Career Planning Guide (2011) by jobpostings Magazine

11

This Ain’ t No fashion show

interview prep tricks

A few rules for looking your best.

What Networking Really Means.

Why Start Your Career Now? Cover letters and how to make them not suck.

| annual guide |

BUSINESS DEGREES 4-YEAR DEGREES THAT ARE BUILT FOR BUSINESS. Accounting e-Business Marketing Fashion Management Human Resources Management International Business Tourism Management

business.humber.ca

17

This Ain’ t No fashion show

who’s

hiring

Hey. Did you know that these companies have lots of entry level positions? Visit their websites to see a full list of positions available.

1 Deloitte 4 The Home Depot 15 Nexen 20 Hydro One 27 College Pro 28 KPMG IBC PwC

Workplace hallways are not cat-

walks. So mind your wardrobe, and be sure to follow these simple

Why Start Your Career Now? A head start never hurt anyone. We look at some good reasons why it’s never too

A look at how volunteering, extracurric-

early to hop right onto your career path.

ulars, and part-time work can give you

Tear Up Your Resume New age. New resume. Get with the times, and give your resume a facelift.

an edge when it comes to landing your ideal job.

The Constant Hum of Human Interactions

Cover Letters and How to Make Them Not Suck

Despite its bad rep, networking (in real

Cover letters are probably the worst part

dia) can actually be quite fun.

of a job application. Here are some helpful tips to make writing them less traumatic.

An Apple for the Career Counsellor

time, not just in the realms of social me-

Interview Checklist Sleep? Check. Research? Check. Realizing there’s a stain on your shirt five minutes before your interview? Uh-oh!

In defence of career centres, and why

Should have had an interview checklist.

you should already have awesome rela-

(Luckily we made one just for you!)

tionships with the fantastic people who

2

How Your Part-Time Job Will Make You Awesome

IFC Humber, The Business School (Undergrad) 3 Queens University 13 Ross University 21 Georgian College, Canadian Automotive Institute 24 University of Guelph-Humber 31 Centennial College

who else?

7 Certified Management Accountants 8 Insurance Institute of Canada 16 ACE Canada 19 Insurance Institute of Canada 22 SchoolFinder.com

stuff to buy

11 Brisk 23 Excel OBC Rogers Wireless

work there. career planning guide | 2011-2012 | jobpostings.ca

Images: Conference Room - iStockphoto/Thinkstock, Model - © iStockphoto.com/Luis Alvarez

yay! more school

rules for proper on-the-job attire.

What happens when inspiration strikes?

If you’re in the right place, one idea – your idea – can have a profound impact in far-reaching and unexpected places.

Set your ideas in motion.

With 100+ programs to choose from, consider graduate studies at Queen’s.

CREATE AN IMPACT

www.queensu.ca/sgs

If you don’t know which paint dries faster, but you like helping people...

C then we want to talk to you.

You may not know everything when it comes to home improvement, vement, but after our training and hands-on coaching you will. The Home Depot, one of Canada’s top ut customers first and 100 employers, is currently hiring. You bring the desire to put we’ll offer competitive rewards including company paid health th & dental plans, 70+ benefits, tuition reimbursement & much more.

Many positions available including: Cashiers • Sales Associates • Department Supervisors • Overnight Packdown Associates

Apply online at homedepotjobs.ca/3125

We are committed to diversity as an equal opportunity employer.

Oh, by the way, the paint that dries faster is the latex paint. See, you’ve already learned something.

Start Your

Now. Career

by Brandon Miller

One month before gradua-

tion, thousands of panicked

university and college students

will pile into career centres across the great nation of Canada,

scrambling for advice, resume

help, and job leads. They will be about three years too late. The concept of career planning is,

sadly, completely foreign territory to many people undertaking

undergraduate studies. For these students (and I know because I

was one), education takes place in the classroom and the library only, with no attention paid to

anything but coursework. Little

do they know that, while they are busy doing JELL-O shots, others

are starting careers and getting

ahead, leaving stragglers behind in the dust.

Image: Digital Vision./ Photodisc/Thinkstock

ďƒœ

career planning guide | 2011-2012 | jobpostings.ca

Everyone else is doing it so you should too “We’re seeing more and more first and second year students [come in for career help],” says Ann Soucy, director

of student employment services at the University of New

Brunswick. “Last year, 16 percent of people who used our services were in their first year.”

Avoiding peer pressure is normally a sign of personal strength, but it could be extremely detrimental in this case.

Should you eschew career opportunities in your first couple of years, you run the risk of lagging behind the rest of your class. And when it comes time for graduation and companies are recruiting, the guy with three summer internships

in his field is going to be going up against the girl whose only summer job was recuperating from university life.

So, what does a “career” mean, anyway?

depending on the opportunity. Employers like to hire candidates that are well-rounded and passionate.

publisher

“The first year, in particular, the student might be in a program

Mark Laurie

New Brunswick’s Soucy. “It might be best to do some career

editor

because parents encouraged them,” says the University of exploration and see if they are in the right program.” Soucy

gives the example of a business student who focused all of her time on accounting. After a summer job in her later university

years, she discovered she actually hated the field. By trying out your intended career early, you’ll ensure that it won’t be too late to refocus your studies and still graduate on time.

In addition to recognizing when a career choice or a major

is a wrong fit, job opportunities allow students to obtain a sense of what’s out there. Three summers of work might turn out completely different results if done in separate sectors. A

not-for-profit job is completely different from a corporate job, regardless whether the roles are similar or even identical. And

man student with a full-time management job at a bank. On

rate from work at a small business or a start-up. The more

but that doesn’t mean that people expect you to be a fresh-

employment at a large international firm is incredibly dispa-

top of the obvious internships and part-time or summer jobs,

roles and settings a student can try out, the better.

develop useful skills sets — from getting involved in extra-cur-

ricular organizations to volunteering to joining professional societies. Career development is all of these things and more.

“The biggest thing that we see is that students often have some career ideas. And sometimes they are not using the

(existing) opportunities while they are in university to test drive those ideas or to develop skills,” says Lynda Peto, an employment advisor at the University of Manitoba.

While it’s true that senior students are often given preference when it comes to scoring internships or part-time

professional jobs, there is space for first and second year students in the mix. It’s all about finding the right opportunities,

meeting the right people, and thinking outside of the box.

Many summer programs actually require you to be a return-

ing student, so the odds are even occasionally in favour of

younger students. In any case, there are always ways to connect career interests with employment opportunities if you are creative enough.

“There are some opportunities to be more strategic in what

Get your name and face out there

associate publisher mlaurie@jobpostings.ca

Jason Rhyno jrhyno@jobpostings.ca

art director Sonya van Heyningen svanheyningen@jobpostings.ca

web editor Simone Castello scastello@jobpostings.ca

contributors Naiose Hefferon, Emma Jones, Warren McFarlane, Amy F. McPherson, Brandon Miller, Alyssa Ouellette, Emma Woolley

national account managers Sarah-Lyn Amaral, Mary Vanderpas

every student should start his or her career early, it’s this: networking. The more internships and jobs a person holds, the more people they meet. The more people they meet, the

more contacts that have to exploit once graduation rolls around and the full-time job-hunt starts.

In some instances, summer gigs, part-time jobs, or internships can lead to opportunities down the line. “We have had

Published by Passion Inc. 25 Imperial Street, Suite 100 Toronto, ON M5P 1B9 jobpostings.ca 1-877-900-5627 ext. 221

students who have worked summers for one employer and when they graduated, the employer hired them,” says Soucy.

“It’s certainly an opportunity for the employer to try the student out. And the student to try the employer out.”

Set yourself up for success

to test drive that idea. Could they focus on their career by

work experience versus a co-op student [or someone with in-

encourages brainstorming about ways to develop transfer-

ployment until the very end (of their time in university). They

engineering student isn’t going to find a summer gig as an

charge of their careers.”

cation, for example, I’d encourage them to find summer jobs

sume, the difference between someone with no real relevant

working in summer programs with young children?” Peto

ternships] is huge,” says Peto. “Many don’t think about em-

able skills that can be highlighted on your resume. A first year

almost let their careers happen to them instead of being in

engineer, she says, but he can certainly work construction.

The bottom line? The more you do, the better off you will be.

with which to network, but he or she can also get a feel for

nlaurie@jobpostings.ca

ploration that can be undertaken. If there’s one reason why

“When I work with students to help them develop their re-

ment. Not only will a volunteer be exposed to many people

Nathan Laurie

Forget about the skills that can be developed and the ex-

we are looking for,“ says Peto. “If there was a student in edu-

Volunteer experiences can also be valuable career develop-

jobpostings

Take your career choice for a test drive

Starting your career in the first half of your studies is crucial,

there are a number other ways to gain vital experience and

6

a professional work setting and expand upon existing skills,

jobpostings publishes the Career Planning Guide annually, in October. 40,000 copies are distributed to over 105 universities and colleges, via career centres and residences. Contents of this publication are protected by copyright and may not be reprinted in whole or part without permission of the publishers.

on the cover: Conference Room - iStockphoto/ Thinkstock Model - © iStockphoto.com/ Luis Alvarez

And since the clock is ticking, it pays to start early. ~ end ~

career planning guide | 2011-2012 | jobpostings.ca

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE BEING WANTED.

Create Possibilities.

™

Become a Certified Management Accountant.™ The strategic management approach of the CMA designation will give you the tools to obtain your dream job. Highly respected and in demand, CMAs are creating possibilities for companies right now.

Watch their testimonials at becomeacma.com.

© 2011 The Society of Management Accountants of Canada. All rights reserved. ®/™ Registered Trade-Marks /Trade-Marks are owned by The Society of Management Accountants of Canada.

Sara Runnalls Broker

Where do you want your education to take you?

Here’s a career path with unlimited potential.

What are you looking for in a career? Earning potential? Security?

Whatever you've learned in school and in life, you’ll have the chance to use it in the insurance industry.

It’s hard to imagine a career choice where you’ll have the opportunity to use more of your skills than insurance. Why? Because insurance is already a part of everything you do. It protects homes, jobs, cars, property and the continuity of lives. And because insurance is all around us, the industry has a wide variety of careers to match your education and amazing flexibility to change directions along the way.

“A college diploma or university degree in any subject is helpful for entry into the profession, although those who have studied

Broker / Agent

mathematics or business would have an advantage.”

You’re a people person and a great communicator Insurance brokers and agents help consumers find the right coverage to protect their cars, homes, businesses, boats and belongings against loss through accident, fire or theft.

While brokers usually represent several insurance companies, agents are more likely to sell policies for just one. These are the entrepreneurs of the insurance industry with many of them working for themselves or for small independent firms.

Gavin Mascarenhas Loss Adjuster

There are more than 110,000 Canadians working in the property & casualty insurance sector. It’s an industry that reflects the face and the values of Canadian society and has a constant need for talented, creative, motivated people.

“The best advice is to specialize in law or business-related courses.”

Are you a people person? Brokers work with clients to create a strategy to protect their assets.

Gifted at math? You could thrive as an actuary.

Good at listening? As a claims professional, you’ll help people who are coping with an accident, fire or theft.

Strategic thinker? You could work as an underwriter and develop the products that keep people protected from unforeseen loss.

As your career in insurance progresses, every day can present interesting new opportunities, new challenges, and the flexibility to pursue new goals.

Loss Adjuster You’re part private investigator and part therapist The loss adjuster is responsible for ensuring that those who have suffered a loss receive the compensation and assistance they are eligible to receive. Whether employed by the insurance company or working as an independent contractor, the loss adjuster investigates the accident, arranges medical treatment if necessary and negotiates the final settlement to restore policy holders to where they were, as closely as possible, before their loss.

To find out more about where you might fit in with your post-secondary education, please visit our Web site at www.career-connections.info. You may be surprised to find that insurance isn’t what you think. It’s a whole lot more.

Your interests and your experience may add up to a great career in insurance.

Michelle Snowdon Underwriter

“For a greater advantage and the highest placement value, I would recommend courses in law as well as successful completion of a business or insurance program.”

Underwriter You’re a relationship developer and decision-maker Underwriters accept or reject risk on behalf of insurance companies. They assess the kind of insurance required by organizations as diverse as a shopping mall, a professional sports team, a manufacturer, a city government or a construction company. Underwriters examine every facet of the organization’s operation and its request for insurance, then decide what the insurance company should cover and how much it should charge.

Image: Chris Amaral/ Photodisc/Thinkstock

Let’s face it… your resume is old, and kinda sucky. Just get rid of it.

Here’s how to make a resume for the new age.

Tear Up Your Resume.

by Amy F.McPherson, Associate Director, VT Career Services

What exactly is a résumé, and why do you need one?

A résumé is a marketing tool that you use to introduce

your educational background, experiences, skills and

achievements to prospective

employers. You need one (and a

good one) because, in many cases, this is the first impression that a potential employer will have of

you, and it is what they will use to determine if they want to invite you for an interview. Whether

you’ve never written a résumé or you’re revising one that you’ve

used for years, here are some basic things to keep in mind and tips to help you along the way. career planning guide | 2011-2012 | jobpostings.ca

Sections

Many of us are most familiar with a chronologi-

cal format résumé (one where you focus on work

create a separate heading such as “Related Experi-

these sections are essential:

“Working Overseas”) and discuss that experience.

the field or industry to which you’re applying, but



Heading – Your name, address, phone

number, email, web address (only if it’s a profes-

Then you can have another section called “Additional Experience” for everything else.

sional website with your résumé and project infor-



work fine for someone whose work experience



more skills than you know.

is now seeking, it may not work well for everyone.

nicates your career goals. This statement should

experience beginning with what you are currently doing and working back in time). While this may has primarily been related to the type of job she Students may prefer to use a more functional

résumé which allows for a variety of headings

that relate very specifically to varied experiences,

including work, projects, research, leadership and more. Be sure to list the sections on your résumé in order of importance as they support your

objective. Keep in mind that although many word processing programs offer résumé templates,

these templates may present challenges in letting you present your information the way you’d like to. You can easily build your own template by

creating a two-column table in your word processing program.

mation – no spring break pictures!)

Objective – This doesn’t exist anymore.

Skills – List computer, laboratory, language

or other skill sets. Don’t skimp on this! You have

Instead, create a value proposition that commu-



articulate what is unique about you, and what you

arately. Highlight leadership roles. Choose these

will bring to the position. Be sure to use terms associated with your industry. Employers love that!



Education – List your degree(s), major, mi-

Honors/Activities – This could be a com-

bined section or these headings could be listed sep-

items carefully and list only college level honor or

activities – with rare exceptions (like a Hot Dog Eating Contest).

nors, institution, location (city and province) and your expected graduation date. If you have more

than one degree, list your current degree first. This

section can also include your GPA, a study abroad experience, and selected courses that relate specifically to the job you’re seeking.



Experience – I prefer the word “experience”

to “employment” because some of our best experi-

ences may not have been ones we were paid for!

List your experiences in reverse chronological order

starting with your current or most recent and work backward. If you have a particular experience that

you’d like to highlight and it’s not your most recent,

10

ence” or even give it a specific name (for example,

references Do not include references on your résumé or even

the phrase “References Available Upon Request.”

You will need to create a separate reference page which will include names and contact informa-

tion for three or four professional references. Cur-

rent or former employers and faculty members are good choices. If you have a LinkedIn profile (and you should), professional blog or website,

be sure to provide hyperlinks. Employers will be googling you anyway! Good luck!

career planning guide | 2011-2012 | jobpostings.ca

Image: iStockphoto/Thinkstoc k

format

You can add others based on your knowledge of

Ž – Unilever Canada Inc. Used under license.

cover letters and how to make them not suck

by Emma Woolley

email addresses need to go down with your Live-

journal account (if you were ever on it — I sure was) and never be seen again.

Maybe your email address isn’t as lame as the

examples I’ve included. But when you’re apply-

ing for a job, you’ve got to use your real name. A straightforward email address shows employers

that you’re professional. If you’re really attached to

Let’s be honest: Cover letters are the worst part

tions when you’ve been scouring job site after job

that old email address, go ahead and keep it. Just don’t use it when applying for jobs.

looking for one, of course.) While writing a resume

site and skimming posting after posting, your ap-

plication has to be flawless if you want to be considered a good candidate.

Be the right kind of confident.

is relatively straightforward — listing your responsibilities and accomplishments — writing a cover

letter requires a little more personality and a lot

more skill. And since this is usually the first thing a potential employer reads from you, writing a bad one simply isn’t an option. You’ve got one minute — maybe two — to self-promote enough that you make the “maybe” pile. That’s a lot of pressure.

Combine this with the ease and immediacy of ap-

plying online — which makes us a little lazy some-

times — and you need more than stellar writing to make a good impression. Here’s how to increase your chances.

Read the posting several times. Employers will

usually tell you what to write in your subject line, and whether you should write your cover letter in the body of the email or attach it as a file. If it’s an

attachment you’ll want to send it in the format requested by the employer, so no Word documents

when they’ve asked for PDFs. In the email, write a few lines expressing your interest, explaining where you saw the posting, and what you’ve attached to the email.

If the employer hasn’t included any information, it’s generally okay to write your cover letter in the body

Follow instructions.

of the email and attach your resume. In terms of file

quently overlook information given by employers

Applying to several jobs? Be extra careful. There’s

This may seem like a no-brainer, but applicants frein job postings. And while it’s easy to miss instruc-

types, Word documents are the most common.

nothing more embarrassing than accidentally sending the wrong cover letter.

Applying to several jobs?

Be extra careful. There’s nothing more embarrassing than accidentally sending the wrong cover letter.

For the more humble among us, writing a cover

letter can feel forced or awkward. The super-confident, on the other hand, can brag for 10 pages without feeling the slightest bit self-congratulatory.

The key to a good cover letter is walking the fine line between the two. Instead of listing everything

you’ve ever done and been awesome at, highlight

a few of the skills, traits, and successes that relate to your desired position. By now, hardly anyone cares about the awards you won in high school.

(But good on you!)

Make your language strong by avoiding the pas-

sive voice and never choosing a long word when a short one will do — “use” not “utilize.” Overly com-

plex or long letters tend to be dry and complicated and any employer won’t get past the first few lines.

Use keywords! Many emails and letters are run

Never address your email: “Dear Sirs.”

through databases to find the best candidates. So

Write this and your email immediately gets

clude that in your letter.

trashed. Your failure is two-fold: You haven’t researched the company you’re applying to, and

Proofread. Proofread.

Proofread.

you’ve assumed that the person you’re writing to is male. Even if you use the more innocuous “To Whom it May Concern,” your letter is still saying: “I’m not all that interested in working for you.”

Always address your letter (and email) to the name

of the person receiving them. If you don’t know

who that is, find out. Many businesses direct job

applications to HR representatives via generic email addresses, but it’s not impossible to learn

who handles the screening or hiring process.

Write or call the company, explain you’re applying for a job, and request the name of who’s in

charge. If you’re not willing to do that, you probably don’t really want the position.

Don’t use your firstever email address.

Look, we all thought we were being clever with

our adolescent pseudonyms but the truth is

that most employers won’t hire someone who

goes by “punkfan978” or “sweetbaby77xo.” These

if a posting requires that you be a “fast learner,” in-

Just about every article ever about cover letters asks you to proofread, but I’m doing it again be-

cause it’s important. Even the best of us make

mistakes, so proofreading is always necessary. Everything is so quick and easy on the Internet that it’s tempting to just hit ‘Send’ and be on your way.

Don’t do it. Typos, misspellings, poor grammar,

and other egregoius errors can get your application deleted after one glance. I know many em-

ployers who won’t continue reading after one typo. So check it again and again. And one more

time after that. (As a test, see if you can find the typo in this paragraph – Editor.)

If your brain is dulled by hours of writing and job hunting, take a break. Save the email as a draft,

leave your computer, and come back to it with fresh eyes. If you’re not skilled in spelling and gram-

mar, have someone else read it for you. As long as you’re not applying on the application deadline (and you’re not, right?) there’s no need to rush.

career planning guide | 2011-2012 | jobpostings.ca

Image: © Getty Images/ Jupiterimages/ liquidlibrary/Thinkstocka

of applying for a job. (Aside from the hours spent

an apple for the career counsellor

by Emma Jones

explain Newton’s Laws of Motions, or the implica-

Another buzz word: networking. It may provoke

possibilities were endless. Princess,

offering work experience, or help polish your re-

career centres have now made networking with

wanted to be when you grew up, the

astronaut, or cowboy: salary and abilities didn’t

once enter the equation. But now, as you embark

upon further education, finding your career path for the coming years becomes even more impor-

tant. Sure, you’ve figured out the subject you want to study, but for many, the certainty stops there,

and some navigational assistance is required. Cue the career counsellors and their helpful maps.

A career counsellor (or career practitioner – depending on where you live) can help you explore

your chosen industry and find the best fit for you.

We all have distinct interests, skills, and person-

alities, but we sometimes need help in identifying these attributes. This is where your school’s career

centre can assist by saving you from any future square peg/round job role dilemmas.

Career counsellors work with all students; from

undergraduates looking for direction, to postgrad-

uates looking for a wage. That said, making use of the career centre earlier in your studies can help

you identify your goals sooner, giving you more time to spend on actually achieving them.

Now, we know that the start of a new school year brings with it a host of must-do chores. Figure out how to use the microwave, scope out the cheap-

est drinking holes, furnish your room with bargain

Ikea goods and, of course, occasionally study. The

first few months can be more than a little hectic, but making time to visit your career centre should be one of your top priorities.

School professors are not always your definitive source of information. While they may be able to

tions of Habeas Corpus, they can’t tell you who’s sume. Aside from pulling apart that essay you just slaved over, teachers are rarely able to act as per-

sonal advisors. So, turning our attention to the role of the career counsellor, what can they do for you?

To make successful career decisions, you need quality information, both about yourself and the

industry you’d like to enter. Career workshops, as

offered by almost all career centres, can help pro-

images of suits, power points and canapés, but industry professionals a friendly and meaningful

experience. Take York University’s TASTE program,

the objective of which is to provide an opportunity

for students to talk with alumni about their careerrelated interests over an informal lunch. Many ca-

reer centres offer similar schemes, allowing your

school’s successful alumni to pass on their beenthere-done-that experience.

vide this information. Workshops are often one or

You can really think of your career centre as the

burning questions, help you connect with other

other big calendar event in strengthening this

two hours in length and will answer any of your like-minded students, and build lifelong skills.

For more personal and tailored advice, you can

also book one-on-one appointments with career

counsellors, with home-baked cookies being an optional gift for them. These individual meetings

connecting link between you and employers. Anlink will be the career fair, where you can meet a variety of employers in an exhibition-like setting. A fantastic opportunity to compare the offerings of your industry’s biggest players and make that all important first impression.

can provide a good opportunity to draft an under-

If you’re one of the more introverted individuals

may include extra-curricular activities or, more im-

terview, then career counsellors can also assist in

graduate action plan for your coming years, which portantly, work experience.

Today, work experience really makes all the difference in the open job market, and career coun-

selling can help you identify the right opportunities that are related to your specific career goals.

who dread any kind of meeting or — gasp! — in-

honing those people skills. To stop you stumbling over your words, practice interviews with your counsellor can help with gaining confidence, so

that you no longer have to use the old trick of picturing the interviewer in their full naked glory.

Similarly, career centres can also help arrange job

Ultimately, your relationship with your career cen-

give you a sneak peek into the daily grind of your

won’t need their help until the dawn of gradua-

shadowing, which are shorter placements that can

dream job. Your career counsellor will always steer

you in the right direction, giving you advice on the best companies to target, their deadlines, and ap-

plication tips. Meaning that, rather than spending your summers decaying in front of the TV, you can use the free time to fill your resume and network.

tre should not be swept aside in the belief that you tion. The potential rapport should be embraced

and nurtured as soon as possible; and hey, unlike some relationships, they aren’t going to complain

about you taking advantage of them just to boost your career.

career planning guide | 2011-2012 | jobpostings.ca

Image: iStockphoto/Thinkstock

w

hen you were asked what you

By exploring and developing some of the most globally significant oil and gas basins, Nexen Inc. delivers energy to the world.

To learn more about the opportunities available to join one of Canada’s Top 50 Companies to work for, visit: www.nexeninc.com

Are you looking to gain hands on experience before leaving school?

With SIFE, you will not only make a difference in your community, but you will also gain real world experience.

Be on a dynamic team that competes in national and global competitions while launching the career you’ve always dreamt of.

What are you waiting for?

Your future starts now.

Visit www.acecanada.ca today!

SIFE is a program operated by ACE in Canada

this ain’t no fashion show Why you should Dress Well for Work.

Image: © iStockphoto.com/Luis Alvarez

by Brandon Miller

Put your hand up if you often find yourself stumbling to class in jeans and a t-shirt. And that’s probably on a good day. On college and university campuses, comfort trumps style and casual undoubtedly beats professional. Sweatpants and hoodies are common attire for students, and even lululemon workout pants are allowed — even though they don’t leave much to the imagination. There are no fashion rules on campus because nobody really cares. Perhaps that’s why so many students lose their sartorial way on the path to their first job. Not to worry, we’ve got some tips.

career planning guide | 2011-2012 | jobpostings.ca

“

It’s not just about dressing too casually for a formal workplace, which is a common mistake amongst younger people.

There’s also a risk of having your clothes outshine your performance

”

Women’s Wide Leg Trouser Pants, Men’s Skinny Blazer: Both Gap

Don’t wear jeans to a law firm Every workplace is differently struc-

tured in terms of dress code. There’s casual, business casual, and full-on

business. Often, larger companies will

Start with high-quality basics (like the classic blazer, or a pair of plain trousers) and build on that base with trendier pieces.

have a written rule of dress. In any

case, your best bet is to ask the hiring

manager what to wear before you ar-

rive for your first day. Better yet, make it a point to scope out other em-

ployees when you are in the office for your interview (and even if the

office is casual and cool, you should dress formally for the interview).

It’s not just about dressing too casually for a

formal workplace, which is a common mistake amongst younger people. There’s also a risk of

having your clothes outshine your performance.

“If you don’t care about how you look, you

might show you don’t care about other things either,” says Tess Roman, who co-owns and

operates the design boutique Price Roman in Toronto’s Queen West area. “You have to get the feeling of what the company is all about

before you go in there and start dressing better Image: Model - © iStockphoto.com/Iconogenic, Background - © Getty Images/ Jupiterimages/ Comstock/Thinkstock

than everyone else.”

It’s not that you have to colour within the lines completely, but don’t think that a bejeweled headband is always the way to go, either.

“It’s important to have your own look and to differentiate yourself from the sea of black

and grey. It shows confidence and individual-

ity,” says Jordan Porter, fashion market editor

Pay attention, there will be a quiz: The Genderneutral Rules First things first: you want to make sure that your clothes fit. It seems like common sense, but wearing wrong-

sized clothes is a problem that has infiltrated offices across Canada. Just because you buy something that is

ready-to-wear does not mean that you should eschew

tailoring. Clothes need not come off the rack and directly into wardrobe rotation. “Lack of fit — either too tight or

too loose — is a big mistake,” says Porter. “Spending that little bit extra on tailoring can make a big difference and can make an H&M outfit look like a million bucks.”

While you can skimp on trendier pieces, staples should be of a certain quality in order to withstand wear. A

patterned shirt might go out of style, but a white basic

never will. “Classics are definitely the best investment, especially for the office,” says Tara Wickwire, director of public relations for GAP Inc. “You can wear them for years to come while looking professional and on-trend.”

at FASHION Magazine. “But it’s also very

It isn’t just about the quality of the clothes you buy, but

not go overboard, as that can alienate you from

pressed shirts should always be a top priority. A wrin-

in superiors focusing on your wardrobe as

shopping for non-iron shirts. And continue to keep up-

other words, don’t be that guy with the cartoon

already own staples like black pants, a striped shirt, a

important to respect the office dress code and

also the way that you take care of your clothes. Neatly

the rest of your colleagues and might result

kled effect can be avoided with a quick pressing or by

opposed to your real worth to the company.” In

dating your roster of outfits, even the basics. “You may

characters on his tie.

blazer and khakis,” says Wickwire. “(But) make sure

they aren’t overly dated. Classics are renewed regularly with new cuts, fabrics and silhouettes that bring them

up to date.” Non-seasonal fabrics like lightweight wool can be worn year-round. career planning guide | 2011-2012 | jobpostings.ca

19

Some suiting tips for the ladies in the classroom

Jessica printed rufflefront blouse, Attitude jay manuel feather print scarf: Both sears

“You have to start with foundation piec-

es,” says Cynthia Florek, Sears Canada’s brand and trend director for women’s apparel and accessories. “A suit is a must — a great jacket and a three-piece

suit. That way you have the option of

mixing and matching. And invest in a white shirt

“Those pops of trend-driven items really will help keep your look youthful,” says FASHION’s Porter. “A super opaque tight (as opposed to nude hose), and a great menswear inspired watch always looks cool and fresh.”

because there’s so much you can do with it.” Flo-

rek suggests sticking to neutral colours when shopping

for your first suit. Think more about black, grey, taupe or chocolate brown, and less about turquoise and fuchsia.

When suit shopping, play with silhouette as much as possible. Try slimmer pants or a pencil skirt, for example. Pro-

portion is key, says Florek. “A lot of young people think they

Attitude Jay Manuel plaid coat, blazer, shorts, sweater, & ‘Rhea’ boots, Jessica gloves: all sears

need to lose their identity when they wear a suit,” she says.

“(But) there are a lot of ways to personalize it.” Pair a more

classic-looking suit with a trendy blouse underneath to keep things youthful and unique.

20

Mini faux snakeskin belt: Gap

Jessica denby oxford heel shoes, sears

career planning guide | 2011-2012 | jobpostings.ca

Boy Blunders

Professional style tips for boys, dudes & even b ro s

“A common mistake for those just entering the workforce is dressing too casu-

ally,” says Dennis. “For example, graphic tees are never a good look for the corporate office.” Along with graphic tees, you can lock down any Ed Hardy hats and Hanes tank tops. All tank tops, actually. ¶ Porter notes that guys should invest in the help of a tailor. Your suit should not be baggy in the seat. Don’t be scared of a slim fit if you can pull it off, and certainly don’t be frightened about wearing clothes that are actually the right size. ¶ “It’s important to stay true to your want to be professionally perceived,” Dennis says. “For someone whose style is very eclectic but who has an office job, they can inject interest into their work wardrobe by adding a great watch, a colourful pocket square, a tie pin or some cuff links to pull a look together.”

Like the ladies, men are

A couple of good-quality

gauge merino sweater, she

closets with classic looks

are also a must. At the very

will last a long time and

going to want to stack their that can be mixed and

matched. “Depending on

how formal his office is, it’s a good idea to invest in three great suits: one in black,

navy and grey,” says Nancy Dennis, Sears Canada’s

brand and trend director

for menswear. “They can be

worn together, or broken up for more casual occasions.”

Protocol silk pocket square, sears

personal style in the workplace, but you have to marry that style with how you

shirts in varying colours least, every guy should

purchase a white shirt, a

blue shirt, and a stripe. “In order to avoid looking like you’re playing dress up in your dad’s closet, inject a

youthful spin through ac-

cessories like a sporty watch

or a canvas messenger bag,” Dennis says. Nice tailored wool trousers or a fine

career planning guide | 2011-2012 | jobpostings.ca

adds, are classic pieces that always look great.

tommy hilfiger® watch, sears

“Shoes are also a really important purchase,” says FASHION’s Porter. “You want something with a low profile sole, a toe that’s not too

pointy and not too round, and can go with anything.”

Chaps wool suit & silk tie, Boulevard Club shirt, Protocol silk pocket square, all sears

21

Sloan Fit Cropped pant: banana republic

“High heels and too-short skirts are among the biggest mistakes,” says

Swag Bib Necklace: banana republic

GAP’s Wickwire. “Keep the skirts and

dresses just above or below the knee.

And the heels should be no more than three inches high.” At the end of the

“

day, the goal is to look like you belong in a professional environment.

Keep the skirts and dresses just above or below the knee. And the heels should be no more than three inches high

”

And let’s talk about what’s happen-

ing below your ankles and from your

no plain janes (or johns) Pump up the personality with tasteful accessories.

elbows down. “Your shoes should be

kept in pristine condition — no scuffs, mucked up heels or smudges,” says

Porter. “And failing to accessorize, taste-

fully of course, can leave you looking like a Plain Jane.” Invest in some good shoe

polish and look for sales on staple shoes.

According to Porter, a simple low-heeled pump in a classic pointed-toe shape is a must for all working ladies. Though

jessica paisley satin scarf: sears

popular on campuses everywhere, flipflops should be avoided in nearly every professional setting.

Jessica wool felt cloche, turtleneck, shawl collar open cardigan, & houndstooth pencil skirt, Attitude Jay Manuel skinny bow belt:all sears

22

 What are

Flat Tote: Gap

Laline cut-out wedge: banana republic

you doing wrong?

career planning guide | 2011-2012 | jobpostings.ca

Don’t forget about your hair and face.

You know, the moneymakers.

“A great haircut can go a long way,” says Porter. “And it’s

worthwhile to sit down with a makeup artist of a reputable

makeup line at your local department store to have a lesson and pick up some essential products.” Obviously, her advice

is targeted toward women, but that doesn’t mean that guys

X

“

For haircuts, keep it nice and trim, and keep the neck and edges clean, not overgrown and squirrelly

should completely ignore their pores. “A good cleansing ritual and keeping any unibrow or errant hairs at bay are important elements,” she says. “For haircuts, keep it nice and trim, and

”

keep the neck and edges clean, not overgrown and squirrelly.”

Images (This page, Clocwise from Top Left): Getty Images/ Polka Dot RF/, iStockphoto, Hemera - All Thinkstock

Nobody wants to be called a squirrel, right?

ZAP AWAY BAD BREATH EXCEL IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF THE WM. WRIGLEY JR. CO., OR ITS SUBSIDIARIES.

career planning guide | 2011-2012 | jobpostings.ca

23

Join us!

February

08

Learn about the opportunity to earn advanced standing for related programs.

Join us for Transfer Student Evening February 8, 2012.

1 +1 2

guelphhumber.ca

You have your diploma, now get your degree!

Complement your diploma with a degree from the University of Guelph-Humber in Toronto.

evenings & weekends

by Warren McFarlane

How to rock it as a working student

So you don’t have a trust fund, and you’re blowing through your summer savings at an alarming rate.

You thought that you’d put away enough cash from your summer job to get you through till April,

but between pub nights, pizza, and prescriptions, it’s becoming clear that life outside the nest is way

more expensive than you thought

it would be. Party’s over: it’s time to

Image: Photodisc/Thinkstock

get a part time job.

career planning guide | 2011-2012 | jobpostings.ca

25

Your first stop should be your campus Career

Centre, where if you’re lucky and persistent and take advantage of the people there to help you, you might be able to find a work-study position

on campus. These jobs are ideal for students and very often geared towards your area of study. Yep, that’s right: you just went from being broke to get-

ting meaningful on the job experience for your eventual career.

If you can’t find a job on campus, time to cast your net into the malls and restaurants near your school

or home. Working part time off campus means you’ll probably find yourself at the bottom of the

employment totem pole, with a customer service

job of some description. But even in the worlds of retail and food service, there’s tons of valuable ex-

perience to be gleaned. And if you’re strategic in

where you apply, you could even be gaining skills that can apply to your long-term career plans.

Studying music? Apply at a record store or to be an

usher or box office cashier at a local concert venue.

Getting an English degree? A retail bookstore would be the obvious place to start. If you’re into comput-

ers, try tech support. You get the picture. Even a little bit of relevance will go a long way. If you’re stuck, go see a counsellor at your campus Career Centre –

they’ll suggest positions that are appropriate to your skills and experience. You probably won’t get anything fancy, but no one starts at the top.

activities, and are actually more likely to drop out

Think of it this way: you and Rosie down the resi-

than about 15-20 hours per week, your job isn’t

grad dream position. Your prospective boss looks

of school altogether. But as long as you work less likely to adversely effect your marks. Living up to

Whatever the job, it’s important to make sure all

those numbers can be tricky, but the work might

cash your first pay cheque – no, even sooner – draw

Looking around at your classmates, you’ll prob-

that hard work isn’t for nothing. As soon as you up a budget that you can stick to. Be realistic about what you spend and where, and face the fact that

you’re going to have to trim down the nonessentials a bit if you’re going to have time to work, go to class, do your homework, and maybe even sleep.

There are resources on campus that can help you

do this budget thing successfully, and your bank

or credit union is another great place to turn to for financial guidance. There are also budgeting tools

available for free online, and even budgeting apps!

Now that the cash is flowing, it can be tempting to overspend. You can always take on an extra shift

or two, right? Unfortunately, studies show that students who work more than 20 hours a week do less homework, don’t participate in extracurricular

be worth it in the long run.

ably notice that just over half of them work part time while they study. Actually it’s a little over

half – about 60 percent – who balance a job in one hand and their books and essays in the other.

dence hall are both applying for the same postat both your resumes. You both got the same degree, and your marks are about even, but you have

four years’ of work experience under your belt.

This shows that you know, at the very least: how

to show up on time for work, how to work on a team, how to manage your time wisely, and what

it means to take responsibility for your finances.

But Rosie doesn’t have that. Now who’s laughing?

Balance is the key term here, and a life skill you’ll

As a student, it’s supposed to be your full-time job

you were still in school.

go like it’s supposed to, and understanding that is

find yourself very happy to have developed while You see, every job teaches you something – even

the so-called bad ones. You learn how to deal with coworkers and customers, how to manage time

to learn. But life in the real world doesn’t always part of being an adult. It’s exactly that kind of maturity that will set you apart to future employers when you start applying for full time jobs.

and money, and a few other basic skills. But where you’ll really bulk up is in the soft skills department.

And with employers reporting a fundamental lack of soft skills in new grads who have spent their en-

tire lives in schools, this could be very good news for you, working students of the world.

career planning guide | 2011-2012 | jobpostings.ca

Image: Ryan McVay Photodisc/THinkstockv

this kind of stuff is literally their job. Be aware that

For more information:

You and KPMG For more information visit: www.kpmgfit.ca

the constant hum of human interactions What Networking Really Means

by Naiose Hefferon

“Networking is only for business majors.” “Schmoozing is schleazy.” “I can talk to people just fine”.

If you agree with any of these statements, feel free to go back to hovering over the chips and dip with your +1. Keep pretending to be engrossed

in your text-messaging so as to look occupied.

Maintain your rapt attention on the cat, the book

collection, the ficus, the view, that “choose life”

poster from Trainspotting that you’ve already read a million times.

Let’s face facts. Networking is for 40-year old sales guys, not undergrads, right? Networking is cheesy

cocktail parties, multi-level marketing and otherwise insincere pursuits. And although it’s got a

pretty bad rep, we might avoid writing off the prac-

tice completely based solely on its associations as career planning guide | 2011-2012 | jobpostings.ca

this is one instance where you may be warranted

to work in a flower shop. Would it be manipula-

down your throat and not the game.

your boss is hiring? Of course not.

in hating the player stuffing his business card

tive and opportunistic for you to mention that

True, “networking” is a highly charged word. To

Networking is nothing more than the simple and

way of life. But to the vast majority who don’t, to

ing the bounds of your social circle beyond the five-

those who do it genuinely and effortlessly, it’s a

those who struggle to make conversation with strangers, it’s a filthy, filthy word and an activity in which they would never participate.

Negative portrayals have led to the widely held

belief that “working a room” is about harnessing

your inner opportunist and manipulating people

to achieve selfish goals. But let’s say you have a part-time job at a flower shop and your boss is

rewarding act of making real connections, of pushperson party huddle with a view to expose yourself to different influences, experiences and opportuni-

ties. And real connections are made not by pitching your ideas and accomplishments or selling

someone else on “you: the product” but by holding space and giving someone else a chance to share

their thoughts, interests, stories and goals. Sounds counterintuitive, non?

looking to hire staff for a new location. And you

Consider for a moment a conversation you may

studying botany, has a flare for design and wants

they utter begins with “I…Me…My…” These unfor-

just met someone awesome at a party who is

have had with someone in which every statement

Understandably, you may still feel more comfortable leaving the networking to LinkedIn, so here are a few basic guidelines to get you started when you’re off-line.

1 2 tunate interactions can’t help but be one-sided, of-

ever will – you can just about hear them purr the

a bathroom or take up smoking, followed by a visit

career choices, jeans, hometown.” Hmm but isn’t

to the guacamole station and subsequent fixing of attention to that ficus in the corner.

At the opposite end of the spectrum, a conversation

wherein the person you’re speaking with genuinely wants to know about you and hear what you have to

say is often memorable, will almost always keep you interested, and is more likely to turn into a connec-

ter transit mishaps, banking errors, road rage, incidental douchery, death, even. It feels good to make other people feel good, to remind them of their

strengths. And at its core, that’s all networking is: connecting with the good that is in everyone.”

tion. These honest conversations are the ones that

Odds are slim that any of the connections you

tances and are the ones you want to work to initiate.

diate long-term career opportunities. More likely,

will expand your network of friends and acquain-

Dale Carnegie, master connection-maker and best

selling author advises that “you can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in

other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you.” And Greg Armishaw, Creative Director at cirQlar Entertainment, agrees. “It doesn’t matter what line of work

you’re in, human beings will always be present

in some capacity. Which is great because they’re awesome. People are fascinating and, more often than not, they want to help you. Showing an

interest and being an attentive listener in conver-

sation will get you further than any business card

30

hard. Any given day we’re guaranteed to encoun-

make in first and second year will become immefive or ten years down the road you’ll run into an someone who remembers you fondly and gives

you a lead or recommends you for a job or con-

know everyone and you don’t need above average charisma to talk to people. “Hi” and a smile goes a long way to break the ice and will enable you to direct the conversation.

Ask questions – People love hearing their own name and seeing that someone else is interested in them.

Asking meaningful and relevant questions can help take a conver-

minute someone takes an interest in another’s

that kind of manipulative? “I don’t think so. Life is

only one at the party who doesn’t

sation to places it may not have

3 4 5

otherwise gone.

Maintain eye-contact – Naturally, your gaze will move around in conversation but keep bringing it back – it’s key and it gets easier with practice.

Avoid empty complements and insincerity – If you can spot a faker a mile away, anyone you’re speaking with will, too. Be real and be nice.

Smile and be yourself – And while you’re at it, look for something remarkable in every person you talk to.

nects you to someone else. And you never know… that passing chuckle you shared with some ran-

dom soul in the line waiting for coffee could prove to be not so random in the future. So be open to

the possibilities that lie in forging meaningful

connections – no matter how fleeting. Because as automated as our world may attempt to become,

Image: Hemera/Thinkstock

ten causing loss of interest, a sudden need to find

Introduce yourself – You’re not the

people and the connections between them will

never be obsolete. It is the constant hum of human interaction and relationships that will forever make the world go ‘round.

career planning guide | 2011-2012 | jobpostings.ca

It’s not too late.

We have over 250 programs to help you become what – and who – you always wanted to be. Check them out at centennialcollege.ca THE FUTURE OF LEARNING

11

step interview prep

After weeks of applying for jobs, you finally got the

call or email asking you to come in for an interview.

Once the excitement subsides, and the jumping for joy dies down, panic sets in. What now?

Interview prep begins the moment you get off the phone. Trust us — you want to be comfortable and

confident when meeting your potential employer.

Here’s a handy checklist to help you organize what you’ll need to do before your interview.

by Alyssa Ouellette

 Research the Company

No matter how much you think you know about a company,

you can always know more. Being able to have an intelligent

and review it before you go into the interview. Blair McMurment and Promotions at Humber College, compares going

gotten to print out your resume.

someone without getting to know them.

interviewers, so having extra cop-

Pick your Wardrobe

prepared and reliable.

can only make you look better. Bring your research with you chy, director of professional and continuing education, Place-

Your interviewer may have for-

in for an interview without doing your research to marrying

You may even have multiple

Decide beforehand what you want to wear so you can ensure

that it’s clean and ironed. If you wake up the day of your interview only to realize there’s a ketchup stain on your favourite blazer, it’ll probably put a damper on your mood.

Dress conservatively. Girls — minis may be fine for the dance floor, but they’re not the best choice for the office. Boys — wear your pants at your waist; no one wants to see your

Looney Tunes underwear. “You can never overdress, but you

can always under dress,” says McMurchy. He also shares this

tip for men: Wear a jacket and tie and if you feel over dressed once you arrive, the jacket can always be removed.

 Get Directions

Make sure you know where you’re going. Know your travel time and take traffic into consideration. The last thing you

want is to miss your interview because you took a wrong turn.

Use a GPS, Google Maps, or even do a “dry run” before hand to ensure you know where you are going.

 Compile a Portfolio

Get together samples of your work to show your potential employer your skills. Use your best pieces — no one cares about your high school essay on Hamlet, sorry.

32

:

__Print Extra Copies of your Resume

conversation about the company with a potential employer



the Night Before

ies on hand will make you look

__Come up with some Questions

At the end of an interview, more often than not, you’ll be asked if you have any questions. Be prepared with two or three

questions. Curiosity about the

company will show you did your research and know your stuff.

Also, ask them when you should hear back from them — days, weeks? This way you’ll know

That day

 Bring a Pack of Gum

Chew on a piece of gum before going

in. That delicious Everything bagel you

had for breakfast may turn against you once your interviewer catches wind of it. Just make sure to spit it out before the interview!

 Bring a Detergent Stick

Crazy drivers are all over the place,

especially during rush hour. This means

coffees spills are inevitable. If you have a

detergent stick on hand, you can get rid of stains and avoid looking like a slob.

 Treat Everyone with Respect

“Treat everyone you meet in the office

with respect from the janitor to the boss,” says McMurchy. It would look pretty bad if you closed the door in someone’s face

on your way in and that someone turned out to be the boss.

 Say Thank You

After your interview, send your inter-

when to follow up.

viewer a thank you note. It will help you

__Go to Bed Early

them to remember you.

Get your beauty sleep. If your in-

terview is early in the morning, go

to bed at a reasonable time. Jersey Shore can wait a day or two. You

won’t feel too confident meeting your interviewer with puffy bags under your eyes.

look respectful and polite as well as help If you follow these tips when you go in for an interview, you should be good to go.

“Preparation is key,” explains McMurchy.

Going in there knowing all there is to know

about a company and being as prepared as you can be will boost your confidence. We know you can do it. Good luck!

career planning guide | 2011-2012 | jobpostings.ca

Image: Brand X Pictures/Thinkstock

a Week Before:

TAKE TEXTING TO A NEW LEVEL WITH IT’S EXCLUSIVELY FROM ROGERS AND INCLUDED AS A STANDARD PART OF ROGERS WIRELESS SERVICE. 1

Only Rogers gives you control and flexibility when it comes to texting with these extreme features: AUTO-REPLY

Send an auto-reply message to those who text you.

FORWARD

Just like call forwarding, except for text messaging.

BLOCKER

Block incoming texts from unwanted sources.

DISTRIBUTION LISTS

Send the same text to a group of contacts.

COPY

Copy incoming texts to another number or email.

PERSONAL SIGNATURE

Sign outgoing texts with your name, title or a favourite quote.

ALREADY A ROGERS CUSTOMER? Use the free My Account app on your wireless phone to manage your Extreme Text Messaging features.

rogers.com/extremetext 1 Extreme Text Messaging service is available to Rogers wireless prepaid and postpaid customers only as part of their wireless service. Visit rogers.com/extremetext for complete user details. ™Trademarks of or used under license from Rogers Communications Inc. or an affiliate. © 2011 Rogers Communications.