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10 Mobile Apps you want to download to keep you in the loop on careers!

Hey Crusaders,

           Welcome back to this week’s Career Planning blog sponsored by your friends in Hogan 203. As you may be aware, we are looooong past the Jurassic age when people used the yellow pages to search for things and carried around beepers. We are right in the mist of the booming tech era and if you haven’t noticed EVERYONE NOW HAS A SMARTPHONE! So why not use this “smart” phone to make smart decisions regarding your career search? Today’s job seeker must be on the hunt for new opportunities 24/7 to maintain a competitive advantage over other candidates. But to do so successfully, job seekers must have constant access, both at home and on the go… To help you ready your device, we have compiled a short list of FREE apps that may be worth installing if you want to get a job or internship in this century.

 
 
Job Search Apps

1  CareerBuilder AppJobs by CareerBuilder.com (FREE): This free app brings the power of CareerBuilder.com straight to your mobile device, giving you instant access to search and apply to nearly 2 million job postings on CareerBuilder.com, the largest job site in the US.

2    Monster Jobs AppMonster.com Jobs (FREE): In addition to feeding the latest job postings from Monster.com, this free app lets you take your Monster.com account with you on the go so that you can apply directly to new listings right from your mobile device.

3 Indeed Jobs AppJob Search by Indeed.com (FREE): Indeed is a powerful job search aggregator that collects job listings from all the major job search engines and job boards into one convenient location for you to review.

4 LinkUp AppJob Search Engine by LinkUp.com (FREE): LinkUp’s unique search engine, updated daily, lists only jobs that are found on company and employer websites. This helps you uncover the hidden job market of opportunities not publicly advertised on the major job search engines.

5 SimplyHired AppSimply Hired (FREE): Simply Hired is one of the largest job search engines, aggregating job postings from across the web, including major job search engines, online newspapers, company websites and more.

6 SnagaJob AppSnagAJob (FREE): SnagAJob is a top-ranked search engine for full-time and part-time hourly positions throughout the US. This free app provides you immediate access to their database of new job listings.

7 JobAware AppJobAware (FREE): JobAware app allows you to search jobs in cities near you leveraging the iPhone’s GPS and helps you organize and track your progress throughout the job application process. It also offers salary comparisons for hundreds of occupations, LinkedIn account integration to help you take advantage of your network and job search advice from top career experts.

8 JobCompass AppJobCompass (FREE): JobCompass uses the iPhone’s GPS to find open positions within a given radius of the area you are in. In addition to providing job description information, this app also allows you to apply directly from your phone.

9 SnapDat Digital Business Cards (FREE): SnapDat is the #1 app for designing and sending digital business cards directly from your iPhone! You can create unlimited digital business cards with a provided template or picture and can email it instantly to your contact’s address

10 Interview Prep Questions App (FREE): Interview Prep is a fully-featured flash card app that prepares you for dozens of job interview questions. Each question is accompanied by suggestions that will help you answer these tough questions.

 

Remember to stop by the Career Planning Center’s Drop-In hours, M-F between 1-4pm if you find a job or internship and have questions or concerns before applying.

                        Now there are HUNDREDS of apps that can help you and you’re encouraged to look at all of them. We know that you’re all busy being Holy Cross students and all so if you only have time to search ten, then these are the ones you’ll want to search. Now you can take your career search mobile by using these incredible apps anywhere!…Except during class! Now GO!

LET THE DOWNLOADING & CAREER HUNTING COMMENCE!

#CareerPlanningCenter   #10AppstoDownload   #Careers
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Thinking about going global? Well try your luck with PASSPORT CAREER!

Welcome Crusaders to this week’s Career Planning Blog Post…hosted by yours truly in the office of Hogan 203.

This week we are excited to introduce you to the new Passport Career program—your online career resource that will help you to explore opportunities around the world! Yes… THE WORLD!

Whether you’re looking to get away from the cold New England winters or just curious of the wonderful experience interning or working abroad might bring check out PASSPORT CAREER!

Around this time you may be seeking a job, internship, volunteer work, or are studying abroad. In any situation, Passport Career provides extensive resources, guidance, strategies, tools and support to help you make your career move!

Here we have outlined 5 easy tips to getting started with Passport Career:

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1. ACCESSING PASSPORT CAREER : First time users

a. Go to www.PassportCareer.com

b. Click on Have a Registration Key? on the upper right corner of the homepage –>

c. Enter this Registration Key (notice: all lowercase & only 1 “s”): HOLYCROS

d. Fill out the brief registration form. Use your school email address (except alumni) to create your login/password for future use and you’re ready to roll!

e. Use your email/password to login in the future.

2. CHECK OUT THE TOOLS

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On the menu bar, you will find quick access to several of the tools available, including the H1B Employer Database for non-Americans seeking jobs or internships in the USA. You will also find a direct link to the International Jobs/Intern Portal, which is updated daily with more than 1,000,000 jobs/internships in 203 countries.

JOIN THE INTRODUCTORY WEBINAR

  • To maximize the benefits of Passport Career, we suggest you immediately sign up for the webinar, called Using Passport Career Strategically. This webinar is offered monthly at different times and is an excellent way to help you take advantage of all the Passport Career system has to offer you. Click on Webinars at the top of the page.

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GLOBAL OVERVIEW

  • We suggest that you begin by reviewing the guidance and strategies relevant to your situation in My Global Career Briefcase. Click on the My Briefcase link at the top of the page.4

 

 

3. AVOID THE “ONE-VISIT” TRAP

In order to be successful with your exploration and/or transition, you need to think of Passport Career as your personal career assistant. We suggest that you schedule 15-30 minutes each week to explore further the content, resources and tools. People who use Passport Career regularly have the greatest chance of success with their career goals!

4. EXPLORE THE COUNTRIES & CITIES

There are many amazing photos and videos of the countries & cities featured throughout Passport Career. There are also more than 15,000 pages of expert career content! Take the time to learn about other places—especially their business culture, which is key (along with strategic networking) to successfully transitioning your career to a new location.

5. LOOKING FOR INFORMATION THAT YOU CAN’T FIND?

Click on the “HELP” link at the top of the page and fill out the form to send to your request or question OR, you can always send an email to info@passportcareer.com.

 

We want to hear from you!

Let us know how your job/internship search and career transition are moving along. What is working for you? Where do you need more help? What questions do you have? We are here to help you, so be sure to stay in communication with the Career Planning Center, Hogan 203.

 
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Setting yourself up for Success: Class by Class Career Advice

WELCOME BACK TO HOLY CROSS!

Although most of us are still busy planning Fall around our syllabi or re-adjusting to the arduous trek up and down Mt. St. James every day, it is never too early to start thinking about Career Planning!

  • FRESHMEN: Get involved!

Welcome to your first semester on the Hill! As a first year student, you truly have a “fresh” start and endless opportunities to pique new interests and learn more about yourself. Although concretely setting up your “career path” may seem aggressive for your first semester, there are several ‘second nature’ things you can do to set yourself up for a bright career at HC and beyond.

1.)  Get involved on campus: Join 2  or more clubs or organizations. Getting involved helps to expand your interests, while introducing you to a new network of peers. Added Bonus: Campus activities are a great resume booster!

2.)  Take interesting classes: Before second semester enrollment, take the time to find classes that really speak to you. Being interested in the material helps you stay engaged and will eventually direct you towards a major if you are undecided.

  • SOPHOMORES: Focus in!

Sophomore year is the time to hone in your skills and piece together your achievements.

1.) Create your Resume: Now is the time to either create or refine your resume, as you start to build your professional profile. If you need help perfecting your resume, make an appointment to meet with one our Career Counselors!

2.) Apply to SIP: This semester presents your first opportunity to apply to HC’s Summer Internship Program. Although this program is highly competitive, the application process marks a great way to practice building your resume, cover letter and interview skills.

  • JUNIORS: Start your search!

Welcome to the Internship year of college! It’s time to start searching and applying for internships that appeal you.

1.)  Apply to SIP: The Summer Internship Program gives qualified students a helpful “foot in the door” to many amazing internships by connecting HC students with established alums.

2.)  Search Early: Start browsing different companies’ websites for internship opportunities. Many companies set their internship deadlines in the fall, so have your updated resumes and cover letters ready to go!

  • SENIORS: Network, Network, Network!

As daunting as it might seem, senior year is the inevitable prelude to the notorious “real world.” Although denial is one way to approach this problem, the better way is to set your self up for success through networking.

1.)  Stay in Touch: If you had an internship or job this summer, stay in touch with the people you met! Maintaining a dialogue keeps you fresh in their minds and helps for recommendations later down the road.

2.)  Reach Out: Use the Career Advisors Network to reach out to alums in career fields you may pursue. (http://bit.ly/gG5PFM) Also, keep an eye out for an invitation from the Alumni office to join the Alumni Online Community where you can search for additional contacts. Remember, reaching out means learning more about specific jobs or companies, not blatantly asking for jobs!

3.)  Network in-person: Use events like the Holy Cross Career Fair (September 25th) to meet new contacts and demonstrate your professionalism. Extra Edge: Have business cards printed and give them to professionals you talk with!

Have questions or want help with these quick tips? Come to Career Planning in Hogan 203 for Drop-in hours or set up an appointment to meet with one of our amazing Career Counselors!

In addition, Career Counselors will be available to answer any quick career questions during Virtual Drop-in Hours, which start up Monday, September 17th!
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7 Things to Get YOUR Job Search Started

Stressed out already about senior year? Don’t know where to start the job search process?

Stop stressing, and listen up! Having worked in the Career Planning Center the past two years, I have gotten the scoop on the recruiting process, and have put together a quick and easy list of essential “to-do’s” before you start applying. Follow these 7 simple steps, and get your job search started on the right foot!

7 things all seniors should do before applying for jobs:

  1. Go to the senior workshop. If you plan on job searching through Holy Cross you must attend one of these sessions, which cover interview skills, behavior, expectations and all of the policies and procedures for recruiting (also see #3). Plus, it’s a great way to meet the new Associate Director of Employer Relations, Maura Hume. Not only is she a Holy Cross grad but she runs the recruiting program. Tip for success: Become her friend and follow her advice.
  2. Update your resume. A fresh, eye-catching, and professional resume is key to landing any interview. It’s the first step in marketing yourself to employers, and giving them a snapshot of what you’ve done at Holy Cross and beyond. We may know how rigorous Holy Cross is, but the resume is key to showing employers the value of a liberal arts education. For examples take a look at this link. Tip for success: Bring your resume into the office during drop-in hours and have a counselor review it. Drop in hours are Monday-Friday 1-4pm.
  3. Check out the new Crusader Connections. Gmail isn’t the only change seniors need to be aware of—Crusader Connections has changed too. You should have received an e-mail about the change before you got back on campus, and it’s essential that you check it out prior to the night you are trying to apply for a job. You can access it through the Holy Cross login screen or on the Career Planning website. Become familiar with the site, how jobs are posted, and how to upload materials. Tip for success: Don’t forget to update your profile, and even try uploading your new crisp resume!
  4. Find or purchase an interview appropriate outfit. Not all professional outfits are the same and the right outfit is essential for your first interview. Not only will it make you feel professional and give you confidence but it sends the right message to employers. Knowing the type of industry you are interviewing with is also key, as not all companies expect a suit. However, when in doubt over-dress, don’t under-dress. Tips for success: Ladies, listen up! Watch out for flashy jewelry, too many rings, earrings, etc; go for close-toed shoes; and keep the nails groomed and professional; no black or neon polish.
  5. Identify career fields, employers, or areas of interest. Always keep your options open, but at this point you should start to get a sense of the type of companies you want to apply to and when they recruit. Generally, large companies start as early as the fall, while small companies and non-profits recruit as jobs become available. Knowing the type of company, industry or culture you are looking for can prevent you from becoming overwhelmed by all of the job postings. Tip for success: Use online resources to research companies, positions, and industries. It’ll help you get a better sense of the job description, company culture, and expectations.
  6. Make an appointment with the Career Planning Center to talk about your game plan. Career Planning is a great resource to have. They have done this countless times and can walk you through the process, tell you about more options, and get you connected to employers and opportunities you didn’t know existed. Tip for success: Do this early, don’t wait until you’re stuck, or pulling your hair out!
  7. Relax! You have time and a multitude of resources at your disposal. Enjoy senior year, do well in your classes, and keep an open mind. Tip for success: Use all your available resources—family, friends, teachers, staff, the internet, and, of course, the Career Planning Center!
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Calling all Sophomores!

If you are sure about what you want to do after graduation and have confirmation that you have the qualifications to pursue your goals, terrific!  However, most of you probably are not exactly sure about what you want to do after graduation or want to make sure that you are developing the prerequisites to pursue your desired career.

If that is the case, I would like to meet with you. I am Dr. John Winters and am the Associate Director/Career Counseling in the Career Planning Center. I have made it my personal mission to assist all members of the class of 2014 clarify their career interests and goals!

I can be found in the Career Planning Center/Summer Internship Suite, Hogan 203. Please call 508-793-3880 or stop by Hogan 203 to make an appointment. I hope to see you soon!
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This Week’s Deadlines and Events
Employers are hiring!  Apply for a job or two via Crusader Connections!  Visit this week’s Worcester Consortium Career Fair!  Set up an informational interview with a Holy Cross Alumna/us!
Don’t know what you want to do or where to start?
No Problem!  Set up an appointment by calling 508.793.3880 or stopping by Hogan 203.
Tuesday, March 29
Event:  Colleges of Worcester Consortium Career Fair, DCU Center Ballroom from 1-4:30 pm Click here for a list of participating employers and directions
Deadlines:
  • Insight Global, Inc. – Training/Account Manager (On-campus Interviews: April 7)
  • Zoom Technical Services – Technical Recruiter  (On-campus Interviews: April 8)
  • Apply via Crusader Connections
Thursday, March 31
Deadlines:
  • FactSet Research Systems, Inc. – Market Metrics Analyst (resume referral)
  • Fidelity Investments – Financial Representative (resume referral)
  • Apply via Crusader Connections
Friday, April 1
Don’t be a fool!  Visit us in Career Planning to work on your job search!

We’re always available by appointment (M-F, 9 – 5 – call 508.793.3880 or stop by Hogan 203 to schedule) or visit us on drop-in hours, M-F, 1-4pm, no appointment necessary.
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Spring Break Sophomore Career Advising Sessions

Are you in the area during Spring Break? Would you like to have an opportunity to begin discussing what you might do after graduation?

Please call 508-793-3880 or stop by Hogan 203 to set up YOUR career advising appointment with Dr. Winters.