Thursday, September 18, 2008

Cover Letter

My impression of what is supposed to go in a cover letter wasn't quite as accurate as I thought. I was not aware that cover letters should not be about the writer, but rather the company. However, this makes since because the writer wants the person reading the letter to believe that he or she has researched and is aware of what the company does, and obviously believes he or she would make a good addition to the organization.

Another point to remember is that the cover letter will not be read first. The interviewer will only read the cover letter if the resume makes a good enough impression and he or she is interested enough to find out why the writer is particularly interested in the company.

Key points that I thought were important to remember included: being specific and personal, selling yourself as the applicant by making the reader see why you would be a great addition, and giving testimonials. I found giving testimonials to be a very good tip because it helps build credibility and ethos.

Most importantly to remember, FOLLOW UP! Give the impression that you care about being a part of the organization.

Sunday, September 14, 2008

What to Ask an Interviewer

I thought the article, "What to Ask an Interviewer" was very helpful. It's definitely hard to keep in mind that I, the person being interviewed, also need to ask questions regarding the position that I am applying for. The article had some very good points; some I was aware of, but sometimes forget, and others that I never thought about.

The article reminded me that it makes me look intelligent and interested when I ask questions. It means that I have potentially researched the company and am seeking more knowledge so that it may become a more mutual selection process, rather than the interviewer bombarding me with questions and drilling me about my experience and what I may be looking for. While the company probably knows better whether or not I would fit in with the other co-workers, it is also important that I feel welcome within their organization. Bringing up the work environment and company policies and goals would be a good discussion so that I, as well as the interviewer, can begin to see if my personality and worth ethic fits there.

Another point the article made was to remember the audience. I wouldn't want to ask someone on the executive board the same types of questions as I would be able to ask co-workers, managers, and/or recruiters. I must keep in mind what is appropriate and what is relevant to who is interviewing me.

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

10 years from now

10 Years from now? I'm really not even sure what I plan on doing tomorrow or this weekend, much less in 10 years. There are so many opportunities and great paths I could take, but I honestly don't know which one is for me at this point. My faith has directed me thus far, and I can only hope that my reliance on God will push me toward where I am supposed to go.

After graduating I would really love to do mission work for a year or two. If after that time spent around the country and/or the world I feel led to continue in that field, then I think it would be amazing to do so.

As a management major I could pursue a great many positions. The options are plenty, and openings aren't scarce. Whether it be running a restaurant, a boutique, or a large corporate company, my education has been preparing and continues to prepare me for taking on those positions. I have worked in the restaurant business for the past five years and have really enjoyed it, so opening one of my own or simply accepting a job as general manager would be something fun and familiar for me.

However, I don't think it would be as challenging for me as I would like. I have always loved planning events, particularly the set up and interior design part, and think event planning would be an excellent position for me. I handle pressure very well, and can come up with quick solutions when something goes wrong. I hope to at least have an internship sometime very soon where planning is involved so that I can exercise these skills and see if that's really what I'm in fact interested in.

Another position that I have considered for several years now is that of a Youth Pastor. There have been several people in my life that have impacted me greatly and pushed me to pursue my faith and live a life pleasing to the Lord. I am forever grateful to them, and would love to be that go-to person for teenagers who are struggling with all the pressures that come with growing up. I love helping people talk and sort through their problems, which is why at one point thought I saw myself as a therapist or school counselor.

Clearly I have had many thoughts and considered many options for the future. But who says I couldn't experience all of them at some point? My mom always says she still doesn't know what she wants to do when she grows up... This gives me hope that I can always change my mind. The workforce is a competitive place, but it is also one of endless opportunity.

In ten years I hope that I can look back and say that I've had really great learning experiences and have met and interacted with wonderful people. I hope that I can look back on these days and say that I pursued what I believed was best and loved and learned from the people in my life the best I could.