Glencoe AccountingCareer Corner
Robert Half International, Inc. is the world's largest staffing service in accounting, financial, banking, and information systems. Below you will find tips from Robert Half about career skills and interview techniques. For insights into a successful interview, check out the Robert Half Career Corner at www.roberthalffinance.com/interviewtips Teamwork In business, success is usually a team effort. Help the group get ahead by lending co-workers a hand. You will not only show initiative but also gain allies who are likely to provide assistance when you need it. Interviewing On average, companies interview six candidates for each job opening. Distinguish yourself from the competition by rehearsing your answers to potential questions with a friend or family member. During the meeting you will come across as informed, prepared, and confident. Informational Interviews If you'd like to learn more about a potential career path, arrange an informational interview with someone already working in that field. You can gain real-world insight and, if you make a good impression, you may even be considered for an entry-level position when one becomes available. Networking When it comes to your job search, knowing the right person can make all the difference. Many job openings are filled by word of mouth or through referrals. Tell everyone you know about your job hunt, including your family, friends, neighbors, and teachers. You might be surprised by who is able to help you. Learning After Graduation Learning is a continuous process-even after you have graduated from school. Build your skills on the job by volunteering for projects beyond your immediate area of responsibility. You can also take courses and join industry associations to remain at the top of your field. Benefits A paycheck is not all a company can offer. Many firms also provide profit-sharing plans, tuition reimbursement, and training opportunities. Consider the benefits a prospective employer offers when deciding whether to accept a job offer. Communicating Effectively Being able to communicate your ideas is necessary for success in any work environment. Know the audience you are addressing, think before voicing your opinion, and keep your communication simple and brief to ensure your messages come through loud and clear. Résumés Your résumé should always be submitted along with a strong cover letter. The letter should expand upon the key points in your résumé, highlight your skills and experience that are most relevant to the job opening, and explain how you can benefit the prospective employer. Job Experience When reviewing a job candidate's résumé, 53 percent of hiring managers say they look first for relevant experience. You can build your work history through volunteer opportunities, internships, and temporary assignments. Attention to Detail Before submitting your resume, don't forget to proofread it. Reread the document several times and ask a friend to do the same. A single typo or grammatical mistake can cause a hiring manager to question your professionalism and attention to detail. Salary You may have little idea what salary to expect when presented with your first job offer. Determine the fair market compensation by conducting research on the Internet, reading industry publications, and contacting staffing firms like Robert Half International for annual salary publications. Time Management Learn to manage your time by planning ahead. Each morning, draft a quick "to do" list that includes all your short- and long-term projects. This document will help you determine the resources you need and allow you to prioritize your tasks. Priorities When looking for a job, consider your ideal work environment. Do you want to work for a large or small company? Which is more important, pay or advancement opportunity? You can learn more about prospective employers through research conducted on the Internet or at your library or career center. |  |
