1. Professionalism Moving from Student to Professional
Cathy Yando, Career Services Assistant
College of Education and Human Services - Career Services
University Hall Suite 2154

2. Objective Discuss what it means “to be a professional”
Strategies from moving from student to a professional
How to bring professionalism into the job search process
Resources available at MSU to help you make that transition

3. What do entry-level employers say is the skill that entry-level job seekers lack the most?
a. Professionalism
b. Written communication
c. Critical thinking
d. Follow-up

5. What does it mean: To be professional
Three fundamental dimensions:
Presence
Values
character and integrity
Intellect
what you’ve learned and believe
what others perceive

6. Effective strategies to move from student to a professional
Use a professional address
Voic
s (Use correct grammar)
Social networking – have a professional online persona

7. Always be prepared
If you are expected to have a document or project prepared you should be ready to hand it in and speak about it constructively
If you are interviewing or attending a professional event, have copies of your resume prepared or information cards with your contact information

8. Gain Relevant Experience
Part-time or summer job in your field
Internship/Co-op
Volunteer
Conduct research with professors
Hold leadership positions in student clubs/activities
Attend professional workshops or events to gain contacts and expand your knowledge base
Think outside the box

9. Leadership Development
Attend leadership development seminars/workshops
Present posters at campus health fairs or research days

10. Bringing professionalism to the job search
Demonstrate strong communication Skills
How do you contact an employer?
WHEN WRITING AN …
Create a descriptive subject line for s to catch viewer’s attention
Personalize your salutation with Ms. or Mr. and make sure to check the spelling of your contact’s name
Get to the point quickly- the reader may be short on time or attention
Do not share too much personal information, stay professional and to the point
Include a signature line at the bottom of every professional communication with your contact information and a URL to a professional account such as linkedin
Before clicking send, always proofread for professionalism, accuracy, and typos

11. Prepare a Professional Resume
Attend a CEHS Career Services Workshop
Have your resume critiqued by Career Services
it to the dropbox
Bring professionalism to the interview

12. Dress Professional What should you wear? Men Women OTHER TIPS:
Cologne – perfume
Jewelry
Cover tattoos
Remove piercings
For ladies: Pull your hair back so that your face is clearly visible

13. Create a good first impression
Arrive early to events, meetings, and interviews
Make direct eye contact and give a strong handshake
Address interviewers or authority figures by their title (ex: Dr. Smith, Mr. Smith)
Smiling can help you to make a good impression and it will put you at ease
Say your name clearly- this is one of the most important things your connections/interviews should know about you
Be clear and concise in your responses

14. Additional Interview Tips
The 3R’s - Relax – Research- Rehearse
Practice your self-introduction; the best are natural, but prepared (prepare an elevator speech)
Turn off or silence your cell phone and put it away for the entire interview
Be clear and concise
Show your passion, let your enthusiasm shine through
Listen to the questions
Follow-up

15. Prepare to answer questions with confidence and knowledge
Informational Interview questions
Strengths
Weaknesses
Tell me about yourself
Behavioral Interview questions
Tell me a time when….Summarize your experience in this field.
Be concise. Explain your previous experience and include examples of skills and qualities you have developed as a result
Things to keep in mind when answering interview questions:
Stick to key points and results when speaking about experiences.
Separate your actions from the actions of others.
Ask for clarification if you’re unsure of a question.
Identify the key competencies that your interviewer may be looking for and find ways to highlight those in yourself.

16. Bring Professionalism to the Interview 4 Stages of an Interview
Meet and Greet
Information Exchange
Interview Close
Ask prepared or follow up questions
Thank you and state your interest in the position
Follow Up - Send a thank you within 2 days

17. MSU Resources to make this transition
College of Education and Human Services Career Services
Workshops - Resume Writing, Interview Skills, Job Search
Montclair State CEHS Career Services