The Ethics of Accepting a Job Offer

By Megan Bradley

Imagine this scenario:

You’ve been looking for an apartment for months. You’re starting to worry about having housing for the next year because your lease is about to expire. Then- just in the nick of time, you find a great place. It’s close to campus and the rent is affordable! So you pack up your place and are ready to go, when the day before the big move, you get a call from the apartment manager saying that they found someone that they liked better for the apartment.

Certainly they can’t do that, can they?  No, of course not. That wouldn’t be right; you spent a lot of time looking for that apartment. This is exactly how employers feel when you accept a job offer then renege at the last moment. A lot of time, money and effort go into finding a candidate and when they extend a job offer, it is often with great anticipation.

The issue at hand is that of professional ethics. With the economy slowly on the rise, we are hearing more and more of cases of students accepting job offers with the full intention of walking away if something better comes along. You accept the first offer because you are excited and relieved. So then, why are you still interviewing?

The fact of the matter is that if you are still accepting interviews or considering other offers, you should not say with certainty that you accept an offer. Once you accept, you have made a commitment to this company and they have probably moved forward with a lot of decisions dependent on you starting the job.

So before accepting a job, take some time to consider the following:

1. Are the pay/benefits and location correct?
2. Does this job offer opportunity for growth and development in an area you would like to continue moving towards?
3. Do you like the company or organization?  Do you connect with their mission, products or goals?  Is it in line with your personality, values and interests?
4. If you’re hoping or expecting for a call or an interview from another company, have you followed up with them?  Can you ask your original company for a time extension to consider the offer?

Once you’ve accepted a job, then it’s time to say goodbye to other interviews/job offers. Because the truth is:

1. You have made a commitment.  Protect your reputation by honoring your commitment.
2. The Silicon Valley is a small place and people talk across industries.
3. This probably won’t be your job forever!  You’re not signing the rest of your life away.

So, congratulations on the job offer. The company obviously thinks that you are the right person for them. If you do too, prove them right by following through and rocking the job!

Megan Bradley is a Career Consultant at San Jose State University and has been with the Career Center for three years. Her background in Residence Life gives her a unique perspective when focusing on Science and Education students and her interest in social media and innovation drive her to meet students where they’re at with career education.

Spartans Conquering Internships!

By Daniel Newell

It’s internship season and employers are geared up to recruit and compete for the next generation workforce. Job seekers are also geared up and ready to compete for the next hot opportunity. The workforce is a competition between talents. Job seekers compete for jobs and internships, and employers compete for applicants. When preparing to enter the job market, it’s important to go in with a game plan. Spartans are champions; triumph comes from spear heading a strategic, well thought out action plan!

1)   Clarify Goals

Determine the kind of skills, experience, and learning outcomes you would like to accomplish. During an interview, an employer may ask “What are you looking to gain from this internship?” This is one reason why it’s important to have established goals planned in advance. Be sure you can convey these goals to a potential employer.

2)   Starting the Job Search

The Career Center should be your starting point when beginning your job/internship search. Utilize SpartaJobs, the official SJSU job/internship job database. Employers annually post tens of thousands of jobs to the database specifically to attract SJSU Spartans.

Additionally you can:

• Utilize job search engines: www.simplyhired.com or www.indeed.com
• Use job search sites: www.careerbuilder.com or www.snagajob.com
• Access social media networking sites: LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.
• Conduct a Google search to find organizations and opportunities i.e. “HR internships San Jose”
• Network, network, network! Some great professional networking sites to consider in the Bay Area are www.meetup.com and www.everycircle.com
• For more tips and information, explore the Career Center’s Job Search Resources.

3)   Applying for an internship

The application process is not uniform. Depending on the organization, there may be multiple rounds of interviewing or different application materials.

When applying for an internship, be aware of the application deadline and requirements. Most employers will require a resume and cover letter in addition to an application. You may be asked to complete an application online. Don’t be alarmed if an employer refers you to their website instead of collecting a resume from you in person. This practice is typical within some organizations and is simply a matter of protocol.

The internship search process takes time. Don’t rush yourself. Start your preparation search early to allow time enough for exploration. Begin networking and making professional contacts as soon as you enter college. Remain positive, and know that SJSU Spartans are a hot commodity; there’s a war for talent, show employers why you’re worth the battle!

Daniel Newell is the Job Development and Marketing Specialist for San Jose State University. He has over eleven years’ experience in the employment industry and serves as a commissioner to the City of San Jose where he provides advice and resources on many issues, including employment.

Landing a Nonprofit Job

Interview by: Moira Srago, Employment Specialist

Kara Montermoso, HR and Operations Manager for Idealist.org, was back on campus today sharing the latest and greatest updates on the nonprofit job search. We have updated this interview with her newest presentation slides!

Don’t miss out on next week’s Nonprofit and Public Service Forum, taking place on Wednesday, March 13, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., in the Student Union Ballroom. Connect with 24 different organizations, from nonprofit, local and federal government organizations. For a full list of attending organizations, check out the Career Center’s website!

Want special recognition with employers when you attend? There is still a chance! Attend “The Federal Government Job Search and Navigating USAjobs.gov”, sponsored by the Environmental Protection Agency on March 6, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., in Mod A. SJSU students and registered alumni are welcome to attend!

Here are some very insightful answers from Kara:

1. What should a student consider as they explore a career in the nonprofit sector?

No matter what sector you want to work in, know thyself!  The nonprofit sector is vast. While the term “nonprofit” may at first conjure up images of animal shelters and soup kitchens (and we love those!), nonprofits also encompass many types of schools, research and policy institutions, foundations, as well as a host of organizations that address specific community needs.

Summary: The term “nonprofit” encompasses many different types of organizations! Assess your interests are as you explore!

2. What is unique about the nonprofit job search?

Kara: Nonprofit organizations are almost universally very mission-driven. They are passionate about their issue and the ways in which they choose to address that issue. So while finding a candidate with the appropriate skills and knowledge for a particular position are important, a candidate’s passion, energy and engagement with an organization’s mission is often also a point of consideration.

Finding an organization whose mission, structure and culture is a good fit will definitely have an impact on your sense of satisfaction. Nonprofits, just like any other industry, are not all alike. Smaller organizations can sometimes have a “start-up” type feel and you may be asked to wear many hats and chip in throughout the organization. Sometimes that may feel limiting due to a lack of resources. Larger, more established organizations may have a lot of brand recognition that opens up opportunities in terms of program reach, envisioning career paths or finding mentors, but they may also feel bureaucratic or hierarchical.

Summary: Know your values and that of the organization you want to work for…do they match?

3. How can students get their foot in the door?

Kara: Volunteer work and internships are often a great way to get your foot in the door. Not only will you gain some exposure into how a particular nonprofit may operate and its unique work culture, but we’ve also heard from hiring managers that if you are already engaged in the nonprofit sector, that can make your resume stand out.

It is also valuable to stay in the loop in a community of nonprofit professionals. Such groups provide local and national resources for those looking to get into the nonprofit sector as well as support for each others’ work once you are with an organization. Alumni groups and the Young Nonprofits Professionals Network can be good places to connect. Check out the local Bay Area group here.

Summary:  Volunteer work, internships and professional networks are a great way to start your career!

4. What are the top things students can do to set themselves apart from other candidates?

Kara:

Write a great cover letter. This does not mean that your cover letter has to be long, overly detailed or portray you in a glowing light. Great cover letters are succinct, highlight how one’s skills/knowledge will bring value or fill a need for the organization, and illustrate why you want to work for that particular organization (i.e. demonstrate passion for the issue).

Do your homework. Show up at an interview knowing that organization’s main areas of focus and their related programs. Have some knowledge about how their mission relates to current events. Be prepared to talk about your past work experiences and provide examples of successes and challenges. Hiring managers will want to know that you are serious about the organization’s mission and they also want to know how you work on your own and with others.

Ask questions. An interview is an opportunity for an organization to find out if you are a good fit for them, and it’s also a chance for you to see if they are a good fit for you.

Depending on the position it may be appropriate to come in with an idea or two that you might want the organization to consider. You could say something like, “I was wondering if you’ve ever thought about _________ as an outreach strategy as that might _________.” This may be another way to demonstrate that you are taking the organization and their mission seriously.

Say thank you. Politeness can go long way. I wouldn’t say that a thank you note/email will make or break your chances of being hired, but it can’t hurt.

Additional resources: Idealist has two great (and free!) resources for first time job seekers and sector switchers.  These resources cover everything from self-assessment, research strategies, resume/cover letter writing to salary negotiation in the non-profit world.  Also be sure to check out their Career Guide.

About Kara Montermoso HR & Operations Manager

Action Without Borders/Idealist.org

Kara’s experience in the nonprofit sector has spanned over 15 years and various roles, including: Development, Program and Project Management, website User Experience and Support, and Administration. Eight years ago, after briefly flirting with a career in the Culinary Arts and obtaining her license in Massage Therapy, Kara landed at Idealist. After completing her Professional in Human Resource (PHR) certification, she now supports an amazing staff and builds community among nonprofit HR professionals.

Your Personal Pitch for the Job Fair

by Kristina Kwan, Career Center Intern

If you’re like most job seekers, the prospect of selling themselves to a recruiter face-to-face can produce general anxiety to temporary amnesia. Relax. Unless you’re claiming to be the next Steve Jobs, most of us will do well by remembering that your job fair pitch is just the beginning of a conversation, not a laundry list of qualifications.

Create Your Pitch:

It’s simply a concise statement that conveys who you are, your strengths or passions and how they match with the organization.

Let’s start by breaking down the elements of a pitch:

• Introduce yourself: provide your name, major, and any concentration.
• Express your interest in the company/organization: what is it about the organization that is so appealing?
• Communicate why they should be interested in you:  most importantly, what do YOU bring to the table? What are your skills and strengths?
• Ask an opening question: provide a question that offers more information while stimulating relevant conversation.

Example:

“Hi, I’m Judy Smith and I’m interested in an entry level Human Resources position.  I will be completing my BS/Business Administration with an emphasis in HR in May.  I read in the job fair publication that Global Inc has an HR position available and I’m very interested in learning more about it. I recently completed an internship at XYZ Corp and really enjoyed the experience. I helped organize signups for a new benefits package, coordinated a company picnic for 400 employees and their families, and gave tours of the office to new employees. Can you tell me a little bit more about the qualities you are seeking in an ideal HR candidate?”

Practice Your Delivery: 

Your commercial should seem natural and conversational. Would a complete stranger “get it”? Try practicing with friends, family, pets, and even in front of a mirror. Observe your expressions, body language, and tone of voice. Do you like what you see and hear?  Are you coming across as personable and confident?

Put It In Context: 

Remember your pitch shouldn’t be a rushed, memorized speech that you need to get through. Watch for non-verbal cues from the listener. If it seems like he or she wants to interject or ask for details, pause and give them the opportunity to do so.

Don’t Forget a Closer:  

Depending on the direction of your conversation you may ask them the best way to follow up or how to stay in touch for future openings. If they haven’t requested your resume, ask if they would like one. Always thank the recruiter for their time.  If you enjoyed talking with them, let them know. Flash your pearly whites. Give a firm handshake. Exit.

If you need additional assistance and tips for the Expo, remember to check out our Job Fair Success Webshop!

Kristina has been a career counseling intern at the SJSU Career Center since the Fall of 2012. She is in the process of earning her M.A. in Counselor Education from SJSU and has previous employment-services experience as a youth advisor with NOVA as well as an ESL employment mentor with the International Rescue Committee. 

Treat Yourself 2013!

by Richard Saroyan, Career Consultant

Welcome back SJSU students! Now that we’re back in the swing of things, you’re probably wondering to yourself what you can do to help get  your career on track. If you weren’t, that’s ok too. But somehow, someway, you came across this entry. That’s pretty awesome in itself. So, while you’re here, why not check out some helpful tips to get you on your way towards earning a volunteer position, internship, or a job.

Tip 1: Connect with all the virtual stuff. 

This is the easiest part. Go to our new and improved website. Check out all the great resources that we offer. Are you on SpartaJobs yet? Not sure what SpartaJobs is? Not a problem. It’s our job and internship database that is just for SJSU students and registered alumni. Yep, it’s just for you, and it’s got over 1350 positions posted. In addition, you also get information on various events related to your major and/or occupational interests. What’s an example, you might ask? How about an information session where a company that you’re interested in comes to the career center to answer your questions and potentially interview you for a position. Pretty cool, huh?

No, we won’t take bribes to get you in the Expo early.

Tip 2: View our Job Fair Success Webshop.

Not only will the webshop help better prepare you to mingle with employers, but after you complete it you also get Early Bird Access (you can come in at noon) for the Job and Internship Expo on Tuesday, February 26th. If you took the Job Fair Success Webshop last semester (Fall 2012), you already qualify for Early Bird Access! Could that be any easier? Nope.

Tip 3: Utilize the Career Center.

Connect with a career consultant here on campus! Trust me when I tell you that we all love what we do. Seriously. It makes us happy to help others. That’s how we roll. Our career professionals specialize by the various majors and departments here on campus and can provide a whole bunch of services including writing a resume/cover letter, choosing a major, how to look for a job/internship, interview techniques, and much more.

Some of you might be thinking to yourselves “Oh no, I totally should have started this process a long time ago!” If you are, you’re not alone. Calmly focus on the things that you can do now (ahem…see above tips), to get yourself moving forward. Treat yo self!

Richard is a Career Consultant with the Career Center and the WorkAbility IV program which focuses on assisting students with disabilities. He recently completed his M.A. in Counseling Psychology from Santa Clara University, and previously worked in marketing for the videogame industry. Richard enjoys working with students on all career related topics.

Lack of Experience? It Doesn’t Mean You’re Not a Great Grad School Candidate

By Lee Weiss,  Director of Graduate Programs at Kaplan Test Prep

A terrific question was recently asked at a Kaplan graduate school event focusing on Master of Education programs.

“I’m just out of school—how do I compete against applicants with years of work experience?”

It’s a legitimate concern, but it definitely should not stop you from applying.

What we’re hearing from admissions departments of graduate programs across the country is that the average age of those applying—and those accepted—is trending younger.  Top programs in business, education, engineering and public policy are seeing younger, less experienced applicant pools.   For less experienced applicants who want to stand out, it’s important to make sure you are highlighting your commitment to your chosen graduate discipline.  Your story should communicate why you need to study this particular subject at this particular school and why now.

This doesn’t have to be demonstrated through years of experience, but rather, through your qualitative admissions factors, including your personal statement, essays and interviews where you can demonstrate your passion and commitment.  Success in undergraduate coursework relevant to what you’re planning to study also bolsters your argument, as do internships and volunteer activities that showcase your leadership, research capabilities and dedication to your future.

It never hurts to have strong quantitative factors.  Top GRE scores are a key differentiator, as they are one of the few data points with which admissions departments can compare everyone who applies.  Studies show that the highest median GRE scores are achieved by those aged 22-23, so college is a great time to take the GRE—especially because scores are good for 5 years. A strong GPA also proves you can excel in the classroom—a great indicator of graduate school readiness.

A recommendation to all graduate school applicants, no matter your experience or background: get in contact with programs that interest you early and attend open houses, tour these programs, sit in on classes, and speak with all students, alumni and professors that you can.  This allows you insight into whether the program will be a good fit for you.  And it always helps you if a program can associate your face with your application, and it will help separate you from the pack.

Lee is Director of Graduate Programs at Kaplan Test Prep. He graduated from Cornell University with a concentration in international and comparative relations and a minor in literature. He has been teaching and tutoring for Kaplan since his college days. He had a nearly perfect score on the old GRE and has spent countless hours analyzing the new GRE. Still an active GRE instructor, Lee has helped thousands of students, and has won numerous awards for his teaching and tutoring. For more information on Graduate School, the GRE, and  courses offered by Kaplan visit: kaptest.com/GRE

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Thinking about Graduate School?

By Moira Kolasinsk, Liberal Arts Employment Specialist

I recently attended the Idealist.org Graduate School Fair in San Francisco, and had the opportunity to listen to a panel of admissions representatives from a variety of universities providing advice on how to successfully navigate the application process.  Below are the top 5 tips from the panel:

1. Consider the fit.  Before beginning the application process, think carefully about what’s important to you in a graduate program and develop a ranking system.  Do you want to be in an urban area? Rural?  Is class size important? Access to faculty? Do you need to work while you go to school? If possible, attend information sessions for the programs you’re interested in and meet some of the faculty. Looking at schools out of the area and can’t afford to travel? Contact the program and ask to be connected to current students or alumni who can speak to you about their experience.

2.  Read everything. And then read it again.  Graduate school applications are lengthy and complex. Part of the screening process is to see if you can read carefully and follow instructions, as well as proofread and ensure everything is error-free. You will need to do this in graduate school, so the application is the first step!

3.  A strong statement of purpose is key. Your statement of purpose is your opportunity to convey why you are applying to this program, what you feel you can contribute, and how you feel it will help you to achieve your long term goals.  Help the admissions evaluation committee understand a little more about who you are beyond your transcripts and test scores.

 4. Find strong advocates. Your letters of recommendation help make the case for why you’re a strong candidate. Think carefully about who knows you and the quality of your work, and give them ample time when you request a letter of recommendation.  Help your references out by providing a short statement about why you are applying for this program and samples of work you may have completed, or a copy of your resume.

 5. Ask good questions. You may not have all the prerequisites for the program you’re interested in applying to. Maybe your undergraduate degree isn’t related, or your GPA is a little lower than the minimum. Don’t let this deter you from investigating further.  Contact the admissions office of the program and ask questions – each program is unique in what it considers. The admissions officer may provide perspective on how your situation may be viewed, or how you can balance out what you’re missing.

Whatever you decide about your graduate school applications, remember, the goal of the application is to show how you’re a good fit for that program.  Tailor your application and be certain it recognizes the unique qualities of that school and program and demonstrates how your skills and experience make you a good fit.  For more information and resources about graduate school, check out the Career Center website.

Moira Kolasinski is the Liberal Arts Employment Specialist in the Career Center. She has 5 years of experience working in the field of career development as well as a background in human resources. She works with students in the Colleges of Social Science, Humanities and the Arts and health majors, helping them navigate the job search process and explore careers of interest.