For this assignment, I found a graduate business student through the Chatham University Business and Entrepreneurship Department Network on LinkedIn who agreed to an interview. We conversed through email, where they answered the interview questions described in the IA02 assignment parameters. They did not agree to have their name released.
What were your major, interests, clubs, etc., in college?
“My major was Business Management. I received my MBA [Master’s Degree in Business Administration] from Chatham University. I supported supported charities like Big Brothers and Big Sisters. I was involved in the Business and Entrepreneurship Club. I had a lot of close relationships on campus but in hindsight, I wish that I had explored more on-campus clubs and activities.”
What were your major, interests, clubs, etc., in college?
“My major was Business Management. I received my MBA [Master’s Degree in Business Administration] from Chatham University. I supported supported charities like Big Brothers and Big Sisters. I was involved in the Business and Entrepreneurship Club. I had a lot of close relationships on campus but in hindsight, I wish that I had explored more on-campus clubs and activities.”
What is your best advice on how to study or gain studying strategies?
“Being organized is the best study advice. This includes making sure that not only are due dates on your calendar but also study blocks. To remain focused, you need to have blocks of time during which you can focus. There are so many distractions, particularly the internet and social media. You need to make sure that you can focus. Getting enough sleep is important. You also need to have a way to work off stress. Being able to plan for and juggle multiple priorities is a skill that will translate to the workforce. Being able to have some balance in life is also an important, life-long goal.”
How can you find good campus or off-campus jobs that help build the resume for the profession you're pursuing?
“Most companies are willing to invest in college students through internships and professional organizations. Finding the opportunity is the key. Those positions typically aren't advertised. You need to be proactive and put yourself out there a little. Identify some companies in which you have interest and reach out to them about opportunities. It might start as a shadowing opportunity. You might have to market yourself. You can also make contacts through professional organizations. Most of them have local chapters and membership discounts for students.
A warning: all companies check social media and search your name on the internet. Make sure to clean up your online profiles.”
How can you best benefit from different campus events and mixers?
“Networking is defined as 'interact with other people to exchange information and develop contacts, especially to further one's career.' The key is interaction. It is a daunting effort for most people. Remember that the person with whom you are trying to connect has the same fears. Start by introducing yourself and once they introduce themselves, start asking questions. Remember that people like to talk about themselves. Ask questions and truly listen. As the conversation continues, you will find interesting bunny trails to follow that help create a relationship.
Some potential questions include (depending upon audience):
What does their company do? How many offices do they have? What kind of clients do they serve?
Ask them about their particular position. What do they like most? What do they find most challenging? What interesting turns has their career taken?
What are you studying? What are your hobbies? What class have you found the most interesting? Which professor would you recommend? Where are you from? What is your hometown known for?
Ask for business cards.
ALWAYS write down your notes as soon after the event as possible. Store your contacts somewhere and in a format that works for you. Record information that will help you with future interactions and that will help you with remembering people. This includes family info, hobbies/interests, where you met them, etc."
How can you plan for good internships for second and third summers?
"Plan ahead. Research companies and know which ones you want to pursue. If they don't have online info about their internship programs,call them. Be proactive and ask for opportunity. Don't be afraid to use contacts. If you know someone that works there or has a friend that works there, ask them to put in a good word. Do your research on the company, the industry and the company's clients. Know them and be prepared to ask questions during your interview. Write a good cover letter. Probably 90% of cover letters look the same: 'I'm excited to apply for a position with your company. I believe that my drive and experience fit well with your needs....blah, blah, blah.' Be unique. Use google to research quotes and industry leaders. I recently helped someone who has 35 years of technical service experience in telecommunications and computers. He also has a lot of client service.
I searched ‘people and technology quotes’ on google.
This is an original thought from me: 'Proven able to meld the art of customer service with the science of technology.'
This is a combination of several ideas from some of the quotes: 'We are in the people service business. We provide the technology that brings people together and empowers them to be productive.' This is the type of stuff you can use to jazz up the resume and cover letter."
How can you participate in meaningful projects, competitions, or activities to develop strong skills over time?
"This all depends upon your major. Generally, employers are not looking for straight A students. We generally know that, if you get through college, you can do the work. We are looking for well rounded people that have a good work ethic and can fit into our culture. We look for people that did well in school but also were involved in clubs, had leadership opportunities, etc. Being able to collaborate with others is important. Keep track of your significant accomplishments as they happen. If you don't, you will forget many of them. Nothing is too small to record and use later. When you are apply for a job, you are selling yourself. You need to have examples and data to do that. Depending upon your major, you might want to keep a portfolio. Again, you need to update it on a regular basis. Waiting until you need it can be extremely stressful."
The interview I decided to read for comparison was the Faculty Spotlight on Dr. Stephanie Rosenthal, who spoke in class last week.
In the interview with Dr. Rosenthal, she discusses her (at the time) new position at Chatham and her previous educational and professional educational. Just like my interviewee, Dr. Rosenthal completed both her undergraduate and graduate studies at the same university. While Dr. Rosenthal attended Carnegie Mellon University, my interviewee attended Chatham.
Dr. Rosenthal has also worked in start-ups, while the person I interviewed has mostly worked in corporate environments. Dr. Rosenthal also specializes in Data Analytics and Programming, while the person I interviewed specializes in management currently.
However, both Dr. Rosenthal and the person interviewed above provided pertinent information for students looking for jobs. They also both emphasized the importance of communication and teamwork in and out the workplace.
Comments
Post a Comment