Advice from YouFolio Networking Event
Earlier this week, YouFolio hosted a networking event for Virginia Tech students. At this event were hiring managers from General Dynamics Information Technology, and they (in combination with the founders of YouFolio) had some great things to say and some pretty solid advice.
What we learned was that, from a recruiter's point of view, YouFolio offers something pretty special: it adds dimension to your portfolio, whereas sites like LinkedIn come across as flat. It really allows your personality to come across through images and experiences. Additionally, it's particularly great for people trying to get jobs coming out of college. On LinkedIn, you list your job history, which, to this point, might only consist of things like "cashier" and "lifeguard." Great for you. And half the kids in the country. On YouFolio, someone looking to hire can see relevant work such as projects, renderings, proposals, white papers, whatever. It's a place where you can show them what you actually learned in school and that you're ready to take on the job they're looking to fill.
Another great piece of advice is to make a 30 second video introducing yourself. Consider it a "personal pitch." Write out what you want to say, get yourself all cleaned up and spiffy looking, get in front of a camera, and sell yourself. It says a lot if you can present yourself effectively. And, of course, upload the video to your YouFolio!
Speaking of cleaning yourself up, for the love of God and all that is holy, make sure you look your best for any kind of interview. (Yes, web interviews count). Flip flops are a no. Shorts are a no. T-shirts, short dresses and skirts, and torn up jeans, you guessed it, are a no.
As far as your interview goes, you know that part at the end where the interviewer asks if you have any questions for them? Yeah, always, ALWAYS have two or three questions. Not having questions is a no bueno. It comes off as you not really caring about the position.
A few other tips that were mentioned were about the application process: when you're building your resume and tailoring it to a specific position, not only should you manipulate it to match the job, you should use EXACT words and phrasing used on the ad for the job. Why? Many times there's an electronic screening process where the computer searches for key words and phrases. In some cases, a recruiter looks at your resume and then hands it off to a hiring manager. This person may not know a thing about the position; they're just looking to see if your qualifications match the listing. You may be exactly what they're looking for, and it may be on your resume in different words, and the recruiter could have no idea. Use the exact words.
If you have taken relevant classes, or were ever a project lead - share it on youfolio! Class projects are great talking points for any interview.
Also, if you're applying online and a company has several listings for the same position, apply for as many of them as you are qualified for!
Lastly, I know this process sort of sucks, but it really is also kind of exciting, so try to soak it all up and enjoy it!
