Career Contact

As you near graduation, please feel free to contact me, Stephanie Murrill, at Stephanie.Murrill@ahss.org. I am happy to assist you in your search for a job at Adventist Health System! Don't hesitate to ask!

Interviews- Revisited

PRE-INTERVIEW

Your first interview can be so frightening! To be honest, every interview I have ever had has been pretty nerve-wracking. It may not ever get easy, but with practice and preparation, it can definitely get easier! In the next few weeks, I will highlight different things to remember before a big interview. Check back often for updates!

#1 Pre-Interview Research:

It is so important to know the company you are interviewing with.
Some important questions to find out and think about before the interview are:

1) Who are the prospective employers and what do they do?
2) How old is the organization?
3) What is the organizations mission or goals?
4) Where is the organization headed?
5) Have you noticed any thing special about the organization that sets it apart from others?
6) How can the job you are pursuing contribute to the organization’s success?
7) What is the organization’s public image?

It also is important to know a lot about the position you are interviewing for. The more you know about the position, the better you can prepare for possible questions asked by the prospective employer. You will also have better questions to ask them.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT

The series, "Stepping Out" is dedicated to preparation for a job interview. I know that job interviews will never be a breeze, but if you take the time to prepare, it will definitely go a lot smoother.

The most important thing I think you can do before an interview is practice. You've always heard that practice makes perfect, and the same goes for interviews. The more comfortable you can get answering tough questions, the better you will do when you are put to the test.

Most likely you will ask a friend or loved one to help out. Although, they can definitely be a great asset, it might be worth going a different route. Career Centers at colleges have people on staff that would be happy to put you through a mock interview. Because you may not know your mock interviewer as well as your friend, this will be much closer to a real interview.

This role-playing will definitely put you more at ease when you are faced with the big interview day!

DRESSING FOR SUCCESS

When preparing for an interview, what you wear can say a lot about your level of professionalism. When choosing your interview outfit make sure to dress for the position you are interviewing for.

Tips for Women:

Suits are the most professional choice for an interview. A black "power" suit is a must for any business professional and is a great basic to get now for future interviews and employment.

I have to admit ladies, I didn't have a suit to my name until 7 months ago. It has been hard (and costly) to start building my professional wardrobe. The best advice I can give is START EARLY! When you see suit sales, check them out. You can find some really cute ones, I promise!

Shoes should be closed-toed with heels from 1 to 2 inches. They should also be cleaned and polished.

I know that I really don't need to mention this, but make sure your hair and nails look nice, that you don't go overboard with makeup and jewelry, and you smell nice:) I always make sure that my perfume is a very light one, that is hardly noticeable.

Tips for Men

A nice suit in black, gray, or navy is a great choice.

The absolute best choice for an interview shirt, is a plain white straight collar shirt. Pinstripes are acceptable, but white is more traditional. An round neck undershirt is a must.

Choose a tie that compliments your suit and shows your personality(within limits). Do not wear ties with animals/sporting symbols.

Shoes should be either black or brown, depending on suit choice. Make sure they are clean and polished. Socks should compliment your suit.


Just remember to err on the side of conservative when dressing for an interview. You never know what your interviewer is looking for in an employee. Remember also, when you are hired, you can observe what people in your field are wearing and change your dress accordingly.

Good luck!

REPOST FROM December 2, 2008, December 18, 2008, January 5, 2009,

Revisiting Resumes

I know that many of you are getting close to graduating. It is an exciting time! It can also be pretty scary if you are in the search of a job after graduation. An important step is having a reliable resume. I am reposting some information on resumes and will also post some information on interview skills, as I know those are coming up soon! Let me know if you have any questions as you near graduation! I am happy to help you with any pre-career questions. That's what I'm here for:)

Things to Remember When Writing a Resume

1. Have a well written, clear objective.

I often get resumes where it is hard to figure out what kind of a position the candidate is looking for. Make sure your resume states clearly what your goal is.

2. Find an organized resume format that fits the position you are seeking.

Formatting can make a resume sink or float! Take the time to look online at sample resumes and find the format and style that works for you! Make sure that it flows and is easy to read.

3. Only include pertinent information.

Try to only incorporate information that is useful to the employer! Don’t try to fluff up your resume to add content. An employer wants to quickly read through and get the gist of who you are and what you've done. They don’t have time to read a book!

4. Keep your sentences short and sweet!

Make sure your sentences are concise and precise. Start each sentence with an action verb that emphasizes your role at the company and instills in the reader your responsibilities.

5. Grammar, Grammar, Grammar!

I have seen many resumes that I want to toss in the trash because of misspellings, grammar, and punctuation. Although I was a teacher for five years, punctuation and spelling are not my forte. I understand if it’s not yours, but there is help out there. Find a trusted friend, professor, or someone at the Career Center to proofread and make any needed adjustments.

6. Be honest about your accomplishments.

What’s more embarrassing than having a possible future employer find out that you weren't really the Regional Director at Chuck E. Cheese, but rather, you wore the mouse suit?! Employers really want to see that you have a consistent work history and a great work ethic! Be honest!

To sum it all up-- make it effortless for the reader! Read it over to yourself, as if you were the prospective employer (be critical), making sure it is easy for them in every way--format, readability and organization. A resume can make it obvious that you are organized and professional and would make a great addition to any company!

Do you have specific resume questions? Feel free to email me at Stephanie.Murrill@ahss.org for questions. I am happy to look over your resume and offer feedback!

To browse sample resume formats click here.

Quotes of the Week

So, I have to apologize. I haven't updated in far too long. Things have been super busy around here, but that's not a very good excuse.

To make it up to you, I have chosen two quotes for this week. They are both really good.


1) "Whatever you are, be a good one." Abraham Lincoln

I have found that sometimes you have to have jobs or be in situations, where you might be overqualified, or at least feel that way. You can either choose to be annoyed and frustrated, or you can be the best you can be at that job. Sometimes employers want to see you take even small projects and situations seriously and that you will try your hardest no matter what.

2) "The more you read, the more you will know. The more that you learn the more places you'll go." Dr. Suess.

The wisest people I know, are ones that are well read. Don't forget the importance of reading up on a variety of topics. This can definitely be useful in the workplace. Try to keep up to date with the latest trends and happenings in your field. This can set you apart from your colleagues and help you be at the top of your game.