SU Alumni Association

SHIP Alumni Career Newsletter

March 2015 Edition

March 25, 2015
In This Issue
Employer Perspective: References Will Matter
Opportunity for Career Networking
Virtual Job Fair Coming next Month
Highlighted Job Postings
Career Assistance
Join Our Mailing List!
Quick Links
Welcome to the March edition of the Alumni Career Newsletter!
Employer Perspective

References Will Matter

By James Carchidi, CSP-Executive Vice President, JFC Staffing Companies   

It is never too early to begin developing a network of qualified references that can validate your skills and experience levels. In order to be prepared, have this information ready for any interaction with a potential employer. (According to a survey done by the Society for Human Resource Management, more than 80% of employers conduct reference checks on all candidates.) Information typically requested includes: dates of employment, eligibility for rehire, salary history, employability, an assessment of teamwork skills, level of communication skills, and an evaluation of how the reference feels you would fit with the proposed position. Employers may also look to verify any education or certifications that are listed on your application/resume.

 

Who can I use as a reference? 

Usually, employers check a minimum of three references. Be sure your references are responsive people, can verify your skills, attest to your personal strengths, and provide information regarding your education and/or employment history. Not every reference has to address every area; however, be sure you provide contacts who can jointly answer each question. References do not need to be limited to employers or supervisors. Co-workers, instructors, business acquaintances, customers, professionals who work in the field or industry you are hoping to enter, or leaders of volunteer organizations you have joined are all acceptable references. Refrain from using family members or clergy -- they are not seen as "objective."

 

Can I coach my references? 

It is a good idea to acquaint your references with your goals and background. Inform each reference of the skills and traits you plan to emphasize during your career search. Above all else, always tell your references to be honest and thank them for their time and effort. Also, share a resume with them prior to them serving as your reference.

 

It's Not TOO Late! Career Opportunity for Networking

Pathways to Success Student/Alumni Career Conference - April 7  

This program is coordinated by the Shippensburg University Career Center & University Relations/Alumni Office  

This is an excellent event! Hear from alumni speakers around a variety of career topics and take advantage of the excellent opportunity for networking and getting possible job leads. The conference will have two different times for breakout sessions so even alumni working full-time are able to attend. Register at www.ship.edu/career and Click on Upcoming Events. For questions or to receive additional details,contact ladavis@ship.edu.

 

Session 1: 11:00AM - NOON & Session 3: 3:15 - 4:15PM

Workshop Titles: Applying is a Process; Selling YOUR Skills in an Interview; Don't Discount That - How to Strengthen your Resume.

 

Session 2: 12:15 - 1:15PM & Session 4: 4:30 - 5:30PM

Workshop Titles: Face Contact-The Importance of Networking; Great Expectations-Understanding your 1st Position; SHIP Up or SHAPE Out.

 

Keystone/Networking Reception: 1:30 - 3:00PM

The keynote speaker is Lori Pizzarro '95, Owner and Creative Director of The Design Department. She will speak on Marketing and Branding yourself for an ever-changing work place. 

Virtual Job Fair Coming next Month!

Virtual Job Fair for Shippensburg University Alumni! 

Join Shippensburg University and the Central Pennsylvania Employment Consortium(CPEC) for a summer virtual job fair. April 15 - July 15.

  

Alumni Job Seekers: Sign up, search positions and submit your resume. Free to all alumni job seekers!

 

To access the virtual job fair, go to www.cpec.info and click on the "Virtual Job Fair". If you need assistance getting your resume ready to apply, contact University Relations at alumni@ship.edu or 717-477-1218. 

Highlighted Job Postings

These companies are looking to hire SHIP alumni. You can find out more about these opportunities as well as other opportunities on Ship Career Connection. Learn how to access SHIP Career Connection at http://www.ship.edu/Alumni/ACES/Job_Postings/ 

  

 

Multi-Media Sales Executive, Harrisburg, Gatehouse Media/The Record Herald

Associate Systems Engineer, Chambersburg, Orrstown Bank

Distribution Center - Area Supervisor, Hagerstown, MD (84935), Home Depot Direct Fulfillment Center

Distribution Center - HR Coordinator, Hagerstown, MD (90808), Home Depot Direct Fulfillment Center

Associate Brand Manager, Harrisburg, NEW WORLD PASTA

Account Executive - Inside Advertising Sales, Conshohocken, Professional Sports Publications

County Caseworker I - Berks County Children and Youth, Reading

Free Career Assistance

If you need assistance on marketing yourself or preparing yourself for an upcoming job search, let us help you. Get a free critique and advice on how to market yourself better. Email us at alumni@ship.edu or 717-477-1218.  

 
University Relations
Shippensburg University Alumni Association
717-477-1218
717-477-4071 (Fax)