How To Interview With Your Current Boss

Some time in your life you might be invited to interview with someone you already know - like your boss. This seems like a strange concept but often supervisors like to conduct interviews with their current employees before offering them a promotion or a different position. This helps your boss determine your readiness and fit for the promotion and also gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge, learning experiences, and willingness to move up in the company/organization.

If you ever have an interview with your boss, follow these tips:

• Treat it as if it is a normal interview. Practice your interview skills and take time to reflect on your experiences in your current job so that you feel ready to speak confidently about your position and the skills you have gained from it.
• Dress smart. The same dress etiquette applies even though you may interact with this person everyday at work - make sure you look the part!
• Be professional. Even though it might be tempting to act casual and joke around with your boss as per your normal relationship (if that applies to you), resist! Being well-spoken and confident will make you shine and show your boss that you are able to adapt professionally to this unique situation.
• Be prepared! Your boss may even ask you to provide references. This goes without saying that you should prepare a copy of your resume, cover letter (if applicable) and references for them should they ask. Also remember little things like offering a firm handshake at the end of your interview - make a lasting impression!

All in all interviewing with your current boss can be a tricky situation as you already have a working relationship with them. However it is an opportunity to practice interviewing and communicating your skills and experiences effectively - so take advantage!


...And you never know - it might land you a promotion!
Best of luck,
Lia

Connect Your Network - Find Your Way Into the Hidden Job Market

You’ve heard the word networking over and over but do you know what it really means? Do you understand how your network can help you connect to people to get results? Do you know how to use your network in your job search? Most importantly, how do you connect with your network to be successful?

Brock University (Co-op Programs), the St. Catharines Junior Chamber (Jaycees) and The Sean Moffett Group are excited to invite you to this FREE event on how to network to get results in your job search. Whether you are looking for a full time job, a part time job, a summer job or a co-op job, Sean Moffett will show you the way to connect with people and build a network that will be effective and engaging.

This event held on Wednesday March 28, 2012 from 5-8pm, will help connect community members, students, business owners and leaders to open your eyes to what is commonly referred to as the "hidden job market".

 

Registration is available on CareerZone and the event is open to all students, community members and employers.

Please note that business attire is required for this event View the "Dressing for Success" resources guides:

• Appropriate Attire Resource Guide: http://www.brocku.ca/webfm_send/8431
• Do’s and Don’ts Resource Guide (with pictures): http://www.brocku.ca/webfm_send/15272

Hope to see you there!

-Hillary

Mentorship Wrap-Up

Last night Mentorship Plus celebrated the end of another successful year! We celebrated the growth that is learned by both the mentee's and mentors, the relationships blossomed and the amount of voluntary time given to enhance both individuals goals and achievements.

 

 

We also took the time to acknowledge those who have gone above and beyond over the past year helping to make Mentorship Plus the sucess that it is today. With the large number of mentoring relationships that we have worked with over the last few years, this year a new position was made to enhance our participant communication efforts. 7 lead mentors were each given several mentoring pairs to communicatie with and assist in their relationship. Thank you to Anne Lau, Amy Wilson, Renee Girard, Corrin Cudlip, Amber Botelho, Marissa Rowlinson, Ketelyn Scott.

The Engagement Award went to Stephen Amoah  who has been an active participant at every level of the program, and has always promoted Mentorship at every turn. Not only does he work here at Career Services, but he goes above and beyond the call of duty with much gratitude. Congratuations Stephen!

Cam Hathaway has participated in Mentorship Plus for the past five years as a career mentor and worked at inspiring teachers and educators. Cam is the Niagara District School Board Superintendent and a great contributor to Mentorship Plus. Cam recieved the 5 year Award!

  

 

Throughout the evening we also heard from Murry Wickett- an Associate Professor and History Department Chair, as he shared his experience of mentoring, and the relationships that have flourished from the History mentoring. Yvonne Liang, a graduating student mentee gave a warm and special thank you to her mentor for giving her opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. 

 

 

Lastly a special thank you was made to our 4 Mentorship Plus assistant staff, Jennifer Langdon, Stephen Amoah, Lauren Bauer and Andrea Bobb. They work extremely hard, ensuring each partnership is strong and thriving and made this year such a success!

We are hoping to exceed 400 first and senor relationships next year, so stay tuned for how you can be invovled. It was such an amazing night celebrating a fantastic year! Thank you to all participating and supporting in Mentorship Plus and Mentoring at Brock U.

- Hillary

BUSU Summer Job Fair

Not sure what you will be doing this summer?

Want to gain valuable experience and build your resume?

BUSU will be holing its annual Job Fair in the Skybar Lounge from 9 am- 5pm

Tuesday March 20th and Wednesday March 21st.

All students are welcome!

Come out and see what full-time and part-time positions BUSU has to offer!

You are able to read job descriptions, chat with mangers and executives and talk with people who hold a student position you're interested in!

For more information please visit: http://www.busu.net/get-involved/jobs

 and for cover letter and resume writing/reviews please stop by the Career Resource Centre

Have Fun!

-Hillary

Stay On Track

This is Career Services sending out a reminder to as you finish up your academic term:

-> Time to visit your Academic Adviser!

As an undergraduate student it is crucial that you check in with your Academic Adviser at least once a year to make sure you're on track with your degree.Verify with your Adviser that you have all the correct mandatory courses for your program and that you're choosing electives that complement your minor or simply your interests!


It's important to have such conversations with your Academic Adviser to ensure that you are succeeding academically and are on the right path to graduation and even further studies. Your Adviser can help you to narrow down your career choices and even recommend programs that students from your department typically choose to pursue. They often have great ideas as they've had tons of experience with students who are in your shoes - so be sure to take advantage of all their knowledge!


Booking an appointment is as easy as 1-2-3. Visit the Book an Appointment page on the Brock website to set up a meeting with your Adviser, or to view their walk-in hours for quick consultations.


Good luck & stay on track!
- Lia

Why take spring/summer Courses?

This past weekend the sun was shining and we broke records for the highest reached temperature for March 11. People were wearing shorts and t-shirts (crazy), snow shovels were put away, outdoor patio furniture taken out of sheds and spring cleaning was underway.

For some students, this was also the realization that spring is just around the corner and summer shortly follows. It may mean moving out of residence, house hunting, packing to move home, or some even graduation. It also means the time is coming to register for spring and summer courses.

Here are some reasons as to why take spring and/or summer courses:

• Earn credits ahead of schedule, which may lead to an early graduation
• Work towards an associate degree, or minor
• Accelerated, concentrated class time- allowing for intense focus on the topic
• Allows for you to take courses that interests you, and that may otherwise not fit in your schedule
• Smaller classes allowing for greater interaction between students and instructors
• Gives you a chance to upgrade a mark, or retake a class to maintain your overall average and to keep on track
• Opportunity to get demanding courses out of the way with fewer distractions
• Allows you to have a job throughout the summer, as many courses are in the evening
• Reduces the difficult transition students feel after taking a summer off
• Opportunity to take specific-topic or interesting classes that are only offered during spring/summer terms

So as you prepare for spring and summer, will you be taking courses?
-Hillary

We're Hiring!

It's that time of year again, students are in the midst of their summer job search and starting to think about employment for next fall. Now is definitely the time to begin your search! If you're looking for a great on-campus job for the summer and/or next fall that will work around your academic schedule and provide you with some awesome work experience...

...Well you're in luck - Career Services is hiring!

We're looking for students to fill various positions within our department, inlcuding:

• 5-6 Career Assistants to staff the Career Resource Centre in the Learning Commons
• A Social Media Assistant to effectively represent Career Services on social media networks and to work on various marketing campaigns
• 3 Plus Program Assistants to work with our Mentorship Plus, Experience Plus, and Experience Works programs

For more information about these positions and to find out how to apply, visit Career Zone to view the full job postings.

Don't forget to get your resume and cover letter reviewed at the Career Resource Centre before submitting your applications - put your best foot forward!

We look forward to hearing from you and welcoming new staff to our team!
Best of luck!!
Lia

Spring into Summer: Job Fair

Get a jump-start on your summer job plans and meet with employers looking to hire for:

• full-time employment
• part-time summer jobs
• full-time summer jobs
• internships

Eight different employers will be recruiting each day. Come prepared with questions and be ready to fill out application forms. It's always a good idea to go to job fairs with the idea that you will be meeting your potiential employer.

Spring into Summer Job Fair is taking place in the Marketplace,

Monday March 5- Friday March 9, 2012

from 11:00am - 3:00pm each day.

For more information on what employers will be present check out: http://www.brocku.ca/calendar-events/18902

Looking on how to prepare for a Job Fair, please stop by the Career Resource Centre and our Career Assistants would be happy to help you out.

We look forward to seeing you!

-Hillary

Your Reputation With Your Exes

Some time or another you're going to have to make a choice to leave a job - maybe things aren't working out with your boss or colleagues, or it's just time to move on to something else that you feel will take you further in your career path.

Either way it is important to resign with class to make sure you still have a decent reputation with your ex-employer. Especially if you want a reference from them in the future, it is absolutely crucial that you take these steps before you pack your bags:

• Give plenty of notice. 2-4 weeks is usually the standard, but double check with your company policies in case they expect differently.
• Offer to help with the hiring/training of your replacement. This will show your employer that you valued your position and have the expertise to help them find someone suitable to take on your role.
• Continue working hard and completing tasks on time. Just because you're leaving doesn't mean you get to slack off!
• Maintain your network. Before you leave make sure you have all the contact information of your colleagues and supervisors that you want to keep in contact with, they could come in handy!
• Finally, thank everyone for their support before you're out the door - it's only common courtesy.

- Taken from Resigning with Class: How to Diplomatically Resign From Your Job
by Randall S. Hansen, Ph.D.

In the world of work, it certainly helps to have a good reputation with your exes. Take the time to resign and leave respectfully and with dignity.


Best of luck,
Lia

Campus Recruitment Report: Win iPad2!

We want to hear your voice!

Help us plan your career better and get a chance to win an iPad 2!

This research, known as the From Learning to Work survey is being conducted by DECODE and Brainstorm Strategy Group on behalf of a group of Canadian employers and campus career centres. The purpose of this research is to learn about the attitudes and opinions of Canadian students regarding their careers.

All you have to do is take 15-20 minutes to complete an online survey and you will automatically be entered into the contest. Your privacy is protected and if you choose, you may withdraw from the survey at any time.

To participate and receieve a change to win, visit: www.fromlearningtowork.ca

Let your voice be heard, and opinions shared

-Hillary



Realistic Goals for 4th Year

As this term comes to its middle point and will draw nearer to its end, those of us entering 4th year are starting to think of the big picture:

Next year is my FINAL year.

... I'll be graduating...

What am I going to do?!

Don't fret! It's true, along with 4th year usually comes many decisions and big steps that some of us might not feel ready for. But since you're such smart students, you'll be thinking ahead, right??

Of course!

Here are some realistic goals to keep in mind for your final year of University:

• To post-grad or not to post-grad. Yes, this would be the right time to start looking into post-grad college programs or graduate schools that you might be interested in applying to. Deadlines will be coming up soon come fall, so be prepared with your choices!
• New grad job search - where to begin? If you plan on entering the work force after graduation, plan to start your job search during the second term of school. Starting early will allow you more time to research companies/organizations and meet deadlines for job openings.
• Target your career path. If you're still confused about what you want to do in the future in general - complete some self assessments and explore some possible occupations that you might be interested in. Having an idea of the kind of position you want will make the rest of your planning process a lot easier.
• Work hard, play hard. This is your last year of undergraduate degree! Make sure you keep your grades up (especially those who are applying to post-grad) and enjoy your time as a university student. By planning ahead and having realistic career goals for yourself, there won't be need for a pre-graduation panic attack.

And as always, keep these things as well as Career Services in mind as you enter your final year!
- Lia

 

YOUR dreams. YOUR future.

Time and time again I hear students say "My parent's wont be happy with that", or "I don't think my parents will agree with that decision". It takes everything in me not to roll my eyes and reply with "Since when did your future become your parents?". Instead I kindly reply with "That sounds great, let me know how it goes".

For many students, parents, guardians, or role models are a huge factor and have a big influence on their education. It could be that they emotionally or financially support you, maybe they send care packages of love, or review your essays. Whatever influence theses important people have to help you succeed is WONDERFUL!

My concern comes when parents/guardians/role models start directing your future. When they start creating dreams which they want for your reality. I understand they only want the best for you, want for you to be happy and successful, however I wonder how this is possible when their dream's aren't your own?

I think back to Cinderella Story (2004) when Austin's Dad says "Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa! Hey, what are you doing?" Austin replies with "I'm outta here". Austin's Dad says "What! You're throwing away your dream!" Austin's reply "No, Dad. I'm throwing away yours".

This is a perfect reflection of how parents sometimes create dreams for you. If this is your case I would encourage you to sit down with them and discuss what YOU want. It can be touchy, cause some tension but in the end its worth it. What are YOUR dreams? How can YOUR dreams become YOUR reality? Be sincere, honest and open. Share from your heart and acknowledge their support, but in the end, its your future. It should be YOUR dreams becoming YOUR reality.

My best wishes
-Hillary

Reading Week Hours

Just letting you know ahead of time,

our Career Resource Centre hours are changing for Reading Week.

We are only open Wednesday February 22 - Friday February 24, 2012 

from 10am-3pm.

Our hours will resume back to normal on Monday February 27, 2012 

We hope you all have an amazing week! Whether working, studying, relaxing, or playing we hope your week is enjoyable and fun.

Now is also the perfect opportunity to start looking for summer jobs and updating your resume! Take advantage of a week off school to catch up on other areas of your life.

Enjoy your reading week.

I'm off to study in the Dominican!

-Hillary

Changing Your Major: Never too late

Not happy with your major? Realizing that its not for you?

It's not to late to CHANGE!

Changing your major may sound scary, you may struggle with wondering if it really is the best option for you, and wondering if its worth it, but from someone with experience, its worth it!

Why might you want to change your major

• Not interested- you should be interested in your major, feel engaged with the topics, and really want to be learning the material
• Job opportunities- maybe you want to change your major because after doing some research you realize the job you've been dreaming of requires you to have a different degree

Whatever reason it is for changing your major, do it with confidence and know its okay to do so. You may consider coming into the Career Service Resource Centre to take a self assessment which will highlight your skills and interests, and what area is best suitable for you. We all have different talents, areas of specialization, and interests and through a self assessment you may find a job in which you never knew possible, and then backtrack to find what kind of education is required.

I would also encourage you to visit your academic advisor. Share your concerns, ask questions and hopefully through some research and conversation you will know which path is best suited for you.

Remember you are in charge of your own life. Change is never easy. You fight to hold on. You fight to let go. It's up to you which battle you will choose.

Best of luck
-Hillary

My Day Job vs My Passion

It seems there is always a pendulum swinging between making $$ and pursuing your passion when deciding on your future career path. For students who are pursuing post-secondary education, many say that one of the hopeful outcomes of their education is to work toward a higher pay scale.


But what happened to following your dreams? To doing what you love and the pay cheque will follow? Sometimes it's a little hard to materialize these notions when the pressure of achieving a decent-paying job is on everyone's minds. To this I say, why not have the best of both worlds?


It is not uncommon for people to work full-time at an unrelated job and pursue their passion on the side. The benefit to this is that your salary may be at a higher level so you can afford the kind of lifestyle you want. However, as humans we naturally have many passions and it is quite possible to not only have a job you love, but have equally as important hobbies or activities on the side.


This is why it is beneficial to engage in self assessments early in your academic life to match your personal skills and interests to a future career you might enjoy. You might not need to make the sacrifice of giving up your true passion in life for a full time career - meshing the two can be done!


If you need help at any point in your career planning process, stop by the Career Resource Centre or check out website. 


Good luck and remember to follow your passion!
- Lia

Why Volunteer?

Volunteering is a great way to:

• Add experience and skills to your resume and Experience Plus transcript
• Build career related experience and make career decisions
• Meet new people and expand your network

Before volunteering conider:

• The environment you want to work in
• The location of the company/organization
• The type of work you want to do and its relation to your future career goals
• Transportation, costs and time commitment required

Where to find volunteer opportunities?

• Brock University Student Union: busu.net/get-involved/volunteer
• Career Services: brocku.ca/expplus/jobs/
• Student Community Outreach: brocku.ca/student-community-outreach
• Information Niagara Volunteer Connections: niagara.cioc.ca/volunteer/
• Local charities and organizations
• Through your network of friends and family

Don't forget that all volunteer hours can be tracked on your Experience Plus transcript and can earn you a Volunteer Plus certificate. But more than that, each time you volunteer you are gaining experience and knowledge, creating networks, and helping to build a better community!

-Hillary



Internships: Should you be paid?

Students are feeling the competition out there already; the pressure is on to get some career-related experience in your field of interest before your post-graduation job search begins.

An issue arises, however, when looking into internship positions. Should these "jobs" be paid? Or should students be willing to sacrifice months of potential earnings for this seemingly necessary experience to be competitive in today's job market? This is a touchy subject that is actually pretty complicated.

According to an article on Macleans.ca,

"The Ontario Employment Standards Act says that unless interns are students getting credit for school (or they’re working in an industry not covered by the legislation, like government or charities), the employee must be paid minimum wage." 

Well, that's a positive, right? Not necessarily. It just so happens that a lot of unpaid internships fly under the radar for many reasons; some students simply don't know their rights or the fear of complaining and getting fired tops asking for some kind of payment. 


This isn't to say that unpaid internships aren't valuable, they just might be the kind of position you've been looking for - especially if the program is designed for students to gain experience and be mentored in the field. However, due to the financial strains on many students it may be impossible to accept an unpaid position - a completely understandable, but unfortunate reality for some.


All in all, paid internships are not only more legally fair in most cases but also a more attractive option for students. You might find though that they are not always available. It really all comes down to what you're willing to sacrifice for that resume-building experience - the choice is up to you!

To start looking into internship positions, check out our website, CareerZone, or stop by the Resource Centre for more information. 


- Lia


For more information regarding unpaid internships, check out these links:
http://www.wetfeet.com/advice-tools/internships/unpaid-internships-no-pay-no-gain
http://oncampus.macleans.ca/education/2011/07/04/are-unpaid-internships-legal-the-confusion-continues/
http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/08_64/s0804026863534.htm

Apply for Jobs NOW!

While many of you may be starting to dream about Reading Week and sipping Pina Coladas on the beach, some of your peers have already secured their summer jobs! Say what?!

That's right, recruitment for summer positions start as early as January and go right through to March. There really isn't much time to dawdle here - those sweet summer jobs are being snatched up fast!


So what can you do right now to make sure you aren't one of those students left behind in April with no job lined up? 

KNOW WHAT YOU'RE LOOKING FOR.

Do you want to make a ton of cash this summer? Or would you prefer to make a little less money but get some awesome experience for your resume? Figuring this out will help you narrow down your search.

UPDATE YOUR RESUME!

It will look pretty bad if in the midst of deadlines approaching for summer jobs that you accidentally send your resume out that hasn't been updated since Gr. 10 Careers class... you know better!

START YOUR SEARCH!

There are lots of places that hire specifically for the summer including summer camps, restaurants, hotels/resorts, outdoor recreation facilities, etc. If you're looking for something for specific and tailored to your degree, do your research early to find out about possible internships or other positions in your area.



Along with all these tips, make sure you Practice Your Interview Skills, be wary of deadlines, and network to make sure everyone knows you're looking for employment during the summer months. Stop by Career Services to jump start your summer job search!


Well, what are you waiting for?! You have a lot of work ahead of you.
Here's to finding an awesome summer job!

- Lia 

Last day to register is TOMORROW: Smart Finish!

Tomorrow, February 1, is the last day of registration for the Smart Finish Conference

Specifically designed for 3rd and 4th year students

held Saturday February 4, 2012

It's your life, your degree, your future: Make the most out of it!

It's only $20.00 and lunch is included.

To register please visit: http://www.brocku.ca/career-services/students-alumni/smart-finish

Keynote speaker is Mark Swartz, author of Get Wired, You're Hired 

 Conference Sessions: alumni panel, networking session, speaker panel o ninterviews, further education options, information on OSAP repayments, resume dos and don't, and more!

Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity! Register today

- Hillary

Police Recruitment Showcase-Success!

The Police Recruitment Showcase that took place

Tuesday January 24, 2012 was a HUGE sucess!

With over 10 recruiters from various policing units, and over 100 students in attendance, everyone walked away with a deeper understanding, more knowledge, and questions answered.

 

The recruiters as well as our Career Service staff were extremely impressed by the calibre of questions, depth of interest, and overall professionalism of all attendee’s.

Waterloo Regional Police mentioned that this was one of the best recruitment events they have attended and particularly impressed by the variety of students from various programs.

 

The event was student powered and sucess driven. Thank you to all those who attended!

-Hillary