By Rowe Leathers
Contributor, Career Services

A client recently reached out for guidance on how to enter a new field in a new career. I asked him if he meant to leave his job role or the entire industry in which he had built a career. He replied that he no longer wanted to work in his field, and that he was ready to follow his passion. I was intrigued by his decision, and wanted to know more.

By Jaymie Pompeo
Contributor, Career Services

Whether it’s dressing for an interview, a networking event, or even the first day on the job – deciding on the right outfit can cause anxiety. Should you opt for the standard conservative business suit or is the environment a bit more relaxed where business casual may be more appropriate? Well, it depends.

We are all aware that we need to make that first impression count, and yet there is a fine line of what the proper dress code may be for a particular industry, organization, or networking opportunity. With so many factors to consider, how can one be sure in making the best decision? My advice – investigate the situation thoroughly.

By Ann Eastham
Contributor, Career Services

Searching for a new job has been described as a full time job in and of itself. That’s great, except when you currently have a full time job and a life full of other responsibilities. By taking some of the steps below, you can better make your time work for you and, in return, find the job you’ve been looking for.

By Kristen Carter
Contributor, Career Services

A common misconception during the holiday season is that companies stop hiring; however, business typically continues as usual. While holiday travel and vacations may cause additional challenges for interview scheduling, the increased pressure from upper management to fill open positions before the New Year sparks hiring managers to fill positions in order to not lose them. Hiring managers may also post positions prior to the holidays with the intention of gathering resumes and conducting interviews after the New Year.

Regardless of a company’s hiring procedure during the holidays, it is best to not assume that they are taking an extended vacation. Thus, keep your job search in mind when attending any future holiday parties since you never know whom you might strike up a conversation with or who might be hiring.

By Marcia Powers
Contriburtor, Career Services

Getting a college education is an important step in your career journey, and the connections you make along the way can be just as important as earning your degree. Currently, you may only think of your professors as paper assigners and grade givers, but they can also be important supporters of your professional development.

Regardless of whether you are a current student or a college graduate, be sure to continue and maintain positive relationships with your professors. Your professors may be willing to provide you with some great career support.

By Rowe Leathers
Contributor, Career Services

Your resume is a reflection of your professional life. It should be updated periodically as you advance in your profession. If you are not updating your resume with new information, achievements, or education, consider taking an assessment of where you are in your career. Long periods without making updates on your resume may be an indication that your career is not progressing. New information does not have to be a major change in your career. Small changes in your job role may be enough to warrant making small adjustments. The new addition to your resume should convey your qualification and professional development in your field.

By Ann Eastham
Contributor, Career Services

In a previous blog, I introduced the idea of job seekers attending Virtual Career Fairs (VCF’s). It is a valuable recruiting tool that is becoming more and more popular; but what should you expect from this new form of recruiting?

A VCF is essentially a platform that hosts private chats between you and a recruiter. Each VCF may be different in specifically how the chats are handled; however, you will typically be able to chat one-on-one with a recruiter.

You should expect to make a connection with the recruiter rather than walk away with a job offer. You should consider the event a success if you end the chat with the recruiter’s direct email or LinkedIn profile for follow up purposes; especially if the recruiter asks you to send them your resume!

By Kristen Carter
Contributor, Career Services

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, being grateful and appreciative of our circumstances is typically in the forefront of our minds because we are reminded to “be thankful” everywhere we turn. But, sometimes it is not the easiest mindset to embrace when you have experienced a job loss or recent rejection.

By Ann Eastham
Contributor, Career Services

Growing up, I always heard the old adage, “It’s not what you know; it’s who you know”. Networking for jobs was done in person, and when I was looking for my first few jobs, I simply walked in the front door of where I wanted to work (or who had a hiring sign in the window) and asked for an application. Much to the frustration of job hunters who grew up like me, times have changed. The job hunt and application process have moved online, and career fairs are now moving to the digital space.