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Interview with PR Couture Founder, Crosby Noricks

Image Credit: Karen Morrison

Today’s interview was written and compiled by CareerSparx Managing Editor Kacey Valla.

Today’s interview is with PR Couture founder and curator Crosby Noricks. If you haven’t had the chance to check out the PR Couture website, then you’re missing out on some incredible advice for those dreaming of making a career in public relations, and all the must-have pr jobs! PR Couture started in 2006, and has since been featured in Mashable, PR Week and 944 Magazine, just to name a few. In addition, Crosby was invited by WWDMAGIC and TeenVogue to be among the first bloggers invited to report live from the tradeshow, while earning countless awards along the way.

With all of the solid advice, valuable content and wittiness, it’s no wonder Crosby and PR Couture have gained a large amount of respect and credibility within the PR industry. PR Couture has become so influential for college students and recent graduates that Crosby is publishing her first PR guide (out any week now!): “Ready to Launch: The PR Couture Guide to Breaking into Fashion PR.” It will be available in both ebook and hard copy versions and is worth every penny. To be sure you’re the first to get your hands on this incredible book, sign up to get PR Couture in your inbox!

So, without further adieu, check out our interview with PR Couture’s Crosby Noricks! Also, for daily tips and updates from PR Couture, be sure to check out their Twitter and Facebook profiles!

1)  How did you make PR Couture a success, and what are some keys to managing a successful social community?

The biggest things I did to make PR Couture a success was simply consistency. I’ve been developing and publishing content for the site several times a week for the past five years, and in doing that I have developed a relationship with readers and partners who know they can count on me to keep the site up to par.

In terms of the community aspect, I think it’s important to be accessible and genuine, as well as consistent. I spent a lot of time in the early years providing advice via email — and even these days although I have switched to doing paid consulting, I still take a few minutes to provide quick ideas or suggestions to the inquiries that come through. I have a genuine interest in helping young PR pro’s along their professional path as well as proving opportunities for fashion PR practitioners and agencies to shine. I think that comes through and helps to build trust.

2)  What was the inspiration behind “The PR Couture Guide to Breaking into Fashion PR,” and when did you decide it was time to write this incredible guide?

It took me a long time to think of ways to monetize the site beyond just advertising. I had tossed around ideas with other PR Couture writers and friends about digital products I could sell for years, but it either didn’t feel quite right or felt overwhelming. A few divine encounters with some amazing women gave me the push I needed to begin exploring ways to take what I was already doing behind the scenes through coffee dates, email and the occasional phone call, and charge for it!

Step 1 was launching Power Sessions in September, where I review resumes, blogs, press releases, whatever and then jump into a fast-paced 45-minute consulting call and follow up with a custom action plan. I’ve done this several times over the past few months, both with entry-level practitioners as well as brands and really enjoy it. Step 2 was writing Ready to Launch, which is a more affordable option for students and younger practitioners who can’t or don’t want to do a session but are still looking for advice and expertise about fashion PR.  It feels amazing to have taken the initiative, despite sacrificing quite a few Saturdays, and to have put together what I think is a treasure-trove of insider information. It’s essentially everything I would have killed to have 10 years ago when I was starting my career.

3) Cover letters can be one of the most challenging documents to write. What are your top tips for writing a great PR cover letter?

Demonstrate that you have read the job posting, and connect specific job requirements or skills to your experience or skill-set. Highlight anything measureable — media coverage you have secured, awards you have won, attendees at an event you helped to organize. Avoid cookie cutter cover letter templates. Instead let your cover letter communicate the energy, personality and unique blend of education, experience and passion that makes you, you! Avoid clichés, (never say you have a passion for fashion), and spell check, especially the name of the person you are writing to.

4) We love that you discuss the importance of informational interviews! What is your experience with informational interviews, and why do you encourage them?

I never went on any, but I sure have done several! I think the biggest benefit is that we professionals are always searching for great talent — it just might not be the right time or the right fit. However, when we need someone, we reach out to our network — I need an intern, I need a part-time publicist, whatever. When that happens, we naturally go to the inventory we keep in our heads of people we know. Setting up informational interviews is not only a great way to learn about the job, how different agencies are set up, and practice your interview/communication skills, but it helps keep you top of mind when job opportunities do pop up.

5) From your incredible lists of interviews questions (both what you will be asked and what to ask), what is the one question to remember to ask the employer during an interview?

Here’s one that’s not in the book — How can I best support you in this position?

6) What is the ultimate key to making it in the fashion PR world?

Consistency. If you do something for long enough, you get really good at it. The key is to keep going, even when you are exhausted, embarrassed or frustrated. We’ve all been there

7) Any closing comments or advice for our budding fashion PR readers?

Most everything is a choice — think of your career as a living, breathing relationship. Tend to it, nurture it, even love it, but don’t be afraid to get out if the situation is unsupportive, out-of-control, and painful. There are opportunities everywhere.

Interview with Ruth: Edelman Intern Jennie Morrison

Today’s interview was written and compiled by CareerSparx Managing Editor Kacey Valla.

After graduating from the University of Montana, Jennie landed an extremely competitive internship at a very well known marketing firm in Seattle, Wash. Today Jennie Morrison is the assistant account executive intern with Ruth: Edelman Integrated Marketing. Managing client projects from intake to completion, writing up project requests and briefing the creative team on the client’s situation and goals of each project, is only just the beginning of Jennie’s daily tasks. If you’re looking to make it in the marketing or advertising world, read on for her advice-packed interview!

1) Tell us a little about yourself. Where did you attend school, and what did you study?

I went to the University of Montana, which is in Missoula, Mont., and graduated from the School of Business Administration with degrees in marketing, management information systems and international business.

My favorite things to do when I’m not working include golfing, fly fishing, visiting Glacier National Park, floating the river and spending time with close friends and family. I also enjoy being a part of intramural sports teams because I enjoy the competition and the team atmosphere. I’ve made a lot of great friendships through playing on various teams.

2) How did you find your current position and why did you choose to apply?

After graduating last May with three degrees, I still did not have a job lined up. I was beginning to feel discouraged until I spoke with a University of Montana alum, Mario Schulzke. I sat down with him and his girlfriend, Amanda, and told them my concerns. They shared their right-out-of-college moments with me and also gave me extremely valuable pieces of advice.

This conversation with them began to change the way I looked at getting a job. Instead of sitting on my computer and searching for various positions, or expecting someone to come to me with a job, I decided to move to Seattle and start pounding the pavement. Mario was generous enough to connect me with his friends and former colleagues in the Seattle area and I was able to set up informational interviews with them. They were all more than happy to meet and chat about their job, what they are passionate about, where they got their start, as well as answer any questions I had about where to live and what activities and groups were available for people my age.

I am happy to say that not only did I learn a TON of valuable advice from all of the informational interviews, but I also got an internship out of the whole thing with a great advertising agency, Ruth: Edelman Integrated Marketing. I have been interning with this agency as an assistant account executive for more than 4 months now, and I love it!

3) Could you describe the interview process? How did you prepare?

My interview process was in phases, that together, lasted about two hours. I first met with my supervisor and the traffic manager I would be working with. They were both very welcoming and interested in hearing about my other internship experiences and other activities I was involved in. My interview with them was more conversational and relaxed compared to a rigid, question and answer session. After that, I was interviewed by the account director, as well as the executive vice president/managing director at Ruth. This phase of the interview, although conversational, was a bit more question and answer. They asked more tactical questions to see how I problem solve, deal with ambiguity, distribute tasks, why I felt like I was qualified, and most importantly, why I wanted the job.

In preparation for this interview, I went onto Ruth’s LinkedIn and Facebook pages, as well as the company’s website, to research their case studies, as well as the potential people that I could be working with. I wanted to know as much as I could about the team I would be meeting, as well as the company, so they knew I truly cared about working there.

4) What has been the biggest learning curve you have overcome, or are having to?

The biggest learning curve that I have had to overcome had nothing to do with my internship. It had to do with learning how to live in a big city. I was homesick, I missed Montana, I missed college, and most of all, I missed my golden retriever that I had to leave with my parents. Big city living was definitely a shock to me, and it took me about 3 months before I felt totally comfortable in Seattle.

My biggest learning curve that I have experienced at my internship had to deal with communicating with clients. Much of my work involves client communications and determining what questions need to be asked in order to write up an effective project request that the creative team can understand. In the beginning of my internship, I found that I was not asking all of the right questions and that this was stalling the project because the creative team did not have all of the information they needed. It took me a few projects, as well as a LOT of mistakes, to really get better at being a good account manager.

5) What are your career goals?

My career goals include working for a digital advertising agency and working my way up to manage larger/more complex campaigns. My ultimate career goal is to make sure that I have a job I am passionate about with co-workers who are smart and challenge me to be better.

6) Any closing comments or advice on landing a competitive position?

Network, Network, Network. I know this is everyone’s answer, but it really is the best way to find a job. When I first started networking, it was really uncomfortable for me. Reaching out for help, when I am not an extremely outgoing person, was very challenging. But, I sucked it up and began to reach out to people for help and advice. And now, I actually think networking is a lot of fun! You get to meet new people and hear so many experiences and pieces of advice that you can then filter and use to shape your own career.

I also have found that finding ways to make yourself useful, no matter what it is, is really beneficial at the workplace. I believe that it’s important for interns and other employees to try to find something that they are REALLY good at because everyone appreciates someone who can make their life easier.

Target :: Conquer Your Career with These 5 Words of Wisdom

Today’s post is a feature from Target’s “A Bullseye View.”

Each year, Target travels around the country to attend diversity recruitment conferences to support outstanding talent and seek out the leaders of tomorrow. Thousands of MBA students and professionals shut their textbooks, leave their desks behind and attend these annual events to encourage their peers, listen to inspiring speakers and foster their intellectual and career growth.

Below are five key words of wisdom Target picked up from some of the most influential MBA conferences.

1. LEARN FROM YOUR FAILURES
Every one of those no’s teach [taught her] the importance of persistence and the inevitability of failure. But calculated risks and failure will be a part of your success story.

2. BE BOLD
Whether you tend to be shy or the life of the party, it’s okay to be bold in the workplace. Make a statement and demand attention (in a good way, of course!).

3. COMMUNITY IS KEY
Forming positive relationships with colleagues and coworkers will increase productivity at the workplace and encourage inclusive office environments.

4. LIFE AT THE OFFICE WON’T ALWAYS BE FAIR
It’s not always going to be smooth sailing on the job, so accept that now. But that’s just the way it is, says Christy Haubegger. “You have to work a little harder, show up early and defy the stereotypes. It’s not fair – but deal with it!”

5. MAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF
You don’t get ahead in business without making sacrifices in your own life, but it’s important to give yourself a break every now and then so you can be the best version of yourself.

For the complete story, visit Target’s “A Bullseye View.”

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Reading Break

Reading Break! Yes, it’s time once again! This week our articles focused on internships: how to transition between them and how to be an awesome virtual intern! If you’re looking for advice to be a killer intern, check out these articles. And remember to follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook for quick tips to make your job search successful!

WSJ.com ::

Twitter Co-Founder Biz Stone to Advise M.B.A. Students at Berkeley’s Haas School of Business

A two-time college drop out is now advising at one of the top business schools in the nation! How can he do that? Well if you co-founded one of the most influential social media channels, we’re sure you could get away with it, too.

Levo League ::

How to Make the Most of “Not-Your-Dream” Jobs

Even if you aren’t at your dream job yet, that doesn’t mean you can’t gain valuable experience and connections at your current position. If you’re feeling frustrated with your current employer, check out this article from Levo League to make the best of it!

AOL Jobs – Career Articles ::

3 Words That Will Kill Your Job Search

With the job search market being more competitive than ever, you don’t want to make an easily avoidable mistake! It’s worth your while to check out these three words guaranteed to hurt you in your job search.

The Ladders ::

10 Good Ways to ‘Tell Me About Yourself’

This is usually one of the first questions you will be asked during an interview and one you may be asked multiple times. The Ladders has provided the top 10 answers that will be sure to impress your potential employer.

Fox Business ::

Five Job-Hunting Tips for Recent Grads

Here is an encouraging article for all recent graduates — employers are hiring based on enthusiasm and potential! You may think those with more experience will always get the job; however, this article proves otherwise. Remember to show how much you really want the job during your interview!

HerCampus ::

Falling Asleep in Class? Skip the Second Cup of Coffee and Follow These 5 Steps

How do you fight the mid-day crash? Make a quick stop to Starbucks or grab a RedBull? Actually, neither are included on this list! Check out five healthy ways to stay alert all day!

Chicago Tribune ::

Find the Top Job For Your Personality type

To be successful at a job you need to fit seamlessly into the position and company, and an important factor in determining this is your personality. So what job do you fit into? Find out here!

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3 Tips to Succeed as a Virtual Intern

Today’s post is written by CareerSparx Managing Editor Kacey Valla.

Virtual internships are becoming more and more popular by both employers and interns. These internships can have the notion that they are more convenient, less demanding and easier. Well, that’s not quite true. Yes, it may be convenient in that you aren’t required to be in an on office eight hours a day and you could work in your pajamas; however, they are no less demanding or easier. Virtual internships allow for an intern to work at an optimal time within their schedule, but this means the intern needs to make time each day to work. So how do you succeed as a virtual intern? Check out the three tips below!

1) Schedule time and stay committed.

With the opportunity to work at your own pace, within certain deadlines, you have the ability to work when you would like! This doesn’t mean procrastinate until the last night before a project is due and only put in half the effort. It means you need to schedule appropriate time to complete each task and stay committed as if you saw your boss each day.

2) Communicate as if you were regularly in the office.

Even though you are only communicating via technology, it’s important to write professionally with your mentors. You don’t need to be cold in your conversations, but keep it professional. It’s almost more important to continually stay in contact and up to date, as technology is all you have!

3) Network with other interns.

If the company shares contact information of other interns, take advantage of it! If you were in the office, you would meet and talk with other interns every day, right? So why not do it when you’re virtual? It also can be fun getting to know people who live across the nation or even seas! It’s a great way to brainstorm and work together on projects as well.

If you’re unable to relocate for a dream internship, take advantage of virtual internships! It’s a great way to learn another side of business and allows you the opportunity to break into an industry. When taking the path of virtual internships, remember the importance of scheduling time to complete tasks and communicate regularly. And as always, remember to network and thank your mentors after completing your time with the company!

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Intern Transitions

Today’s post is written by CareerSparx Managing Editor Kacey Valla.

College students and recent graduates who have the opportunity to intern at multiple companies know that the transition between internships is not always easy. Each company comes with a new set of rules, employees, expectations, values and workloads. With all of these changes and more, adjusting to a new surrounding can provide for a roller coaster ride. However, there are incredible advantages to multiple internships, as well as ideals you should be realistic about. Whether you have a good or not so good internship experience, all help you grow and mature to become a seasoned professional.

  • New experience, new knowledge, new power.

They say knowledge is power and the more experience you have, the more knowledge you gain! Working in different companies, and even industries, will give you the opportunity to learn different working styles and management of professional relationships. One of the best things about interning at multiple companies is the amount connections and relationships you will gain! Your career will most likely be dependent upon networking, so nurture the connections! You just never know whom you will run into.

  • A whole new learning curve.

Just when you think you have a handle on your surroundings, you need to start over from scratch! Most internships are three months, although some may be extended, and this is just enough time to find your footing. The great part is you found your niche, the challenging and soon rewarding part – it’s time to find your footing, again.

  • Don’t let expectations determine the outcome.

It’s in your best interest to only set one expectation going into an internship – to succeed! If you go into an internship expecting something specific and reality gives you a different outcome, it will affect your work. Try to always go into an internship with an open mind and be ready to learn! Each company is very different, even if they work in the same industry.

  • Time to shine!

If there was anything you wish you did differently in your previous internship, now is your chance to start fresh! Every experience is a learning opportunity and with a fresh slate, it’s your time to shine! The company hired you for a reason; prove what you’re capable of. New internships lead to new experiences, lessons and connections. All of these lead to a new career and a soon-to-be accomplished professional!

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Reading Break

Are you ready for a Reading Break? We sure are! This week we had the opportunity to interview Jim Hopkinson, author of the “Salary Tutor,” and posted photos on our Facebook page from “A Night With CareerSparx!” If you haven’t tagged yourself in the photos, check it out! And follow us on Twitter; our feed is packed with career advice to help you succeed!

Forbes ::

How To Pitch Anything To Anyone

One of the most difficult tasks to do is to deliver a pitch successfully. This means that the person being pitched actually wants to finish reading the pitch and respond. So to help you out, Forbes has explained the key initiatives to successful pitching.

Levo League ::

How To Network: Your 7-Step Action Plan

Just to remind you how important networking really is (in case you didn’t pick up on that in September) learn how to create your own action plan when networking!

US News and World Report ::

How To Move Abroad and Keep Your Job

With technology changing the shape of the way businesses operate, it’s now more likely than ever to find ways to bring your job with you if you happen to be bitten by the travel bug. This article offers tips on how to approach going about taking your job where you want to go.

Her Campus ::

Grad School 101: Your Guide to Graduate School Entrance Exams: MCAT, GMAT, LSAT, GRE

Thinking about grad school? If so, you know that it’s in your best interest to research and prepare as much as possible before making the big decision of where to attend graduate school. Her Campus has created your first step in preparation — Grad School 101.

New York Times ::

What if the Secret to Success is the Opportunity to Fail?

No one wants to fail, and who would’ve thought successes would be based off your opportunity to fail? If you’re looking for a good read and have a few extra moments for your reading break, definitely take the time to check out this article.

Career Bright ::

5 Ways to Prep Your Career Skills for Social Media Jobs

Just because you can tweet and post a status update, it doesn’t mean you’re ready to make it in the world of social media. But thanks to Career Bright you now have five ways to help you become successful in a social media position.

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Interview :: ‘Salary Tutor’ Author Jim Hopkinson

Today’s interview was written and compiled by CareerSparx Managing Editor Kacey Valla.

Today’s interview is with “Salary Tutor” author Jim Hopkinson. The inspiration behind the “Salary Tutorstems from Jim’s true passion for helping individuals land their dream jobs, and of course, salaries. The book evolved from a single packed document to a presentation to now what has become the “Salary Tutor.” We are fortunate he took the time to interview with CareerSparx as he has shared very valuable advice for recent graduates and those looking to get a raise! If you’ve just graduated, or will soon, this interview is worth the time to read. Jim is dedicated to helping individuals achieve their dream salary and has shared some of his secrets below.

1) What was your first negotiation experience and what was the outcome?

My first real job in 1992 was as a technical support representative for a software company. The HR person there offered me $20,000. I calmly went through my meticulously prepared counter-argument, listing all the reasons why I deserved a higher range, and she replied, “Every person in this position starts at $20,000. Do you want the job or not?”

2) What advice would you give college students or interns regarding their first salary expectations entering the job force, especially during the current economic status?

Just because it’s a bad economy, that doesn’t mean you must blindly accept whatever salary is offered to you. If you’re the best candidate and a company wants you, there is usually some wiggle room. However, the current economy means there’s a lot more competition just to get your foot in the door for a first interview, and because the market favors employers, graduates will need to be realistic about their expectations.

3) What are the most credible sources to determine an appropriate salary range to negotiate with?

Three great online sources are payscale.com, salary.com and glassdoor.com. However, a number of factors can influence a salary range, such as the size of a company, where it’s located and what industry it’s in. I recommend casting a wide net — checking with friends, family, mentors, job boards and industry groups, to get a more specific range for your particular situation.

4) What should a first-time negotiator’s mindset be entering a salary negotiation meeting?

An experienced candidate should feel that this is a two-way business transaction. Yes, the employer is the one with the job and the money, but a confident candidate knows his true value in the market and the hard work he will be contributing.

It might sound cliché, but in a successful negotiation both parties walk away with a win-win — the employer gets the candidate they want at a price within their budget, and the employee is paid a fair salary for a fulfilling job.

5) We hear that as a candidate, you should always hear an offer from the employer first, is it ever acceptable for the candidate to make their offer first?

In cases where there is the potential for a wide disparity in salary, I think it’s ok for a candidate to make their range known so that time is not wasted. But in general, it’s always in the best interest of the candidate to let the employer go first. People often disagree, and I ask them what they would say. They then reply, “I’d tell them I want my current salary plus 20 percent more!” I then counter, “But what if they had been willing to pay your salary plus 30 percent more?”

6) What is the ultimate tip to negotiating your dream salary?

I would say there are three keys to success. First, be prepared for the conversation by doing your homework and knowing your market value. The second is to be able to say, “I did everything I could.” This means presenting a counter-offer and making sure you’re not leaving money on the table. Finally, while negotiating a great salary is ideal, the bottom line is that it’s not always about the money. Does the job have a good work/life balance? How is the commute? Will you be working with a great boss and co-workers? Most importantly, are you doing something you love? These factors should always be considered when evaluating the overall offer.

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Reading Break

Reading Break: Your weekly dose of job search and career advice headlines. This past week we ventured back to Sept. 28 when we hosted “A Night With CareerSparx” and featured a guest post by Cheryl Minnick, career counselor and internship coordinator, to help you figure out your next steps after graduation. We always post awesome career tips on our Facebook and share great articles to help you land your dream job on Twitter! So if you haven’t connected with us, please do so!

Forbes ::

The Career Advice You Should Never Offer or Accept

You are fed countless career advice on a daily basis, but which advice should you take to heart and which should you let go? Forbes has compiled the top career advice you should never give or accept. A must-read!

Yahoo! Finance ::

Ignore These 10 Outdated Pieces of CareerAdvice

With the job search market changing so rapidly, you need to be sure you’re not behind the curve. To keep up-to-date, check out these 10 outdated pieces of career advice we hope you haven’t been applying to your job search!

Levo League ::

Getting Your Resume Noticed: Don’t Just Be Impressive, Be Relevant

Creating a perfect resume is only the beginning. You want to make sure it’s actually noticed and read! The key to getting your resume noticed is being relevant. How? Read on.

AdAge ::

Digital Takes the Jobs Lead in New Mainstream Media

Which industries are hiring and who are letting many go? Check out these statistics compiled by AdAge to see how the digital, radio, broadcast and magazine industries stack up.

New York Times ::

At the University of Chicago, Football and Higher Education Mix

Athletics and academics do mix! Well at least at the University of Chicago … Do you think they mix at your university?

In The Door ::

In The Door

Our favorite social job search site! By far the easiest job search resource you will use, so log in today!

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I Graduated: Now What?

Today’s CareerSparx guest post is by Cheryl Minnick, a career counselor and internship coordinator at The University of Montana.

At age five, you pretty much knew what you were going to do with your life. You had big plans. You were going to kindergarten, and you knew that if you learned to read, write, walk in a line, take turns and share, you would get a big promotion — to first grade. From there the sky was the limit … middle school, then high school and off to college. But few of us think beyond graduation to, “Now, what?” A college degree allows career doors to open, but how do you decide which door to knock on? Grab a piece of paper, a pen and pumpkin spice latté, and let’s complete eight self-reflections.

Describe five moments you felt “flow.” Easy flow of effort, peace of spirit and confidence in your abilities whether on the job, volunteering, interning, doing extracurricular activities or simply having fun with friends, is key to career success. Note five times you felt “flow” at work and try to identify patterns. A career with easy flow of effort is a career of successful effort.

Reflect on your childhood. As a kid, you were most truly you and thoughtlessly revealed your natural talents and interests … you were a reader, explorer, risk-taker, teacher, caregiver, outdoor adventurer, writer, mechanic, athlete, etc. What gave you fulfillment or pleasure as a child … was it learning? Challenges? Being alone? Being with people? Fixing stuff? Being active? Helping people? A career honoring your authentic self and using your natural talents will bring you on-the-job happiness and success.

Pinpoint moments of joy. List five circumstances that brought you ear-to-ear grinning joy. Look for themes in those circumstances. Now, make a list of industries, companies or careers where those same joyful moments are required job criteria or job success factors.

Volunteer yourself  a future. List two duties, projects or areas at work that you could volunteer to help with that would let you develop skills/talents, build networks, or just fill your day with more joy. Now, go volunteer .. volunteer your way into a career or up the ladder of success.

List three work tasks you rocked! Reflect on your jobs, internships or volunteer experiences to list three responsibilities you did well and brought you success or joy. Now, list three things that brought you heartache and difficulty that you don’t ever want to do again. Make sure the “do well” tasks are in your future job description and the “don’t want to do again” aren’t!

Ten things I like about ME! List 10 things you’re damn good at (on the job, thank you) and list their common denominators. Try to find employment doing those things.

Who’s in your network? Most career success is built on networking and in our current economy it is the No. 1 way to find a job. List your 10 strongest network connections and get knocking on their doors to network!

Complete these sentences: a) My work colleagues would say I’m particularly good at … b) my supervisor has commented positively about my ability to … c) I’ve been positively recognized at work for … d) My supervisor or colleagues would say I need to work on … e) At work, I could be better at … and f) At work, I am really pretty good at and found success doing …

Come to find out, growing up to be a Superhero or Barbie-Princess-Ballerina takes a lot more energy and thought beyond learning to read, write, walk in a line, take turns and share …  and that a college degree is just the beginning. Finding a career that will bring you success AND happiness requires self-reflection, self-knowledge, and a pumpkin spice latté or two.

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