Rowan University Class Guide: Career Planning & Development Course 2019 - 2020 https://sites.rowan.edu/oca/... The Office of Career AdvancementOur Mission: The mission of the Office of
Self-Assessment & Career Research
Career Management Cycle: Know Yourself
Image retrieved from: https://berkeleycitycollege.libguides.com/careers
Choosing the right career begins with understanding your core values, interests, and strengths—principles and skills that lead to long-term career satisfaction Identifying these key aspects helps narrow down suitable career options and ensures a fulfilling professional path The OCA provides valuable tools like the FOCUS-2 assessment to assist students in discovering their personal strengths and interests, enabling informed career decisions.
Completing the FOCUS-2 career assessment from Rowan University helps students identify their interests, values, and strengths, providing clarity on suitable academic pathways This tool connects personal insights to realistic majors offered at Rowan, enabling students to make informed decisions about their future With over [insert number] majors available, FOCUS-2 empowers students to explore career options aligned with their unique profiles, enhancing their academic and professional success.
Students can choose from over 150 undergraduate and graduate degrees, which are often organized to provide specialized pathways into specific fields such as education or accounting Alternatively, some majors—known as elastic majors like business, communication, and liberal arts—offer versatile skills that are highly transferable across multiple industries Selecting the right major is a crucial decision that reflects the time and effort students dedicate to their career development While the process may seem overwhelming, completing the FOCUS-2 assessment serves as an essential first step in embarking on a successful career journey.
To maximize the effectiveness of FOCUS-2, students are required to complete five separate assessments, including personality, work-interest, leisure, values, and skills tests These comprehensive evaluations provide valuable insights into individual preferences, strengths, and career goals The personality assessment helps identify core traits that influence career choices, while the work-interest and leisure tests reveal areas of enthusiasm and engagement Additionally, the values assessment aligns personal principles with potential career paths, and the skills test highlights specific competencies Completing these assessments ensures a thorough understanding of oneself, facilitating more informed and targeted career planning.
The personality component assesses a student's individual traits to identify compatible career paths By analyzing how they organize information, respond to various situations, make informed decisions, and solve problems, we can gain valuable insights into their personality type This personalized approach helps in aligning their strengths and characteristics with suitable occupations, enhancing career satisfaction and success.
Work-Interest: The work-interest code is used to recognize occupations that provide work-related activities and tasks that the user enjoys completing
The leisure assessment helps users identify occupations that align with activities they find enjoyable and exciting, enabling them to explore career options that match their interests By matching these preferred activities with potential occupations, individuals can make informed decisions about their career paths, leading to greater job satisfaction and engagement This process supports personalized career planning by highlighting opportunities that reflect personal passions and recreational preferences.
Values: This component identifies employment principles and beliefs that are important to you as an individual, but also as a potential employee
Skills: The skills assessment assists users to outline current proficiencies, but also recognize how these concepts are transferable to potential careers
By completing each section of the program, students will be equipped to effectively build their career portfolio Once logged into their FOCUS-2 account, students can easily review their assessment results by clicking on “Review and Print,” helping them to understand their strengths and make informed career decisions This process enhances career planning and preparation, ensuring students are ready to pursue their professional goals with confidence.
By selecting "My Portfolio," then "Select All," and "Build My Portfolio," students can have all five sections analyzed, resulting in a tailored list of occupations aligned with their results This analysis provides detailed information on skills, educational requirements, job outlook, and earning potential for each career Additionally, students receive a three-letter Holland Code, a system that categorizes careers into job types, interest clusters, or work personality environments The Holland Code helps students understand their career interests and find suitable job matches, with the codes outlined in the system for easy reference.
Realistic individuals are assertive and competitive, with a strong interest in activities that require motor coordination, skill, and strength They prefer hands-on problem-solving over talking or contemplating, often excelling in scientific or mechanical pursuits Typically, they enjoy engaging in practical tasks rather than focusing on cultural or aesthetic concepts, making them well-suited for careers that involve physical activity and technical expertise.
Investigative individuals tend to evaluate their options carefully and observe before taking action, demonstrating a preference for organizing and understanding information They typically favor personal endeavors over group activities and enjoy working with data, making them ideal for roles that require analytical thinking and independent problem-solving These traits underscore their methodical approach and enjoyment of intellectual pursuits.
Artistic individuals are inherently creative, open-minded, and inventive, demonstrating original and perceptive thinking They tend to be sensitive, independent, and emotionally expressive, often excelling in understanding and engaging with artistic and cultural disciplines Their preference for working with abstract ideas allows them to explore, organize, and interpret complex artistic concepts, making them naturally inclined toward creative expression and cultural appreciation.
Social individuals fulfill their needs by engaging with and helping others, often finding satisfaction in teaching and building close relationships Unlike investigative and realistic types, social personalities prioritize working with people and derive fulfillment from meaningful social interactions.
Conventional: These individuals gravitate towards structure, rules, and regulations, but also emphasize self-control They typically dislike unstructured or unclear assignments and interpersonal relationships within the professional work setting
Enterprising individuals thrive on communication and confidence in applying their skills to lead and influence others They value status, financial success, reputation, and power, often motivated by these goals These personality types enjoy working with both data and people, leveraging their abilities to persuade and achieve their objectives efficiently.
Informational interviews are a valuable tool for gaining insights into specific careers and industries of interest They help you understand the daily responsibilities of desired roles, provide guidance on how to navigate and break into a particular industry, and significantly enhance your networking capabilities Conducting these conversations can clarify your career path, build professional relationships, and boost your confidence in pursuing your goals.
To start, research potential job roles related to your current major to identify career paths of interest Pinpointing specific positions will help establish a clear target for your job search and determine viable candidates to interview for informational interviews or job opportunities.
The Office of Career Advancement & Profs Jobs
The Office of Career Advancement’s Services
The OCA assists the career progression of Rowan University students and alumni Rowan University students can contact 856-256-4456 or use their Starfish account
(https://sites.rowan.edu/student-success/rsn/index.html) to access any of the services listed below
The Office of Career Advancement supports students in all aspects of career development, including identifying how their strengths, interests, and values align with specific career paths They offer assistance with creating and updating essential job application documents such as resumes, CVs, personal statements, and cover letters Additionally, they provide preparation for interviews and guidance on negotiating salary and benefits packages, helping students achieve their career goals effectively.
Our office hosts and supports a wide range of workshops, presentations, and employer events dedicated to enhancing students' career development and wellness These activities are organized through collaborations with both internal university departments and external partners, ensuring diverse opportunities for student engagement Stay updated on our latest events by visiting our website at https://sites.rowan.edu/oca/.
Career Fairs: Each fall and spring semester, the OCA hosts numerous career events for Rowan
University students Students who attend are provided the opportunity the engage with employers and apply to both internship and entry-level career opportunities
FOCUS-2: This tool (https://sites.rowan.edu/oca/careercounseling.html) allows students to collect, analyze, and make informed career decisions by assessing their personal values, strengths, and interests
Profs Jobs (https://sites.rowan.edu/oca/profsjobs1.html) offers tailored employment opportunities—including internships, part-time, and full-time positions—exclusively for Rowan University students and alumni, helping them advance their careers with targeted job resources.
Career Shift (http://www.alumni.rowan.edu/s/1653/02-alumni/index.aspx?sid=53&gid=2&pgid=G6) is a valuable resource for job seekers, enabling users to research and identify global job listings It enhances students' ability to network effectively by providing direct contact information for professionals and companies worldwide, facilitating new professional connections.
Profs Jobs is a vital resource for students and alumni seeking employment opportunities, offering exclusive access to a wide range of internships, part-time, and full-time positions Designed specifically for Rowan University stakeholders, this platform streamlines the job search process and connects users with valuable career opportunities Whether you're looking to gain practical experience or launch your professional journey, Profs Jobs serves as an essential tool for career development at Rowan University.
Profs Jobs allows students to manage their own job applications This includes:
Reviewing potential employer’s current job openings
Submitting resumes and cover letters to be critiqued by a career professional
Being alerted to what interviews an applicant is selected for and scheduling potential interviews
Proactively understanding what employers will be present at OCA job fairs, and the specific openings to these organizations
It can be beneficial for all students to update their Profs Jobs profile at least once a semester
Scheduling an appointment with the OCA can provide hands-on instruction for how to navigate Profs Jobs
Once a resume is approved on Profs Jobs, all future resumes that are uploaded will automatically be approved
Rowan University's Office of Career Advancement provides students with direct access to a wide range of employment opportunities, fostering successful career development To ensure a safe job search experience, the office actively works to prevent scam job postings on Profs Jobs Students should be vigilant and look for specific warning signs to identify potential scams Key tips for avoiding scam employment postings include verifying the legitimacy of the employer, being cautious of unrealistic job offers, and avoiding requests for sensitive personal information upfront By staying informed and cautious, students can confidently pursue genuine job opportunities and protect themselves from employment scams.
Fraudulent job postings can include positions that require a reduced work schedule or overly flexible ways (can work solely online or at home) to make an income
These types of postings often include not needing to complete an interview to be hired for employment
Never provide personal bank account, credit card, or PayPal information to any employer, and especially not prior or during the hiring process
The potential opening neglects to mention the responsibilities of the position and instead concentrates on the salary and benefits
Do not agree to have paychecks or funds deposited directly into an account owned by an employer
Never send, forward, transfer by external means (UPS), or “wire” any money to or for any employer as a mandated part of the interview process
In the vast majority of instances, applicants do not need to pay a fee to obtain a job
Please contact the OCA if you have encountered or have concerns about a potential fraudulent position.
Resume Development
A resume is a powerful personal and professional branding tool that highlights your education, key skills, academic projects, and work experiences Presenting this information clearly, concisely, and persuasively helps employers quickly understand the value you can bring to their organization Optimizing your resume with relevant keywords and a well-structured format enhances your chances of standing out in applicant pools and landing your ideal job opportunity.
Identify Transferable Skills & Professional Achievements:
Highlighting your previous volunteer and professional experiences is essential for demonstrating transferable skills that boost your career prospects Include diverse activities such as volunteer work, internships, part-time and summer jobs, extracurricular activities, leadership programs, and course projects to create a well-rounded resume These experiences showcase your versatility and readiness to succeed in future roles, making your profile more attractive to employers.
Identify specific achievements and aptitudes that were gained from these experiences
Research Desired Roles & Employment Industries:
An applicant can utilize their resume as a reference point to compare their existing experiences with the requirements of their desired positions Asking targeted questions helps in assessing how well their skills align with the job, providing valuable insights for targeted career development.
What and how much experience do you have in reference to your desired role?
What are the top three responsibilities of your desired position?
What skills are you currently lacking? All these questions must be answered before a resume is finalized
A functional resume format is ideal for professionals with over ten years of experience or those who have employment gaps, as it emphasizes relevant skills over a strict chronological work history This style allows experienced candidates to highlight their key competencies and achievements, making it easier for employers to see their qualifications Using a functional resume can effectively showcase your expertise, especially if you are transitioning careers or have periods of unemployment Incorporating this format can improve your chances of standing out to hiring managers by focusing on your skills and capabilities.
The reverse chronological resume format is highly recommended for most undergraduate students and entry-level job seekers, showcasing their latest experiences first This approach lists an applicant’s work history from most recent to oldest, making it especially useful for those with limited extensive employment experience It highlights recent achievements and skills effectively, increasing their visibility to potential employers.
Combination – This hybrid orientation incorporates components of the reverse chronological and functional formats Specifically, this format emphasizes individual competencies and places less concentration on an applicant’s employment history
Choosing the right resume format is essential, as each style highlights and minimizes different information to suit an applicant’s career stage It’s important to select a resume format based on where you currently are in your career and to regularly reassess it to ensure it remains effective The resume format you use at the beginning of your career will likely differ from the one you need at retirement, reflecting your evolving experience and professional goals.
Each resume should be tailored to reflect an applicant’s unique background and experience, ensuring it stands out while meeting industry standards Although no two resumes are identical, there are essential components that every effective resume should include, such as relevant work experience, educational qualifications, and key skills These baseline expectations help showcase an applicant’s qualifications clearly and professionally, increasing their chances of success in the job application process Crafting a well-structured resume that highlights your background and aligns with employer expectations is crucial for making a strong impression.
Contact information (Name, address, phone number, and email address)
Summary of Qualification (optional): Three bullet points that summarize and highlight the applicant’s current experience, and reflects their specific positions of interest
Education: Information regarding an applicant’s current/future academic achievement
Professional Experience: An outline of previous part-time, full time, and internship opportunities that the applicant completed
Optional sections: Summary of qualifications, technical skills, relevant course projects, leadership, related courses, and awards and honors
Please review the information below to understand the content needed for a resume:
Please review the template below regarding what information is expected to be on a resume:
Please review the resume example below of a Rowan University student:
Keywords are essential phrases or buzzwords found within job descriptions or commonly used in the industry Incorporating these keywords strategically helps convey qualities that align with employers' hiring needs They often include terms related to employment responsibilities, professional development certifications, and technical skills, ensuring your content resonates with industry standards and improves search engine visibility.
To optimize your resume for applicant tracking systems and catch the employer's eye, seamlessly incorporate relevant keywords from the job description into your statements, ensuring they flow naturally without sounding forced Utilizing Text Analyzer tools such as Visual Thesaurus and Online Utility can help identify key words and phrases in the job posting, allowing you to highlight skills and experiences that match the employer's expectations These tools enable users to analyze text from sources like PDFs, Word documents, or online postings, revealing the most relevant terms to include in your resume, cover letter, and follow-up notes By integrating these keywords thoughtfully, your application becomes more tailored and increases your chances of standing out in the hiring process.
Action words are essential in illustrating purposeful activity and should be placed at the beginning of each bulleted statement to maximize clarity and impact Using strong action verbs helps readers quickly grasp an applicant’s overall experience and achievements Incorporating effective action words in job descriptions conveys confidence and professionalism, enhancing the effectiveness of your resume or professional profile These words not only demonstrate proactive behavior but also make your accomplishments stand out to employers and recruiters.
Addressed Interpreted Acted Revitalized Researched Prevented
Advertised Interviewed Adapted Shaped Retrieved Provided
Arbitrated Involved Began Solved Slashed Referred
Arranged Joined Combined Action Words:
Articulated Judged Composed Administered Action Words:
Authored Lectured Conceptualized Adjusted Adapted Resolved
Clarified Listened Condensed Allocated Advocated Simplified
Collaborated Marketed Created Analyzed Aided Supplied
Communicated Mediated Customized Appraised Answered Supported
Composed Moderated Designed Assessed Arranged Volunteered
Condensed Negotiated Developed Audited Assessed Motivated
Conferred Observed Directed Balanced Assisted Prevented
Consulted Outlined Displayed Budgeted Clarified Provided
Contacted Participated Drew Calculated Coached Referred
Conveyed Persuaded Entertained Computed Collaborated Rehabilitated
Convinced Presented Established Conserved Contributed Represented
Corresponded Promoted Fashioned Corrected Cooperated Resolved
Debated Proposed Formulated Determined Counseled Simplified
Defined Publicized Founded Developed Demonstrated Supplied
Managed Charted Reviewed Formulated Critiqued
Contracted Merged Classified Routed Gathered Developed
Controlled Motivated Coded Scheduled Inspected Enabled
Converted Navigated Collected Screened Interviewed Encouraged
Coordinated Organized Compiled Submitted Invented Evaluated
Decided Originated Corrected Supplied Investigated Explained
Delegated Overhauled Corresponded Standardized Located Facilitated
Developed Oversaw Distributed Systematized Measured Focused
Directed Planned Executed Updated Organized Guided
Eliminated Presided Filed Validated Researched Individualized
Emphasized Prioritized Generated Verified Reviewed Informed
Enforced Produced Incorporated Action Words:
Enhanced Recommended Inspected Analyzed Solved Instructed
Established Restored Logged Clarified Summarized Motivated
Executed Reviewed Maintained Collected Surveyed Persuaded
Generated Scheduled Monitored Compared Systematized Simulated
Handled Secured Obtained Conducted Test Stimulated
Headed Selected Operated Critiqued Tested Taught
Hosted Streamlined Ordered Detected Action Words:
Improved Strengthened Organized Determined Adapted Trained
Incorporated Supervised Prepared Diagnosed Advised Transmitted
Increased Terminated Processed Evaluated Clarified Tutored
Provided Examined Coached Action Words:
Inspected Approved Purchased Experimented Communicated Adapted
Instituted Arranged Recorded Explored Conducted Assembled
Led Catalogued Registered Extracted Coordinated Built
Action Words Received from: https://barnard.edu/sites/default/files/inline/resume_action_verbs_7.pdf
Developed Reconciled Illustrated Estimated Diagnosed Supported
Directed Recruited Initiated Forecasted Educated Action Words:
Discussed Referred Instituted Managed Encouraged Administered
Drafted Reinforced Integrated Marketed Ensured Analyzed
Edited Reported Introduced Measured Expedited Appointed
Elicited Resolved Invented Netted Facilitated Approved
Enlisted Responded Modeled Planned Familiarized Assigned
Explained Solicited Modified Prepared Furthered Attained
Expressed Specified Originated Programmed Guided Authorized
Formulated Spoke Performed Projected Helped Chaired
Furnished Suggested Photographed Qualified Insured Considered
Incorporated Summarized Planned Reconciled Intervened Consolidated
A well-crafted resume should effectively showcase each applicant's strengths while remaining clear, concise, and persuasive Incorporating accomplishment statements enables candidates to highlight their achievements and demonstrate their impact through measurable results To maximize impact, every extracurricular activity, internship, and previous job should include at least one impactful accomplishment statement that underscores their contributions and successes.
An effective accomplishment statement should clearly highlight both actions and results Actions involve specifying the measures taken to solve a problem, often using strong action verbs to showcase transferable skills and industry-relevant keywords Results focus on quantifiable outcomes, such as percentages, dollar amounts, or volume metrics, to demonstrate the measurable impact of those actions Combining these elements creates a compelling and SEO-optimized description of achievements.
When crafting accomplishment statements, applicants should focus on clearly highlighting their key results and achievements, emphasizing quantifiable performance indicators Clearly describing how their actions led to measurable success and detailing the benefits for the employer are essential elements Reflecting on these aspects helps create compelling statements that demonstrate value and impact Consider including specific examples that showcase tangible outcomes and contributions to organizational goals for more effective, SEO-optimized content.
Decent: Trained new store employees
Average: Facilitated 15 individual training sessions for new employees
Excellent: Reduced new employee injuries by 20% in a 12 month period by conducting
15 training and onboarding sessions concentrated on reinforcing employee safety practices
The Problem, Action, & Result/Benefit (PAR) approach is a structure that can help applicants highlight transferable skills, accomplishment statements, and keywords to highlight their achievements
Problem: What was the concern or issue that you or your employer faced? For instance,
“Assisted in proactively identifying and solving customer complaints to address a 10% reduction in business and a 20% increase in unresolved customer complaints.”
Our team designed and implemented a comprehensive data tracking system using Microsoft Excel to efficiently monitor over 1,500 clients We facilitated training sessions to ensure seamless adoption and supervised the system’s ongoing operation to maintain accuracy and data integrity This proactive approach significantly improved data management processes, enabling better client insights and enhanced service delivery.
Our targeted interventions led to significant positive outcomes, including a 35% increase in client involvement within one year through strategic outreach to specific student groups These efforts effectively enhanced engagement levels, demonstrated measurable success in outreach programs, and contributed to overall improved client participation and satisfaction.
“Reduced customer complaints by 15% and only 5% of inquires where left outstanding after 40 days.”
Cover Letter Development
A cover letter complements a resume by highlighting an applicant's specific experiences that align with the employer's hiring requirements, making it a vital component of the job application Unlike a resume, which offers a broad overview of qualifications, a cover letter focuses on demonstrating how an individual's skills and achievements directly meet the employer's needs To maximize its effectiveness, cover letters should include key concepts such as tailored examples of relevant experience, clear articulation of motivation for the role, and alignment with the company's values and goals Incorporating these elements ensures the cover letter effectively showcases the candidate's suitability and increases their chances of securing an interview.
Be directed to a specific individual if possible
Applicants should demonstrate a clear understanding of the duties and responsibilities associated with the role they are pursuing Tailoring cover letters to each specific job title or industry highlights their relevant skills and career interests, making their application more compelling and aligned with the position.
State the specific skills and experiences the applicant previously developed, and how these proficiencies will benefit the potential employer
Specifically state the job title and company that the applicant is applying to throughout the cover letter
Highlight the applicant’s key accomplishments by focusing on specific projects, challenges solved, and innovative initiatives they led, providing deeper insights beyond their resume Emphasize measurable impact and strategic contributions that demonstrate their value to potential employers, ensuring the content is rich in relevant keywords for SEO Avoid repetition of resume content by elaborating on how their efforts led to tangible results, such as increased efficiency, revenue growth, or process improvements, positioning them as a proactive and results-oriented professional.
End your cover letter on a positive note by expressing enthusiasm and confidence, such as stating, "I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to further discuss my qualifications for this position," or "I am excited about the opportunity to work for a company with the reputable quality of (insert company name)." Concluding with a polite suggestion to schedule an interview demonstrates your interest and eagerness to move forward in the hiring process.
Undergraduate and graduate-level cover letters should be no longer than a single page
All resumes and cover letters should be submitted in a PDF format
The format of a cover letter varies based on the submission medium When submitting a physical cover letter, it should include the applicant's contact information, the date, and the employer's details such as name, job title, organization name, and address Proper formatting ensures professionalism and clarity, making a strong first impression with potential employers.
A professional tone and language are essential when crafting a cover letter to effectively showcase your qualifications Equally important is avoiding inauthenticity, as genuine enthusiasm and interest should be clearly conveyed to make a positive impression on potential employers.
Cover Letter Format 1 and Examples
Your Name Your present address City, State & Zip Code Preferred phone number Preferred E-mail address
Dear Dr /Mr /Mrs /Ms Last Name:
Do not address “To whom it may concern.”
I am excited to apply for a position in the [specific field or position], as I am passionate about [related area or industry] I discovered this opportunity through [source, such as company website, job portal, or referral], and I am eager to contribute my skills to [company name] After researching your company, I am particularly impressed by [a specific aspect of the company's mission, values, or projects], which aligns with my professional goals and values.
With a strong background in [your field or area of expertise], I bring specialized knowledge and practical experience that directly align with the requirements of this position My expertise in [specific skill or area] has been demonstrated through successful projects that showcase my ability to [related achievement or responsibility], making me uniquely qualified for the role I stand out due to my proven track record of [specific accomplishment], which highlights my commitment and capability to excel in challenging environments My skills are backed by tangible results, such as [example of achievement], reflecting my dedication and suitability as the ideal candidate for this opportunity.
I have enclosed a copy of my resume and am happy to provide any additional information upon request I look forward to your response and am eager to schedule an interview to discuss how I can contribute to your team Please feel free to contact me at my home or cell phone number Thank you for your consideration.
322 Mullica Hill Road Glassboro, NJ 08028 856-256-4322 February 12, 201x
I am writing to express my interest in the Sales Representative position at Savitz Pharmaceuticals, as advertised in the Glassboro Examiner With a long-standing passion for pharmaceutical sales, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team Your company's innovative products greatly appeal to me, and I am eager to bring my sales expertise to promote them effectively.
As a college student, I had the opportunity to attain both sales and customer service experience
At Glassboro Medical Supply, I gained valuable experience serving customers who visit our store and developed in-depth knowledge of various medical supplies through reading industry periodicals and magazines This expertise allows me to effectively address customers’ medical needs and confidently answer their questions By adopting a proactive approach to sales and customer service, I am committed to providing excellent support and ensuring customer satisfaction.
This year, I successfully increased sales by 20%, demonstrating my ability to drive business growth Recognizing my achievement, my supervisor entrusted me with developing a marketing strategy to promote medical supplies to local drug stores My extensive work experience is complemented by completing a pharmacology terminology course at the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, which enhanced my understanding of medicines and their effects This combination of practical experience and specialized education positions me well to effectively market medical supplies in the healthcare industry.
I have developed a strong interest in the medical and pharmaceutical sales industry since beginning my undergraduate studies, actively seeking knowledge and experience to excel in this field My background and skills make me highly qualified for the sales representative position at Savitz Pharmaceuticals For more details on my qualifications, please refer to my enclosed resume I am eager to discuss how I can contribute to your team and welcome the opportunity to meet at your convenience.
I can be reached at 856-256-4322 or on my cell phone at 856- 222-2348
Thank you for your time and consideration
I am writing to express my interest for the Consultant position that is posted in Rowan
I am excited about the field of communication and eager to contribute my skills in public relations, research, analysis, and creativity to your university’s Professors Jobs database I look forward to the opportunity to join your growing team and make a meaningful impact in the industry.
Up Line’s dedication to ensuring education equality for all learners deeply resonates with my passion for students’ interpersonal development As a Mentor with Rowan University’s Pre-College Institute (PCI), I played a key role in helping First Generation College students transition into university life through a six-week residential summer program I designed and facilitated engaging, interactive lessons aimed at making students feel comfortable on campus and encouraging their active participation within the Rowan University community This experience reinforced my commitment to supporting students' academic and social integration, aligning with Up Line’s mission to promote equitable educational opportunities.
Interviewing Skills
A professional dress code is a flexible standard that varies depending on the position, organization, and industry Understanding the specific dress expectations for each role and company is essential to making a positive impression It’s important to remember that it typically takes just seven seconds to form a judgment about someone based on their appearance Therefore, the attire you choose can significantly influence perceptions of your professional brand and credibility.
Dressing appropriately for an interview is crucial; casual attire suitable for classes, social outings, or exercising is inappropriate in a professional setting It’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed, as a polished appearance demonstrates respect and seriousness about the opportunity Proper interview attire helps create a strong first impression and boosts your confidence during the interview process.
Two-piece suit (solid colors vs print or patterns) Stick to conservative colors such as black, navy blue, dark brown, and dark gray
Wear a white shirt or a light color shirt
Tie pattern should be simple
Applicants can wear a belt or suspenders but never wear both
Wear polished and well-preserved shoes with knee-length socks that avoid exposing skin
Suit with blazer/pants/skirt combo knee-length skirt and blouse
Footwear - Refrain from wearing open-toe shoes Shoes should also be shined and well preserved
Jewelry should be subtle and minimal
Hair should be out of the applicant’s face
Nails should be in a conservative color of polish - if wearing polish
Transgender candidates should dress consistently by following their full-time gender expression
Applicants must wear clothing that fits properly
Rowan University students can browse a wide selection of business-appropriate clothing to find their ideal interview attire The Office of Career Advancement’s Career Closet offers free professional clothing to all students for upcoming career events To learn more or try on suits, students are encouraged to visit the Office of Career Advancement on the second floor of Savitz Hall during regular business hours.
Interviewing is a valuable opportunity to establish a professional relationship and mutual understanding between an applicant and employer The primary goal is to effectively communicate how the applicant can meet the organization’s business needs, regardless of the interview approach Both candidates and employers must come prepared to ensure a successful interview, demonstrating their ability to contribute to the company's success.
1 Online & Telephone: It is common practice for employers to conduct an online (Skype,
Preliminary interviews, such as those conducted via WebEx, other video platforms, or telephone, serve as effective screeners to narrow down the applicant pool before scheduling in-person meetings To succeed in these remote interviews, candidates should prepare thoroughly, be concise in their responses, and ensure a professional setting These initial assessments help employers identify the most qualified candidates efficiently, streamlining the hiring process.
Connection Capabilities: Ensure that an applicant’s phone or computer is fully charged and that each device has a stable internet connection
Secure the Space: Secure a location that is free from disturbance, has bright lighting, and has an appropriate background
Concentrate on the Task at Hand: Close all external programs and/or windows and maintain strict eye contact with the webcam
Install & Test: Proactively install the necessary software (Skype, WebEx, etc.), and conduct a dry run before the actual interview
Dress in a Professional Manner: Dress accordingly to create a proper state of mind
Be Prepared: Applicants must proactively equip themselves with their resume, cover letter, a copy of the job description, and other necessary documents within an easy reach
Concentrate on the Conversation: Attempt not to interrupt the employer by being patient, and letting them guide the conversation
Group interviews involve multiple candidates being interviewed simultaneously by one or two interviewers, allowing employers to assess how applicants interact and showcase their personalities in a collaborative setting.
Traditional interviews involve a candidate being interviewed either by a single interviewer or a panel of 3 to 4 interviewers, ensuring a comprehensive assessment During this process, all interviewers pose an equal number of questions, providing a balanced platform for evaluating the applicant's skills and suitability In panel interviews, each committee member has an equal say in the hiring decision, promoting fairness and collaborative evaluation This interview format remains a popular and effective method for assessing potential candidates in various organizations.
To increase their chances of securing employment, students should follow specific actions at each stage of the interview process Before the interview, thoroughly research the company and prepare tailored responses to common questions to demonstrate genuine interest and suitability During the interview, actively listen, showcase confidence, and highlight relevant skills and experiences to make a positive impression After the interview, send a personalized thank-you note to express appreciation and reinforce interest in the position Following these strategic steps before, during, and after the interview can significantly improve the likelihood of success.
To prepare effectively for your interview, review the essential job duties for the position, compare these responsibilities with your own experience, and identify the top three main functions of the role This approach helps you demonstrate your relevant skills and understanding of the position, increasing your chances of success.
Applicants should thoroughly research their potential employer and document all relevant information separately This activity helps identify key trends, themes, and critical data that are vital for their future role within the company Once all information is recorded, reviewing and understanding these insights is essential for effective preparation and successful integration into the organization.
Prepare concise, one- or two-word bullet answers for common interview questions such as “Tell me about yourself,” “Strengths and weaknesses,” “Leadership examples,” “Stress management,” “Communication style,” and “Why hire me.” These responses should be clear and relevant, helping you communicate effectively during interviews and improving your chances of leaving a positive impression Focus on keywords that highlight your suitability for the role and demonstrate confidence and professionalism Using well-chosen keywords in your answers enhances your interview readiness and aligns with SEO best practices for job application content.
Record the names and positions of each interviewer to write a thank you note/email after the interview
Provide detailed examples of an applicant’s current experience is relevant to the position you’re applying to, and how this experience will allow you to contribute from day one
Maintain eye contact with the interviewer who asks you each question
During the interview process, candidates should avoid asking about salary or benefits, as this is typically initiated by the employer However, when the topic arises, it's crucial for applicants to proactively communicate their salary expectations, ensuring they are aligned with their specific job title and geographic location This approach demonstrates professionalism and preparedness, helping to establish transparent negotiations from the outset.
Never have anything bad to say regarding a previous colleague, teacher, supervisor, or employer
Be mindful that the questions an applicant asks at the end of an interview reflect their values as an applicant
After an interview, applicants should take time to reflect on their performance by identifying challenging questions, assessing their strengths and weaknesses, and brainstorming strategies for improvement in future interviews This reflection helps candidates enhance their interview skills and increases their chances of success in upcoming opportunities.
Immediately after the interview, send a thank you email or card to express your appreciation Clearly thank the interviewer for their time and highlight how much you enjoyed the conversation Reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity and demonstrate your genuine interest in joining their company These follow-up actions help leave a positive impression and reinforce your enthusiasm for the role.
Commonly Asked Interview Questions From Employers
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What can you tell me about yourself?
Can you help me understand one of your strengths and weaknesses?
Can you help me understand how you deal with stress?
Can you help me understand your communication style?
Can you tell me about a time where you dealt with a challenging situation or client before?
What are the top three skills/attributes you believe are necessary to succeed in the position your applying to?
Why do you want to work here?
Can you help me understand how you juggle multiple priorities at the same time?
What would you find most rewarding about the position you’re applying to?
Can you tell me about a time where you had to solve a difficult problem?
What is your greatest professional achievement?
Where do you see yourself five years from now?
Can you tell me about a time where you led by example?
Why should we hire you for this position?
Do you prefer to work for small or larger employers? Why?
Do you prefer to work in an independent or team environment?
Can you help me understand how your college education and employment experience relate to this job?
Can you help me understand what you know about this opening and our organization?
What can you tell me about our organization’s products and services?
What type of organizational culture do you prefer working in?
Questions the Applicant can ask the Employer:
Can you help me understand what I might expect in the first three, six, and nine months into this position?
Can you help me comprehend the independent or team projects that I will be working on?
Can you please help me understand the training period or orientation period to this position?
What type of professional development opportunities are available to our employees?
Can you please help me understand the next step to this process?
Questions to ask when an Offer is Made:
Can you help me understand the salary range of this position?
Does this company have a standard or optional benefits package?
What does your performance review process look like?
Can you please help me understand your vacation policy?
Mock Interview
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Students should thoroughly review each section of their resume and brainstorm potential interview questions that employers might ask based on this information Developing practice questions related to their resume content can prepare them for future interviews, helping to confidently address employee inquiries and showcase their qualifications effectively.
Can you help me understand why you selected your major, and how this major reflects your current career goals?
What impact did your study abroad experience have on your perception?
How did your study aboard experience impact your career goals?
Can you help me understand your philosophy of leadership?
How did you handle conflicts within your club?
Can you please help me understand your communication style, and did this style change throughout this responsibility?
What transferable skills did you obtain from this experience, and how would they be useful for our company?
What are two skills or attributes that you were able to strengthen from participating in this activity?
Part or Full-Time Employment Experience
Can you tell me about a time you dealt with a challenging situation or conflict before?
Can you please share a rewarding team experience you had from your most recent position?
Can you help me understand what you learned from these experiences?
What specific skills and/or attributes did you develop from completing these laboratory assignments?
Effective interviewing requires genuine self-presentation rather than rehearsed answers tailored to perceived hiring committee desires Experienced HR professionals can identify superficial responses that hinder the assessment of an applicant’s true personality and authenticity Therefore, it is crucial for hiring personnel to focus on uncovering an applicant’s underlying values, philosophy, and beliefs—qualities that may not be evident in resumes or application materials—to ensure a more accurate and holistic evaluation.
Guided Reflection (Please check syllabus for Chapter 6 Discussion Questions):
When preparing for interviews, focus on two common questions derived from your resume: "Can you tell me about your experience with [specific skill or job role]?" and "What achievements are you most proud of in your career?" For each, craft clear, concise answers that highlight your relevant skills and accomplishments To practice, rehearse your responses aloud, ideally with a mock interviewer or in front of a mirror, to improve your confidence and delivery Incorporating keywords from the job description can enhance your answers for better SEO visibility, making your responses more impactful and aligned with employer expectations.
Assessing your current interview skills is essential to determine your likelihood of securing employment after graduation Strengthening key components such as confident communication, professional appearance, and effective responses can significantly improve your chances Identifying areas for development, like handling difficult questions or showcasing your accomplishments, will help you become a more compelling candidate Enhancing these interview skills increases your confidence and competitiveness in the job market, ultimately boosting your employment prospects.
3 How far in advance should you begin preparing for an upcoming interview?
Keeping the Momentum Going!
Securing professional career experience begins with understanding the essential qualifications required in various industries, even though students are not obligated to declare a major or specific career interests early on Building experience and workplace skills can start as early as freshman year through participation in leadership roles, extracurricular activities, and experiential learning opportunities both on and off-campus While internships may not always be available to freshmen and sophomores, students can still enhance their resumes by engaging in these valuable experiences to develop their professional competencies.
Building a strong resume involves active participation in student organizations, volunteer services, leadership programs, and on-campus employment opportunities, which provide valuable experiences for students These activities help develop transferable skills and boost overall career readiness Engaging in diverse campus opportunities enhances competencies such as leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving—key factors recognized by the National Association of College and Employers for career success.
Employers, including NACE, prioritize essential skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving, effective oral and written communication, teamwork and collaboration, digital literacy, leadership, professionalism, work ethic, career management, and global intercultural fluency Developing these competencies throughout an undergraduate degree enhances students’ employability and future career prospects The accompanying graphic illustrates how these opportunities and skill development compound over the course of a student’s academic journey, laying a solid foundation for success in the evolving job market.
Requires a student who is an active club participant.
Sophomore Year, Entry Level On- Campus Job:
Requires a student who is active on campus through clubs, programs, or leadership activities
Junior Year, Upper-Level On-Campus Job: Requires a student who has at least one year of being active in the Rowan community through clubs, jobs, or leadership roles
Summer of Junior Year, Seasonal Internship:
Requires one year of transferable employment experience, a GPA of above 2.75, and ideal students will have extracurricular related experience
Maintain employment in new leadership roles such as in clubs or honor societies, but also begin networking with potential professional contacts
Summer of Senior Year: Student attains an entry-level role in their desired career
Once students have prepared their hiring documents and gained relevant experience, they can begin applying for internships and full-time positions It's essential to follow a structured preparation process and understand the various responsibilities each job candidate must fulfill during their application journey This comprehensive approach helps candidates effectively navigate the job search and increase their chances of success.
1 Create and Prepare Hiring Materials
Secure at least 3 professional references
Visit the Office of Career Advancement to create a job search strategy, for a resume and cover letter critique, to conduct a mock interview, or to prepare for an upcoming career fair
Proactively outline realistic job titles that an applicant is interested in pursuing
Record the date, job title, and organization to all the roles where applications are submitted
Ensure that all hiring documents are specified for each specific position
Incorporate keywords from the job description and posting for each specific application
Ensure that the primary qualifications for each position are present in the hiring material and take time to highlight transferable skills
In a competitive job market where graduates in a specific major share similar education backgrounds and GPAs, networking becomes essential for standing out Building connections with industry professionals not only keeps applicants informed about potential job openings but also helps establish valuable references Developing strong relationships through networking enhances an applicant's visibility and credibility, increasing their chances of securing desirable positions in their chosen field.
Utilize professional networking websites like LinkedIn and Career Shift to connect with potential employers and expand your career opportunities Ensure that all profiles and interactions on these platforms are maintained professionally and used consistently to make a positive impression and maximize networking effectiveness.
Rowan University offers numerous opportunities to actively build new professional relationships, including annual career fairs, networking sessions, employer information tables, and industry nights Stay updated on these events by visiting our website at https://sites.rowan.edu/oca/.
Maintaining strong connections with friends, family, staff, faculty, alumni, and employers is crucial for expanding your professional network Leveraging these existing relationships provides a solid foundation for career growth and opportunities, making it essential to stay engaged and nurture these connections for long-term success.
Scheduling designated times for applicants to search, apply, and track their application status is essential for an efficient hiring process To maximize opportunities, candidates should start exploring internship and employment openings at least two semesters before their desired start date Planning ahead ensures timely application submissions and improves chances of securing ideal positions.
It is also critical to record the deadlines and the date applied to for all positions of interest
Tracking industry and job market trends enables applicants to identify emerging opportunities and make informed career decisions Rowan University offers a variety of resources and opportunities, including internships and employment options, to help students and graduates advance their careers effectively.
Profs Jobs: Rowan University’s premiere website that hosts internship and job opportunities that are exclusive to all Rowan University students and alumni
Career Shift: Allows users to search numerous job listing that are posted throughout the word
Industry and Career Fairs: Each year, the Office of Career Advancement hosts multiple career and industry nights for students to connect with realistic employment opportunities
Job Postings: Company websites, industry-specific websites, classified newspaper bulletins, and other online job boards
Please review the “Interview Skills” section for detailed information relating to the interview process Some of the main topics that will be examined in this area include:
Practicing interview answers to commonly asked questions
Outlining questions to ask the interviewer
The appropriate time to arrive for an interview
Being mindful of body language and nonverbal cues
Following up with a “thank you” letter or email 24 hours after an interview
Ensuring that applicants reflect on their interview performance to identify their strengths, areas of improvement, but also how they can increase their preparation for future interviews
Attending an Office of Career Advancement career fair is a valuable opportunity for students to build relationships with employers, expand professional networks, and enhance interviewing skills These events enable students to engage with a diverse range of organizations and industries while connecting with fellow job seekers To maximize success, students should prepare a compelling elevator speech and understand how to effectively navigate the career fair.
Employer Expectations for Career Fair Participants
When exploring potential careers, it is crucial to ask open-ended questions, clearly identify target job titles or industries, and confidently articulate your career goals Job seekers should proactively research the companies they apply to, prepare for interview questions, and follow up within 24 hours of each contact to demonstrate professionalism and enthusiasm.
Applicant Responsibilities Prior to a Career Fair:
Ensure your resume is error-free by thoroughly proofreading it, and incorporate relevant action words and keywords to enhance its effectiveness Additionally, have all your hiring documents reviewed by a career professional at the OCA for expert critique and optimization.
Proactively outline and prioritize what specific positions and employers you’re interested in and begin to research these opportunities
Print out multiple copies of your resume to bring to each event
Understand that some employers may not take your resume and that they may recommend that you apply online instead
Create and practice your elevator speech
When preparing for a job interview, it’s essential to craft insightful questions for employers about their specific positions, company culture, and hiring processes Key questions include inquiries about the majors they typically hire for the role, the training provided to new employees, and the steps involved in their hiring process for interns and new associates Additionally, asking about the characteristics of their most successful employees offers valuable insights, while reflecting on the experiences, trainings, or actions that helped current professionals reach their positions can guide your own career development Incorporating these targeted questions enhances your understanding of the role and demonstrates your genuine interest, boosting your chances of success in the recruitment process.
When attending a career fair, it is advisable to carry as little as possible by leaving behind bulky items like coats or backpacks Essential items to bring include a list of target employers and prepared questions to engage with recruiters effectively Additionally, bringing a professional portfolio with samples of your work can be beneficial, especially if it aligns with your industry, helping you make a strong impression.
Applicant Responsibilities During a Career Fair:
Dress professionally and make sure to turn your cell phone off
Be independent – applicants can be perceived as more professional walking alone rather than with a group of friends