Top 10 Job Search Rules to BREAK!

From Liz Ryan, CEO and Founder of Human Workplace

1. Follow the defined process – in other words, don’t simply email your resume to 100 job postings. Actually reach out to hiring managers personally – it could make all the difference!
2.  If you know someone in the company, give that person your resume and tell them to give it to the hiring manager. Don’t be afraid to use your friends or other contacts to help get ahead – just make sure that they are your best option for applying.
3. Use a traditional zombie-style resume and cover letter. You are unique and creative – let your resume show it! Hiring managers see the same cut-and-paste style resume 100 times a day; it’s time to make yours stand out!
4. In your overture to employers, emphasize the way your background matches the job specifications. I am sure we have all been in jobs where our actual daily routine is nothing like the bulleted job description we applied for. Instead, try to pay more attention to what the company is really looking for, and tell them how you can fill that need!
5. Spend most of your energy applying for posted jobs, and do so online. Liz Ryan suggests splitting your efforts into thirds: spend one-third of your time applying to jobs posted online, one-third targeting your ideal companies – even if there are no positions posted online, and the final third should be spent networking with real, live people!
6. Use your networking time and energy letting people know about your job search, your specific skills and how each friend can help you. Basically, you shouldn’t have to convince your friends to help you out, or befriend people just because they have an “in” somewhere that you think you would like to work. Be yourself, and let them realize on their own that you are perfect for the job!
7. If you're asked to report your salary history, share every detail going back as far as the employer asks you to. There is no need to verify every salary you have ever had, some things are okay to keep to yourself! If the employer trusts you – they won’t need you to verify this kind of information.
8. When an employer asks you to jump, do it. Basically, there is no need to be a doormat for a new employer. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or clarify what is asked of you.
9. Don’t bring up the topic of salary – let the employer do it first. This is a common rule that many job seekers believe to be true. The truth is, you have to let the employer know what it is going to take to get you on board! There is nothing worse than getting your hopes up about a great job, only to be completely disappointed by the final offer.
10. Do whatever you need to do and say whatever you need to say to get the job. When you swap your integrity for money, you are done. 

4 Quick Tips for Job Seekers from the Intern Queen!

These are the top four tips to landing a great job, from the Intern Queen herself, Lauren Berger!

1. Have a plan!
2. Think about balance! This means balancing your personal and professional life – it takes work, but it’s a must!
3. Don't look at the people you meet at your first job as "temporary friends/contacts" -- you will be connected to these people for life!
4. Just because school is over, it doesn't mean the contacts disappear. You never know when the connections you have created in school - a former teacher, classmate, or college buddy will come in handy down the road!

For more advice, visit the Intern Queen’s website!

Internships: More than Just a Resume Builder!

These days, getting a job right out of college is harder than ever. Students spend their time studying, writing papers, acing tests, and when it comes time to apply for those “real world” jobs, they hope that their grades, meticulously put together resume, professionally written cover letter and personal drive will land them a good job. Unfortunately, a high grade point average and great looking resume are not enough anymore. Today, employers have said the number one thing they look at above all else, is a potential candidate’s internship experience.

Check out the simulator at the end of this article to see how prepared you are for the post-college job hunt!

Do you agree that more emphasis should be placed on experience vs. grades? What other things do you do to prepare yourself for your future career? Leave a comment and let us know!

New Insurance Class Starting January 15, 2014!

Are you a recent college graduate having trouble landing a decent job? Do you know someone who is looking to start a new career?

We are excited to announce our newest insurance class will be starting on January 15, 2014! Start the year off right with a free introduction class to the world of Property and Casualty Insurance. This class runs in accordance with the Insurance Institute of America (IIA) and will run for 6 to 10 weeks. At the end of the course, participants will sit for the IIA Certificate exam, a really important thing to have when breaking into the insurance industry!

 

Interested candidates MUST have a 4 year degree and be a recent college graduate within the last year or so. Call our office at 410-296-0655 to schedule your meeting with Gail now!

SAVE THE DATE: July Speed Interview Day!

Mary Kraft Staffing and HR Solutions WANTS YOU!

Take advantage of your next career opportunity by joining us at our next Speed Interview Day on Wednesday, July 3rd, 2013!

Celebrate your independence by meeting with professional recruiters from the Health Care, Insurance, Commercial, and Convention desks! 

Come to Mary Kraft Staffing & HR Solutions, dressed to impress with your resume in hand, for the chance to prove your “hire” abilities!

Join us at 1447 York Road, Suite 601, Lutherville, MD 21093 between the hours of 9:00am – 11:00am.

For additional information regarding Speed Interview Day, contact Karrianne at Karrianne@marykraft.com or Daniel at Daniel@marykraft.com. You may also contact our office at 410-296-0655.

Keep in mind our referral bonuses of $100! So the more you refer, the more you get!