Are You a Recent Grad Looking to Join the Workforce? Let Me Help You Do Just That!

Calling all recent grads! Are you looking to enter the workforce? If so, Erin Hancock is here to help.

Hancock is a Talent Resourcer at Wiley Edge who spends her days helping recent graduates launch their careers at some of the top companies in the U.S. by providing them with all the training and tools they need to be successful. And she has a great deal of advice for you, too. 

For instance, if you’re wondering where to start, she suggests finding a female mentor you can trust. “Try to find someone who has walked a similar path to yours and learn as much as you can from them,” advises Hancock. This is particularly important if you are intending to be a woman in STEM.

And what about after you’ve found a job that you want to apply to? How can you craft a winning resume that will stand out? Hancock suggests starting by researching how men and women write resumes differently. Then, “don’t be afraid to write any experience that is relevant on your resume,” she says. “Keep bullet points on your resume short and to the point, but put it on there if it is relevant to the role you are applying to.”

For even more advice on succeeding in the modern world of work, keep reading!

Let’s start with the application. How do you suggest women get through automated systems? What about making that personal connection — do you recommend candidates do outreach to current recruiters or employees for informational interviews before applying?

Consider having a trusted source review your resume. And make sure you have keywords in your resume that are directly related to the role. For example, if you are applying for a software engineering role, be sure to have your coding languages listed on your resume.

You can also always reach out to someone on the Wiley Edge recruiting team through LinkedIn. Many other companies also have recruiters or hiring managers on LinkedIn as well. When reaching out to someone online, remember to use professional courtesy, good grammar, and full and complete sentences — and don’t spam message anyone.   

Next, let’s discuss interviewing. What are your top three pieces of advice for acing an interview?

• Eliminate as many distractions as possible. Take your interview in a quiet place. For example, if you have roommates, explain that you have an interview and ask for quiet or go to a local library.

• Even though your interview may be virtual, dress professionally. You don’t need to spend a bunch of money, but show the interviewer that you take this seriously.

• Do your research and come prepared with thoughtful questions. Asking questions in an interview helps you understand if the role is right for you. You can even ask questions related to salary expectations. Just don’t make that the first or only question you ask in your interview.

What are the top three qualities you look for when you’re interviewing a candidate for a role in your industry? 

Great communication skills, an eagerness to learn, and a passion for launching their career.

As a recruiter, what are three things about Wiley Edge that you always make sure to highlight when talking to a candidate? 

• The incredible training we offer and the continued support throughout their employment.

• Our free self-paced courses accessible to our employees that focus on new technologies to keep your skills up-to-date and set you apart from other candidates. This includes our partnership with Columbia University.

• There’s no contract! We want to find the right roles, for the right candidates. We don’t force anyone into a role, and we are so proud of how successful and happy our employees have been using this business model. 

Finally, what’s the most memorable piece of career advice you’ve received?

Work hard, but don’t bring it home with you. Always stay humble and never bring someone down so you can succeed. 

Fairygodboss is proud to partner with Wiley Edge. Find a job there today!