gaining the corporate edge

4 | © Hire America’s Heroes | 2016 Gaining the Corporate Edge Workshop | www.HireAmericasHeroes.org

1. Set your expectations and goals early. Prepare to build a long term plan.

• Identify what is most important – understand that you may have to compromise on one or more area.

Prioritize what matters, flexibility provides more opportunity.

• Geographical location? Commute time?

• Industry? Position? Company?

• Salary? At the start, in 2 years, in 5 years

• What do you want to do? Do you plan to leverage your past experience or are you exploring a new career

field?

• Are there education or certification gaps? Time to complete?

• Consider from the employer point of view, do you meet their needs?

2. Build your network! Establishing professional profiles on social media to connect and demonstrate your

capabilities. Be aware of your presence, do you need to update your settings and postings? Use tools like

LinkedIn to connect with others from your school, branch of service, and desired industry. *This is the statistical

key step to success, nearly 80% of jobs are obtained from networking - don’t skip it!• LinkedIn provides an online tutorial:

• “LinkedIn for Veterans” https://www.lynda.com/LinkedIn-tutorials/LinkedIn-Veterans/455481-2.html

3. Use the network you’ve built to locate a mentor. This is someone who can explain how to get into your career

field, share your resume with hiring managers and explain any experience or education gaps. Service members

with a corporate mentor (someone employed outside of the military) are able to obtain employment twice as fast

as those without. Networking is the best way to identify a mentor that will meet your needs, try attending local

events (MeetUp is a great resource). Relocating to a specific city? LinkedIn and local Soldier For Life/Marine

For Life groups can assist. Formal programs exist to connect you with mentors if you are unable to locate one

through your network.• Boots to Shoes provides mentorship in the Puget Sound region:

• http://www.bootstoshoes.org

• American Corporate Partnerships provide online mentoring for service members:

• http://www.acp-usa.org/veterans-portal

• Boots Ups is a new service providing mentorship in specific locations:

• http://bootsup.us/

4. Research (research, research!). Finding a job is a full time job. Impress your recruiter and future hiring manager

by taking time to review job description requirements, industry expectations, companies and salary range. These

websites can get you started:

HOW TO EXCEL IN YOUR CAREER TRANSITION(A Step by Step Guide)

5© Hire America’s Heroes | 2016 Gaining the Corporate Edge Workshop | www.HireAmericasHeroes.org |

• Glassdoor is a crowd sourced information tool on company salaries, interview process and company culture.

https://www.glassdoor.com

• ONET is the Occupational Information Network created by the US Department of Labor to assist veterans

in the transition process. You can search jobs by MOS, skills and abilities and more. National and local

salary ranges can be found along with education requirements. https://www.onetonline.org/• Search news articles on the organization/field you are interested in. Is there opportunity for growth or need

for talent?; Locate the company’s values and mission page to determine if this a place you want to work.

Follow companies of interest on social media.

5. Brand yourself forward with a resume that highlights your accomplishments and future career path. Recruiters

can assess your resume in 30 seconds or less, have quantifiable bullet points at the top! The resume is used to get

you to the next stage in the interview process, if you’re not getting responses ask your mentor and network to

help review.• Answer the unasked questions for the recruiter. Are you open to relocation? Do you meet the basic

qualifications of the position? Have you recently completed an educate program that helps to overcome any

gaps in experience? • Avoid job description resumes - these are hard for recruiters to evaluate your performance. Do you have too

many qualitative soft skills?

• Did you improve a process, save money, time or increase customer satisfaction?

• Tap into your social network to connect with groups, recruiters and hiring managers at places of interest.

Share your resume and ask for help. Request informational interviews from your network to help determine

if you fit the culture.

6. Practice interviewing. Connect with a peer, mentor or veteran support organization and hold a mock interview

using the behavioral based STAR method (Situation, Task, Action and Result).• Start with the R first! This will ensure your example has a great outcome which demonstrates how you can

make an impact on the organization.

• Make sure your example is relevant to the values of the organization or needs of the position.

• Use the STAR method;

• Interview Stream, an online practice service provided by the US Dept. of Veterans Affairs:

• https://mycareeratva.va.gov/interview-stream

Never quit! Build energy around your transition by engaging with your network as much as possible.

Contributed by:Dr. Lisa Parrott, EdDLisa Parrott LinkedIn Profile


THE STAR METHOD

Why do hiring managers ask behavioral questions? They are trying to see if you possess specific qualities that they need for the particular position you are interviewing for. The STAR interview method gives you a simple framework to use when crafting your answers.

Here’s what STAR stands for:Situation: Open with a brief description of the Situation and context of the success story (who, what, where, when, how).Task: Explain the Task you had to complete highlighting any specific challenges or constraints (eg deadlines, costs, other issues).Action: Describe the actions you took to address the situation with an appropriate amount of detail and keep the focus on YOU. What specific steps did you take and what was your particular contribution? Be careful that you don’t describe what the team or group did when talking about a project, but what you actually did. Use the word “I,” not “we” when describing actions. Complete highlighting any specific challenges or constraints (eg deadlines, costs, other issues).Result: Close with the result of your efforts. Include figures to quantify the result if possible.

Make sure that you follow all parts of the STAR method. Be as specific as possible at all times, without rambling or including too much information. Oftentimes the interviewer has prompted you to include results, so try to include that without being asked again.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR A BEHAVIORAL INTERVIEW• Recall recent situations that show favorable behaviors or actions, especially involving course work, work experience,

leadership, teamwork, initiative, planning, and customer service.• Prepare short descriptions of each situation; be ready to give details if asked.• Be sure each story has a beginning, middle, and an end, i.e., be ready to describe the situation,

including the task at hand, your action, and the outcome or result.• Be sure the outcome or result reflects positively on you (even if the result itself was not

favorable).• Be honest. Don’t embellish or omit any part of the story. The interviewer will find out if your

story is built on a weak foundation.• Be specific. Don’t generalize about several events; give a detailed accounting of one event.• Vary your examples; don’t take them all from just one area of your life.

SAMPLE BEHAVIORAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONSPractice using the STAR Method on these common behavioral interviewing questions:• Describe a situation in which you were able to use persuasion to successfully convince someone to see things your way.• Describe a time when you were faced with a stressful situation that demonstrated your coping skills.• Give me a specific example of a time when you used good judgment and logic in solving a problem.• Give me an example of a time when you set a goal and were able to meet or achieve it.• Tell me about a time when you had to use your presentation skills to influence someone’s opinion.• Give me a specific example of a time when you had to conform to a policy with which you did not agree.• Please discuss an important written document you were required to complete. Give me an example of a time when you

had to make a split second decision.• What is your typical way of dealing with conflict? Give me an example.• Give me an example of a time when something you tried to accomplish failed.• Tell me about a recent situation in which you had to deal with a very upset customer or co-worker.• Tell me about a time when you delegated a project effectively.• Tell me about a time when you missed an obvious solution to a problem.• Describe a time when you anticipated potential problems and developed preventive measures.• Please tell me about a time you had to fire a friend.


THE INTERVIEW: PRACTICE

Tell Me About Yourself: Cheat Sheet

NOTE: These are not tailored answers, and should only act as a guideline for you to begin your preparation for the “Tell Me About Yourself ” interview question.

Scenario 1: General Answer (Good for Most Candidates)

I’d describe myself as a hard-working and enthusiastic person who works well with others and takes a lot of pride in completing tasks both on schedule and at an elite level.

Further to that, I think the best way for me to describe myself is in a word:________________ (Quality from your research that aligns with the company’s needs).

Over the last _________ years my work as a(n) ____________ has allowed me to cultivate this quality through many different experiences. Specifically, I ________________ (insert success story from your past that demonstrates you having the quality listed above).

I believe this experience makes me an ideal candidate for this position and more importantly, will allow me to achieve the goals you have set for the incoming hire for this position.

Scenario 2: Changing Industries

In a nutshell, I’m extremely excited to be embarking on a new journey as I make a much needed change from ____________ (industry 1) to _______________ (industry 2). While some might see it as an unorthodox move. I have felt for some time that my true skills, abilities and (most importantly) passion are best served aligning with the ____________ industry.

Not only that, there are several qualities that I have developed over time that will be a huge advantage in successfully completing the daily tasks laid out in the job description, including ____________, ____________, and ______________ (3 applicable skills and abilities). Specifically my work in _______________ (example from your past that supports the 3 skills) shows that I have practical experience in applicable tasks and that I can be counted on to complete these tasks at an elite level.

Scenario 3: Just Graduated

I think the best way to describe myself would be to say that I’m a recent graduate of ______________ who is eager to apply the knowledge and skills I’ve learned in a work environment, specifically in the _____________ industry. I strongly believe that the high marks I received in ______________ exemplify that I have both a firm knowledge and the skills necessary to be an asset to your company, and that my free time spent ________________ shows the hard work and dedication that I bring to every activity that I set my focus on.


NETWORKING & MENTORS

Value of Networking Nearly 80% of jobs are obtained through networking!

CONNECTIONS - Do not overlook the simple benefit of having a network for conversation and exploration. A two way dialog. People need people.

OPPORTUNITIES - All the best opportunities are shared person to person. Explore and discover opportunities you may not find through typical channels.

ADVICE -We rely on networks to advise us and keep us on track. There are some things Google cannot tell you.ASSISTANCE - Networking is the way to build conversation and community. An exchange of introductions and resources.POSITIVE INFLUENCE - You become who you associate with.

Locate A Mentor!• Use the network you’ve built to locate a mentor. This is someone who can explain how to get into your career field,

share your resume with hiring managers and explain any experience or education gaps. • Service members with a corporate mentor (someone employed outside of the military) are able to obtain

employment twice as fast as those without. • Networking is the best way to identify a mentor that will meet your needs, try attending local events (MeetUp is a

great resource).

Networking Lunch Challenge

Connect with three people during today’s lunch. Find out who they are, what they do, their contact information and how you can further enhance your Network with them.

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Airstreams Renewables Inc.

Airstreams Renewables INC on JBLM is a Career Skills Program that trains transitioning service members and veterans and assists in their placement into the Wind and Telecommunications industries. Information on the program can be found at www.air-streams.com

Boots to Shoes Foundation

Boots to Shoes Foundation provides transitioning military with trained volunteer mentors from the business community to assist with job search planning, career strategizing and networking preparation. Veterans are matched with mentors based on geographic location, career interests and other identified criteria.• http://bootstoshoes.org/

Camo2Commerce

Camo2Commerce connects exiting service members and their spouses with high demand civilian careers. The initiative assists transitioning military personnel in becoming the most prepared job seekers on the market.• http://camo2commerce.com

Four Block Career Readiness Program

The Four Block Career Readiness Program provides transitioning Post 9/11 veterans with the essential tools needed to jumpstart civilian careers. The goal of the program is to empower veterans, who are pursuing or have obtained their degrees, to obtain competitive internships and full-time positions at companies or organizations that match their interests, attributes, and strengths.• http://fourblock.org/• Veterans emerge from this program equipped with:

• A community of veteran colleagues and industry professionals that will support them in beginning a new career

• Personalized career search strategy and execution plan• Ability to communicate military experiences and qualifications into relevant business contexts• Proficiency and confidence in writing targeted resumes and conducting successful interviews• Corporate cultural competency and networking strategies for building professional relationships• See more at: http://fourblock.org/career-program/student-veteran-career-development-

program/#sthash.wf8Qiuba.dpuf

TRANSITION RESOURCES


Goodwill of the Olympics & Rainier Region’s Veteran Services Program

Goodwill of the Olympics & Rainier Region’s Veteran Services Program assists Military & Veteran families with job readiness and placement services. Developing individualized holistic plans to help each participant succeed, case managers assist in resume writing, mock interviews, networking skills and other services. Utilizing a vast network of business connections the program is able to help job seekers connect with hiring managers, resulting in job placement, retention and long term financial stability.• http://www.goodwillwa.org/training/veteran/• May 11, 2016, Goodwill Networking Event

• http://JOBSneteventmay.eventbrite.com

Hire America’s HeroesHire America’s heroes engages in industry leading educational events and activities designed to educate, promote and facilitate best practices and success strategies in military-to-corporate employment.• www.hireamericasheroes.org

Microsoft Software & Systems Academy (MSSA)

Microsoft Software & Systems Academy is a training program that helps active duty U.S. service members transition to a career in technology.• http://military.microsoft.com/training/mssa/

Mount Rainier Chapter of the Adjutant General Corps Regimental Association

The goal of The Mount Rainier Chapter of the Adjutant General Corps Regimental Association is to foster a spirit of good will and cooperative endeavor among its membership and perpetuate friendships and traditions within the Regiment. The AGCRA facilitates sponsoring new HR methods, improved techniques, developments and other innovations designed to increase the efficiency of the United States Army, while promoting high standards of proficiency in members of the Adjutant General’s Corps and Army’s Human Resources Community.

• https://www.facebook.com/MountRainierChapterAGCRA/


TRANSITION RESOURCES

Northeastern University - Seattle

Northeastern is committed to serving those who have served our country. We want to help you transition into your next career, by offering: Industry-Aligned Programs, Financial and Personal Support, Dedicated Career Services, Tailored Educational Experiences, and An Active Community.

Visit us at: http://www.northeastern.edu/military/ to learn more about our programs and services.

Service Member for Life - Transition Assistance Program

Service Member for Life - Transition Assistance Program’s mission is to provide pre-separation counseling, transition and employment assistance services to Active Duty, Guard, and Reserve Soldiers and Airmen, Department of Army Civilians who are considering or preparing to depart the military and all work age family members of each of the above groups.• http://www.JBLMUnlimited.com

Veterans Employment Center (VEC™)

The Veterans Employment Center (VEC™) connects employers with highly skilled Transitioning Service Members, Veterans, and their family members.

the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Labor and Defense collaborated to design and develop the VEC™ to incorporate the best features of online employment tools.

• The VEC™ lets you:• Post Jobs• Search Resumes• Access Recruiting Resources• Launch a Public Relations Campaign to hire Veterans through the on-line Commitment Portal

• https://www.vets.gov/employment/

Work of Honor

Work of Honor is a group of Veterans and Veteran Family Members who are passionate about shedding light on the talents Veterans offer to the civilian business community. Work of Honor provides a platform comprised of events, resources & technology to network Veterans, Veteran family members & Business Professionals. When you join Work of Honor you have access to approximately 1200 fellow Veterans working within our community and over 2000 job post-ings from local companies who value veteran talent.• https://www.workofhonor.com