A Day in the Life

By: David Ross

So by now you may have researched some internships and jobs of interest. Perhaps you’ve had several discussions with individuals revealing those little-discussed tidbits of “insider” information about what really happens at work and want more insight. Or maybe you’ve just determined that you’re at that point where reading anecdotes just isn’t enough. If any of this sounds like something you’ve contemplated or experienced, consider the feasibility of an externship.

What is an externship? You may have already heard the term used in a few different ways or contexts. For this purposes of this blog entry, consider an externship as an opportunity to experience firsthand a day in the life of a working professional. Some people refer to externships as “shadowing” experiences where a person has the chance to follow someone around for a day at the office. So imagine yourself working in a position of great interest to you – an externship may be helpful in revealing more details about what you can really expect once you assume that role. Be sure to make the most of any externship opportunity and absorb as much information as you can, ask questions you can’t find on a website and immerse yourself in the experience.

Perspective is important. So while externships can provide some additional information, note that your experience in one organization may differ from your experience in another. That’s ok – one outcome of an externship is learning more about what may be important to you in a workplace and leaving with more focused questions on similar opportunities within other organizations. The prospect of meeting some professionals in the field can be an added bonus.

Externships may occur through formal, structured programs or may be arranged individually through personal contacts. Regardless of how the opportunity arises, remember that while you are observing a professional at their workplace, your behavior and professionalism are being monitored as well.

The Job and Internship Search Process…

By: David Ross

…can be somewhat unpredictable each year. Regardless, it’s great to see many students contemplate and pursue a myriad of employment opportunities with a keen interest in obtaining experiences that will serve them well for their future endeavors. And while there are “do’s” and “don’ts” that can be helpful as guidelines, one thing never changes: the process is unique and distinctive for each individual.

Why is this important? Well sometimes it may be easy to get caught up in day-to-day activities without taking a moment to consider the process. What may be helpful is perspective and reflection on the bigger picture. As students here at Penn, all of you have already accomplished great things and are destined to continue to do so in the future. You are all extremely talented individuals with great things to offer. Don’t ever lose sight of that. The odd thing about searching for jobs and internships is how unpredictable the process can be even when applicants proceed with great diligence in a structured manner. Sometimes the search may take longer than anticipated or require more effort than imagined. But that’s ok (and common!) – ultimately the number of interviews you receive and how long the process is irrelevant.

I encourage everyone to keep focused on your goals and remember that jobs and internships will continue to become available over the next few months. Think broadly about your interests and consider utilizing your background and skills in creative ways. Try not to depend on one job/internship search resource – diversification is key. Hang in there. And one last thing…take some time to do something enjoyable – everyone deserves to have some fun at some point.

Interviewing Intangibles

By: David Ross

With On-Campus Interviews beginning next week, students are preparing to make sure they are ready. While it’s very common to consider what questions may be asked and the best ways to answer them, one often overlooked area of preparation involves intangibles. The little things…minor details…things we don’t usually pay attention to or realize. While intangibles may seem inherently trivial, pay close attention as recruiters do notice and consider them.

What are intangibles? Let’s consider a scenario. Imagine yourself at the interview site. You’re prepared, confident, and ready to go. You have arrived on site and are waiting to meet your interviewer(s). Almost immediately, your appearance will be noticed. Do you have a professional appearance? Do you appear eager and enthusiastic? Whatever the case may be, your initial appearance will leave an impression.

Upon introduction, it is customary to shake hands. Now while this may seem traditional and straightforward, your handshake may be a reflection of yourself to the recruiter. Weak or flimsy handshakes suggest a lack of confidence, while bone-crushing handshakes are an extreme to be avoided as well. Try to find a balance somewhere in between – a nice, firm handshake is a good sign.

Another intangible is eye contact. Good eye contact indicates level of interest – conversely, poor eye contact implies lack of interest or lack of confidence. Try your best to maintain eye contact throughout the process. Of course, avoid extremes – staring someone down for extended periods of time may make the person uneasy or uncomfortable.

Finally, consider small talk or chit-chat as an opportunity. Before you enter the interview room or before the actual interview starts, you may meet a company representative who speaks with you briefly. Use this time to try to build a rapport or break the ice. You want to set a positive tone and show some indication of your personality if possible. Engaging in a quick conversation before the more traditional part of the interview begins may help showcase your fit with employees at the organization.

While these intangibles should be considered, always be yourself. Be confident in who you are and your abilities – you have much to offer, so take advantage of your interview to tell your story while using intangibles to your advantage.

Who’s on Your List…of References?

By: David Ross

Now that you may be working on submitting internship or job applications, consider identifying a list of references. As part of the application process, companies often request candidates to submit a list of individuals they can contact to learn more about you. Before you find yourself in a situation where you are indeed asked for a list of references, be sure to think of those people who know you well and can vouch for your capabilities.

I would recommend devising a list of 3 – 5 individuals initially. Once you have identified possible recommenders, be sure to contact them and ask if they would be willing to serve as a recommender on your behalf (remember, proper etiquette is always important!). When you contact each potential recommender, be sure to provide them with a quick overview or update and let them know where you are in your internship or job search process. Also, confirm the best way to reach them and, as much as possible, try to notify them if you anticipate a potential employer will contact them for a reference check in the near future. Possible candidates for recommenders should include former supervisors or co-workers you have worked with extensively, professors that you may have assisted with research projects or anyone else in a professional capacity that knows you well and can speak to your work habits.

As you progress through the application and interview process, don’t forget to have a list of your references available on paper should a potential employer request it. Devising your list now will allow you to focus on other important aspects of the application and interview process for internships and jobs.

‘Tis the Season

By: David Ross

‘Tis the season to enjoy and indulge in the many great things happening around the holidays. Finishing up the semester. A brief respite from the many things you’re involved with. All of those seasonal items that make you happy – ciders, cookies, coffee blends…the list goes on and on… Not setting the alarm to wake up early in the morning (ok, maybe I’m biased on that one). The upcoming start of a New Year (and the many celebrations that precede it!)

‘Tis the season to also take advantage of any extra free time and proceed with your job or internship search. As some people customarily create lists this time of year, here’s a list of tips to utilize your free time during winter break:

1) Devise a plan. What do you hope to accomplish during your break? Outlining the parameters of your plan of action can be helpful to remain focused.
2) Open the lines of communication. During those get-togethers and celebrations, engage in small talk. Converse with family and friends – but also don’t be afraid to branch out and mingle with others. You never know if that conversation with the person sitting next to you on your plane or train ride home may be beneficial. Ease your way into conversations and see what useful information you may find.
3) Connect, connect, connect. If you are returning home, connect with local companies and businesses while you’re in town. Of course, companies will be closed at some point for the holidays, but try to speak with someone or schedule an informational interview at companies of interest while they are open.
4) Get up-to-date and creative. Update your resume with new information from the past summer and fall. Create or update cover letters to target companies and opportunities.
5) Apply yourself. Take some time to apply for jobs or internships you discover in your search.

And most importantly (and perhaps my favorite) – set aside some time to relax, have fun and enjoy winter break – you deserve it!