A to Z Career Tips

Adaptability (an eagerness to learn and quickly master new skills) is more important now than ever.

Build relationships with professors, friends, and current employers. Stay in touch and continuously seek to help others first. (For example, pass along useful contacts or articles to friends and those in your network.)

Communicate with others about your job search. Most new jobs are not posted online.

Do your research on companies when applying for jobs. Tailor your resume, cover letter and interview to highlight how your skills and experience can be an asset for the company.

Emphasize work accomplishments (rather than responsibilities) and quantify results achieved for each job on your resume.

Feedback (on your interview skills, LinkedIn profile, cover letter and resume) is necessary if you are not a strong writer or communicator.

Grammar mistakes and typos are unacceptable. Keep checking and editing your cover letter and resume.

Highlight transferable skills from previous jobs, projects and volunteer work on your resume.

Internships in your field (even when unpaid) make you a better qualified candidate than unrelated part time jobs.

Job searching can be discouraging at times. Make sure to take breaks and do something to relieve stress - walk, listen to music or spend time with friends.

Kindness, respect and courtesy (both in writing and in person) are key tenets of professionalism. Follow up with thank you notes, messages or emails that highlight something specific and memorable about your meeting or interview.

Look the part. Rather than focusing on trends, aim to look neat. Are your clothes wrinkled? Do you need a haircut? Unless you are applying for a job in fashion or design, clothes, makeup and jewelry should be understated.

Maybe you’re not meant to be an employee but an entrepreneur. But remember - most entrepreneurs gained valuable experience working for others first.

Never speak negatively about a previous employer. Find a tactful way to explain how you overcame “challenges.”

Opportunities can be found in difficult and stressful circumstances. Be a problem solver. If you have a track record of finding solutions to problems, you will be indispensable to your company OR discover an idea for a profitable business venture!

Prepare for the interview by recounting specific examples and success stories. How did you solve a work problem and how did you achieve success on a past project? Write these stories down to remember clearly.

Quantify your work and volunteer accomplishments. (For example, how many of your clients were hired? How much money did your project save the company?)

Recent college grads should keep their resume to one page, but experienced workers will benefit from two page resumes.

Smile sincerely and often. You’ll feel better and make those around you feel better.

Tailor your cover letter and resume to each job by highlighting and giving examples of relevant skills.

Update your LinkedIn profile.

Very often people will find their dream job after years of experience. Most first jobs are stepping stones and will not be your ideal job. Do your best, learn what you can and make sure your employer gives you a good recommendation.

Wise mentors and friends will help guide you away from poor decisions and toward success. Seek the counsel of wise teachers and mentors.

“X” factor- What is that special quality that makes you memorable? Think carefully about your particular experiences and strengths. What makes you unique and how does that quality make you the right candidate for the job?

YOU have the power to focus on the positive and to learn from challenges or mistakes, rather than dwell on them.

Zero in on what’s important to you Is it work life balance? Salary? Opportunity for growth? Is it important to believe in the mission of the organization?