The Tip Jar

Tip Jar

Expand all Collapse all

• What if... | June 2013

  A couple of years ago, I offered an edition of The Tip Jar entitled “Diversify, Diversify, Diversify!” about the advantages of holding more than one job. To be honest, that brief list (check it out below) was really geared towards those who find themselves holding multiple jobs in order to make a living, rather than those who were doing it by design. The list was to intended to help those frustrated with their employment situation to perhaps see their situation in a more positive light.

  • The opportunity to build diverse skills sets
  • Multiple income streams; if one comes to an end, having other streams available can lessen the blow
  • Enhance continuity of work experience on your resume which is a plus for prospective employers
  • Increase the chances that something you are doing on a part-time basis could lead to a full-time situation
  • Can help alleviate boredom and burnout

  I still stand behind every one of those points. But here’s the thing. Some people are not ever going to be satisfied following just one path. The still recent shift in the economic climate has changed this perception to some extent, but, in general, the societal “norm,” or definition of success, is tied to the philosophy of doing one thing five days a week, with regular hours, and national holidays off in a place that often involves fluorescent lighting. And many, many people have spent years of their professional lives trying to force themselves into that mold when they would probably be a whole lot happier just breaking the mold. Talk about trying to shove a square peg into a round hole! Have you ever ignored the nagging voice in your head that tells you that you would be happier putting together two or three very different types of jobs with varied schedules and diverse rewards? Have you issued a gag order to the inner voice that repeatedly reminds you how unhappy you are with your backside glued to a desk chair for hours every day? What if you listened to that voice? What if you let that voice be heard?  What if you left a 9–5 gig with a regular salary and a 401K plan to be a writer? A full time blogger? A farmer? A yogi? What would happen if you listened to that voice? It’s completely understandable that not everyone feels they can take a seemingly drastic step and let go of the security that comes with regular, full-time employment. Let’s face it; regular, reliable income is a good thing! But what if you just let that little voice get a little bigger and allow some of what you may be stifling to be an active part of your life? You are not a one dimensional being, so why should your work life have only a single dimension? Easy to do? Not always, but few things in life are if they are really valuable. Check out Margaret Lobenstine’s book, “The Renaissance Soul”. It may just strike a chord and help you ask, “What if...”

• Making Other Plans | April 2013

  The fortunate truth for job seekers who are currently employed is that they’re often viewed as more desirable candidates than those who aren’t. Unfortunately for them, looking for a job can often be a full-time job of its own. How can you be smart about conducting your job search when you’re already busy working? Here’s a few quick tips.

  • Use your personal e-mail address and phone number, not the ones provided by your current employer. This happens all the time and can be easily avoided!
  • Use “your own time and your own dime.” Don’t conduct any part of your job search on company time (breaks and lunch are OK) and don’t use your employer’s printers, fax machines, etc.
  • Schedule time off for interviews if needed. Avoid suddenly coming down with a case of the flu in the middle of the day.
  • Do your best not to let the fact that you are actively searching for something else color your attitude and motivation at your current job. This could tip people off about your search.
  • You have no way of knowing how long your search will take or if it will result in an offer, so don’t discuss your plans with your boss or co-workers until an offer has been extended and you have accepted.
  • Watch the way you dress. If you work in a casual environment and start showing up in interview attire, you could raise suspicion and start the rumor mill.
  • Let any prospective employer know that your job search is confidential. This should not have any negative impact on whether an offer is extended to you.
  • If you’re offered your dream job (or any other job for that matter), give proper notice to your current employer and do your best to tie up loose ends and create a transition plan if appropriate.

• Paper Handshake | January 2013

  How is your paper handshake? We’ll come back to that, but first, let’s talk about real handshakes for a minute. Have you ever been the victim of a death grip handshake? You know the ones where you start checking for bruises as soon as the other person isn’t looking and begin wondering if you should get x-rays. It may be even worse; it may be the “dead fish” handshake? The one where the offered limp, lifeless hand makes you wonder if you’ve left bruises and/or makes you immediately want to wipe your own hand on your pants. Neither of these is good. So, what about the paper handshake?
  
  Think of your cover letter as your paper handshake. Just as your physical handshake introduces the live version of you, your cover letter introduces your resume and the paper version of your professional self. Whether physical or paper, you do not want your handshake to leave bruises, or make people feel the need to wash their hands. It takes care and patience to craft a cover letter that equates to a confident handshake. Ideally, your cover letter should convey a strong reflection of your skills and abilities without battering the reader or coming across as a desperate plea.
  
  A confession: I never thought of the concept of a paper handshake until I read this article by Susan Ricker for CareerBuilder.com. It’s a terrific analogy! She includes a helpful quiz to help you determine just how your paper handshake might be viewed by a potential employer. Job seekers often find writing cover letters more challenging than crafting resumes. This is good information to keep in mind when you are working on your own paper handshake. Feel free to forward your letters to Bennington’s Field Work Term & Career Development Office for review and feedback.

• To Gift or Not to Gift | November 2012

  For many, November and December mark that time of year filled with holidays and gift giving opportunities. This can be a tricky area to negotiate in our personal lives, but even more so at the workplace. For starters, know the gift giving rules where you work. They may include informal practice or formal policy, but knowing the accepted boundaries can help you avoid uncomfortable situations. If gift exchange is the norm in your workplace, here is a “Fast Five” list of things to keep in mind:

  1. Trust your instincts. If it feels weird or awkward to gift someone when you wouldn’t normally consider doing so, then don’t. On the other hand, if that person offers you a gift accept it with genuine thanks and let that end the matter.
  2. If you do decide to give a gift whether out of your own desire to do so, or to go with the flow of what’s typical in your workplace, do so thoughtfully. If you know the person is a tea drinker, for example, a nice mug, or interesting tea selection indicates that you have them in mind.
  3. Consider a general office gift, like a fruit platter (there are probably enough baked goods around already!) rather than individual gifts. If you opt to give gifts to a select few, do it outside of the office.
  4. If it’s common practice to give the boss a gift, suggest a group gift which avoids favoritism and the pressure of selecting the perfect thing.
  5. Be thoughtful about your thanks. If you don’t have the opportunity to thank someone in person for a gift, then make the effort to send along a handwritten note. Don’t dash off an “e-thanks” or send a text.

• What Have You Been Up To? | September 2012

  What have you been up to lately? This question is not intended to pry into your life, but rather prompt you to think about your recent professional accomplishments. A good habit to develop is periodically (some do this weekly while others prefer monthly or quarterly) reviewing and jotting down what you’ve accomplished. Often times, we’re so busy moving on to that next “whatever it is” that we don’t take the time to pause and think about what we’ve already done. Any special projects you’ve completed? How about programs, products or events you’ve developed? Any key relationships you’ve cultivated? Any additional responsibilities you’ve assumed? How about additional training or education that you’ve completed? Why bother, you might ask.

  Change happens and you don’t have to feel unprepared. Chances are likely that if you are under the age of 35, you will be job hunting every one to three years. If you are over the age of 35, you will likely be job hunting every five to eight years. In the process of all of this job hunting, we can expect to have three to five different careers during our professional lives.* That’s entire career changes, not job changes within a field! If this is not or has not been the case for you…Lucky You! Appreciate the place you have found or created for yourself.

  People change jobs and/or careers for any number of reasons: companies go under, positions are eliminated, and responsibilities reassigned. Just as often you make the decision: an organization or career is no longer a good fit, there is no further opportunity for professional growth, or maybe you’ve decided that you want to shake that museum curator job to become a middle school teacher.

  Regardless of the reason for change, if you find yourself needing to dust off your resume writing skills, you’re off to a great start if you’ve taken the time to jot down your accomplishments and new skills ahead of time. We could probably all agree that it’s easier to consider these areas when we’re not feeling under the gun to get a resume out and find a job as quickly as possible. By the way, this information can provide a nice self-esteem boost and also comes in handy when it’s time to negotiate for a raise! So, kick back, take a deep breath, and take some time to write down what you’ve been up to lately.

  ^{*from What Color is Your Parachute, 2007, by Richard Nelson Bolles}

• Performance Anxiety | July 2012

  For some organizations, annual performance reviews don’t seem to exist at all, while for others, it’s simply a matter of going through the motions. But for some, a regular performance review is a well-outlined, formal process. The debate continues as to whether or not reviews remain valuable, or are an outdated mode of performance management. Regardless of where you or your employer stand on the topic, you are likely to find yourself faced with the prospect of reflecting on your own performance over the last several months or year.

  • Make a point of understanding the process as it exists where you work. Is there a system in place for giving and receiving feedback on an annual basis? How does it work? Do you get the chance to prepare ahead of time, or is it done on the spur of a moment when your reviewer happens to find some time? Is it something in between?
  • If given the opportunity to prepare for your review in advance, give yourself the benefit of really considering what you have accomplished over the past year.  Be specific and be prepared to offer specific examples. It can also be helpful to add ways in which your employer has benefited from your work. For example, did you redesign a website resulting in a larger number of site visitors? Did you revamp a menu driving guests in for weekend brunch?
  • Depending on the culture of your workplace and the approach your supervisor takes with performance reviews, this can be an ideal time for productive, two-way conversation. Your supervisor can share with you his/her take on your strengths and needs for growth, and you also have the chance to discuss professional goals, and possibly renegotiate aspects of your job.
  • Ideally, you walk away from your evaluation feeling appreciated, affirmed that you are doing good work, and re-energized about what’s ahead. Since we don’t always get to live in our ideal world, what do you do if you receive a review that isn’t as positive as you expected or that you feel is unfair? The fact is that you don’t need to simply swallow what you are served as a review.  Many organizations have outlined steps that employees can take if they feel they’ve been evaluated unfairly. That said, one of the best first steps is to schedule another meeting with your reviewer―but not right away. Give yourself the time and space to review the evaluation objectively. Is it really an inaccurate reflection of your work, or are you sensitive about receiving criticism at all? Be honest with yourself here and then be prepared to counter inaccuracies with facts and examples.
  • Annual performance reviews can be great learning opportunities for both you and your supervisor. It’s important to leave defensiveness at the door and be open to the information and lessons you can receive. Good, bad, or otherwise, you are likely to end up with new knowledge about yourself, your supervisor, and the organization you work with.

  P.S.  One more quick tip:  Going through an annual performance review creates a prime opportunity to revisit and update your resume!

• Job Search Strategies (not for who you think…) | June 2012

  With new grads being minted nearly every weekend this spring, you might be tempted to assume that this column is about job searching for twenty-somethings. Well, think again. More and more job seekers are in the midst of a mid-life job search for one reason or another. Some of those reasons are their own and others, not. In either case, mid-life job seekers have some unique things to consider in their quest for a new job or career.

  Ageism is illegal, but guess what? It exists in subtle and not so subtle ways. Generally speaking, there is a tendency for employers to choose a younger candidate over an older one. The most common reason tends to be that seasoned workers generally require a higher salary. Additionally, the perception exists that older workers are “set in their ways” and therefore can’t (or won’t) adapt to new settings and requirements, and that they are not up on the latest and greatest trends, technology, etc. So, you’ll have to recognize your competition and show your best stuff. Here are five tips that could help you come out on top:

  • Freshen up. First impressions are critical. Make sure you have an updated resume that reflects your most relevant experience and is in touch with current standards. For example, do not include your marital status, your Social Security, or date of birth, all of which used to be standard resume fare. If you’ve never written a cover letter (or it’s been a while), get some help. There are lots of great resources available for free online or in your library. Even if you graduated from college decades ago, you can still access support from Bennington’s Career Development Office.
  • Get over it. Chances are strong that you’ll be interviewing and/or working directly with someone who is younger than you are. You may need to dig deep and see how willing you are to deal with this reality. You may not have a choice if you want to land a job, so your best bet is to accept it and not come across as defending your age to a “young whippersnapper.” Think of it not as years of age that you need to defend, but rather depth of experience that you have to offer.
  • Speaking of depth of experience … There are some skills that are only developed through experience. Both the quantity and quality of the experience you bring with you have given you stronger problem solving, time management, and interpersonal skills. The book, Fired at 50: How to Overcome the Greatest Executive Job Search Challenge, by Tucker Mays and Bob Sloane talks in more detail about this and is a worthwhile read.
  • Plug in. If you’re not current with widely used computer application, such as Microsoft Office, take a class and get some practice. Come around to the idea of using social media, even if you come to it kicking and screaming. LinkedIn is a professional social media option that can be a powerful tool in your job search arsenal.
  • Energy. You may be battling the misconception that older workers have lower energy and flagging enthusiasm. If you’re in the midst of a job search or think you might be starting one soon, this is a great time to start taking care of yourself if you’re not. Plain and simple, people who exercise regularly, eat well, and get good quality sleep are more energetic than those who don’t. Practice smiling too (use a mirror if you have to). A smile reflects energy and enthusiasm much more than a stern or rigid face. On the subject of appearance, resist any temptation to dress younger. Avoid any fashion trends that will likely make it seem as though you’re trying too hard. Classic choices are still your best bet.

• Should I Stay or Should I Go? | January 2012

  Ever get a song stuck in your head? When The Clash posed this lyrical question, they weren’t referring to leaving a job; however, you can be sure that nearly everyone has asked it at some point in their career. So, how do you know whether you should stay or go? After all, you have probably committed a great deal of time, energy, and talent to your current position, employer, or field. There is also a certain degree of comfort in doing work you know and getting a regular paycheck. The question of whether to stay or go is seldom an easy one to answer and there is no singular response for everyone.  That said here are a few things to consider if you’re finding The Clash stuck in your head:

  
  

  • Mind/Body Connection If the emotional stress of being unhappy in a job is manifesting itself physically, it may be time to go.  Anxiety, depression, insomnia, changes in eating habits or alcohol use, or more colds and other  illnesses can land you in the doctor’s office, but may also be your body’s way of letting you know it’s  time to move on from your job.
  • No Elbow Room Are there possibilities for an upward or lateral move within the organization that could help you feel  more challenged or put underutilized skills to work?  If not, it could be time to blow the dust off your  resume and see what else is out there.
  • Constantly Changing Landscape If the organization  you are with seems to be mired in a never-ending stream of reorganization,  restructuring, or changing leadership, they may not be able to offer you the professional stability you’re looking for. Constant worry about what might happen to your position, projects, or  department can create a stressful situation (see bullet #1 above) and warrant exploring other  options.
  • Sunday Dread  Most people look forward to weekends, or vacations, but take note if Sunday evening fills you with  dread about returning to your job the next morning. It’s one thing to know you might be facing a  particularly challenging day or difficult task, but if the very idea of just going to work fills you with  negative emotions, consider other options.
  • An Offer You Can’t Refuse  Of course, you can always refuse an offer. But if another opportunity comes your way, it may very  well be worth taking the risk. Can you know for certain that the grass will be greener? Nope. But you  can analyze the pros and cons before hopping over the fence.

• Balancing Act | November 2011

  Years ago, the retailer Eddie Bauer used to have t-shirts that, on the front, said, “Never confuse having a career with having a life,” with step-by-step instructions on the back for making s’mores. What a great reminder to find that balance between work and the rest of your life. Finding a healthy work/life balance can help make you more effective both at work and in the not-work-related aspects of your life. Here are a few thoughts on striking (and maintaining) that balance using an old school mnemonic.

  A. Drop any activities (or people for that matter) that sap your energy. This is probably the hardest thing to do as you try to enhance your sense of balance in life. We often continue doing things out of a sense of guilt or misplaced obligation and it’s usually unpleasant to start nudging someone out of your inner circle for fear of hurting their feelings. Once you gracefully and respectfully withdraw from some of these things, you may be surprised at the sense of relief you feel. Of course, it’s not always possible to rid yourself of unpleasant tasks at work, but give it a try in other areas of your life.

  E. Reconsider how you do your errands. Can you do things in batches, setting aside a finite period of time to complete errands in one area? Can you do things online rather than in person? Trying to cram in “just one more thing” can steal your sense of balance. You can even think about “batch scheduling” at work; can several tasks or meetings be done in one place to eliminate running around?

  I. Is your schedule so packed that the idea of downtime is downright frightening? Start with small increments. Carve out just 15 minutes of time with no agenda beyond taking a few deep breaths. If you have a habit of working long hours regularly, start with leaving work a bit earlier one day a week.

  O. Own your schedule. If you are ruled by your BlackBerry, iPhone, or good old-fashioned paper planner, schedule appointments for yourself to exercise, have night out with friends or your significant other, browse the shelves at you local bookstore, or relax with your kindle.

  U. Yes, relaxing with your kindle was just suggested, but also consider unplugging as a way of keeping things in balance. Schedule it if you have to! Technology can be oh-so-helpful, but also exhausting. There is often pressure to be tuned in, and available 24/7. If you work from home or do freelance work, the compulsion to stay connected can be even stronger. Set boundaries between work time and life time. Take an evening a week off from all electronics, or take a whole weekend day, or even an entire weekend. And while you’re at it… go make some s’mores!

• Diversify, Diversify, Diversify! | August 2011

  This basic piece of investing advice (“Diversify your portfolio!”) can also come in handy when contemplating your work and career.  Many people would prefer having a single job that meets their needs—a regular schedule, benefits, and a single, reliable income source—rather than patching things together with two or more part-time positions.  However, there are some very definite advantages to holding more than one job at a time.

  • The opportunity to build diverse skills sets
  • Multiple income streams; if one comes to an end, having other streams available can lessen the blow
  • Enhance continuity of work experience on your resume which is a plus for prospective employers
  • Increase the chances that something you are doing on a part-time basis could lead to a full-time situation
  • Can help alleviate boredom and burnout

  Go ahead and look for that single employment option if it’s what you want. Just don’t forget to take a look at the positive side of mixing it up a little, either by design or while you’re looking for something else.

• Research and Connect | June 2011

  Here are five thoughts that might offer you a different perspective if you are in the midst of a job search.

  Gone are the days when job seekers printed their resumes and cover letters on fine linen paper and sent them off for consideration through the US Postal Service. Also gone are the days when you could dial a telephone and easily connect with an actual person who might tell you about the status of that resume. Now, as job searching has gone to the web, it’s not uncommon for “No Phone Calls” to be explicitly stated in a posting, or for an e-mail address to contain nothing more than info@companyname.com. So, how does a job seeker research organizations and connect with real people this day and age? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  Look (no really look) at an organization’s website. If you look beyond the landing page and employment listings on a company’s website, you can find a great deal of useful information. You might find out about planned expansions or other internal changes that could result in job openings. You may learn who is on their Board of Directors and learn that you have a direct or indirect connection that can be tapped. You will also likely find specific names, titles, e-mail addresses and telephone numbers to use in your correspondence. Take the time to dig below the surface and even look under some unlikely headings for a potential gold mine of information about a company.

  LinkedIn. Not only does LinkedIn provide a great opportunity for you to start building your own professional profile online, but it’s a great way to make connections within a specific organization. Exercise a little patience though. You might not score an immediate connection, but the possibilities are nearly limitless for connecting with someone who has a connection with someone who has a connection with someone…you get the idea! Once you’re able to see the full profile of someone you’re interested in working with, you may find that you already have some common ground outside of the company they’re with. Who knows?

  Facebook. Most companies, whether corporate or entrepreneurial in nature, have a Facebook presence. Check out their wall and status updates for what’s going on. If you’re really interested in working for a specific company, this is a great way to stay on top of what’s going on with them right now.

  Twitter. If you have a Twitter account (or get one), you can follow the tweets of those companies or individuals you’re interested in working with. With only 140 characters to work with, you’ll only get the “headlines” so to speak. You might also get a teaser that leads you back to their website, a publication, a blog, etc. A great way to stay “in the know.”

  And speaking of blogs…Follow one! Follow more than one! So many companies and key people within those companies publish blogs. Think owners, CEOs, publishers, editors, etc. Follow them and become a regular commenter. This could be the beginning of a great conversation that could lead to something more…like a paycheck! You can reference blog content in formal communications, such as cover letters and interviews. It sends the message that you’re paying attention to what’s important to them and confident enough to share your thoughts and opinions.

• Take Five | December 2010

  Here are five thoughts that might offer you a different perspective if you are in the midst of a job search.

  Go back to the drawing board. It’s perfectly fine to reapply to organizations you’ve applied to or even interviewed with in the past. There may be a better fit now between what they’re looking for and what you have to offer.

  Move it. Really assess where you are personally, financially, and professionally, because it might make sense to expand your job search to an entirely different geographic area. If there is nothing truly tying you where you are, consider expanding your horizons.

  If it’s broken … fix it. If you have lost positions to more qualified candidates, seek out specific feedback on what areas you can improve to be more competitive.  Likewise, look at what’s not happening. If you’re not getting called for interviews, you may need to re-evaluate your cover letters and resume.  On the other hand, you may need to brush up on your interview skills if you look good on paper, but aren’t getting offers.

  Get social. Set up a professional profile on LinkedIn to give yourself a more polished online presence than what’s on your Facebook page. And speaking of Facebook, if your dream employer has a page, become a fan and look for ways to use their page as a way to build a connection with the organization.

  It’s about the people. If you haven’t yet landed your “ideal” job or if you feel like you’ve settled for something part-time or temporary, remember that all of the people you come in contact with through those jobs are possible networking gold mines. At the very least, you could end up with a strong reference. You also just might meet someone who has a friend who knows a guy, who has a friend with the perfect opportunity for you!

• Whistle While You Work | October 2010

  The seven dwarfs were onto something with their little ditty, “Whistle While You Work,” and Mary Poppins hit it on the nose with her tune, “Just a Spoonful of Sugar.” Most Tip Jar columns focus on topics related to finding a job, making a career shift, and the like. But what about those of you who have jobs, are choosing not to leave (for any number of reasons), but may not feel as though you’re in the happiest place on earth? Here is a quick “Top 10” list of things that might just raise your happiness quotient (a.k.a. HQ) at work:

  10  Inject a little fun—depending on your work environment, check out a funny YouTube video during a break or sign up for a joke of the day e-mail. Or, how about whistling a little tune?

  9  Move it—humans were not designed to be sedentary, but many jobs require just that. Schedule regular breaks for yourself every couple of hours; get up and stretch, go for a 10-15 minute walk (walk outside if you can).

  8  Connect—when we feel frustrated or unhappy, we often want to withdraw, but a better strategy is to connect with co-workers and build those relationships. Up your HQ by making a friend at work or even just getting to know a colleague a little better.

  7  Out to lunch—productivity is good, but working through every single lunch break isn’t so healthy. Take those 30 minutes or that hour and truly give yourself a break from your “to do” list.

  6  Straighten up—and I’m not talking about your posture! Neatening up your workspace can help alleviate stress and make the time you spend there more enjoyable (or at least less chaotic).

  5  Decorate it—place some things in your work area that put a smile on your face. Have a great picture of your cat or your kids? Keep it on your desk where you can glance at it throughout the day. How about a plant? How about some free desktop wallpaper that you find inspiring, beautiful, or just plain funny?

  4  Do the Worst First and Save the Best for Last—procrastination may give you short-term respite, but in the long run, it erodes your HQ at work. Tackle the challenging, nagging, or just plain distasteful tasks first. Then plan to wrap up your day or your week with something you enjoy.

  3  Smile—That simple? Yes. The mere act of smiling (when you honestly would rather not) will help you and those around you feel happier. In fact your smile will often lead to reciprocal smiles from others, thus lightening up the mood of the whole place. Talk about increasing your HQ!

  2  An attitude of gratitude—finding even one thing every day to be grateful about in your job can go along way toward helping you feel more positive about things. Ideally, you can stretch this beyond gratitude for merely having a job, but if that’s all you can muster on a given day, then so be it.

  1  Choose happiness—we all have to make a thousand choices every single day. Despite all that required choice making, it’s easy to forget that we can simply choose to be happy and make our other choices accordingly.

• Perfect Pitch | July 2010

  In our last issue, the Tip Jar addressed the importance of networking. According to Brad Karsh, founder and president of JobBound, 64 percent of people get their jobs through networking, so it can really pay (literally!) to get good at it. An important part of networking is having a quick, but effective introduction of yourself prepared and ready to go at a moment’s notice. Having an “elevator speech” should be one of the key tools in your skill set for job searching, networking, and plain old making friends with new people. It’s also a great way to begin responding to the much-dreaded interview question, “So, tell me about yourself.”

  The term “elevator speech” or “elevator pitch” got its name because it should be brief enough to take place in the average length of an elevator ride. The other philosophy is that you could run into the most important person of your life (professional life or otherwise) and be too to say anything. Either way, the message is be prepared. OK, so how do you do it?

  If you Google “elevator speech”, you’ll get more than 300,000 sites in a fraction of a second. That’s just a single search engine with a single phrase. It doesn’t count Bing (or any number of other search engines) or using “elevator pitch”, “elevator speech examples”, etc. To help you narrow it down, here are the basic components:

  • What/How do you contribute?
  • Who are you?
  • What are you doing/What would you like to be doing?

  Sounds simple, right? Let’s check out a few examples...

  “I’m Jill and I’m looking for a job working with kids.”

  Or, how about:

  “I’m Bob and I graduated from Bennington with a focus in architecture.”

  Yes, these are both introductions, but how much do you really know about Jill and how inspired are you to help her? Bob’s introduction is more likely to generate a conversation (if it generates one at all!) about his coursework at Bennington rather than what he’s doing now or wants to be doing.

  Let’s try these instead…

  “I help children find their inner Picasso. I’m Jill Smith and I’m an art educator currently volunteering with an after school program. I’m really interested in working with a non-profit in an urban area working with underserved children.”

  “My goal is to help preserve the earth for future generations. My name is Bob Green and I’m exploring options to work in the green design/building field. Would you mind giving me your business card, so we can talk more in depth about your work in the field at a later time?”

  I’m thinking you’ll agree that these versions are more interesting and indicative of where each of these people would like to move in their careers. I’ve heard that, in his “elevator speech”, an IRS agent once introduced himself as a government fund raiser! A great idea on his part since most people would rather run the other way than talk to someone with the IRS.

  There is an overwhelming number of suggestions and formulas for creating a great introduction for yourself. None of them will fit everyone, so the most important thing is to find a way, or a combination of ways, to introduce yourself in a way you’re comfortable with. Wait! That’s not the most important thing; it’s the second most important thing.

  The most important thing is to practice, practice, practice! Yes, practice. That means say it out loud, do it in front of a mirror, and try it out in front of friends who will give you honest feedback. The thing is that the more you practice, the less you will sound as though you’ve been practicing. Your introduction should roll off your tongue at the first opportunity you have to use it.

  Invest some time and a little creativity in yourself to come up with a great “elevator speech”—one that tells others about who you are and what you do and is interesting enough to help them remember you. Seriously, wouldn’t you remember a government fund raiser?

• Casting Your Net | May 2010

  Computer networks, social networks, television networks (yes, they still exist)…networks are everywhere and the word “networking” pops up a lot for job seekers. However, developing your professional network requires attention even if you are currently employed. Ponder this…if you are looking or were to suddenly need to look for a job, how many people could you turn to for help?

  Here are some people to keep in mind: You have nothing to lose by getting in touch with someone and seeing if they respond!

  • Your family…and, by extension, all of the people they know, and the people that those people know (you get the idea!)
  • Teachers, professors, lecturers, guest speakers
  • Your friends whether they are entering or already established in the job market
  • Fellow alumni and your college career services office (Yes, that’s a plug for the FWT & Career Development Office here at Bennington!).
  • Use sites like LinkedIn or meetup.com (even if you’re looking for a job, you can create a professional, online profile for yourself)

  If you already have a professional network, are you keeping it active and vibrant? Do you have the following:

  • Several people who know your current work well enough to be a solid reference?
  • Contact information for former colleagues?
  • Former colleagues whom you’ve contacted in the last six months?
  • A lunch or coffee appointment with someone in your network who you have not seen in the last month?
  • New contacts you’ve added recently?
  • Contacts from both inside and outside of your current field of work?

  And what about those networking events…what are you supposed to do anyway?

  • Take business cards with you (if you don’t have any, you can print them inexpensively on a home printer with your contact information). Offer yours and ask for them from others.
  • Look the part – dress to make a positive first impression.
  • Practice introducing yourself. Have a 30 second introduction ready to go.
  • Listen to what people are saying about who they are and what they do…could they become a resource for you?
  • Make mental notes of those people you want to follow up with (or use this trick if you are afraid you won’t remember…sneak into the restroom and write notes in a small pad).
  • Follow up within 24 hours…the longer you wait, the less likely you are to do it and the less likely someone will remember you.

  Remember that networking is a skill and like any other skill, you will become better with practice!

• Let Me Introduce You | March 2010

  Allow me to introduce you to one of the most useful, yet most underused and undervalued job search and networking tools you will ever meet: the informational interview.

  The term “informational interview” was coined by Richard Bolles, author of the iconic career guide, What Color Is Your Parachute? Informational interviews are not about asking for or expecting job offers. However, according to quintcareers.com, “One of every 200 resumes (some studies put the number as high as 1500 resumes) results in a job offer. One out of every 12 informational interviews, however, results in a job offer.” So why don’t more people take advantage of them? Perhaps it’s that daunting word “interview” that scares people away.

  Informational interviews are not as formal as actual job interviews and are just what they sound like–opportunities to learn information that is valuable for anyone thinking of entering or changing fields. Think about it; who better to talk to about a job or field than someone already in it? They are in the unique position to give you the good, the bad, and the ugly about a particular organization or type of work.

  Great; you get information about the work, but what else can you get? Plenty! Be prepared with questions and get them answered, but if you listen more than you talk, here’s what else you could get:

  • Insight into the work beyond what may be inherent (or not!) in a job title
  • Gain inside contacts with an organization or field of work
  • Gain access to additional contacts through referrals Learn about the hidden job market (unadvertised jobs)
  • Enhanced knowledge about the needs of particular employers or an industry in general, potentially giving yourself a leg up in marketing yourself as an ideal job candidate
  • Increased confidence for actual job interviews
  • Learn whether you fit (or even want to fit) into a particular organization or field

  See? Asking for about 30 minutes of someone’s time can result in quite a bit of value. A couple of final notes about informational interviews: always, always, always send a thank-you note (e-mail or standard mail is fine) afterward. A cardinal rule of job searching and network building is to always thank those that give you a hand along the way. Stay in touch with those who have granted you information interviews, particularly if you have followed their suggestions or have been helped along even further by a referral they may have given you. This helps you build rapport and strengthen your professional network.

  For more information about information interviews (how to prepare, what questions to ask, etc.).

• Get SMART! | January 2010

  Now that we’re done ringing in the New Year, it’s tradition to start thinking about what we would like to accomplish in the next twelve months. This can be a very good thing. However, I’ve come to prefer the words “aspirations” or “intentions” to the more widely accepted “resolutions.” Resolutions sound so…well, resolute! The reality is that we don’t have control over every element involved in making our dreams, goals, plans come true. Hence, my preference for aspirations and intentions. Whatever you call them, make them SMART: specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely.

  Specific. General goals might be to become healthier or find a new job. You’ll have better results using much more specific language. For example, I will walk three days a week for thirty minutes. I will update my resume to include my most recent experience and current skills.

  Measurable. Establish concrete criteria to measure any goal you set for yourself. A good way to do this is with “how questions”. How many? How much? How often? Basically, you want to define for yourself how you will know if you have accomplished a step toward reaching a larger goal as well as the end result itself.

  Attainable. Most any goal is attainable as you identify steps to take in the right direction to achieve it. As you take steps forward, you are gaining what you need to attain your goal. Maybe it’s a new skill, a new level of confidence, or a new connection with someone who can support you in your efforts. A goal becomes closer not because it moves closer to you, but because you stretch and grow closer to it.

  Realistic. Do not confuse realistic goals with low goals! Your aspirations can be both high and realistic. The trick is that they have to be results you are able and willing to work toward. Only you can decide how much effort you’re willing to commit to something you want in your life. That commitment is the thing that brings your aspirations to life.

  Timely. It’s been said that the busiest day of our lives is someday! Whether you have made the decision to lose weight, change your career, move to a new area, or get a pet, set the date. Make appointments with yourself to achieve the small goals leading up to as well as the end result you’re striving for.

  Here’s one more tip: Write it down. Many studies on goal setting and achievement have consistently demonstrated that people who write their goals down succeed in reaching them more often than those who don’t. It can be a journal, an old spiral notebook, or a computer file. It doesn’t have to be fancy, it just has to be. Let 2010 be the year that you’re SMART!

• So, tell me about yourself | November 2009

  With signs indicating that the economy is no longer in free fall and may even be starting to recover a bit, more people are finding themselves preparing for interviews.  Historically, explaining gaps in employment presented a real challenge for candidates.  These days, you are not alone and employment inconsistencies are generally considered with a more sympathetic view.  However, they still need to be explained, so here are a few tips.

  • Make the first move. Many interviewers still love to start a conversation with, “So, tell me about yourself.”  Use this first as an opportunity to talk about your strengths and passions.  Then as a chance to bring up your current employment status on your own terms.
  • Blame it on the recession (but only if it’s true). While it can feel embarrassing or even humiliating having to revisit a layoff in interviews, most employers just take it in stride in the current economic climate.  If you were let go as part of a large scale layoff, let your potential new employer know.  This draws the focus away from your layoff specifically.
  • Be positive. Layoffs or job loss for other reasons can bring on feelings of anger and bitterness.  Be careful not to say anything negative about your former employer.  It may raise some eyebrows about other factors that may have contributed to your departure.
  • Be prepared. Employers will want to know how you’ve been spending your time out of concern that perhaps you’ve grown unmotivated or lazy.  Before the interview, have a solid response prepared to a question about what you’ve been doing.  It’s OK to say you took some time to reevaluate your goals and have begun doing part-time, freelance, or volunteer work. It’s even OK if you have made networking and job searching your full-time job.

• Going the Extra Mile... for Real | September 2009

  Despite the media’s indication’s that the recession is coming to an end, or even that it has ended in some areas, many are still feeling the effects. Current job seekers still need to be both patient and flexible in their search. Sometimes being flexible can mean relocation. Relocation can be a scary word that conjuring images of burly moving men breaking your favorite coffee mug or a priceless family heirloom. It can also be an exciting word offering up opportunities for new people, new experiences, and new jobs. If relocation is in the cards for you or if you’re simply open to the possibility, here are some things to consider. Beyond the more obvious steps like getting your utilities disconnected and forwarding your mail, the focus here is on ways to explore and/or acclimate to a new area as you seek work.

  • Use local and/or regional job search sites (RegionalHelpWanted is an example, but there are plenty of others)
  • Use the address of a friend or family member in the area on your resume and cover letters (you’re more likely to get a response)
  • Check out the local chapters of professional associations you already belong to or are considering joining
  • Use the FWT & CDO here at Bennington and attend regional alumni events in your new area (make sure to update your contact information)
  • Consider using salary surveys and cost of living calculators for your new area (salary.com and homefair.com are two you can try)
  • Even with temporary housing and work in the new location, you’ll be in a stronger position to find something permanent

  Uprooting yourself and moving to a new location requires a leap of faith.  With some planning and consideration, that leap can yield some very positive results.

• Career Services for Alumni | July 2009

  The Tip Jar returns this month as a career resource for alumni. Since we last appeared, some of you may have had a career counseling appointment with us and some of you may have wondered what career counseling at Bennington is all about. Well here's what it can do for you.

  It might help to think of career counseling as your very own personal assistant when it comes to a job search. Now that doesn’t mean that we'll do the work for you, but we can make doing the work more manageable.  Finding a job or even figuring out what kind of job to look for can be daunting and overwhelming. Career counseling can help you identify a direction (or more than one!) to move in for exploration, and help break the process down into smaller, more bite-size steps. This is the case whether you are a new alumni, a career changer, considering relocation, or re-entering the workforce after some time away.

  Besides direction and goal identification, what else can a career counselor help with?  A counselor can help identify your skills and strengths and how best to present them to prospective employers.  We can help you write a strong resume and cover letter to increase your chances of getting an interview.  And speaking of interviews … practice makes perfect; we can help you plan responses to the tough questions that can come up, give you strategies for salary negotiation, and even conduct a mock interview with you before the real thing.

  Also available through Bennington’s FWT & Career Development Office are a number of online job search resources including our own WorkLink database, which also gives access to a larger national database that partners with even more search options (WorkLink is bigger than you think!).  Along with that is access to subscription job search resources that we foot the bill for and make available to you.  And then there are the dozens of other free access websites that we’ve checked out and organized into categories to make it easier to narrow (or widen) your search.

  Now, if all of that sounds like a lot…it is!  There’s a lot more to us than the old FWT office that you knew (and maybe even loved!) in your time at Bennington.  If you’re ready to figure out the next step—or even if you're not— let us give you a hand.

• Dealing with the Recession | January 2009

  …there is good news. People are experiencing greater job satisfaction in their jobs when they consider the alternatives in the current economy.  Things don’t seem quite so bad where we sit when we read about states being strapped by ever rising unemployment claims.  The annual survey by Yahoo! HotJobs reported an increase from 28% in 2007 to 38% in 2008 of respondents who were very satisfied with their jobs. The consensus among career support professionals is to stay employed if you are employed and not feeling completely miserable.

  If you don’t happen to be employed and/or in the 38% of those who are very satisfied with their jobs, take heart.  The reality is that people still get hired, even during a recession.  Keep in mind that it is an “employer’s market” now in the sense that those that are hiring will have their pick of candidates.  You will have to market yourself and your skills to employers better and in different ways than you have before.  It will take hard work, patience, and flexibility on the part of job seekers, but those are the things that will help you secure a job in today’s turbulent market.

  • Do something every single day related to finding a job.  If you’re not currently working, your full time job is finding one.  If you’re working, but worried about how long it will last, you can take steps each day to re-evaluate your skills and explore options.
  • Do not leave any stone unturned when it comes to finding a position. Try any and every option you can think of and that others can think of. If you haven’t done so before, consider requesting access to the FWT & Career Development Office’s WorkLink database or scheduling a career counseling appointment.
  • Follow up, follow up, and follow up! Follow up on every resume you send, every e-mail you generate, every phone call you make, and every casual contact you make related to finding a job. Leave 3-5 business days between contacts to avoid crossing the line into obnoxious!
  • Maybe you don’t want a long/longer commute, different hours, or a new boss, but being flexible does two things:  opens more opportunities for you and sends the message that you are willing to and can adapt to change.
  • Being flexible does not mean selling yourself short just because there’s a recession out there.  You have valuable skills, so don’t settle for less just to get a job.  Check out salary survey websites (like salary.com) to make sure you’re getting a fair offer.

• What's Next? | November 2008

  If you’re tuned in at all to the world around you, it’s tough to avoid the downward economic trend.  It’s hard not to wish for a crystal ball (or even a good old Magic 8 ball) to know what will happen next.  Despite our lack of superhero powers to see into the future, there are a few things we can do to exert some control in an out of control economy.

  Remember to breathe and don’t panic as we all wonder what this economic chaos means for each of us.  Here are some tips for both the professional and personal sides of life to approach these challenging times…

  • Have an updated resume or portfolio ready in case you do find yourself looking for a new job. Show how your accomplishments can be an asset to an employer rather than offering up a “laundry list” of skills.
  • Learn a new skill or take on a project at work to help enhance your options.
  • Expand your circle: Create a larger network for yourself before you need it.  Any of us who have been in the same job and/or company for a number of years tend to become complacent with this.
  • Speaking of networking, consider joining a professional association.  These can be a great source for trends in your field, contacts, and even job leads.
  • Treat everyone (vendors, customers, and even competitors) as though they may be your next employer.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with those who can act as references for you.
  • Be genuinely enthusiastic and likeable on the job – there’s an old saying that “attitude more than aptitude will determine your altitude.”
  • Volunteer work can help you develop skills and help keep you feeling good during tough times.
  • Remember to review your accomplishments and celebrate your successes, both at work and in your personal life.
  • Develop hobbies and other interests outside of work to help you build a balanced life.  If your life is all about work, it can be a much harder blow if it comes to an end.
  • Stay connected with friends and family, but don’t just commiserate; use each other for positive support.

• Get Linked with WorkLink! | September 2008

  In July’s e-newsletter, we let you know that WorkLink was on the way.  Now is your chance to get “linked” to Bennington College in a whole different way!

  WorkLink is the latest step as the FWT & Career Development office expands its career services for Bennington College alumni.  It doesn’t matter if you finished your time at Bennington a few short years ago or if you’re looking for a mid-life career change.  It doesn’t matter if you’re a job seeker, someone with a job to post for Bennington students/alumni, or simply curious about what’s “out there.”  Regardless of where you find yourself, WorkLink can be a resource for you.

  Once you have access to WorkLink, you can update your contact information in your profile, look for a job, post a job, maintain updated resumes and cover letters, check out resources in the Document Library, apply directly to posted positions, or receive e-mail notification that a Bennington student or alumnus/a has applied for a job you have posted.  WorkLink is one more tool you can use in your search for a rewarding job or a great employee.

  We are working to provide WorkLink access directly through the alumni website.  Until then, if you’re interested in accessing WorkLink, here are your next steps…

  • Send an email to fwt@bennington.edu with "Alumni WorkLink Access" in the subject line.
  • Be sure to include your full name, your preferred e-mail address, a phone number and whether you are interested in WorkLink as a job seeker or as someone with a job to post.
  • You will then receive a welcome e-mail providing your user name and password along with some instructions for WorkLink.

  Remember, WorkLink is not the only resource available to you through the FWT & Career Development Office as Bennington College alumni.  I, along with others in the office, am here to offer support no matter what stage in your career you find yourself. That support can take many forms depending on your needs…that’s for you to let us know!  It may mean helping you identify directions to explore, helping you connect with someone who has expertise in your specific field, helping you blow the dust off your resume, or polishing your interview skills (in which case we may need to talk about blowing the dust off your interview suit as well!).

  Welcome to WorkLink—I look forward to helping you get linked in!

  Login to the Alumni Career Services page and access WorkLink.

• Here's Lookin' at You, Kid | July 2008

  Some of you may actually remember this famous Humphrey Bogart line.  If not, don’t worry, because I’m actually thinking of it with a modern twist.

  For good and bad, existing and prospective employers are “lookin’ at you, kid”.  Increasingly, employers are using the internet to learn about those they may be interested in hiring as well as those who are already on board.  As we become more firmly entrenched in the era of virtual lives and social networking, employers see the internet as another tool in their recruitment, selection and evaluation processes.

  This is not meant to frighten you into thinking that all employers are doing this or, if they are doing it, using information in a malicious way.  An employer could learn from your social network page that you have a well-rounded life with strong community ties.  They may learn that you coach your son or daughter’s sports team or that you are president of the PTO at the local elementary school.  This may confirm for them that you are just the person they are looking for.  On the other hand, an employer may learn information about you that you wouldn’t include on your resume and that they cannot legally obtain in an interview:  how much do you “party” and with whom (remember the pics from that bachelor or bachelorette party?), what religion you practice, what political issues you support.  It is not illegal for employers to seek this information out.  If it’s on the internet, it’s available to anyone who finds it.  The problem comes when unethical employers use the information to screen out qualified applicants or, when evaluations roll around, to cast an otherwise good employee in a negative light.

  The lesson is this:  know what’s floating out there in cyberspace about you.  Google yourself periodically and see what pops up.  You have control over information or pictures that you make available about yourself on the web.  And while we can’t control everything (or what others may find suitable for public viewing about us), I would encourage you to correct wrong information or anything that presents an unflattering image of you.

  As far as employers go, most of them fall into the category of what I like to call “good humans”.  So, go ahead and let them look at you; just know in advance what it is they might see.

  And now...What’s in it for you?

  This is where things get exciting!  In February of this year, the Field Work Term and Career Development Office went “live” with our brand new job search database.  What a switch from the old system!   As alumni, you may be asking, “So, what is in it for me?”  Beginning this fall, Bennington alumni will be able to add this new database to their arsenal of job search tools!  The new system is aptly called WorkLink and is a tremendous resource whether you are interested in searching for a job yourself or posting one for current Bennington students or other alums.

  If you are looking for employment, you will be able to update your individual profile and, in addition to searching the database, you can upload your resume and apply directly to postings you find through WorkLink. If you are someone with a job to offer, you can create an employer profile and post everything from FWT opportunities to full time positions. 

  Also available through WorkLink are resume and cover letter writing guidelines (who can’t use a little help tweaking those?) as well as information for many other job search websites for various fields including performing and visual arts, education, writing/publishing, science, and non-profits.

  As we continue to enhance career services for alumni, WorkLink is a valuable step.  Additional information and all of the “how to” details will be available in the fall as we kick off this exciting new phase of career services for Bennington alumni.  Look for your September e-newsletter and get ready to link up with WorkLink!