Business Dining Basics

As originally published in the Ticker 11/17, http://ticker.baruchconnect.com/article/career-spotlight-week-10/

By Jessica Kweon, Peer for Career

Business dining has become an integral part of the recruiting process with the third or fourth interview usually involving a meal. On Thursday, October 30, Terri Thompson, business journalist and etiquette consultant, shared some excellent tips during the Dining Etiquette workshop hosted by the Starr Career Development Center.

First and foremost, the meal is an interview and the main goal is to receive the job offer, so you should focus on answering questions and making conversation. During the meal, try your best to avoid “chipmunk cheeks” and having a full mouth by consuming small bites. Nevertheless, do not neglect your food either; if you happen to not like what is being served, be mindful and try to stomach a couple bites, unless you have a strong aversion to the dish or for religious reasons you cannot eat the food. Avoid looking fussy about your food as it may turn off the hiring team. Keep in mind that the interviewer is most likely choosing the restaurant, so any dietary restrictions you have should be discussed beforehand. It is your responsibility to check out the menu beforehand and let him or her know about any concerns. Don’t over-complicate what to order; play it safe by ordering any specials or ask for recommendations. Additionally, make a conscious decision to not order alcohol, even if it is offered. After the meal, do not forget to thank the interviewer; send a handwritten letter or email a thank you note within 24-48 hours.

For additional tips, stay tuned for Terri Thompson’s Networking Etiquette Workshop in April!

What is an Informational Interview?

As originally published in the Ticker 11/10, http://ticker.baruchconnect.com/article/career-spotlight-week-9/

By Jiaxin Karen Lu, Peer for Career

An informational interview is a session during which a student will get valuable information regarding job outlook, industry trends, or any other career-related tips from a professional. The purpose of an informational interview differs from a traditional interview – the outcome is not a job offer, but an opportunity to deepen your understanding of the field, add to your network, and position yourself for potential hiring.

If you would like to set up an informational interview, reach out to any prior contacts you have met from networking sessions and your connections on LinkedIn. After you identify the professionals you want to speak with, contact them for a 20-30 minute informational interview at a setting that is convenient for them to meet. If the professional agrees to meet you at a certain time, make sure to show up at least 15-20 minutes earlier to secure a table and have your questions ready. After the session, politely thank the professional for their time and effort, and also send a thank-you note to show your appreciation and follow-up with any additional questions. You may also attach your resume if this was discussed.

In addition, a few resources that can help you obtain more relevant information about informational interviews or find contacts to start the process will be LinkedIn, interviewing workshops, or any other job search workshops at the Starr Career Development Center.

An informational interview is a great way for students to network with alumni or professionals, gain insight, and gather helpful advice on their professional development.

Upcoming Workshops & Events: November 12

Please make sure to RSVP on STARR Search to guarantee a seat!

1) Diversity Pipeline Programs Panel Networking Event

November 13, 2014, 12:45 pm – 2:15 pm

3-150 NVC

STARR CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTER PRESENTS
Diversity Pipeline Programs Panel Networking Event
(In Collaboration with Baruch SEEK Program and the Urban Male Leadership Academy)

Learn about prestigious internship, fellowship, leadership, & professional development
programs for underserved/underrepresented students.

Guest Speakers include representatives from:
– America Needs You (formetly New York Needs You)
– HACU
– INROADS
– Management Leadership for Tomorrow (MLT)
– The 4A’s Multicultural Advertising Intern Program (MAIP)
– Sponsors for Educational Opportunities (SEO)
– T. Howard Foundation

Co-sponsors: USG, ADS, ALPFA, Alpha Kappa Psi, ASCEND, BSA, BSU, FLP, G.L.A.S.S., Golden Key, MBC, NABA, Peers for Careers, RSSP/P2P, WIB, Women Empowered for Success, and others

2) Mastering the Job Interview-Basic

November 13, 2014, 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm

2-190 NVC

How do you prepare a personal pitch? How do you respond to challenging interview questions? What questions should you ask and avoid asking? How do you close the interview? Attend this workshop and learn the steps to follow before, during and after the interview to increase your chances of landing the job you want.

3) Building Your Brand: The Personal Pitch

November 17, 2014, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm

2-190 NVC

Learn and practice how to give a short verbal “advertisement” for yourself to help with networking and job interviewing. This personal pitch can be used to introduce yourself to an employer at a Job or Internship Fair, to introduce yourself at a networking event or networking telephone call, to answer the typical interview question “Tell me about yourself,” and in many other circumstances.

4) Finance 201

November 18, 2014, 3:00 pm – 2:30pm

2-190 NVC

Are you interested in a Career in Financial Services? Do you want to understand what the difference between Sales, Trading and Investment Banking is? Finance 201 will take a deeper look at Careers in the Financial Services Industry and will give you some tips on what to expect when conducting a job search for these careers.

5) Finding Your FOCUS

November 18, 2014, 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm

This workshop will be held in NVC 8-160.

Are you concerned about choosing a major and or career? This workshop will help you Find your FOCUS. This hands on session will walk you through FOCUS 2 Online Career and Education Planning System. Come discover how the career assessments, up to date industry information and “what can I do with a Major in X” tools on FOCUS 2 will help you successfully navigate your college and career journey.

6) RESUME WEBINAR: FIXING UP YOUR JOB SEARCH TOOLKIT

November 19, 2014, 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm

2-190 NVC

Get ideas about how to give your resume a face lift and fix up your job search toolkit. Discover how to write a results-oriented resume and cover letter that reflect your relevant experience, abilities, and accomplishments. Find out how to present yourself on paper when filling out online applications, sending thank you notes, and more.

7) Build Confidence! Improving Your Interpersonal Skills II

November 19, 2014, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm

2-190 NVC

Part 2 of 2 Build Confidence Workshops: This workshop focuses on the “what to” say and the “verbal content” in interpersonal skills. Wonder how others get ahead or appear to be confident when it is so hard for you? Learn the importance of interpersonal and communication skills. Learn effective strategies to build confidence. Being more assertive helps you in your interviews and job search as well as in school and in your social life.