July 28, 2023

Dos and Don’ts When Asking for References

References and recommendation letters can be the most intimidating part of a job application, perhaps because they feel least within your own control.  It may be daunting to ask someone else to talk about you, but here are some suggestions for how to set yourself up for success.  DO obtain permission from your reference before sending in your application.   While it may seem self-explanatory, it’s essential to obtain your references’ permission before sending their contact information to an employer.  Make sure to notify them about each individual application you put them down for and send them the job listing or…

May 18, 2023

Soft skills 101: Definition + 50 Examples

Soft skills are becoming increasingly important in today’s job market. They refer to the personal attributes that enable you to interact effectively with others, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. Employers are looking for candidates who possess these skills in addition to their technical expertise. In this article, we will guide beginners on how to showcase their soft skills on their resume. What are soft skills? Soft skills refer to a set of personal attributes, behaviors, and social attitudes that enable individuals to interact effectively with others in a workplace or social environment. These skills are essential for…

May 1, 2023

Looking for a Mentor? Start by Asking These 7 Questions

Imagine yourself standing at the base of a very tall, scary-looking mountain that you know you’ve got to climb. Wouldn’t it help to have somebody who’s done it before to guide you along the path, warning you about treacherous ledges and answering your questions about which boulders are safe to grab onto? If you’re a college student or recent graduate and beginning the journey up the mountain of your career, a great mentor can serve as this sort of guide. However, if you don’t know where to start, finding a potential mentor can be almost as intimidating as that mountain!…

March 2, 2023

How To Master Employer Communication: The Follow-Up

So, you just gave your elevator pitch and had a great experience networking at your college career fair! Now what? Make your impressions last and build connections that you can carry into your post-grad career by sending a follow-up! Take a look at these tips on what to include in your follow-up, as well as why it’s important to send a note over to your new connection, thanking them for their time. First, why do it? 1. It’s a chance to remind the recruiter of your interest and skills Did you forget to mention something in the discussion that you…

Feb. 22, 2023

What to Wear on Your First Day of Work, by Dress Code

Your first day of a new job or internship is an exciting time—but it can also be intimidating. You probably have a lot of questions, including “What should I wear?” Most offices follow one of three dress codes: casual, business casual, or business professional. Before you start, be sure to ask human resources (HR) about the dress code. Then, learn tips for what to wear for each of the dress codes. Click here to access blog and videos showcasing examples of casual, business casual and business professional attire. https://joinhandshake.com/blog/students/what-to-wear-on-your-first-day-of-work-by-dress-code/…