Career & Job Search Advice

Are you ready to ace your next interview? Here are six things that make a candidate stand out in our interview process here at Avenica. If you are looking to launch your career apply to one of our open entry-level positions now!

1.)    Being on time is being early

When it comes to interviews being on time means being early. If your interview is in person consider arriving 15 minutes early to the office. It is also worth your time to look up the transit or parking situation, in case there is a walk that you need to factor in.

Even in the cases of phone and video interviews, the same principles apply. Plan out where you will take the interview in advance, such as at your desk or table. Make sure you won’t be interrupted during the interview. When waiting for the call or the zoom to begin review your resume and get into a positive and excited mindset. A smile as you hop on the call will go a long way.

2.)    Be prepared for a scheduled interview

In order to stand out in your interview you need to know what you’re talking about. Be prepared with your interview answers and have some specific scenario-based examples that you can bring to the table. Look up some common interview questions and practice answers with a friend or in front of a mirror. If possible, look up the specific questions common for the company or role you are applying for, and brainstorm your answers prior to the interview. It doesn’t need to be an exact script but make sure to have a general idea of what you will talk about.

3.)    Have a prepared answer for “tell me about yourself”

Beyond preparing for industry-specific questions, it is also important to consider how you will introduce yourself. When an interviewer asks you how your day is going consider how you might answer – you could potentially add a few positive details that would help the interviewer get to know you. For example, you could share that you are doing great and went on a nice hike that morning. Taking advantage of every opportunity is important during an interview. For more on how to answer the “tell me about yourself” question check out our blog focused on this interview element.

4.)    Stay focused on what you bring to the table, not what you don’t

There is no need to highlight the skills you lack. If specifically asked about something you are unsure about you could highlight your readiness to obtain that skill or the steps you have already taken to learn that skill, but don’t bring up what you don’t know. We want to hear you capitalize on the skills that you do have and worked hard to gain.

5.)    Bring your questions to the interview

Work takes up a huge part of your life, it is important that you know about where you will potentially work. Take time before the interview to prepare questions to ask the person interviewing you. Most likely they will ask at the end of your interview if you have any questions, and it is important that you capitalize on this opportunity to show your interest in the role and the company. Make sure they are questions you are truly curious about that will provide clarity on the role and company.

6.)    Know who you are interviewing with

If someone schedules an interview with you it is vital that you understand the role you are interviewing for and what the company interview you does. You should know the basics about the company, it’s core values, mission, and where they are located. If possible, look up the interviewer on LinkedIn prior to connecting as well.

In addition, familiarize yourself with the position description. Have an example ready for each bullet of the duties on the job description that you can share about if asked. You should have a good idea of what you will be doing and bring any questions about the tasks to the interview.

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If you’re looking for information on how to kickstart your career, browse jobs today! We help entry-level job seekers find positions that fit their expertise and career goals. Find more advice to help you in your job search.

Are you ready to ace your next interview? Here are six things that make a candidate stand out in our interview process here at Avenica. If you are looking to launch your career apply to one of our open entry-level positions now!

1.)    Being on time is being early

When it comes to interviews being on time means being early. If your interview is in person consider arriving 15 minutes early to the office. It is also worth your time to look up the transit or parking situation, in case there is a walk that you need to factor in.

Even in the cases of phone and video interviews, the same principles apply. Plan out where you will take the interview in advance, such as at your desk or table. Make sure you won’t be interrupted during the interview. When waiting for the call or the zoom to begin review your resume and get into a positive and excited mindset. A smile as you hop on the call will go a long way.

2.)    Be prepared for a scheduled interview

In order to stand out in your interview you need to know what you’re talking about. Be prepared with your interview answers and have some specific scenario-based examples that you can bring to the table. Look up some common interview questions and practice answers with a friend or in front of a mirror. If possible, look up the specific questions common for the company or role you are applying for, and brainstorm your answers prior to the interview. It doesn’t need to be an exact script but make sure to have a general idea of what you will talk about.

3.)    Have a prepared answer for “tell me about yourself”

Beyond preparing for industry-specific questions, it is also important to consider how you will introduce yourself. When an interviewer asks you how your day is going consider how you might answer – you could potentially add a few positive details that would help the interviewer get to know you. For example, you could share that you are doing great and went on a nice hike that morning. Taking advantage of every opportunity is important during an interview. For more on how to answer the “tell me about yourself” question check out our blog focused on this interview element.

4.)    Stay focused on what you bring to the table, not what you don’t

There is no need to highlight the skills you lack. If specifically asked about something you are unsure about you could highlight your readiness to obtain that skill or the steps you have already taken to learn that skill, but don’t bring up what you don’t know. We want to hear you capitalize on the skills that you do have and worked hard to gain.

5.)    Bring your questions to the interview

Work takes up a huge part of your life, it is important that you know about where you will potentially work. Take time before the interview to prepare questions to ask the person interviewing you. Most likely they will ask at the end of your interview if you have any questions, and it is important that you capitalize on this opportunity to show your interest in the role and the company. Make sure they are questions you are truly curious about that will provide clarity on the role and company.

6.)    Know who you are interviewing with

If someone schedules an interview with you it is vital that you understand the role you are interviewing for and what the company interview you does. You should know the basics about the company, it’s core values, mission, and where they are located. If possible, look up the interviewer on LinkedIn prior to connecting as well.

In addition, familiarize yourself with the position description. Have an example ready for each bullet of the duties on the job description that you can share about if asked. You should have a good idea of what you will be doing and bring any questions about the tasks to the interview.

___

If you’re looking for information on how to kickstart your career, browse jobs today! We help entry-level job seekers find positions that fit their expertise and career goals. Find more advice to help you in your job search.

Are you ready to ace your next interview? Here are six things that make a candidate stand out in our interview process here at Avenica. If you are looking to launch your career apply to one of our open entry-level positions now!

1.)    Being on time is being early

When it comes to interviews being on time means being early. If your interview is in person consider arriving 15 minutes early to the office. It is also worth your time to look up the transit or parking situation, in case there is a walk that you need to factor in.

Even in the cases of phone and video interviews, the same principles apply. Plan out where you will take the interview in advance, such as at your desk or table. Make sure you won’t be interrupted during the interview. When waiting for the call or the zoom to begin review your resume and get into a positive and excited mindset. A smile as you hop on the call will go a long way.

2.)    Be prepared for a scheduled interview

In order to stand out in your interview you need to know what you’re talking about. Be prepared with your interview answers and have some specific scenario-based examples that you can bring to the table. Look up some common interview questions and practice answers with a friend or in front of a mirror. If possible, look up the specific questions common for the company or role you are applying for, and brainstorm your answers prior to the interview. It doesn’t need to be an exact script but make sure to have a general idea of what you will talk about.

3.)    Have a prepared answer for “tell me about yourself”

Beyond preparing for industry-specific questions, it is also important to consider how you will introduce yourself. When an interviewer asks you how your day is going consider how you might answer – you could potentially add a few positive details that would help the interviewer get to know you. For example, you could share that you are doing great and went on a nice hike that morning. Taking advantage of every opportunity is important during an interview. For more on how to answer the “tell me about yourself” question check out our blog focused on this interview element.

4.)    Stay focused on what you bring to the table, not what you don’t

There is no need to highlight the skills you lack. If specifically asked about something you are unsure about you could highlight your readiness to obtain that skill or the steps you have already taken to learn that skill, but don’t bring up what you don’t know. We want to hear you capitalize on the skills that you do have and worked hard to gain.

5.)    Bring your questions to the interview

Work takes up a huge part of your life, it is important that you know about where you will potentially work. Take time before the interview to prepare questions to ask the person interviewing you. Most likely they will ask at the end of your interview if you have any questions, and it is important that you capitalize on this opportunity to show your interest in the role and the company. Make sure they are questions you are truly curious about that will provide clarity on the role and company.

6.)    Know who you are interviewing with

If someone schedules an interview with you it is vital that you understand the role you are interviewing for and what the company interview you does. You should know the basics about the company, it’s core values, mission, and where they are located. If possible, look up the interviewer on LinkedIn prior to connecting as well.

In addition, familiarize yourself with the position description. Have an example ready for each bullet of the duties on the job description that you can share about if asked. You should have a good idea of what you will be doing and bring any questions about the tasks to the interview.

___

If you’re looking for information on how to kickstart your career, browse jobs today! We help entry-level job seekers find positions that fit their expertise and career goals. Find more advice to help you in your job search.

Are you searching for your first job? Or maybe you’re just looking for a new job? Either way, it’s important to let your network of friends, family, and colleagues know that you’re looking!

Your network can be a powerful tool for your job search, as some 80% of jobs are acquired through personal and professional networks.

If you don’t have a LinkedIn account yet, do it now! Trust us on this one. Creating your profile only takes a few minutes and allows you to get your name out there and start making connections. LinkedIn is also the perfect platform to announce that you’re searching for a job. Making a simple post announcing that you’re searching allows your network to refer you to potential opportunities that you might not hear about through typical job boards. It could even get you one step ahead with a personal recommendation depending on your relationship with your connection!

With all of this in mind, here are a few tips and a basic template that will tell others that you’re looking for a new job and put you on the right track towards finding your next role. Feel free to make any edits to adapt to your specific needs and goals.

How to Create the Perfect LinkedIn Post to Announce Your Job Search

Posting on LinkedIn is a solid way to make a connection that can lead to finding your next role. Because of the nature of LinkedIn, your post will show up on the feeds of anyone in your network, as well as their entire network if they interact with your post. While it won’t automatically guarantee you get noticed (you’ll have to do some direct networking as well), it’s a great start to get your name out there.

Here’s what you can include to create a solid job announcement post on LinkedIn:

1. Why You’re Looking for a New Job: (common reasons include graduating, moving to a different city, switching industries, or returning to work after a period of not working).
2. Accomplishment Highlight: Hype yourself up to your network by sharing a professional achievement
3. Relevant Skills and Interests: Share what you’re good at or what you’re looking to leverage in your new role. Also, include the industry or industries you may be interested in.
4. Call-to-Action: Be specific with your goal. Do you want people in your network to reach out with links to job ads or only directly with referrals? Or maybe you just want to be connected with someone at a company you’d like to work for.

Job Search Announcement Template if You Have Experience

Hi everyone! I am currently living in [LOCATION] and looking for a job in the area. I come from a background in [INDUSTRY]. I have [NUMBER] years of experience in [SPECIFIC SKILLS RELATED TO YOUR ROLE] and at my previous employer, [PREVIOUS EMPLOYER], I [YOUR ROLE + AN ACCOMPLISHMENT]. Some of my other skills include [SKILL], [SKILL], and [SKILL] that I’m hoping to leverage in the [INDUSTRY] industry.

If anyone knows of a job opening at a company where I would be a good fit, I’d appreciate if you could send them my way! If you have any recommendations on who I could speak to, I would be happy to connect as well.

Job Search Announcement Template if You Have No Experience

Hi everyone! I am currently living in [LOCATION] and looking for a job in the area. I have a degree in [DEGREE] and I’m hoping to gain experience in [SPECIFIC SKILLS RELATED TO YOUR DEGREE OR CAREER INTERESTS]. Through my education and previous experience in [PREVIOUS JOB THAT HAS TRANSFERRABLE SKILLS, IF APPLICABLE], I learned [TRANSFERRABLE SKILLS ex. Customer service, communication, leadership] that I’m hoping to leverage in my career.

If anyone knows of a job opening at a company where I would be a good fit, I’d appreciate if you could send them my way! If you have any recommendations on who I could speak to, I would be happy to connect.

Networking is a powerful tool in your job search, and these templates are a solid start to getting connected to some great opportunities. Don’t forget, we at Avenica are happy to help you with your job search. Just apply to one of our open roles and we’ll help you get your foot in the door at a company you’ll love.

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If you’re looking for information on how to kickstart your career, contact Avenica or browse jobs today! We help our entry-level job seekers find positions that fit their expertise and career goals.

A commonly asked question during the job interview process involves telling the interviewer about yourself. This can be an intimidating question for many and it’s normal to not know how to answer this question.

One thing to keep in mind when shaping your answer is that the recruiter is genuinely looking to learn more about you than they already know. To answer, “It’s pretty much all on my resume,” would be doing yourself a disservice and would be a missed opportunity to share more of your shining qualities. This is a great chance to elaborate on your resume and consider what else is important to you at work.

It is also helpful to consider the relevance of what you want to share when answering this question. For instance, it might not be helpful to tell a hiring manager about your life from ages 0-16 years old unless that’s directly related to the job or the company.

Some things that hiring managers do want to hear about are: your degree and why you chose it, your top skills and how you developed them, what your biggest success story was in a recent role on your resume, what your career goals are, and what fills your time outside of work (a hobby? volunteering? what book you’re reading now?).

For example,

Interviewer: “Tell me about yourself.”

You: “I am originally from Washington, which gave me a love for the mountains and being outdoors. That’s why I chose to apply for the role of Outdoor Exhibitor; I have learned that I am most energetic outdoors and want to be able to work in this type of environment. I am planning to hike Mount Rainier with my partner this spring. I learned a lot about high altitude safety in my prior role with the US Forest Service and it has been really useful to take the things I’ve learned from work into my weekend hiking adventures.”

In this answer, the candidate provides relevant details to the role he’s interviewing for, while also giving insight into his personal life without sharing too much. He talked lightly about his skill for altitude hiking which was developed in a previous role, and his passion and goals shined through!

The hiring manager gained insight into his background, previous work experience, and personal interests without him going off-topic. A common mistake that is made when answering this question is going so far off-topic that you begin to talk about someone or thing that isn’t relevant to the job. For example, if you share that you like to walk your dog in the mornings, make sure it stays about you and doesn’t turn into a 5-minute rant about your dog instead. Although dogs can be a great connection point, it is important to talk about yourself in this question.

Good luck on your next interview; we’re cheering for you!

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If you’re looking for information on how to kickstart your career, browse jobs today! We help entry-level job seekers find positions that fit their expertise and career goals. Find more advice to help you in your job search.

So, what’s normal for benefits? It depends. Companies all do this differently. Some may put out more vacation time or flexible time off for employees, and some may offer higher 401K matching programs. Depending upon what your priorities are, either of these can be viewed as better or worse for your own needs.

Moving on to the team structure. In case no one mentioned it to you during your interview process, this may be the first time you’re learning who you would report to and potentially who would be on your team. Do some digging! Search LinkedIn for the company you’re applying to and see if you can find any employees listed as working for that company with a title like yours or within the same area of the business. Peeking at their profiles may give you a better idea of your teammates and the culture of the workplace. You can also do this for your boss! It’s not snooping, it’s investigating for your future.

Finally, look a bit deeper into the additional documents that are requested. Is the employer looking for you to sign a noncompete? A noncompete is a legal document that tells you where you can and cannot work in the future for a given period. Often noncompetes are in place to ensure you don’t share industry or company secrets to a competitor that may put that company in jeopardy or lose any market share. They may only be enforced in a specific geographic location, or they may only be for a particular industry or client of theirs. Regardless, it’s good to check it out. Then seek advising on it from trusted mentors or even an attorney.

Now that you’ve reviewed everything from your offer, it’s time to sign and accept the offer or go back to the hiring manager with your counteroffer. It’s important to note that not all situations would be accepting of a counteroffer. Especially if you’re working with a recruiter, agency, or career launching platform like Avenica. Often the roles they’re placing have salaries and packages that are locked in with little wiggle room. They will also share this with you up front. If you’re going it alone, that may be another story and a topic for another blog post.

Good luck on your job search; we’re cheering for you!

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If you’re looking for information on how to kickstart your career, contact Avenica or browse jobs today! We help our entry-level job seekers find positions that fit their expertise and career goals.