Job Search Strategies and Interview Preparation International Students: Michigan’s Global Future

Job Search is a process…. Step One - understand and articulate your value Step Two - create your action plan Step Three - conduct a reality check Step Four - maintain a positive, proactive mindset Step Five - repeat Steps 1-4 until desired result achieved Step 1: Create your brand. Determine what strengths you want to highlight. Are you creative, team-player, detail-oriented, analytical, leader? Who are you? Create a resume/cover letter, and elevator pitch that play up these strengths. Reflect on what you have done and who you are. Step 2: Manage as a project: Research companies and industries, develop networks within targeted industries, actively pursue positions of interest Step 3: Evaluate how well tools are working, adjust action plan and seek assistance when needed Step 4: First impressions, positive mindset is very important in a competitive market Step 5: Job search is a process-must be creative, intentional, resourceful

What makes YOU unique? Tell your story What are you most proud of? What are you really good at? How do you know? When did your extra effort pay off? What would a boss/instructor say about you? Why? How did you contribute to a team’s goal? When did you solve a complex technical problem? When were you really energized by a project? Why? Recognize the value in these experiences and communicate it throughout your search.

What employers want Communication skills Honesty/integrity Interpersonal skills Motivation/initiative Strong work ethic Teamwork skills Self confidence Computer skills Analytical skills Flexibility/adaptability Detail-oriented Organizational skills Leadership Technical skills They don’t just want academically-focused students. Straight As and high test scores are great, technical skills are great, but the soft skills are just as important! Can you name the top 5 skills employers are seeking?

Top 5 skills employers seek Verbal Communication Skills Strong Work Ethic Teamwork Skills Analytical Skills Initiative Source: “Job Outlook 2011,” NACE

Improving verbal communication Demonstrate to employers an effort to adjust to U.S. culture: Intramural sports Residence hall activities Student organizations Reduce language barriers by utilizing English Language Institutes/ESL Toastmasters Continue to focus on your ability to communicate effectively-written/verbally in the English language, shows your ability to adapt to the culture, grow professionally and personally ELI improve 2nd language –written, verbal

Organize your search Develop your plan- utilize a diverse approach Identify target companies and research available career opportunities Create a job log to track your activity Set timelines for required actions and follow up Maintain a list of contacts and record activity Do something every day – keep up the momentum Balance your time between Internet job postings and networking

Sources of job leads Your Career Center’s job posting system Company Websites Networking *** Company Events Alumni Networks Professional Associations Chambers of Commerce Job Boards Avoid companies related to defense, government, or any other type of work where security clearance is required. OU Stds-OUCareerLink.com-access thru student portal LTU- Company Events-Networking, Open Houses, Information Sessions on campus, Product Launch, professional organizations

Networking – how to work it Introduce yourself and communicate with vast audiences Start with people you already know Create opportunities to get connected - follow up on leads Online Network – LinkedIn, Career Center Networks, Alumni Networks Networking and Association Events Informational Interviews 20-30 minutes to learn more about a field or industry Make a positive and lasting impression Ask for names of others you can contact Write a thank you and keep them informed of your progress

Be the expert Discussing your immigrtation status Not all employers are familiar with your work authorization options Many Michigan employers still hesitant to sponsor work visas (i.e. H-1B ) Use your CPT/OPT/AT eligibility to your advantage! Emphasize the positive Global competency Language ability

Anatomy of an interview: Introductions: Small talk Description of the role Questions regarding your qualifications clarifying what they already have learned from your resume) Questions regarding your fit in their organization Invitation to ask questions

Interview Etiquette Interviewing Do’s: Interviewing DON’TS: Be on time Maintain eye contact Anticipate questions regarding competency and experience Openly discuss your accomplishments and skills Be direct and give specific examples that demonstrate your experience Be ready to discuss your strengths and weaknesses Know the organization (shows initiative and interest) Follow-up your interview with a thank you note Interviewing DON’TS: Be late Disclose age, race, marital status (it is illegal for them to ask you such personal questions) Answer questions indirectly Avoid responding to questions that require to you talk about your accomplishments and personal career goals Treat anyone you meet differently based on education, job title, sex, age, etc. (politeness and respect are shown to all employees a candidate meets, whether a receptionist or CEO) Pay attention to your image Professional, not casual (even if your interviewer is casual) Handshakes strong but not crushing. If your culture does not allow respectfully decline but don’t dwell on it Treat everyone you encounter with respect

Listen then speak Let the interviewer lead the way Compose your response before speaking If you don’t understand the question, clarify before you respond Be concise and clear with your responses Ask relevant questions Your job in an interview is to connect the dots What are they looking for? what can you offer them. Use words to paint that pix Be concise, practice answering questions but don’t memorize answers

Research the company and industry What are you selling? Know your strengths Research the company and industry Articulate your unique value proposition Consider your academic preparation, work experience and your personal involvement (clubs, sports, civic commitments Go beyond a company’s website to research articles about the company, informational interviews with alumni or friends that are connected to the company What is your footprint? No 2 people are the same, what makes you unique

Negotiating the Sale Be prepared explain your work eligibility Don’t ask about salary/benefits until an offer is made Know your worth before naming a salary Consider the whole offer not just a salary