John Held

Describe your job search process. What were some challenges you faced or things you learned from the experience?

During my job search process in the field of Business, I employed a strategic and systematic approach to secure the best opportunities. I began by conducting thorough research on various companies and industries to identify the most suitable positions aligned with my skills and interests. One of the challenges I encountered was the highly competitive nature of the job market. To overcome this, I focused on showcasing my unique qualifications and experiences that set me apart from other candidates. I tailored my resume and cover letter for each application, emphasizing my accomplishments and demonstrating how they directly related to the desired role. Networking played a vital role in my job search. I actively attended industry events, joined professional associations, and engaged in online communities to expand my professional network. Through these connections, I gained valuable insights and learned about hidden job opportunities that were not publicly advertised. Another challenge was navigating the interview process. To enhance my interview skills, I researched common interview questions and practiced my responses. I also sought feedback from mentors and peers, enabling me to refine my interviewing techniques and improve my overall performance. Throughout my job search, I learned the importance of perseverance and maintaining a positive mindset. It can be disheartening to face rejections or experience delays in the hiring process. However, I remained resilient, constantly learning and adapting my approach based on the feedback and experiences gained along the way.

If you used any Career Center services, resources, or events to obtain your part-time job, what were they? How did they support your application process?

During my job search, I found great value in utilizing the services and resources provided by the Career Center, specifically the Resume Workshop and Critique. Attending the workshop provided me with valuable insights and guidance on creating a compelling and professional resume tailored to the specific job I was seeking. The Resume Workshop offered a comprehensive overview of the key components of an effective resume, including formatting, content, and highlighting relevant skills and experiences. The workshop also provided tips on how to customize the resume to match the requirements of the job I was applying for. By attending this workshop, I gained a better understanding of what employers look for in a resume and how to make mine stand out. Following the workshop, I took advantage of the Resume Critique service offered by the Career Center. This service allowed me to submit my updated resume for review by career advisors who provided personalized feedback and suggestions for improvement. The advisors helped me refine my resume by offering valuable insights on organization, clarity, and the inclusion of impactful action verbs. Their expert guidance ensured that my resume effectively showcased my qualifications and made a strong impression on potential employers. The Resume Workshop and Critique services provided by the Career Center were invaluable in supporting my application process. They equipped me with the knowledge and tools necessary to create a polished and targeted resume that effectively communicated my skills and experiences. This, in turn, increased my confidence in submitting job applications and improved my chances of securing interviews.

What are some takeaways from your part-time job? How will these help prepare you for the next step after graduation?

Working as an Account Executive at Dish, specifically in the retention department, has provided me with valuable insights and skills that will greatly contribute to my professional growth and future career prospects after graduation. Here are some key takeaways from my part-time job: Customer Relationship Management: As an account executive in the retention department, I have developed strong customer relationship management skills. I have learned how to handle challenging customer interactions, address their concerns, and provide effective solutions to retain their business. These skills are transferable to various roles that involve client management and customer service, which will be beneficial in my next steps after graduation. Communication and Persuasion: Retention requires effective communication and persuasion techniques to convince customers to continue their relationship with the company. Through my part-time job, I have refined my communication skills, both written and verbal, and honed my ability to articulate value propositions and negotiate effectively. These skills will be invaluable in sales, marketing, or any role that involves persuading and influencing stakeholders. Problem-Solving and Conflict Resolution: Working in retention often involves dealing with customer complaints and resolving conflicts. This experience has sharpened my problem-solving skills and equipped me with the ability to think critically and find creative solutions under pressure. These skills will be transferable to various roles that require analytical thinking and conflict resolution, such as consulting, project management, or operations. Time Management and Multitasking: In a fast-paced work environment like retention, managing multiple customer accounts simultaneously and meeting targets necessitates strong time management and multitasking abilities. I have learned to prioritize tasks, work efficiently under deadlines, and handle multiple responsibilities concurrently. These skills will benefit me in any future role that requires managing competing priorities and meeting deadlines. Resilience and Adaptability: Retention can be challenging, as it involves dealing with customer dissatisfaction and rejection. However, this experience has strengthened my resilience and taught me to persevere in the face of adversity. It has also cultivated my adaptability skills, as I have learned to navigate through diverse customer situations and adjust my approach accordingly. These qualities will be vital in any professional setting, helping me thrive in dynamic and evolving work environments.

What advice do you have for students currently launching a part-time job search?

My advice for students currently launching a part-time job search is to take full advantage of the resources and services offered by their university's Career Center. Here are some specific recommendations: Visit the Career Center: Make it a priority to visit your university's Career Center early on in your job search process. The Career Center is a valuable resource that offers a wide range of services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, job fairs, and access to job boards. Familiarize yourself with the available resources and take advantage of them to enhance your job search strategy. Attend Workshops and Events: Participate in workshops and events organized by the Career Center. These sessions cover various topics such as resume writing, job search strategies, networking, and interview techniques. Attending these workshops will equip you with essential skills and knowledge that can significantly improve your chances of securing a part-time job. Seek Resume Assistance: Utilize the resume assistance services provided by the Career Center. They often offer resume critiques, where professionals provide feedback and suggestions for improving your resume. Take advantage of this service to create a polished and tailored resume that highlights your skills, experiences, and qualifications relevant to the part-time job you are seeking. Network with Alumni and Employers: The Career Center can facilitate connections with alumni and employers through networking events, career fairs, and online platforms. Networking is a powerful tool for finding part-time job opportunities, as many positions may be filled through referrals. Engage with professionals in your desired field, express your interest, and build relationships that may lead to potential job openings or recommendations. Utilize Job Search Tools: Take advantage of the job search tools provided by the Career Center, such as online job boards or databases exclusive to your university. These platforms often have a wide range of part-time job opportunities that are specifically targeted towards students. Regularly check these resources, as new positions may be added frequently.