Advice from professionals — Joyce’s Career Tip of the Week

Last Tuesday, Polytechnic Students had the opportunity to meet and learn from industry professionals representing local award winning companies, nominated by their employees, for being best places to work. These organizations have been recognized as AZCentral.com’s Top Companies to Work for in Arizona, and have appeared on national lists as well.

The panel was assembled and facilitated by Denise Gredler,  http://bestcompaniesaz.com/

Representatives from Freedom Financial, Dignity Health, Charles Schwab, USAA and American Express shared stories about their career paths and current positions, answered questions and gave advice to students seeking internships and jobs, focusing on technology and entreprenership.

What are they looking for when hiring?

Passion – what are your hobbies? What kind of technology are using in your home? Show evidence of what you choose to do – related to your major and career interests — outside of the classroom.

An agile mindset – be open to change. Communication and collaboration are essential. How students talk about their class projects is important. What was the objective? What were your trying to accomplish? Did you? What did you like? How did you work with others?

How should students convey an entrepreneurial interest when job seeking?

All of the panelists work at companies that value innovation. Even in a very large company, employees can be on small teams where they are contributing ideas. Describe your class and personal projects on your resume so that you demonstrate initiative and tenacity.

How can students get entrepreneurial experience while in college?

Start small, get experience – no matter what kind. Network, go to lots of events, dress appropriately and make a positive impressions. Be resourceful, use the web for finding solutions and networking. #yesphx was recommended. http://yesphx.com/
Also, remember that there are resources available at ASU. http://entrepreneurship.asu.edu/

One theme that was mentioned by all the panelists was corporate culture. Employers want to hire people whose values match those of the organization. Recruiters and hiring managers strive to get to know applicants through the hiring process and look for that cultural fit. All of the panelists talked about enjoying the culture of their companies and appreciating their colleagues.

Following the panel, students had the opportunity to meet and mingle with professionals, including executives, and recruiters. TEKSystems and WozU participated in the networking.

The Fulton Schools Career Center wants to express our gratitude to Denise Gredler for bringing talented professionals to campus to share their experiences and give advice to our students. We also want to thank all of our professional guests for giving their time and supporting our students. For more information on these Arizona award winning companies, check out their company profile and career opportunities at BestCompaniesAZ.com http://bestcompaniesaz.com/best-employers-phoenix-arizona/