tool belt; however, in order to grow and become a well-rounded professional, you have to develop new skills and 66
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add them to your arsenal, which ultimately makes you more competitive. Are you capable of thinking outside the box and growing above and beyond your current state? Acquisition of new skills is an ever-evolving and continual process. Keep at it. 3. Credibility – Credibility is gained through the consistent and timely delivery of accurate information and demonstration of integrity of the highest level. If you say it, you must be able to deliver and defend it, which builds trust. Credibility builds reputations. Too many retractions and apologies for the delivery or communication of inaccurate or erroneous information or deliverables will result in loss of credibility, which can be very difficult to regain. 4. Dependability – Employers want to know that you can be relied upon to do what you say you are going to do. As I said before, your words and your actions must be congruent. Be a person who delivers quality results — on time. Don’t make excuses and don’t let people down when you have given them your word. Reputations are built on character. Having character is what makes us who we are. 5. Flexibility – Don’t be too rigid or unyielding. If you can’t work through ambiguity without losing your perspective, you may have a difficult time working in a fast-paced environment where the requirements and demands are ever-changing. Go with the flow and don’t sweat the small stuff. Change is constant, and unexpected change is inevitable. As a professional, you have to learn to manage, embrace, and gain knowledge from change. Remember, change is not always a bad thing. In contrast, the same concept holds true if you develop poor work ethics. Invariably, you will carry those same poor ethics with you wherever you go. If you think that you can turn your work ethics on and off at will, you are fooling yourself. It doesn’t work like that. If you are routinely late 67
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to class, you will probably be late getting to work several times a week. If you are turning in your assignments late, you will probably be behind schedule with submitting reports or deliverables to your boss. As a result, you will stand out from the crowd, but in a non-productive manner. As you know, in many cases, people are preceded by their reputation, so establish yourself as a professional by developing and demonstrating good work ethics while you are in college and when you make the leap to the corporate work force. If you do, I guarantee that your successes, accomplishments, and achievements will be abundant and career opportunities will come looking for you.
H.
Gaining Work Experience Aside from earning a paycheck to make a living, gaining work
experience is one of the primary reasons for seeking and landing a job. As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, gaining relevant work experience is key to career progression. Don’t make the mistake of working for a couple of months and switching jobs without a valid reason. Jobhopping does not particularly look good on the résumés of students with little or no work experience. In fact, job-hopping can send a message that you are irresponsible and have poor work ethics. Now obviously, if your work situation is unbearable and the working conditions are not conducive to a supportive and productive work environment, you absolutely need to find a new job. However, keep in mind that your future employer will inquire about your short-term departure, and you need to have a legitimate reason to offer or you may find yourself beating the pavement again, only longer. Let me digress for a moment to tell you about one of my favorite cousins — Richard — who is no longer with us today. Richard was the type of guy who was bright, articulate, and full of personality. However, he had one slight flaw — he was a chronic job-hopper; he changed jobs at least once every three or four months. One year in particular, Richard 68
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changed jobs at least five times. Personally, I would have hated to be his tax accountant. Worst of all, Richard never had any legitimate reason for quitting his job. When he was asked why he quit a job, he always said “They didn’t understand me,” or “They were always trying to tell me what to do,” or “I wasn’t feeling that place.” Now granted, I didn’t have the same mentor mindset that I have today or I would have told him to get a grip and grow up. But twenty years ago, all I could do was marvel at all the outlandish excuses he came up with for quitting his jobs. Needless to say, as time went on, it became increasingly difficult for Richard to find a decent job. When he did find a job, the level of responsibility decreased considerably. Unfortunately, because Richard’s résumé reflected that of a job-hopper, he was viewed as irresponsible and unreliable. Richard never became quite the professional he wanted to become and he never reached his full potential, and this guy had a lot of potential. Furthermore, because Richard did not always leave on good terms, he was not able use his past employers as a reference, which always sends up a red flag. Typically, it takes about two years to gain relevant work experience and develop skills and expertise. Don’t short-change yourself by leaving a job too soon. In many cases, after you have gained solid work experience, you may be considered for a job of increasing responsibility within the company, and promotion to the next level may be closer than you think. Remember, you went through all the effort of landing the job; you owe it to yourself to acquire as much knowledge as you can, which you will greatly benefit from in the long run.
I.
Continual Education In order to keep up with the demands of a fast-changing corporate
environment, professional development is key to survival in the job market for today and in the future. Professional development is a never-ending, ongoing process. As you know, having a degree will definitely help to get your foot in the door, but continual learning and acquisition of new skills 69
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will ensure your professional longevity. In fact, your employer will likely expect you to be a continual learner in order to increase the value and expertise you bring to the company. Professional development comes in many shapes and sizes. While obtaining an advanced degree (i.e., graduate or doctoral) is certainly impressive and can improve your salary, increase your knowledge, and help you climb the corporate ladder, an advanced degree is not the only means of enriching your skills. In most cases, employers offer training opportunities to help employees keep current in their professional discipline. However, as an employee, you, too, have to take a proactive role in increasing your knowledge base to continue adding value to the company. Simply put, it is incumbent upon you to seek other opportunities to add to your tool belt, which may include: learning from other professionals in your field, seeking special projects that help build upon existing skills, getting out of your comfort zone to take on tasks that challenge your current skill level, reading a book on a particular subject, or attending a set of classes or seminars. On a personal note, I make it my business to attend at least two seminars or conferences and at least two classes per year, in addition to reading at least two books on the latest hot topics to keep current with new developments in my professional field. I also participate in other activities such as church functions, alumni events, and organizations such as the Black Executive Exchange Program that help reinforce certain leadership and organization skills. You should make it your business to use any and all resources to stay on top of your chosen field to continue to improve your skills and increase your knowledge each year. Remember, if you don’t keep up, you just might be left behind.
J.
Networking Ever heard anyone say “It’s not what you know but who you know?”
Well, I am here to tell you that in many cases, that phrase holds true, particularly in the corporate work force. Listen closely when I tell you 70
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that there is power in networking and the ability to network effectively is vital to your overall professional success. Effective networking is an important skill to learn and practice every chance you get. When it comes to networking, you never know who someone else knows, and many of the hard-to-find opportunities are found through networking. As you enter the professional work force, one of your goals should be to build a strong professional network, one that is inclusive and diverse. Diversity networking is critical, particularly for recent graduates because it allows you expand your connections beyond people who look, think, and have similar experiences like you. If there is no diversity in your networking circle, you could be missing out on valuable connections that could lead to a host of opportunities. Consider the following to build a strong and diverse networking base: Make an effort to build contacts with people who don’t look and sound like you but who are experts in their fields or disciplines. Remember, diversity is the key to building an effective networking circle and a good mix will also include people from different ages, professions, ethnic backgrounds, experiences, and expertise. Personally, I have made a concentrated effort to ensure that my networking circle is broad and diverse. I have made and continue to make connections with people from all walks of life and as a result, I have been exposed to a number of opportunities and I’ve been able to share some of those same opportunities with others. Communication is a key ingredient to networking. Practice your communication skills and be ready for any situation. Opportunities to network are plentiful, but you have to be ready to make the contact in a clear and concise manner, and at a moment’s notice. Attend professional conferences and seminars. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with people in attendance; your communication skills will come in very handy. The people you meet will amaze you, and what you can learn will be invaluable. 71
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Don’t overlook people with whom you believe you have nothing in common. Those are the people who can link you with contacts outside of your networking circle. Maintain good relationships with your contacts. A short e-mail or quick phone call are simple actions for sustaining relationships. Maintaining relationships will be extremely important as you go through your professional journey. I still maintain contact with people whom I met over twenty years ago when I first began my professional journey. To this day, I continue to share my contacts with others, and great opportunities for them have resulted. As you build your network, be sure to share as much as you receive. Networking works both ways. It’s not always what you can get out of the network, but also what you can contribute. Finally, be genuine and don’t expect anything in return. You will find thnat people really do want to help you advance in your career, but you have to be willing to do your part.
K.
Leadership Qualities Someone once told me that great leaders are born. While that may
be true, I know for a fact that leadership qualities can be learned. In my opinion, effective leaders evolve and develop through an ongoing process of self-evaluation, education, professional growth and development, and through the continual expansion and nurturing of leadership skills. Leadership skills, also referred to as leadership traits, are needed at every level in the organization. Whether or not you aspire to become a manager, development of leadership qualities is important as you climb the corporate ladder. In fact, you should begin developing leadership traits early in your career, and college is the perfect setting to foster this type of development. 72
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Leadership is basically all the things you do that affect the organization’s overall mission and the well-being of those with whom you work. All leaders are different and come with varying degrees of leadership skills and styles; however, studies have shown that effective leaders share common traits and qualities. Good leaders are influencers and serve as role models to the organization and community. Additionally, leadership qualities can be learned by taking appropriate leadership courses and attained by observing and emulating people in leadership positions. Based on my research, below are the top ten leadership qualities proven to be effective and yield positive results. 1. Honesty and Integrity – Honesty is self-explanatory and is right at the top of the list when it comes to effective leadership. The most effective leaders are honest even when being honest is very difficult and puts them on the opposite side of the fence. Integrity, as mentioned before, is the character of a person’s soul. Remember, integrity is who you are and the qualities and behaviors you demonstrate in your personal and professional life. Integrity is more than the expression of honesty…it is the evidence of respect. 2. Decisiveness – Some people are inherently decisive, and some people are not. Regardless of where you fall on the scale, decisiveness is an important ingredient of leadership. However, there is a difference between being inflexible and being consistent. The ability to be decisive can, in some cases, impact how a leader is perceived and received. As you go through your professional journey, evaluate your options and make the best decision based on the information provided and be prepared to stand by your decision. 3. Accountability – Remember the “Bilities” that lead to success I discussed earlier in this chapter? Well, as you might have suspected,
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accountability is also a common leadership trait. Effective leaders are willing to take risks. They also take responsibility for their actions and will defend their actions when necessary. Effective leaders don’t place blame on other people and they don’t point the finger at someone else. 4. Communication – Effective communication is an invaluable leadership trait that is critical for the success of any good leader. Leaders must be prepared to provide direction and reach out to large, diverse populations at a moment’s notice. That said, leaders must be able to get their point across with clarity and with the least amount of confusion. 5. Vision – Effective leaders are not only planning for the present but also setting goals and preparing for the future. Leaders must know where they are in order to know where they need to be and the path that will get them there. Bottom line: Good leaders are always looking ahead to fill in required gaps and are flexible enough to adjust goals and objectives, if and when necessary. 6. Tact – The tactful leader will be the successful leader. Good leaders must be able to communicate with others in a courteous and professional manner even when the conversation or discussion is contentious or debatable. Leaders must be able to handle even the most difficult and sensitive situations with diplomacy and tact. 7. Judgment – Leaders will always be required to exercise sound judgment. While it is important that a leader’s decision be based upon all the facts, there will be times when a leader’s decision will come down to a matter of common sense, instinct, and pure judgment. Most people call this a gut feeling. However, there is a difference between using good judgment and making a hasty decision.
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8. Empathy – Showing compassion and genuine concern for the welfare of other people is the sign of a true leader. Leaders must be able to think with their hearts, without letting emotions impact their decisions. 9. Interpersonal Skills – Effective leaders are able to comfortably interact with all levels of employees. Good leaders are charismatic and pleasant. Leaders who have a likeable personality are the leaders people will likely want to follow and support. 10. Enthusiasm/Motivation – Enthusiasm, coupled with motivation is infectious and people look to their leader for both. The inspiration or motivation level of the organization is determined by the enthusiasm of the leader whether that enthusiasm level is high or low.
L.
Performance Evaluation and Feedback Performance evaluation and feedback are important to both the
employee and the employer. Most employers operate under some form of a performance management system, which is intended to increase employee contribution by helping employees better understand the organization’s business goals and linking the employee’s contributions to specific and attainable performance objectives. In fact, once you land your first corporate job, you will likely be evaluated at the end of ninety days, which is considered your grace period. After establishing specific performance objectives and measuring your progress using relevant performance standards, your manager will evaluate your overall performance. The evaluation will be based on how much you have learned, how you are contributing to the company’s goals, and how well you met your established performance objectives. After which, management will evaluate your performance and determine if your
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continued employment is in the best interest of the company. As long as you put your best foot forward, I am confident you will do fine. Aside from formal feedback you will receive as a result of your annual evaluation, you should also receive regular, informal feedback on your progress. Feedback is the process of constant, ongoing communication between you and your manager. It literally provides you with real-time reinforcement in which you can gauge your progress and stay on track. Feedback should be given often, and it should be honest, actionable, and constructive. Below are a few attributes of good feedback, poor feedback, and receiving feedback: Good Feedback: Is specific and actionable. Recognizes successes and/or accomplishments. Can take the form of an e-mail, a verbal compliment, a nonmonetary award (e.g., movie tickets or restaurant certificates), or a meeting to recognize an individual or team in front of peers. Can come from peers, leaders, or customers. Poor Feedback Comes too late. Usually after the reporting period or evaluation cycle. Is unconstructive, hurtful, or uses the wrong tone or words. Is not specific enough about what an employee needs to do to improve his or her performance to make a greater contribution to the organization.
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Receiving Feedback Be open-minded and receive feedback with a positive attitude, even if the feedback isn’t everything you want to hear. Be considerate. Listen to the feedback being given before jumping to conclusions. Remember your active listening skills, and always be ready to use them. Until proven otherwise, presume the person giving the feedback has your best interest at heart, and genuinely wants to help you improve your performance. Don’t be afraid to ask questions to gain clarity. Your tone should be one of concern rather one of defense. If by chance you feel defensive about the feedback you are receiving, remember to use diplomacy and tact when addressing your concerns. I have personally been the receiver and giver of feedback for most of my professional career — both formal and informal. As the receiver of feedback, I can say with all honesty that the feedback I’ve received — whether constructive or unconstructive — made me a more aware, effective, and well-rounded professional. Because of my positive attitude, I have always been able to use the feedback to my advantage. I vividly recall a feedback session where I was the recipient. While it was apparent the feedback was inconsistent with what I understood to be the areas of interest, I listened and didn’t immediately jump to conclusions. When the giver of my feedback concluded, I went into an inquiring mode to highlight my concerns and receive clarity on several major points. It worked, and I believe my approach helped put the giver of my feedback in a receptive mode where my concerns could really be heard. Remember, you do not need to be afraid to ask questions if you need answers.
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On the other hand, as the giver of feedback, I have seen some very interesting behaviors from my recipients when the feedback was not what they wanted to hear. Sometimes, it was not always pretty. My goal, when giving feedback, is to remain focused, be honest, and provide constructive and actionable feedback. Interestingly enough, I recall one feedback session in which the employee thanked me profusely for being so honest and open about the feedback process. The employee went on to say that I was the first person to provide concrete, constructive feedback that could be used to address specific development areas. I was totally shocked that the employee had been with the company more than thirteen years and had never been given constructive feedback. Do you recall the leadership trait I shared with you call honesty? Let me refresh your memory: “The most effective leaders are honest even when being honest is very difficult and puts you on the opposite side of the fence.” Remember, you may not always hear what you want to hear or what you think you should hear, but you have to be a professional about the feedback process if you want to grow as a professional. The best part about feedback is that it works both ways. While you get pointers on improving your performance, you also get an opportunity to discuss any impediments that are keeping you from reaching your full potential. Feedback really is a win-win situation. Lastly, you should be able to request formal or informal feedback at any time. If you are the recipient of feedback that is not constructive, ask the person giving the feedback to reformulate their comments to be more constructive. The clearer you are with how well you are meeting your established objectives, the better able you are to contribute to the organization’s overall mission.
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Chapter 7 Ingredients for Success: Initiative, Motivation, Confidence, Integrity, Mentoring, and Professional Attire “The difference between a successful person and other people is not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will.” In contrast to the negative work ethics as mentioned in Chapter 6 — complaining, gossiping and making excuses — character traits such as initiative, motivation, confidence, and integrity will make your transition into the corporate work force seamless and career progression attainable. As I tell all the students and adults I mentor, success is not something that is given to you, it is something that you have to work for. That said, knowing firsthand how these character traits are elements for success and how they can positively impact your career, I feel compelled to elaborate, just a little: 1. Initiative: You may raise an eyebrow when I tell you that in many cases, demonstration of initiative can take your career further than any perfect report you may produce. Obviously, delivering a quality product is important and ties directly to your overall performance. However, employers want to know that their employees are eager to learn and want to contribute to the company. That said, make every effort to show up for work on time and display a “can do” attitude — every day. Now don’t get me wrong: we all have bad days every now and then. But don’t let your bad days outweigh 79
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your good days. Don’t expect brownie points for simply doing your job. You get paid for that. Employers are looking for employees who go above and beyond the call of duty and who perform productively on a consistent basis. Go the extra mile and do more than what is required of you, and do it without having to be asked. Initiative is about taking action without having to be spoon-fed every step of the way. Let me take a moment to tell you about my daughter, Nadja, who was having a difficult time finding a part-time job a couple of years ago – precollege. After she unsuccessfully beat the pavement for about a month, as luck would have it, I came across a potential opportunity I knew would be right up Nadja’s alley. It just so happened there was a part-time opening at a popular day care center, and based on the conversation I had with the director, she asked if Nadja could come in for an interview. After giving Nadja a few tips, she was well prepared for what was soon to be her first real interview. After arriving at the office, Nadja was asked to have a seat in the waiting room. The director assured Nadja that she would be with her momentarily; however, she took a lot longer than expected. Nadja began getting restless and noticed that a teacher working in the toddler section of the center really had her hands full. Without hesitating, Nadja went into the room, told the teacher who she was, and offered her assistance. The teacher welcomed the help and Nadja immediately went into action — from picking up toys to changing diapers to wiping up little runny noses. When the director came looking for Nadja, she was pleasantly surprised to find her working and she wasn’t even officially on the clock. Needless to say, after the brief interview, she got the job, right then and there. When Nadja called me to share the good news, she thanked me for prepping and giving her all my little helpful tips. When I saw the director later that week, she told me how impressed she was with Nadja’s positive attitude and that it was Nadja’s display of initiative that won her the job.
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Remember, always give people more than they expect to get. You will be pleasantly surprised at the outcome. 2. Motivation: Motivation is sometimes described as the inner force that drives behavior. The passion of one’s inner force to accomplish a task or goal determines the level of motivation. In my opinion, motivation is the force that causes people to deliver on what they say. An individual who is motivated is more likely to be fervent about setting goals in an effort to reach new levels of accomplishment and success. Word to the wise: Nine times out of ten, employers will pay more attention to what you do than to what you say you are going to do. In a nutshell, motivated individuals are assertive, they exude enthusiasm, and they stand out from the crowd. I think it’s fitting to tell you a story about my son, Brandin, and his level of self-motivation. Upon turning fifteen, Brandin wanted nothing more than to get a job. Unfortunately, all of the establishments he applied to had an age requirement of sixteen. A week or two later, he ran into one of his friends who was wearing a fast food uniform. After learning that the fast food chain was hiring fifteen-year-olds, Brandin asked me to give him a few interviewing pointers and decided to submit an application. When he turned in his application, he asked for the manager’s name and if he would be able to speak to him about his application. Unfortunately, the manager was out of the office but would be in the office the following day around 11
AM.
Brandin called the manager the following day but was told again
that the manager was unavailable. He was instructed to try back two days later around noon. As you might imagine, frustration started kicking in and Brandin felt like he was getting the runaround. Although his frustration level was high, his motivation level was even higher. When Brandin called back two days later, he finally spoke to the manager and was asked to come in for an interview. After Brandin’s interview, he called me and said he was offered the job on the spot and was asked to begin working that very
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same day. Can you believe that? I am a firm believer that self-motivation really is paramount to success. 3. Self-confidence: If you want to be a winner, you’ve got to think like a winner. If you want to be big, you’ve got to think big. Studies have shown that confidence is directly related to selfesteem, and people who have high self-esteem typically behave more confidently. Without a doubt, your level of confidence will directly impact both your personal and professional journey in life. Confidence is another one of those forces that can come from within, from other people, and from your own accomplishments. Interestingly enough, some people are naturally confident, but thank heavens, confidence is one of those traits that can be built from within. I can’t tell you the number of times I have attempted to build the confidence level of students and adults I have mentored, only to find that their lack of self-confidence was, in many cases, self-inflicted. If you have a poor opinion of yourself, or if you let the negative opinions of others about you dictate who you are, your quest for success may be short-lived. Let me share something with you and this is free — no matter where you go or what you do, there will always be those who are intimidated by people who demonstrate confidence and have a good presence about them. I have personally been in situations where my display of confidence on the job has made people react to me in a very negative and most unpleasant manner, and I can say with all honesty, it is not a good feeling and it can sometimes be very hurtful. In fact, throughout the course of my career, I have experienced situations in the workplace where people have been down right unpleasant to me, for no reason whatsoever. Ideally, it would be nice to be liked by everyone with whom you work. However, that is not always the case and that is just reality. I make a conscious effort to let people’s negative reactions (or personal/professional insecurities) roll off my shoulders and get back to the business at hand. The same thing could 82
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very well happen to you at some point during your career, so be prepared. By the way, having tough skin really helps. If you feed into other people’s negativity, I guarantee your confidence level will take a nosedive. This is where a hefty dose of positive attitude really comes in handy. A very dear friend of mine told me that when others doubted him and said he couldn’t, he said he could and did it; when they said he wouldn’t, he said he would and proved it; and when they said he didn’t deserve it, he said he did and claimed it. He literally used other people’s negativity as a motivating force in his life. I have made a commitment to myself that the negative attitudes of others will never prevent me from performing my job in a professional and disciplined manner. Remember, you can’t change the negative attitudes and behaviors of others, but you most definitely have control over your own disposition. Act confident, even if you are not as confident as you should be; look for a mentor or model who exudes confidence and learn from them; focus on your successes and learn from the things that worked and didn’t work; don’t be overly critical of yourself — give yourself credit where credit is due; and discard negative comments like “I don’t deserve to be successful” or “I am probably going to fail because I am not good enough.” Negative thoughts breed doubt, which is a key ingredient for lack of confidence. As I said before, if you want to be a winner, you have to think like a winner. If you want to be big, you’ve got to think big. You are destined to succeed, so get used to it! 4. Integrity: This is probably one of the most important character traits you need to know. I sometimes get goose bumps just saying the word. Sort of like the word “Mufasa” from The Lion King. When I think of the word integrity, I think of character, more specifically, the quality of one’s character. Integrity goes hand-in-hand with honesty and will succeed you even when your life on this world is over. Integrity is one of those traits that can take an entire career to achieve, but can also vanish in the blink of an eye because of one mistake or discretion. When I was in college, somebody once told 83
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me that your character is your destiny. It wasn’t until I joined the corporate work force that I fully understood that concept, which I am eager to share with you. I am convinced that people, employers, and co-workers judge a person’s degree of integrity more harshly than any other character trait listed above. Integrity is who you are and the qualities you demonstrate in your personal and professional life. Your professional success may very well depend on the level of integrity you possess and demonstrate. Make a conscious effort to carry yourself with the highest level of integrity because people with integrity will be the ones who succeed. 5. Mentoring – Mentoring programs, both formal and informal and one-on-one and group, are becoming valuable development and retention tools for many organizations. Companies have come to realize that investing in their most valuable resource — their people — will bring in the biggest returns. Mentoring programs not only boost morale within the organization, but have also been found to increase overall productivity. Mentoring programs are typically designed to help create a supportive work environment, which aids in the transfer of knowledge from one person to another. It also fosters continuous learning and growth where people can develop to their full potential and succeed. Not all organizations have adopted or implemented mentoring programs, but that should not stop you from establishing meaningful contacts with those who can help you develop your skills and prepare you for growth within the organization. Informal mentoring can be just as important and effective as formal mentoring programs. Your ability to bond with those (and it’s okay to have more than one mentor) who share similar experiences and career goals can help you develop your skills, improve your self-image, and help you achieve career goals that lead to success. In fact, studies have shown that new employees advance at a quicker pace when a senior staff person in the organization provides mentorship. 84
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When seeking a mentor, be certain he or she is genuinely interested in supporting you as a mentee. Your mentor should be accomplished in a focused area and willing to share certain knowledge, expertise, and experiences. A good mentor should be able to provide the type of guidance, inspiration, and coaching that will encourage you and advance your professional growth and development. 6. Professional Attire: Knowing how to dress in a business environment can be vital to career success. Whatever the business environment — formal or less than formal — proper attire should be taken very seriously and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. In fact, people write books and conduct workshops on the importance of professional attire. A person’s appearance, in many ways, can either establish or weaken his or her credibility. Let’s face it, right or wrong, opinions are formed about people based on their appearance. Whenever you walk out of your door and into your workplace, your goal should be to “dress for success and dress to impress.” You have to make an earnest effort to make a positive impression every chance you get because you never get a second chance to make a first impression. When it comes to selecting your business attire, keep these three simple goals in mind — to look professional, polished, and poised. Take a look around you and see what your counterparts and co-workers are wearing. Even if their attire is less than professional looking, that does not mean you have to follow suit. Use your own judgment and follow your instinct. Remember, it’s the total package that leads to success, and your professional attire completes the package. Generally speaking, office attire for any work environment should be neat, clean, and free of excess wrinkles. That said, without going into too much detail, below are a few reminders about proper business attire.
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Formal Environment - The formal work environment is probably the easiest in which to plan your wardrobe. (Simply refer to Chapter 4 - Preparing for an Interview, to refresh your memory about proper business attire for both men and women.) Less-than-formal Environment – In a less-than-formal work environment that does not require a complete suit and tie, professional dress is still important. For men, khakis with polo shirts and crew neck sweaters work well. For ladies, slacks and skirts with blouses and sweaters are appropriate. Also, it never hurts to keep a nice sports or business jacket on hand just in case you have to attend an unexpected meeting. These coordinates look professional without looking too formal. Casual Fridays – Managing casual Fridays can be very difficult for many companies because too many employees see this as an opportunity to wear anything they please. Sadly, I have seen young ladies wearing tight jeans with cropped belly tops and flip-flops, and young men wearing ripped jeans or sweat pants and faded T-shirts with sneakers. To my knowledge, the intent of casual Fridays was to allow employees the opportunity to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere while maintaining a professional environment. In my opinion, casual Fridays should be reserved for the business casual look. It’s okay to be a little creative but don’t get carried away. Remember, you are at work — even on a “casual” day. Bottom line: people will make assumptions or have preconceived notions about your ability to do your job based on your appearance. No matter who you are, the way you dress and present yourself will have a major impact on your success because in the workplace, people are evaluated by the image they project. People who dress professionally 86
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stand out from the crowd and get noticed. Your appearance should make you look like a professional at all times because you can’t anticipate whom you will meet in the office, the hallway, or in a meeting. In the workplace, I make an ever-conscious effort to portray a professional image every single day because it’s important to me, that’s who I am. My appearance allows me to communicate my personal and professional best, one that builds and exudes confidence. My kids will tell you that I am fanatic about my professional wardrobe – they tease me all the time. Now, if you catch me on the weekend, that’s a different story: it’s strictly low-rider jeans, tees, and my favorite pair of K-Swiss. And even then, my appearance is still important to me. Quite frankly, your appearance should be the least thing you have to worry about as you climb the corporate ladder.
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Chapter 8 Knowing When it’s Time to Move On “Unless you strive to do something beyond what you have already mastered, you will never grow.” Part I – Individual Decision So how do you know when it’s time to leave your present job in pursuit of bigger challenges, more responsibility, and career mobility? Getting to the bottom of that question is not that simple. Over the course of my twenty-plus-year career, I have worked for four different organizations, and I have held a total of twelve different positions. Interestingly enough, making the decision to move from one position to the next was not always about money, which is a primary consideration for many people. There were a few times when I took a lateral move (i.e., no change in salary or level of responsibility), in order to gain certain skills and experiences I would not have otherwise gained by remaining in my current position. Repeating this strategy a couple of times during my professional career has led to a number of great opportunities that have allowed me to literally chart my own professional course. For recent graduates and those landing their first corporate job, your first priority should be to gain solid, relevant work experience, which generally takes about two to three years to accomplish. Employers are looking for employees with consistent track records. As mentioned earlier, 88
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if you start the job-hopping routine early on, you could be damaging your career in the long run. Remember, there are basic fundamentals of your discipline you need to master in order to develop your skills and expertise, and mastering the fundamentals takes time, so be a little patient. Also, don’t expect that every day on the job will be filled with innovative ideas and projects that will lead to world peace. That’s just pie-in-the-sky thinking, or should I say, that’s just not realistic. While the work should be challenging and substantive, accept the fact that we all have to pay our dues before we sing the blues, and you are no exception. As I reflected on my career and the professional jobs I have held, I firmly believe that knowing when it’s time to move on is an individual and personal decision. You have to be able to read the signs, whether they are written on the wall or hidden deep down within. However, there are five primary factors you should consider when evaluating whether or not to move on: 1. Is your job continually offering you challenging work that will help you gain additional skills and grow professionally? Notwithstanding the fact that there will be a learning curve while you master the fundamentals of your job, you should still feel as if you are growing and developing new skills. 2. What are the chances of your getting promoted? Whom are you competing against? Is career progression clearly defined in your organization? Know the career paths and position levels of your occupation or discipline. Make it your business to know what the criteria (education, skills, and experiences) are for advancing to the next level, and make an effort to demonstrate and master those skills on the job. 3. Based on the current job market and your knowledge, skills, and abilities, is your salary fair and equitable? Occupational market salary data can be easily retrieved via the web, but don’t rely 89
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on just one resource or reference. Compile the data of at least three sources before you come up with an equitable range for comparison. See Chapter Five, under ‘Preparing for the Interview,’ for suggested Web sites. 4. Is the management structure strong? Are you connected to the organization’s mission and vision? The management structure should give you some level of comfort in that there is accountability at the most senior level. 5. Know your strengths and weaknesses. Self-awareness is key to knowing when it’s time to move on. This is the part where you have to do your homework. Know yourself, know your company, know your competition, and most importantly, know your options.
Part II – The Resignation Letter For the sake of this chapter, let’s consider that you have assessed where you are in your current position, and based on all the data you collected from doing your homework, you have made the conscious decision to move on. Your next course of action is to craft a resignation letter for your employer. When crafting your letter, keep in mind that it will be kept on file for up to two or three years and can be used as a reference document long after you leave. Never make negative comments in your resignation letter about the company or anybody else with whom you worked. It could come back and bite you where and when you least expect it. Contrary to popular belief, there is a right way and a wrong way to resign, because when it comes to long-term career prospects, your last impression is more critical than your first. Departing on bad terms can overshadow all your good performance, which in turn, may deprive you of a good professional reference.
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To ensure you cover the most important aspects of the resignation process, consider using the following as a guide: First and foremost, resign in person. Your resignation letter should be submitted to your department head in person, with a copy to the human resource department, in that order. Provide your current employer with as much notice as possible. Giving proper notice sends a strong message of high morals and professionalism. Two weeks’ notice is usually standard; however, check your company’s policy and any terms you agreed upon when you were hired. If the company paid for any training you received, you may have signed a continued service of agreement contract, which states that based on the length of time the company paid for education or professional development, you will be required to return that length of service to the company. Always be professional and polite. Remember, your resignation letter will likely stay on file for at least two years. Now is not the time to vent about your frustrations with the company, your coworkers, or management. You will only seem bitter and that is not the lasting impression you want to leave with your employer. Do not use company letterhead for your resignation letter. While this may seem intuitive to you, believe me, it happens all the time. Some people think of a letter of resignation as company business, but using company letter for a letter of resignation is very unprofessional. Do not share your intentions to resign with friends or colleagues, as your employer should hear about your plans to resign from you rather than hearing it through the grapevine. Trust me: News travels fast.
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Be sure to include the following in your letter of resignation. (See Appendix J - Sample Resignation Letter.) The effective date of your resignation. Be specific and factor in at least two weeks of notice. The reason for your resignation. No need to get into too many details. Keep it simple and to the point. A comment or two about how you have benefited as a professional by working for your current employer. Highlight the positive aspects of your affiliation with the company.
Part III – A Smooth Transition Now that your formal resignation letter has been submitted, there are certain factors you need to keep in mind in order to make a smooth transition to your new job, while maintaining a good relationship with your current employer. Leaving your job with a clear conscience and your integrity intact must be at the top of your priority list. That said, you can make a graceful exit by following these simple suggestions: Keep negative comments to yourself. Whether your time with the company was a great ride or a not-so-great ride, negative comments will only hurt you in the end. As you should know by now, there are those who love to spread negativity, and you wouldn’t want your name at the heart of any of those discussions or comments. Remember, you will likely need them before they need you — hint, hint: professional references. Stay committed during your final days. People typically call employees who have given their resignation notice “shorttimers.” While you may be called a “short-timer,” you don’t have to act like one. Let’s face it, most employers do not expect their
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“short-timers” to be as committed as those who are remaining; however, they still expect a certain level or standard of behavior and professionalism. Finish outstanding work and ensure things are in place for your successor. Write a memo detailing the status of your projects and anything else your boss or successor may need to know. Leave your contact information, just in case you are needed. Employers look favorably upon this and generally will not call you unless it is absolutely necessary. Many of your co-workers will want to offer best wishes by taking you out to lunch. Lunch is nice, but don’t overdo it. Put in a decent amount of hours for a decent amount of pay; don’t take threehour lunches. This type of behavior sends the wrong message and is totally unprofessional. However, if your office is giving you a farewell luncheon, management will drive the time. Now is not the time to take all of your unused leave. When you think about it, two weeks really is not a long time, and considering all the work that has to be completed between now and when you actually leave, you really need to be focused on tying up all those loose ends. Your time should be spent finalizing projects, transitioning work, and securing potential letters of reference. If you feel compelled to get a few things off your chest, save it for the exit interview and do it with professionalism and tact. Your comments should be directed at improving a process or informing management of practices that are not conducive of a supportive work environment. Your comments should not be confrontational or personal. Many companies use this data to understand attrition issues and improve retention. Your constructive feedback could prove to be very useful. 93
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Lastly, regardless of your reason for leaving the company, express thanks to your employer and keep your farewells cordial. If you don’t have a lot of positive things to say, simply say “Thank you for giving me this opportunity. I really learned a great deal,” and leave it at that. Good, bad, or indifferent, there is always something positive to take away.
Part IV – The Exit Interview Before ending this chapter, I’d like to take a moment to focus on exit interviews, given that I have mentioned the term several times throughout this chapter. As I mentioned earlier, exit interviews are an excellent tool for an employer to gauge why employees actually leave the company. Once the data is compiled, employers are able to focus on key areas of employee dissatisfaction and can begin taking the necessary steps to seek resolution. Employers may ask exit interview questions face-to-face or electronically. You will find that many employers are using electronic questionnaires to administer exit interviews in an effort to reach more people and gain more insight as to why people choose to leave. To some extent, electronic surveys are less threatening to most people because there is no face-toface contact. Listed below are samples of commonly used exit interview questions: Why did you decide to leave the company? Is there anything we could have done differently that may have influenced your decision to leave? What was the most or least rewarding aspect of your job? Did your job responsibilities meet your expectations? Did you receive adequate training, support, and feedback to perform your job effectively?
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What suggestions could you offer for improving our work environment? How would you describe your interactions or working relationship with your department head, manager, supervisor, co-worker or team lead? What could your immediate supervisor do to improve his or her management style? Would you consider working again for this company in the future? Would you recommend this company as a place of employment to your family and friends? What did you enjoy the most or least about this company? Is there anything we can do to encourage you to stay? Do you have any other comments you’d like to share? Bottom line: Your decision to move on should be well thought out and well planned. Career mobility is important; however, you have to posture yourself so that you will be able to compete in a very aggressive marketplace. Gain experience and assess your options before making any final or hasty decisions.
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Chapter 9 Reaching Down and Lifting People Up “There is no experience better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up.” - John Andrew Holmer As I reflect on my own professional career — all the highs and lows and the peaks and valleys — I can say with all honesty that I didn’t get here on my own. However, I can also say that I know who I am, where I’ve been, and where I am going. My success is largely due to several dedicated people who walked with me through my professional journey and took a genuine interest in my growth and development. As such, I want to take a moment to personally thank those who took time to mentor, train, support, trust, encourage, enlighten, inspire, groom, admonish, counsel, advise, push, guide, and accept me. Thank you for believing in me. You know who you are. Over the next few years, you will likely be in a developmental mode, growing and learning on the job and from some of the best professionals in the business. However, there will come a time when you will be in a position to help other people by reaching down and lifting them up. Whether you mentor them, provide them with a point of contact, make a recommendation on their behalf, or simply share your story with them, you will have the power to positively impact someone’s life, and let me tell you, it is a wonderful feeling. When that opportunity presents itself, my best advice to you is to take it. Don’t be the kind of person with the attitude that if you help someone else to succeed, your chances for success will 96
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diminish. It’s simply not true. Don’t be the kind a person who has to bring someone else down just to lift yourself up. Your ability to help someone else will come back and bless you ten times over, so don’t miss out on your blessings by being selfish. I recently attended a conference where the focus was leadership training and mentoring. The keynote speaker gave a compelling presentation and stressed the importance of lifting up and impacting the lives of at least twelve people. I found this to be very intriguing. As I recall, there was a time when all you had to do was try to reach just one person. The speaker went on to say that if we continue to reach only one person, we will never reach our destination. He said it is incumbent upon us to take this on as a challenge if we really want to impact the world we live in and see real and meaningful change. For days, his message settled heavy on my mind, and before I left the conference, I was committed to doing my part to lifting up and positively impacting not one but twelve individuals. I am happy to report that as of today, I now have eight people with whom I am building relationships and mentoring. My goal is to increase that number to twelve — slowly but surely. As you progress through your own professional journey, you will begin to understand how important it is to build relationships, but you will also come to realize how important it is to give back some of what other folks will give to you over the course of your career. While there have been times in my professional journey when I was not always given the same level of support or treated with the same level of respect as others, that never stopped me from wanting to give back. I knew I had to work that much harder if only to make a trail for those that would follow me. Don’t let your desire to reach back be dependent upon how many people reached back for you. It really doesn’t work like that. Giving from your heart is unconditional and reaching down and lifting people up is all about what you want to do as an individual.
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I hope with all sincerity that you will be able to look back over your career and not solely focus on all the awards and promotions you received, but how many lives you were able to impact and how many people you were personally able to touch. Share your story with someone — with as many people who will listen. I do it all the time. Just ask my kids. It could positively impact someone’s life. And by the way, reaching down and lifting people up is not an option, it’s an obligation — at least it is for me, and I hope it will be for you, too.
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Chapter 10 Bringing it All Together “Some people dream of success…while others wake up and work hard at it.” Someone once told me that preparing for success is a full-time job. I am inclined to agree. As an African-American female in the corporate work force, I have made it my mission to build a solid professional portfolio. It is not by chance that I have been able to accomplish my goals. Setting goals and demonstrating behaviors directed towards those goals have led to my personal and professional success. I have taken a special interest in my own professional development, and taking responsibility for my career has been one of my main priorities. I learned a long time ago that you can’t let the opinions of others dictate who you are or how far you will go in life. I tell all the students and adults I mentor the same thing. You, too, will soon find that folks love to set limitations for other people. However, remember that no one can predict to what heights you can soar. Even you will not know what you can do until you spread your wings and try. Now don’t get me wrong, as I said before, I didn’t get here by myself, and neither will you; however, without making a dedicated commitment to being your best and taking charge of your own career, you just might come up short, regardless of who is in your corner. God has always been a constant force in my life. Even when I thought I didn’t have enough to finish my race, he showed me who was really in 99
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charge; thus, I prevailed. Not only have I been able to finish my race time and time again, even against the most difficult odds, God has also given me the strength to cheer on the sidelines for others as they have tried to finish their race. As I have said a number of times throughout this book, success means different things to different people — like power, wealth, or fame. Having been a solid performing employee throughout my professional career, all I have ever really wanted in return from the corporate world was to be treated fairly and equitably for the same level of effort and contribution as that of my peers. Sounds simple, right? Well it’s a little more complex than that. However, identifying what success is to me has made me stronger and more focused. The key to achieving success in your life is to understand what success means to you. Webster’s definition for success is: (a) degree of measure of succeeding; (b) favorable or desired outcome; (c) the attainment of wealth, favor, or eminence. However, I believe that success is largely dictated by what you value as an individual; success really is what you make it and what you want it to be. Personally, I have never measured success by the value of my bank account or material possessions. Rather, to me, success is the ability to create a balance between my personal and professional life while achieving my personal and professional goals. To me, success is being able to give back to my community by helping as many people as I can to achieve their goals. To me, success is the ability to take my family on nice vacations at least two times a year and not feel like I am breaking the bank. To me, success is being able to send my daughter to the college of her choice, even though she didn’t get those scholarships we both were praying for. 100
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To me, success is being able to look myself in the mirror every single day and feel really good about the person looking back in the mirror. To me, success is navigating though my professional career journey with the highest level of integrity even when the people I trusted let me down. So, those are just a few examples of what success means to me, and as I said before, you will have to determine what success means to you. As you go through the process of making that determination, I think you will find that success really is a journey and not a destination. You see, there are many things in life that will catch your eye but only a few will catch your heart: pursue those things and success will come naturally. Having said all that, below are a few words of inspiration to help you as you journey down your individual road to success: Set realistic goals, but remember, you can’t reach your goals without occasionally taking some long shots. Know yourself and know your strengths and weaknesses. Seek the support and/or training you need to realize your goals. Each day I wake up is a blessing and each day I think about how I can impact someone or something differently than the day before. Strive to make progress each day because wasted time is something you can never get back. As you go through your professional journey, there will be times when you have to deal with conflict on the job: It’s inevitable. In such cases, do your best to handle the situation with poise and tact. Don’t get me wrong; there have been several times in my journey that I have been challenged with conflict and, in some cases, I could have resolved the situation with a little more diplomacy. However, I have learned from my mistakes and so can you. One of my mentors once told me that while you will not be able to control the temperament of others, you always have control over yourself. Your ability to resolve conflict and communicate your 101
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frustration or disappointment to others with diplomacy will benefit you greatly in the long run. Sometimes you may not always reach the goals you set for yourself; sometimes you may have to revisit your goals to make a few adjustments. Life is multifaceted and things will happen beyond your control. However, the only real failure is failure to try. If you don’t try, you profit nothing. In contrast, if you try and don’t succeed, it’s still not a failure but a learning experience for which you are probably a better person with more knowledge and skills than before. You can only fail if you quit, so don’t give in, and keep a positive attitude. Remember, a setback really is a setup for a big comeback. Don’t be a procrastinator. Procrastination will only keep you from moving forward. Most people procrastinate because they do not plan their time wisely. Whether realizing your personal or professional goals, keep moving forward. You’ll get closer and closer and eventually you will reach your goals. Let me share a simple little rhyme that a dear friend and mentor once shared with me: “Good, better, best. Never let it rest, until the good gets better and the better is best.” Simply put, never settle for anything less than the best. There is always room for improvement and you should always look for ways to move forward. Consider each day a gift and embrace it. Each year, you should conduct a self-assessment of where you are in your career. Are you holding on to baggage that is weighing you down and preventing you from developing as a professional or achieving your goals? If so, deal with the issue, let it go, and then move forward. Remember, “A” is for attitude and your attitude
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almost always determines your altitude in life. Don’t sell yourself short by letting the past dictate your future. Be clear about the choices you make regarding your career and be prepared to stand behind them — right or wrong. There will always be difficult choices to make in life and sometimes those choices may have consequences. Remember, a bend in the road is not the end of the road unless you fail to make the turn. Don’t become so consumed with succeeding that you lose yourself in the process. Having a hobby or some other interest outside of work is a good thing. As a mother, my days are typically consumed with church, cooking, cleaning, homework, and school activities and sports. However, I cannot tell you of the joy and comfort I find in writing and in investing in real estate. They both give me interests outside of work and family that help me relax and pursue my quest for continual learning. As a result, I have met a host of wonderful people, and my network has expanded and is even more diversified. Most important, I get to do something just for me, and that’s a good thing. Maintaining a neat and well-organized office or workstation is essential to managing your time and should always be at the top of your things-to-do list. As you enter the corporate work force you will find that there will always be contacts to make and deadlines to meet. Develop a filing system that works for you. Avoid keeping your work spread all over your desk all the time. Keep your work organized so that you can put your hands on important papers at a moment’s notice. Challenge yourself to keep your work space neat, because too much clutter can make it difficult to concentrate, which can keep you from being productive or accomplishing what you want over the course of the day. I personally set aside a few 103
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minutes at the end of the day to organize my work area, which keeps me on track. More important, returning each morning to a clean and organized desk gives me high energy and increases my productivity. One last point on the subject — those who are perceived as well-organized are often perceived as being able to handle increased levels of responsibility. Finally, if you want to make your mark in the corporate work force, maintaining good mental and physical health is extremely important. You have to be fit — both physically and mentally — if you want to climb the ladder of success and stay there. In fact, studies show that good nutrition and moderate physical activities are key to good mental and physical health. Try to make health choices that will impact your overall well-being and happiness, and check with your doctor first before making any changes in your normal routine. As you go through your professional journey, there will be times when you face adversity and disappointment along the way. I can tell you with all honesty that I have had my fair share of both. However, how I chose to handle those situations has made me a much stronger and wiser professional. Remember, when one door closes, another remains open. You have to seize the opportunity while the path remains lit. I feel so much pleasure and personal satisfaction in knowing that with God’s guidance and the support of those in my corner, I have been the captain of my ship. I have navigated through the corporate maze — right or wrong — with the highest level of character and integrity. You, too, will have so many choices to make as you navigate through the corporate maze. Trust your instincts, believe in yourself, and make the best career choices possible based on who you are and what success means to you.
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A facilitator of a conference I once attended opened the session by saying “People are not a company’s most valuable asset: talented people are a company’s most valuable asset, and untalented people are a pain in the asset.” After recovering from the facilitator’s sense of humor, I had to admit that there was actually some truth in his comments. Investing in your professional career is probably one of the most important investments of your life. Like any financial advisor will tell you, if you don’t invest in your future, no one else will. Keep in mind that your career is yours to mold as you see fit. Yielding high returns on your investment will depend largely on how well you invest in your career. You are destined for prominence, so don’t sell yourself short by using only a fraction of your skills or talent… you are so much better than that. Realize your prominence by developing and refining your skills, which may, at some point, require you to take the path less traveled. Seek out opportunities that help you grow and develop as a professional, find good mentors that have your best interest at heart, and develop a professional network that is wide-ranging and diverse. Investing in your professional development empowers you to create your own future and makes you a more valuable employee. Remember, you can’t soar with the eagles if you are acting like a chicken — plucking and clucking and never getting off the ground. In closing, I hope by now you have some idea of what success means to you. Make it a point to be satisfied with success, even when your successes are small. Remember, success is not a matter of chance; it is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for; it is a thing to be achieved. I have learned over the course of my professional journey that some of life’s lessons can’t be taught. They must be lived to be understood. You, too, have the ability to be the captain of your ship. You don’t always have wait for your ship to come in. Sometimes you have to swim out and meet it.
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“I find that the great thing in this world is not so much where we stand, as in what direction we are moving.” - Oliver Wendell Holmes
Keep going: I believe in you!
Appendix A – Career Action Plan
Career Action Plan
Name:
Date:
Key Strengths: These are the skills, competencies, or other positive characteristics or attributes that account for effective and productive performance (e.g., written or oral communication, interpersonal skills, program management, leadership skills).
Development developmental
areas
Needs: for
Identify
Developmental
Plans:
Identify
improving
specific and tangible method for developing
specific skills. Close the gap on where you
specific skills (e.g., volunteering for
are and where you need to be in the future
briefing or writing assignments that take
(e.g., briefing, oral or written, program
you out of your comfort zone, additional
management skills).
training/education).
Career Goals: Set attainable and challenging short-term (one to three years) and long-term (three to five years) goals and focus on the effort required on your part to realize them. Short-term goals provide opportunities for frequent accomplishments and build motivation as you reach them. On the other hand, long-term goals keep you grounded and on track and give you something to look forward to in the future.
Accomplishments: At the end of every year (or every six months, if you like), capture/document your accomplishments as they relate to the development plans and career goals you set for yourself. Highlight significant contributions and the impact they had on the goals of your organization.
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Appendix B – Sample Chronological Résumé
La Shawn Samuel University College University College Campus Box 1120 Florence, SC 29501-1120 843-555-1234
[email protected] Education:
Bachelor of Arts, University College, Florence, SC, May 2005 •
Experience:
Major: Marketing; Minor: Business Administration
Director of Marketing, Web Solutions Inc., Gettysburg, PA, Summer 2005 •
Organized and attended NRA and Comdex 02 trade shows.
•
Sold Web site service to central Pennsylvania companies.
•
Designed various Web sites.
•
Coordinated seminars discussing the Internet.
Advertising Specialist and Consultant, Gettysburg College, Gettysburg, PA, Summer 2004 •
Directed marketing for the 1996 Gettysburg Tennis Team.
•
Created 2000 and 2001 Career Fair posters.
•
Designed and maintained Web sites for various college departments.
•
Coordinated 2002 Summer Business School Abroad Program.
Marketing/Sales Intern, Computer Technology, West Orange, NJ, Summer 2002-2003 •
Marketed personal computer hardware and software.
•
Setup computer displays and developed and implemented marketing and advertisement strategies.
•
Coordinated and participated in numerous computer trade shows.
Management/Sales Trainee, Computer Technology, West Orange, NJ, Summer 2001 •
Performed sales work for an advanced computer technology store with annual sales exceeding 35 million.
•
Maintained a large store inventory utilizing a computerized inventory system.
•
Supervised and trained sales personnel.
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Leadership,
President and Founder: Career Events Planning Committee, University College, 2005.
Achievements, & Activities:
•
Led committee in organizing and implementing First Annual Career Development Conference attended by more than twenty of North America’s top companies, including Johnson & Johnson, UPS, American Express, Citi Corp, Bank of America, Fidelity, Prudential, Wachovia, and the Marriott.
•
Established partnerships with organizations to provide eligible students with practical work experience in their chosen field of study, while earning academic credit.
Fundraiser: Personally coordinated the effort to raise more than $2500 in food for the Red Cross, Summer 2004. President: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, University Chapter, 2004 – 2005. Vice President of Math Club: University College Math Club, University College, 2003. President: Student Government Association, 2001 – 2002. Computer
Windows NT, Microsoft Office, HTML/Web Publishing, Macintosh,
Skills:
FoxPro, Visual Basic, Adobe Photoshop, Corel Draw, Micro media
Language
Fluent in Spanish – Speaking, writing and comprehension.
Skills: Honors:
University College Honor Roll, Fall 2005 Ester Foundation Scholarship, University College, Fall 2001 – 2005. Students in Motion Scholarship, University College, Fall 2001 – 2005.
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Appendix C – Action Verbs
ACCOMPLISHED
DESIGNED
MANAGED
REGULATED
ACHIEVED
DEVELOPED
MARKETED
REPRESENTED
ADAPTED
DEVISED
MONITORED
RESEARCHED
ADDRESSED
DIRECTED
MOTIVATED
RESTORED
ADMINISTERED
DRAFTED
NEGOTIATED
RESTRUCTURED
ADVANCED
EDITED
OPERATED
RETRIEVED
ADVISED
ENABLED
ORGANIZED
REVERSED
ALLOCATED
ENCOURAGED
ORIGINATED
REVIEWED
ANALYZED
ENGINEERED
OVERSAW
REVITALIZED
APPROVED
EVALUATED
PERFORMED
SCHEDULED
ARRANGED
EXAMINED
PERSUADED
SCREENED
ASSEMBLED
EXECUTED
PLANNED
SHAPED
AUTOMATED
EXPANDED
PREPARED
SOLIDIFIED
BUDGETED
EXPEDITED
PRESENTED
SOLVED
BUILT
FACILITATED
PRIORITIZED
SPECIFIED
CHAIRED
FORMULATED
PROCESSED
STREAMLINED
CLASSIFIED
FOUNDED
PRODUCED
STRENGTHENED
COLLECTED
GENERATED
PROGRAMMED
SUMMARIZED
COMPILED
IDENTIFIED
PROJECTED
SUPERVISED
COMPLETED
ILLUSTRATED
PROMOTED
SURVEYED
COMPOSED
IMPLEMENTED
PROVIDED
SYSTEMATIZED
COMPUTED
INFLUENCED
PUBLISHED
TABULATED
CONCEPTUALIZED
INFORMED
PURCHASED
TRANSLATED
CONDUCTED
INITIATED
RECOMMENDED
TRAINED
CONTRIBUTED
INSTRUCTED
RECONCILED
TRANSLATED
CONTROLLED
INTEGRATED
RECORDED
UPGRADED
CONTRIBUTED
LAUNCHED
RECRUITED
VALIDATED
COUNSELED
LED
REDUCED
WORKED
CREATED
MAINTAINED
REFERRED
WROTE
Knock ‘em Dead Cover Letters and Resumes
110
Appendix D – Sample Cover Letter (General Cover Letter) La Shawn Samuel University College University College Campus Box 1120 Florence, SC 29501-1120 843-555-1234
[email protected]
May 1, 2006 Ms. Penny Copeland Innovative Solutions, Incorporated 1120 W. Montreal Blvd. Suite #203 Anytown, CA 01234 Dear Ms. Copeland: Please accept this letter as application for the marketing consultant position currently available with your company in the marketing department, as advertised in the Fairfield Connection (October 20, 2005). Enclosed is my résumé for your consideration. As you can see from my résumé, I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in marketing from University College with practical, hands-on experience in sales and advertisement. My experience has afforded me exposure to many aspects of sales including account acquisition, customer service, and technical sales. I am confident that my experience in these areas will prove to be an asset to Innovative Solutions Incorporated. I work well in a team environment and can effectively interact with all levels of management. You will find that my résumé demonstrates a person of steadfast dedication and my record is one of solid accomplishments. Further, I enjoy a challenge and work hard to attain my goals. I look forward to hearing from you in the near future to schedule an interview at your convenience, during which I hope to learn more about the position, your company’s plans and goals, and how I can 111
contribute to the success of your sales team. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincere regards, La Shawn Samuel
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Appendix E – Sample Employer Contact/Interview Log Employer Contact/Interview Log
Pre-Interview Advertisement (Staple or paste a copy of the advertisement as a point of reference. For larger ads, staple to the back of the log) Company Name: Company Address: Company Telephone: Company Web site: Contact Person: Position Applied for: Date Applied: Position Requirements: Post Interview Names and Titles of Contacts:
Dates of Follow-up Phone Calls (Identify your Point of Contact):
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Appendix F – Thank-you Letter (After a Face-to-face Interview) La Shawn Samuel University College University College Campus Box 1120 Florence, SC 29501-1120 843-555-1234
[email protected]
May 1, 2006 Ms. Penny Copeland Innovative Solutions, Incorporated 1120 W. Montreal Blvd. Suite #203 Anytown, CA 01234 Dear Ms. Copeland: It was a pleasure meeting you on Wednesday, October 20, 2005 to discuss your requirements for a marketing consultant. In addition to experiencing a very enjoyable and informative interview, I came away very enthusiastic about the position you are seeking to fill, and I am convinced that with my experience in account acquisition, customer service, and technical sales, I can make a valuable contribution to your company. I very much appreciate your having extended me an interview. I am, of course, looking forward to a favorable response. A career opportunity with Innovative Solutions is, indeed, an enticing prospect because of its solid reputation and track record in marketing and advertisement. Please be assured that I am ready for any start date you select. Sincere regards, La Shawn Samuel
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Appendix G – Acceptance Letter (After Accepting a Job Offer) La Shawn Samuel University College University College Campus Box 1120 Florence, SC 29501-1120 843-555-1234
[email protected]
May 1, 2006 Ms. Penny Copeland Innovative Solutions, Incorporated 1120 W. Montreal Blvd. Suite #203 Anytown, CA 01234 Dear Ms. Copeland: This letter will serve as my formal acceptance of your offer to join Innovative Solutions, Incorporated as a marketing consultant at a starting salary of $47,000 per year. I understand and accept the conditions of employment as outlined in your recent letter. As requested, I will contact your personnel department this week to schedule all pre-employment requirements and to settle on a mutually acceptable start date. Let me once again express my appreciation for your offer and my excitement about joining your marketing staff. You and your staff have been most professional and helpful throughout this hiring process. I look forward to my association with Innovative Solutions, Incorporated and look forward to many new challenges. Thank you for your confidence and support. Sincere regards, La Shawn Samuel
115
Appendix H – Declination Letter (After Declining a Job Offer) La Shawn Samuel University College University College Campus Box 1120 Florence, SC 29501-1120 843-555-1234
[email protected]
May 1, 2006 Ms. Penny Copeland Innovative Solutions, Incorporated 1120 W. Montreal Blvd. Suite #203 Anytown, CA 01234 Dear Ms. Copeland: It was a pleasure meeting with you and your staff to discuss your needs for a marketing consultant. Our time together was most enjoyable and informative. As we discussed during our meeting, I believe the purpose of an interview is to explore areas of mutual interest and to assess the fit between the individual and the position. After careful consideration of these factors, I have to withdraw from consideration for the position. I want to thank you for interviewing me and giving me the opportunity to learn more about your organization. Best wishes and continued success to you and your staff. Sincere regards, La Shawn Samuel
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Appendix I – Post-rejection Letter (Follow-up after Being Rejected for a Job Offer) La Shawn Samuel University College University College Campus Box 1120 Florence, SC 29501-1120 843-555-1234
[email protected]
May 1, 2006 Ms. Penny Copeland Innovative Solutions, Incorporated 1120 W. Montreal Blvd. Suite #203 Anytown, CA 01234 Dear Ms. Copeland: I want to thank you for the interview you extended to me on October 20, 2005 regarding your marketing consultant position. Although I was not selected for the position, my interest in joining your team has remained strong. I would like to touch base with you again to see if there are plans to expand your marketing staff in the near future. As you may recall, my education in marketing and sales, and experience in the areas of account acquisition, customer service, and technical sales aligned nicely with your job requirements at the time. I have recently updated my résumé, and I am enclosing it so that you will have the most current version. I welcome the chance to speak with you again about future opportunities. Feel free to call me at (703) 555-1212 or e-mail me at
[email protected]. Thank you for your time, and best wishes to you and your staff. Sincere regards, La Shawn Samuel Enclosure: Résumé 117
Appendix J – Resignation Letter La Shawn Samuel University College University College Campus Box 1120 Florence, SC 29501-1120 843-555-1234
[email protected]
May 1, 2006 Ms. Penny Copeland Innovative Solutions, Incorporated 1120 W. Montreal Blvd. Suite #203 Anytown, CA 01234 Dear Ms. Copeland: Please accept this as two weeks’ formal notice of my resignation from the employ of Innovative Solutions, Incorporated. My final day of employment will be September 15, 2005. During the next two weeks, I will work diligently to ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities. Further, I will supply my contact information, should you need my assistance after my departure. I have thoroughly enjoyed the work environment and professional atmosphere at Innovative Solutions. The experience and knowledge gained during my employment has provided significant career growth for which I will always be appreciative. Thank you for the opportunity to work with Innovative Solutions. I wish you and Innovative Solutions much continued success in all your endeavors. Sincere regards, La Shawn Samuel
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Suggested Reading A Is For Attitude, Patricia Russell-McCloud. New York: HarperCollins, 1999. From A to Z, this book provides all the key ingredients necessary to make your life richer and more dynamic, and every day exhilarating and rewarding.
Effective Networking, Venda Raye-Johnson. California: Crisp Publications, 1990. This is a practical, how-to handbook on networking skills and strategies that you can put to use immediately.
Fish! Stephen Ludin, Harry Paul, and John Christensen. New York: Hyperion, 2000. This book explores a powerful parable that will help you love the work you do, even when you can’t always do the work you love. Fish! offers wisdom that is easy to grasp, instantly applicable, and profound – the hallmarks of a true business classic.
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Paddle Your Own Boat: 10 Rules that Guarantee Career Success, Vernon L. Williams. West Conshohocken, PA: Infinity, 2000. This book provides an excellent guide to managing your own career and taking responsibility for your actions.
Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen R Covey. New York: Simon and Schuster, 1989. This book offers a step-by-step pathway to the principles of fairness, integrity, honesty, and human dignity that give us the security to adapt to change, as well as the wisdom and power to take advantage of the opportunities such change creates.
Whale Done! Ken Blanchard, Jim Ballard, Thad Lacinak, and Chuck Tompkins. New York: The Free Press, 2002. This book offers an approach to forming successful relationships and meaningful alliances with those around us. Ken Blanchard shows how to make accentuating the positive and redirecting the negative the best tools for increasing productivity.
Who Moved My Cheese? Spencer Johnson. New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 1998. This book offers a simple parable that reveals profound truths about change and how to deal with change so that you can enjoy less stress and more success.
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About the Author La Shawn Samuel is currently employed by the federal government as a program manager. She has worked for both the private and public sectors as a senior human resource professional. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Claflin University in 1986 and a Master of Arts degree from George Mason University in 1999. Ms. Samuel is committed to promoting professional growth and development in today’s youth. To that end, she actively participates in developing and implementing a range of youth activities throughout the community to foster leadership development in all age groups. She also serves as a mentor to several students and adults and encourages selfdevelopment and self-motivation to achieve personal and professional goals. Ms. Samuel has spoken to students at several colleges and universities on the art of being successful in the corporate job market. Her goal is to motivate and inspire students to plan for success and to take responsibility for their destiny. Ms. Samuel has navigated through her professional career with a positive attitude and views herself as a “glass is half-full” kind of person. She firmly believes that people with a positive attitude will see and find opportunities that others simply will not. Ms. Samuel and her family live in northern Virginia. She enjoys spending quality time with her family and traveling to places she has never traveled to before. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, real estate investment, and focusing on her writing. Ms. Samuel recently completed a series of children’s books and has begun work on her first novel. This is her first published book. Ms. Samuel values and welcomes your feedback. Please e-mail your comments to
[email protected].
