Nu @ the U: Past Columns
"Nu @ the U" is an advice column written for young professionals navigating the unknown waters of internship and career. Written by Nu Huynh, lead campus relations consultant at The Principal, the workplace column addresses the most timely and common questions received by the national recruiting staff of the Principal Financial Group.
- Professionals Need to Prove Themselves Promotion-Worthy
- Online Networking
- Negotiating Offers
- Career Fair Etiquette
- Taking the Initiative on Internships
- Moving from Biology to Business (Working Outside Your Major)
- What's Good and What's Greedy (Negotiating Salary)
- What to Look for in a Job Offer, Beyond Salary
- Career Fairs – Career Door Opener or Career Dud?
- Helicopter Parents - Allow Students' to Fly Solo During Job Interviews
- Send Nu a question
Professionals Need to Prove Themselves Promotion-Worthy
Dear Nu,
I've been in my first job for over a year now, and I still haven't gotten a promotion. I'm not sure if I'm doing something wrong or if this company is just slow to promote. Any advice? -- Stuck on the Corporate Ladder
Dear Stuck: Let's take a little self-help quiz. Peruse the following statements.
- I've been too busy to take the lead on new projects.
- People at work would not describe me as a "go getter."
- I don't pay a lot of attention to my on-the-job appearance.
If any of that sounds eerily familiar, you may be your own worst enemy. If you want that promotion, put extra effort into everything you do—whether it's taking the initiative, putting in extra time when needed or dressing for success.
If you feel that you're already going the extra mile, have a chat with your manager. Take a low-key approach to the conversation (in other words, demanding, "Why haven't you given me a promotion yet?!" is probably not the best idea).
Instead, ask for feedback on your performance and find out if there's anything else you should be doing. To butcher a perfectly good quote from John F. Kennedy, "Ask not what your company can do for you—ask what you can do for your company."
Also, do your research. Find out what the typical career path is for someone in your position. It could be that you simply haven't gained enough on-the-job experience yet—especially if you're in a highly technical or complex business.
Continue to prove yourself by asking for additional responsibilities and showing that you're willing to take on new challenges. Volunteering for company charity drives or corporate committees is another way to showcase your skills—not just to your own manager but also to leaders across the organization.
If you've done all this and still aren't moving up, it may be time to move on—either to another department or to a different company. But remember establishing a track record of success and stability will eventually pay off, so don't go jumping jobs every year — at least not from one company to the next. After that, dust off your resume and start climbing!
Online Networking
Dear Nu: I love online networking. I can express myself, keep in touch with old friends and meet new ones. Some of what I post is not for outside eyes. Do employers research candidates online before hiring? -- Blogging Social Butterfly
Dear Blogging Social Butterfly: Why not just send your Spring Break photos with your resume? That way you save potential employers the trouble of going out on the web to find them themselves.
Are you picking up my sarcasm? I should hope so, because I'm laying it on pretty thick.
You absolutely need to watch what you post on your online profiles—or any other Web site, for that matter. Even if you think it's secure, someone who really wants to get in will find a way.
Although most companies don't use online profile reviews as part of their "official" selection process, that doesn't mean individual managers won’t decide to do some investigating on their own. And make no mistake—they will make judgments about you based on what they see.
Another thing...don't just play it safe while you’re looking for a job or an internship. It's possible colleagues can find more about you than they wanted to know by surfing. I've heard of people losing jobs they already had because of something they - or even someone else - posted online.
So take an objective look at your profile. Ask yourself if you'd feel comfortable emailing any of the photos, quotes, comments - or whatever - to the people who hold the fate of your career in their hands. If not, don't include it. -- Nu
Negotiating Offers
Dear Nu: I just got my first job offer! It's a good job with decent pay. With my student loans to pay off, though, a little higher salary would be nice. How much room do I have to ask for more? -- Dealmaker
Dear Dealmaker: It's all about supply and demand. If you're a hot candidate in a hot field, you probably have room to negotiate. If you're one of a million candidates with the same qualifications, you may not have the luxury of asking for more money.
So do your research. Find out how you stack up against other people going for the same job. Try to gauge the demand for people in your line of work. And get a feel for typical starting salaries.
If you're truly in demand, making a counter-offer could really pay off for you. If you aren't – and you ask for too much money – you could risk turning off the employer.
The key word here is "reasonable." A realistic counter-offer for an entry-level college grad might be $1,000 - $3,000—not $15,000. (Sorry to burst that bubble.)
If the company can't give you more money, they may offer an alternative like a sign-on bonus or vacation time. After all, it isn't just about salary. Look at the total package - pay, benefits, vacation and other perks.
Bottom line - don't get greedy. While we'd all like to negotiate a six-figure salary, stock options and executive access to the company jet, making an unreasonable counter-offer could end up being a deal-breaker instead of a deal-maker. -- Nu
Career Fair Etiquette
Dear Nu: I'm going to a career fair next week. Since it isn't a real job interview and since I'm just going to stop in, I'm not planning on dressing up. I'm sure the recruiters understand how it is, right? -- Keeping It Casual
Dear Casual: Yes and no. Actually, let me rephrase that. No.
Even though you might not take this career fair seriously, the recruiters will. And they won't just look at your resume—they’ll also look at you. How you dress, how you talk, your body language, everything.
Keep these tips in mind:
- Dress as if you're going to an interview. Think of a career fair as the interview before the interview, and dress professionally. When in doubt, cover it up. This is not the place to showcase your runway fashion, body piercing or "personal assets."
- Camo the clutter. Carry paper copies of your resume, some cover letters and your professional portfolio (if applicable) in an attractive folder or briefcase. Stash your backpack somewhere else. And for the growing number of companies that don't accept cover letters and/or resumes, have a convenient and professional way to gather business cards and company information for later follow up.
- Prepare your spiel ahead of time. Be ready to briefly – but ever-so-eloquently – summarize your accomplishments, your objectives and what you have to offer prospective employers. The goal is to pique the recruiter’s interest without monopolizing his or her time.
- Maintain your composure. Career fairs can be hard work. After hours of talking to company reps, shaking hands and networking, you may need to "freshen up." Drink water, pop a mint and keep your hands dry if you're apt to sweat. It's hard for a recruiter to focus on what you're saying if they are distracted by your, shall we say, body language.
- Smile. Even if you're stressed and in a hurry, show that you're happy to be there. (Or at least fake it convincingly. This skill will serve you well in life.)
A career fair is a great way to make important contacts and learn about prospective employers. Just come prepared to put your best foot forward (and make sure that foot isn't wearing a sneaker). -- Nu
Taking the Initiative on Internships
Dear Nu: I know summer internships are a big deal. I'm a freshman, though, so I don't want to start sending out resumes just yet. Should I wait until, say, the spring of my junior year? -- Inexperienced
Dear Inexperienced: Waiting until the spring of your junior year to look for an internship is like waiting until the last minute to register for classes—all the good spots are taken. So unless you want the internship-equivalent of Advanced Pig Latin, I'd start looking in the fall of your sophomore year.
First, though, make sure you're taking the right classes. Chat up a few recruiters, and find out what coursework they require. After all, you have to have the right classes to get the right internship. And you have to have the right internship(s) to get the right job.
Did you catch that (s)? A lot of students these days are graduating with multiple internships on their resumes. So one internship plus two summers spent waiting tables might not add up to the kind of job offer you want at graduation.
Here's another option—a co-op. With a co-op, you work at least one summer and one semester, so you'd need to take a semester off. Sure, that can be a bit tricky, but most schools and employers will work with you. You can also usually earn course credit for a co-op, and it's a great way to get in-depth experience.
Internships and co-ops let you try potential employers on for size (and vice versa). Play your cards right (i.e., don't procrastinate!), and you'll graduate not only with a degree but also with the experience you need to land the career you want. -- Nu
Moving from Biology to Business
Dear Nu: Here's the good news—I'll graduate soon with a biology degree. The bad news is I've realized I don't want a job in biology. I'm considering looking for a corporate gig. Where do I start? Is that even an option? -- Majorly Confused
Dear Confused: Here's the good news—a corporate job is definitely an option. In fact, a lot of successful people in the corporate world have degrees that don't specifically relate to their jobs.
The bad news is...well, I don't really have any bad news, so let's just go straight to more good news.
There are a lot of corporate jobs that just require a four-year college degree—any major will do. For those jobs, your specific skills and experiences – like written and verbal communication skills or relevant work experience – are more important than your major.
After all, most companies don't mind training people on their products and services. Someone who can't compose a coherent email, on the other hand, isn't worth the company's time.
Highlight your transferable skills on your resume, along with any kind of work, leadership or volunteer experience that demonstrates those skills. Do your homework on each company you contact. Then wow the recruiter with your professionalism and your interest in the business, and they won't care that you spent the last four years studying virology, mammalian cell culture and comparative vertebrate anatomy.-- Nu
What's Good and What's Greedy
Dear Nu: I just got my first job offer! It's a good job with decent pay. With my student loans to pay off, though, a little higher salary would be nice. How much room do I have to ask for more? --Dealmaker
Dear Dealmaker: It's all about supply and demand. If you're a hot candidate in a hot field, you probably have room to negotiate. If you're one of a million candidates with the same qualifications, you may not have the luxury of asking for more money.
So do your research. Find out how you stack up against other people going for the same job. Try to gauge the demand for people in your line of work. And get a feel for typical starting salaries.
If you're truly in demand, making a counter-offer could really pay off for you. If you aren't – and you ask for too much money – you could risk turning off the employer.
The key word here is "reasonable." A realistic counter-offer for an entry-level college grad might be $1,000 - $3,000 - not $15,000. (Sorry to burst that bubble.)
If the company can't give you more money, they may offer an alternative like a sign-on bonus or vacation time. After all, it isn't just about salary. Look at the total package - pay, benefits, vacation and other perks.
Bottom line - don't get greedy. While we'd all like to negotiate a six-figure salary, stock options and executive access to the company jet, making an unreasonable counter-offer could end up being a deal-breaker instead of a deal-maker. -- Nu
What to Look for in a Job Offer, Beyond Salary
Dear Nu: I just got job offers from two different companies. The jobs are pretty much the same, but one company is offering a little higher salary than the other. Do I just pick the job with the better salary? -- Undecided
Dear Undecided: Congrats on the job offers! Now, as they say, welcome to the real world—the world where health care is expensive, where you have to save for your own retirement and where you get to learn about oh-so-exciting phrases like "comprehensive benefits package."
Benefits are the combination of bonuses, onsite amenities and other goodies your employer offers. It's all about looking at the big picture.
Think of it this way. Deciding on a job offer based on salary alone is like choosing an apartment based on rent alone. There's obviously a lot more to it. Does the rent include any utilities? Will you have to pay for parking? Is it close to mass transit? Will you have to scare away the cockroaches every time you turn on the lights in the kitchen?
When you're comparing total compensation, look at things like:
- Health insurance. How much will you pay for it? Do you have a choice of plans from which to choose?
- Retirement plans. Do they offer a 401(k)? If so, how much is the employer matching contribution? (The employer match is basically free money for you.) What about a pension plan?
- Dental and vision insurance. Keeping those pearly whites in good shape costs more money than you'd think. That makes dental insurance more than just a nice-to-have. Also, consider your eyesight. The cost of glasses can also take a bit out of your budget.
- Vacation days. Definitely compare vacation time, and make sure you understand how it's calculated. (Do you get a specific number of days right off the bat? Or do you accrue a certain amount of time per pay period? What paid holidays are offered?)
- Bonuses. Does the company offer any annual bonuses? If so, about how much could you expect your first few years on the job?
- Work perks. Work perks can help you save money and time. Good perks include fitness centers, tuition reimbursement, wellness programs, training and development offerings, etc.
You just passed Benefits101. Best of luck with whichever job you choose—and keep an eye out for those cockroaches. -- Nu
Career Fairs – Career Door Opener or Career Dud?
Dear Nu: What is the point of a career fair? Paper resumes are a hassle and recruiters meet with hundreds of prospects. Isn’t there something more productive I could do with my time? --Better Things To Do
Dear Better: So you have better things to do than, say, make a contact that could land you a job? Or learn about great companies that weren’t even on your radar before?
Career fairs are for more than just handing out resumes. Think of a career fair as a networking opportunity—and as a chance to hone your smile-and-handshake skills.
Keep these career fair survival tips in mind:
- Dress the part. Think of a career fair as the interview before the interview, and dress professionally.
- Prepare your spiel ahead of time. Be ready to briefly—but ever-so-eloquently—summarize your accomplishments, your objectives and what you have to offer prospective employers. The goal is to pique the recruiter’s interest without monopolizing his or her time.
- Maintain your composure. Career fairs can be hard work. After an hour or two of talking to company reps, shaking hands and networking, you may need to "freshen up." Drink water, pop a mint and keep your hands dry if you're apt to sweat. It's hard for a recruiter to focus on what you're saying if they are distracted by your, shall we say, body language.
Recruiters will remember your name, they will write down your information and they will remember how well you presented yourself. Even without a paper resume. -- Nu
Helicopter Parents - Allow Students' to Fly Solo During Job Interviews
Dear Nu: My mom has been helping me with my job search, which I appreciate. Now she wants to go with me to an upcoming interview. It would actually be nice to have her there, but I'm a little worried about what the recruiter will think. --Grateful for the Help
Dear Grateful: Ever heard the term "helicopter parent"? If not, you may want to GoogleTM it - because it sounds like you have one.
Don't get me wrong. I completely understand your appreciation for your mom's help. After all, searching for a job or an internship can be a bit confusing, and I'm sure it's nice to get a little guidance from someone you trust.
That said, you need to realize that some interviewers may be turned off by your bringing a parent to the interview. In fact, I know of some companies that automatically decline people who come in with their parents.
That may seem harsh, but think of this from the employer's perspective. They're hiring you - not your mom. They want to know that you can think for yourself, make decisions on your own and manage your own life.
The same advice goes for other aspects of your job search. You (not your mom) should be sending in resumes, scheduling interviews and negotiating job offers.
So if you really want to land this job, you may want to ask your mom to back off a little. Otherwise, the sight of her hovering in the background just might overshadow all the great things you have to offer. -- Nu
Nu Huynh is the lead campus relations consultant at the Principal Financial Group. She travels the country looking for the best and brightest recruits. To find the career or internship you're looking for, visit www.principal.com/careers/visits.htm.
