Take it from an experienced alumnus. The “old fashioned” ways are still the most effective when applying for a job and keeping it even with the convenience of modern day technology.
In the decade since my wife and I graduated from WOU, I have experienced professional setbacks that could have been avoided had I better utilized the resources that were available to me when I was a student. Because of that, I have decided to convey some of my advice to you all in this article. The focus of this article will be the proper use of technology when seeking employment and when you are employed.
To start, let me provide you with a comparison of what kind of technology was available in 2002 verses now. E-mail was not a major form of communication. You had to either call your professors or meet with them during their office hours. Assignments were submitted in paper form, not by e-mail. A fast Internet connection was 1.5 megabytes, not gigabytes, and was accessed through a DSL modem. Wireless intent was a theory. MySpace, Facebook and LinkedIn did not exist. The first iPod had just been released and you downloaded your music from Napster and LimeWire, albeit illegally.
Web sites largely consisted of text, pictures and drop down menus. You could not post your resume on a web site; you had to hand deliver it to the person who would make the hiring decision. This is where my first piece of advice comes in.
Although you may have to post a resume online as part of the process, you should deliver a paper copy to the person who could be your future boss. I have witnessed a person being hired on the spot because they were the only candidate that submitted their resume personally.
Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn can provide you with a place to promote yourself, your skills, experience and interests at no cost and with little effort.
However, be careful what you post. Employers will look at your accounts and form an opinion of you. Also, I recommend not including your boss as one of your “friends” or “followers.” Your personal opinions could cost you as they did me. A good rule to follow is to keep your personal and professional life separate.
At the same time, do let everyone know when you are seeking employment. Recommendations from professors and WOU staff can make the difference of you getting an interview.
