SEAHO Report - Winter 2014 - (Page 24)

SEAHO Features Don't Go in Like a Wrecking Ball: Job Searching & Placement in 2014 By Andy Petters, University of Virginia - SEAHO Placement Committee Member Some of us may be having déjà vu, but yes it's that time for the job search season - whether you are looking for the next step in your career or you need to fill vacancies in your department - 'tis the season! As the title of this article indicates, Miley Cyrus gets it... you want to leave an impression and break through initial challenges, but you don't want to overdo it. The information in this article will help you get ready for the job search process. Take a deep breath! The following rules were developed by Lisa LaBarbera-Mascote and Ebony Hinton of NC State University. Please use these as a guide as you begin your search: 1) Know yourself and what you are looking for. People often say that before you can find love, you must know who you are. The same is true for the job search process. You need to know who you are and what you want out of your next step. You'll need to ask yourself some key questions - Where do I see myself in 5-10 years? How will my next job prepare me for my future? What must my next job include? If these questions leave you with more questions, I highly recommend you talk with a mentor or a colleague. Be realistic as you get started. The dream job or dream institution may not be your next step. You instead will want to find a position where you can obtain the skills needed to achieve your long-term goals and where you feel like it's the right fit for you. Consider the institution type, size, location, core values, student population, organizational culture, and opportunities that are best for you. 2) Your resume is a crucial tool - take your time with it. Solid resumes are essential for you to get an initial interview. Employers will hone in on your mistakes, poorly formatted sections, and odd details. Keep your resume simple and relevant. For electronic communications - make sure to send PDF versions of your resume. This prevents formatting errors common when using different versions of Microsoft Word. Trust the guidance of others in making edits and updates. I remember when one of my supervisors told me to delete my swim coaching career information. At first, I put up a fight, stressing that it was very relevant. Space is at a premium within resumes. It had to go! Update your resume every 6 months. This will help keep it fresh. Use your current position description as a basis for what to include. Have it reviewed by your references and others you trust well in advance of beginning the search process. Print and edit your resume by hand. Employers - whether during the initial stages or during on iews - will likely print your resume. It should look as amazing in hardcopy format as it does on your screen. 3) Make connections. This is where not being a wrecking ball comes into play. Those who are inclined to be extroverts or WOOs - tone it down a bit. Those who are more inclined to be introverts - you've got to come out of your shells. Remember number one above and be yourself. You've got to be genuine but be keenly aware of the fact that you are looking for a new job. And this new position will likely be with people who don't know you. Chances are that the people you meet at SEAHO will know one or more of your potential employers. Network and make good first impressions. Assume that anyone you meet could be helpful for your search (now or in the future). 4) Practice, Practice, Practice! Running through questions and your answers with your mentors or colleagues will lower your anxiety when it's time to perform at your best. Phone interviews can be especially 24 SEAHO Report Winter 2014

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SEAHO Report - Winter 2014