Three Nuggets of Advice for Entry-Level Job Seekers and Intermediate/Next Step Employees Looking for New Opportunities

I recently met with a graduating senior from a local university who conducted an informational interview with me to learn more about launching a career in writing and communications. In the past, I managed intern programs at companies and organizations as mentoring students and offering them the opportunity to learn, grow and most importantly, walk away with hands-on work experience while learning about real workplace culture, has always been something I’ve been passionate about. Why? Because when I was an intern, so many professionals in the media space did the same for me. My most memorable was at WBFF Fox 45 in Baltimore, where I went out in the field on countless news stories, from the tragic (I admit, my mouth was agape the first time I saw a body bag being zipped up), to the “didn’t see THIS happening today” (asking Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, a question in a presser!). I also remember the real talk. One multiple EMMY-award winning longtime reporter at the station sat me down in the news van while we were waiting on a live shot to tell me that in her experience, a career in broadcast journalism had been rewarding beyond compare, and one she wouldn’t trade for anything – but came with many, many personal sacrifices. She gave it to me straight.

Perhaps that’s why I’ve always accepted invitations to talk to classes at University of Rhode Island, Salve Regina University and Johnson & Wales (one time I used the word “Rolodex” in a talk and it was evident the students had no idea what I was referring to…). This much I know is true: getting your foot in the door can be intimidating. I’ve put together some quick tips to get noticed:

1 – Your cover letter is your only chance to prove your case that you want this job and you’re the best person for it. First, show to the company you’ve done your research. Employers can see right through a generic “insert company here” cover letter. Point to something that resonated with you – maybe it’s an initiative the company or organization recently launched, or something they made headlines for, or maybe it was something the CEO said in a speech. Be specific. "I like your company's Instagram" isn't specific. "I like how you leveraged your social media community for buy-in when you launched your 'Shop Local' promotion to create a positive, community-wide economic impact to help struggling small businesses during the pandemic" is specific. 

2 – Highlight where your experience match position’s responsibilities and qualifications – even if it’s in an untraditional way. Doesn't it make you head spin when an entry-level position also requires a few years of experience?! Here's what: experience is gained in myriad ways. If you were a student reporter, you’re accustomed to demanding deadlines and you have demonstrated storytelling skills. If you organized a food drive on campus or in your community, you’re experienced in logistics and you possess project management skills. Where have you had to work collaboratively, or had to utilize your organizational skills, including multitasking and time management? Don’t be intimidated by a job posting’s qualifications – that’s the brass ring. Still apply if you see places where your skills and their needs align. Let them know you’re a quick learner who adapts swiftly.

3 – Networking is a given, but how do you actually network when you’re just starting out? I’m going to let you in on a secret. Ninety-nine out of 100 people are intrinsically altruistic (just look at Facebook – someone throws a question out there like, ‘Where’s the best local pizza joint?’ and the replies pile up one after another). Identify people doing what you want to do, or at companies that excite you, and reach out to ask for 10 minutes of their time to have an informational interview. How’d they get there? What do they love about their job and what is the most challenging aspect of it? And ask what their advice is for someone looking to launch a career in that field.
​
Don't forget to have a few set of eyes review your resume and even your cover letter drafts. Customize your resume for each position to show where your experience and their needs align (and save them in a folder so you don't have to reinvent the wheel every time!).
​Lastly, a thank you note is obvious, but take it to the next step by sending an actual hard copy thank you note. Mail it on the same day to expedite delivery. Oh, and don’t get discouraged. Easier said than done, but be positive, be persistent and keep going. 

---