Tag: Job Seeker Tips

LinkedIn Profile Best Practices

WAI Staff

LinkedIn has become a necessity in today’s job market. It’s one of the first places employers will look to evaluate a candidate, and it remains one of the most powerful tools for job hunting, recruitment and networking. LinkedIn offers a wealth of opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals, build your personal brand and even find your dream job — but you have to know how to use it.

Your LinkedIn profile is your personal brand, your online resume and your virtual business card. This is where potential employers will come to learn more about you, so it’s important to put your best foot forward. Here are nine best practices that every job seeker should know.

A tablet showing the LinkedIn app in the App Store

1. Treat LinkedIn messaging like a professional email.

LinkedIn is not a platform for casual conversations or small talk. When you’re using your LinkedIn profile to communicate with potential employers or recruiters, it is best practice to treat your messaging as a professional email. Use proper grammar, punctuation and capitalization, and always be respectful and courteous. 

If you message a recruiter, address them by their first name. In online culture, Mr. and Ms. sound overly formal. Instead, write a clear, concise message with a friendly tone.

2. If you are open to work, say so! 

One of the most important features to use on LinkedIn when finding a job is the “Open to Work” setting. This lets recruiters know that you’re actively looking for a job. This is different from the #OpenToWork banner that many people overlay on their profile pictures. The setting is private and will only show your preference to recruiters, allowing you to make new connections without worrying about your current employer seeing your status.

3. List all locations you are open to work. 

If you’re using LinkedIn to find a job in the D.C. area, one of the most important details you need to include is your location. However, you shouldn’t just list your current location, especially if you’re open to relocating for a job. It is best practice to add all the cities or regions where you would be willing to work to your LinkedIn profile. This will make it easier for employers to find you when they’re searching for candidates based on location.

4. Select whether you are willing to work remotely. 

Remote work has become increasingly popular in recent years, and many job seekers are looking for opportunities that allow them to work from anywhere in the world. If you’re only interested in remote work, it is a good idea to select that setting on your LinkedIn profile. Keep in mind that, post-pandemic, many companies have adopted hybrid models of working or are back in the office full time. For instance, some companies may require one day per week in the office, or some companies may allow 100% remote work but require that you keep business hours in a certain time zone. If you’re open to hybrid options, our best job search advice is to list geographical locations and your preference to work remotely.

A woman in glasses working on her laptop.

5. Use keywords.

Make sure you’re using keywords in your profile that are relevant to the job openings you’re applying for. For example, if your goal is to become a communications assistant, look at relevant job descriptions from several different companies. If you notice they all mention marketing, creativity and communication, your LinkedIn headline could read, “Creative Marketer with Communications Experience.” Recruiters often use LinkedIn’s search function to find candidates, so using relevant keywords in your profile can help you appear in their search results. If you’re using LinkedIn to find a job, this can increase your chances of being noticed by recruiters who are looking for someone with your specific skills and experience.

6. Keep your LinkedIn profile up to date.

Your LinkedIn profile is not a “set it and forget it” kind of thing. One of the most important LinkedIn best practices is to keep your profile up to date with your latest job experience, skills and achievements. Make sure your headline is clear and concise, and your summary accurately reflects who you are and what you can offer. Update your profile picture regularly, and make sure it’s a professional-looking photo. 

7. Use an appropriate photo (no selfies!).

Speaking of photos, your LinkedIn profile picture is an essential part of your personal brand. It’s the first thing that potential employers will see when they come across your profile, so it’s important to make a good impression. It is best practice to ensure that your LinkedIn profile picture is a professional-looking headshot that accurately reflects who you are. If you have a portfolio website or other professional social media accounts, use the same profile picture on all of them. This will help any prospective employer connect the dots between your different online profilespresences.

8. Be selective. 

Be selective about the job postings you apply to. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of job categories and job postings on LinkedIn, but applying to every job you see isn’t the best approach. Instead, focus on the jobs that are the best fit for your skills and experience, and take the time to tailor your application materials to each position.

9. Be patient!

Finally, be patient. Even with all of these LinkedIn profile best practices in place, finding a job can take time, and it’s important to stay positive and persistent in your job search. 

If you’re using LinkedIn to find a job in the D.C. area, don’t forget that it is also a networking platform. Don’t just use it to search for jobs; be sure to also connect with other professionals in your field. Join groups, engage in discussions and share articles or insights that showcase your expertise. Networking is a powerful tool that can help you get your foot in the door, and it’s essential to building your personal brand on LinkedIn. So keep networking, keep applying to jobs and keep your LinkedIn profile up to date. With time and effort, you’ll find the right job for you!

A LinkedIn profile is an incredibly powerful tool for job seekers — by following these best practices, you can increase your chances of being noticed by recruiters and finding your dream job.

Find Your Next Role with Whitman Associates

If you’re looking for additional support and guidance in your job search, we can help. Whitman Associates is a professional staffing agency serving the Washington D.C. area — we’ve been helping candidates find and secure their dream jobs since 1972! 

Get started by emailing your resume to resumes@whitmanjobs.com. Our team of staffing experts will take the time to review your resume and connect you with job opportunities that match your skills and experience. We look forward to helping you take the next step forward in your career search.

Job Search Advice For The Washington D.C. Job Market

Julie Lindgren, President, Whitman Associates, Inc.

Make the most of your Washington, D.C. area job search with Whitman Associates.

Aerial photograph of Washington Monument

Whether you want to find a new job or have recently moved to the Washington, D.C. area, any job search should start with updating your resume and reviewing interview tips. Be sure to brush up on best practices for remote interviews, as remote or partially remote interviewing is still typical in many industries. When preparing to send out your first application, there are some questions worth considering prior to hitting “submit.”

What is the job market like?

Statistics from the National Conference of State Legislatures show an overall trend of decreased unemployment across the United States. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area’s unemployment rate is notably lower than the national average. The same report goes on to highlight a number of growing industries in the D.C., Northern Virginia and Maryland metropolitan areas.

Growing industries include professional and business services as well as education and health services. These sectors – along with a few others – have seen noted growth in the number of D.C. area residents employed in recent years. For anyone interested in pursuing an office-based career in or around Washington, D.C., now seems like an excellent time to conduct a job search.

A hot job market does not necessarily mean your job search will be smooth and easy. The current landscape presents both opportunities and challenges for job seekers trying to find a job in the D.C. area. Consider connecting with a local employment service, like Whitman Associates, for assistance in finding a job in the current D.C. job market. 

How do I find the best role in the current market?

A hot job market gives candidates the chance to think about long-term career goals. The best role is the one that allows you to meet your current responsibilities while opening up options for the future.

Start by looking at job openings in the D.C. region and consider connecting with a career coach to help you strategize for the future. If you need immediate work, staffing and placement agencies are the best resource to use.

Based on the growing number of office-based roles opening up in the Washington, D.C. area, job search candidates should consider the long-term potential of office work. Keep an eye out for positions with some of the following words in their title:

  • Office Administration
  • Administrative Assistant
  • Program Coordinator
  • Human Resources
  • Legal and Clerical Support
  • Marketing
  • Secretary
  • Communications

These positions are in high demand and can often be entry level roles. Perhaps the best advantage of office work is the ability to connect with people in different industries. Then down the line, you can then utilize those connections to find your next  job in the D.C. metropolitan area.  

As an example, let’s say your job search connects you with a temporary clerical support role at a law firm in Washington, D.C. While in that role, you learn about office operations. That can open a career path leading to higher-level office administration roles. By the end of your placement, you’ll have potentially dozens of new pathways to consider.

I have a job – is now a good time for an upgrade?

Absolutely – you should take full advantage of the DMV area’s hot job market while you can. If you already have a position but are thinking of taking the next step forward with your career, there are resources to help you manage your obligations while finding your next great fit.

Keep an accurate and up-to-date calendar and develop a strategy to make your job search as efficient as possible. Failure to show up on time for an interview or missing a day of work could result in burnt bridges if you’re not careful. Make sure you are familiar with typical traffic conditions and transit options in the D.C. metro area so you’re able to keep all of your appointments.

If your job search goals include changing industries, the current employment market in the Washington, D.C. area presents many opportunities to do so. If you are between jobs  your resume will likely have gaps that can make you less attractive as a potential candidate. One way to avoid this is by taking on a temporary placement in your industry of choice. A temporary role can help bridge the gap between your existing experience and the requirements of your new industry.

Two men shake hands

Connect with The DMV’s top staffing agency

The best thing you can do to aid any job search is to connect with an established staffing agency. Whitman Associates, Inc. has been helping job seekers in Maryland, Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. with their job search goals for over 50 years. Our team members connect top employers with candidates looking to find a job in the D.C. area. Contact our placement team to learn about the latest opportunities.

How to Advance Your Career

Julie Lindgren, President, Whitman Associates, Inc.
diverse women leaders in a modern office

Are you looking for ways to advance your career? You may be seeking to get a job promotion or to go from temp to permanent. While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, there are key things to keep in mind. Here are some tips that will help you get there.

Develop a win-win mindset

The first step in knowing how to advance your career is developing a win-win mindset. You can’t expect to move up if you’re only thinking about what’s best for yourself. Instead, think about the company’s goals and how they align with yours. 

By taking some time to understand what your superior needs and to find solutions to problems, you make everyone’s life easier. If you lead by example, being genuinely helpful to your co-workers and superiors, others will likely follow and it will encourage a sense of community. In a world that celebrates a go-getter, differentiate yourself by being a go-giver. 

Keep learning

There are three things you need to do to advance your career: learn from your mistakes, learn from others’ mistakes and keep learning new things. You can do this by taking classes or workshops, reading books on leadership or management, taking advice from your co-workers and industry professionals, listening to podcasts about industry trends, joining meetups related to your interests and even making friends outside of work who share similar passions as yourself. All these things will help shape how well prepared you will be for future opportunities that come down the road.

Keep in mind that there’s truly no such thing as a stagnant career. When you deeply understand how to get a job promotion or how to go from temp to permanent, you know that your job is set to change in different ways as time passes—and you should be too. That’s why keeping up with the latest trends and technologies is so important to advancing your career. 

Build strong working relationships

The workplace is a social arena, and knowing how to build strong relationships with your colleagues will advance your career and lead to more opportunities for growth. Chat with your team during breaks, or set up a lunch meeting to discuss a professional goal you’re working on and how the team can get involved. Asking about their lives and opinions will help you understand how they think, which will expose you to new ways of thinking. Your co-workers might have insight or tips you’ve never heard of before – even if it’s about the best barbeque place in town or how to get on the boss’s good side. Learning new things and building relationships is key to climbing the career ladder. 

In addition to being friendly and communicative with those around you, it’s also important that you learn how to work well as part of a team. Being able to collaborate effectively—and having others recognize this ability—will make your career prospects much brighter in the long run.

Take ownership of your work

Effective steps to advance your career include taking ownership of what you do and knowing how to do it well. This means that you don’t pass the blame on to others or say “I’m sorry” all the time. When work isn’t getting done properly, it’s up to you to make sure your work gets done correctly and on time. 

Accountability speaks volumes about leadership. In taking responsibility, even if others weren’t clear about expectations from the start, you set the tone that you will be showing up no matter what.

Take initiative

In learning how to advance your career practically, there will be times when you are asked to take initiative and be proactive. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or get involved with new projects if needed. 

If someone asks for help, take it as a chance to learn and offer support. The more confident and skilled you get in your field, the better off you and your company will be in the long run. More importantly, moving from a temp role to a permanent position or securing your chances of getting a job promotion will be a breeze.

Make yourself indispensable

Knowing how to advance your career means you understand that it’s a lot easier to get ahead if you’re the go-to person for everyone else. You know that when there are problems, your co-workers come to you for help. When others need guidance, they run to you first. If you have a reputation for being reliable and results-driven, it means that people will want to work with you and possibly for you. Make yourself indispensable by knowing what needs to be done in a crisis. 

Be trustworthy

If you want to know how to get a job promotion or how to go from temp to permanent, developing a reputation for being honest and trustworthy is a crucial step. This means being a good communicator—you never know who you’re going to be working with, so it’s helpful if people know they can count on you and that what you say will be true. 

In considering how to advance your career, you also need to make sure that the information you share with others is confidential. Keep secrets close at hand and don’t gossip about co-workers or clients. 

Finally, avoid the temptation of becoming a know-it-all. This could alienate those around you professionally and socially, which could lead to negative consequences in both areas moving forward.

Network your way up

The people around you have the potential to help you understand how to advance your career in a variety of ways. They can provide mentorship and support, advise on how to improve your work and find jobs for which you’re well-suited. 
To make the most of this opportunity, build connections and network. Find people who are good at what they do. Asking someone for their insight can be intimidating if they seem far above your level in terms of experience or expertise—but it doesn’t have to be. Usually, they are more than happy to share what they have learned along the way.

If someone has been working in their field for a while, chances are they’ve learned from other people as well. Building a strong connection with one person opens you up to their network of connections as well. If nothing else, asking for help shows that you’re committed enough to your own success – which will not go unnoticed.

colleagues discussing business ideas in the office

A final word

By following our tips on how to advance your career, you can distinguish yourself from the pack. The key to advancing your career is being willing to do the work. You need to be willing to invest in yourself, whether that means investing in books or online courses or taking advantage of any opportunities for training that come up at work.

You also need to be willing to learn new skills by stepping outside your comfort zone and trying new things—even if it feels a little uncomfortable or overwhelming at first. Taking advantage of career coaching or trying out new jobs and hobbies is a great way to push yourself to try new things you wouldn’t have thought about previously.

Lastly, remember that the paths to success are many and they’re not often linear. Let your uniqueness shine through as you advance. 

D.C.’s top-rated staffing agency

If you need help with your job search or finding employees to fill open positions, Whitman Associates is your solution. We help employees find jobs they’ll love, potentially lifting them from temp work to a permanent position in a company. We also help employers by providing top-tier talent from the D.C. metropolitan area. Get in touch with us today to learn how we can help you succeed. 

When to Consider Temporary Work?

WAI Staff

While a full-time, permanent position is ideal for most professionals in the workforce, temporary positions can be a great option for many people who find themselves looking for additional income and/or experience while pursuing that permanent job. Below, we have listed several situations where a short term job could be beneficial to your search for a permanent position. Although, our list is definitely not comprehensive; temporary work can be a great option for just about anyone.

1. Recent College Graduates

  • Temporary work is a great option for recent graduates who do not have a permanent position lined up upon graduation.
  • Temping can help give college graduates more real world, professional experience to add to their resume, especially if you didn’t have internships or work study experience while in school.
  • Utilizing a temporary staffing agency can help fill in the employment gap on your resume between graduation and starting your first permanent position. Potential employers will be impressed to see that you have been working and gaining experience while pursuing more full-time work.
  • Lastly, temporary work can help get your foot in the door with a company that you would not otherwise have access to. If the company you are temping for is pleased with your work, they could consider you for any full-time openings they might have.

women teamwork

2. Filling in the Gap

  • Like with recent college graduates, temp work can help fill in employment gaps on your resume.  Even if the temporary work you are doing isn’t exactly relevant to your career goals, at least you can show a potential employer that you have not been sitting idle while searching for a new position.
  • Temporary work is also a great source of income when you’re in between jobs. While you probably won’t make as much as you were in your last permanent position, a little money is better than no money.
  • Temp jobs can also help expose you to new industries or environments that you might not have had the opportunity to explore otherwise. You might find a new interest or change your career goals after having a great experience temping within a different industry.

two women at computer

3. After Retirement

  • Temp work is an excellent option for professionals who have decided to end full-time careers, but aren’t quite ready to stop working altogether.
  • Part time work can bring in a little additional income or help fill your newly empty schedule.
  • Temping is also a good option because you can do daily or short term jobs, without making a long-term commitment.
  • Temp work can also be a good way for retired military personnel to transition into a civilian work environment.
  • Temporary staffing agencies value your years of professional experience.

4. Re-Entry Professionals

  • Professionals who are reentering the workforce after taking time off from their careers should definitely consider temp work as a way to get reacquainted with the office environment instead of charging in at full speed.
  • Coming back into the job market after a break in your career, to care for children or aging parents, can make it hard for you to start right back where you left off. Temporary work can help you get your foot in the door with an organization, and prove to them that you are ready to rejoin the workforce.

Staffing agencies like Whitman Associates help job seekers to transition into the workforce. Working temporary positions is definitely a positive step in the right direction and will help to find the right role for anyone out of work.

Tips For Job Searching While Employed

WAI Staff

Not all job seekers are unemployed. In fact, a large number of people are job searching while employed. These professionals are looking to make a change from their current positions. Job seekers who are looking for a job while employed must effectively balance their current role while searching for their new role. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Someone typing looking for a job while employed

1. Don’t search for jobs while on the clock

This may seem like a no-brainer, but be sure you keep your current job separate from your job hunt. Your current employer is paying you to work for them, not to job hunt. While employed, do all of your applying and looking for a job on your own time.

This doesn’t just apply to browsing job boards, but also be sure not to use your work phone, email or computer when corresponding with potential employers. Only use your personal contact information when applying for jobs or updating your resume. Within most companies, you are not the only person with access to your work email and call records.

If your employer discovers you’ve been searching for a job while employed and on the clock, it’s likely to be labeled as time theft which can result in a write up or even termination. Looking for a job while employed must be done on your own time.

2. Be considerate of your current employer when scheduling interviews

If you get the opportunity to interview with a new company, whether in person or on the phone, try to schedule it so that you don’t need to take a whole day off from work. It’s best practice to limit how much your job hunt interferes with your current role. That way, you can seek the job you want without tarnishing your reputation at your present place of employment.

While still employed, it is ideal to schedule interviews over your lunch break so that you don’t have to take any time off while job searching. If that is not a possibility, you should try to schedule interviews from your job search first thing in the morning or at the end of the day, so that you can either come in a little late or leave a little early, so as not to miss much work while you are looking for a job.

3. Give plenty of notice before quitting

If you do end up accepting a job offer, make sure to give your current employer plenty of notice. Two weeks notice is the generally acceptable amount of time, but every situation is different. Oftentimes you will help to train the person moving into your job. The more time you have to do this, the more seamless the transition will be. Your current employer will value your dedication, and your new employer will see that you are a loyal employee.

Keyboard with button reading Find Job

4. Utilize a staffing agency like Whitman Associates!

Lastly, using a staffing agency like Whitman Associates can take some pressure off your job searching. Job searching while employed full time can feel like another full time job. Work smarter, and have a staffing agency like us help you with your search. With a large client pool, staffing agencies see new jobs all the time. If you’re looking for a job while employed, get started with Whitman Associates by checking out our current job listings and emailing your resume to resumes@whitmanjobs.com.

How To Become a Recruiter With No Experience

WAI Staff

Thinking about becoming a recruiter but not sure if you’ve got what it takes? You may be wondering, how do I become a job recruiter? Recruiting can be a great field to enter. It has tons of transferable skills and lots of upside benefits. Plus, many recruiters are paid bonuses for filling positions. All in all, it’s an excellent field to enter. But many people think it requires a specific educational background or work experience. Not true! Read on to learn three tips on how to become a recruiter with no experience.

1. Make Sure You Have the Personality

Two men shaking hands

Before exploring how to become a recruiter for jobs, let’s make sure it’s the right field for you. One of the biggest factors in determining if you would be a good recruiter is your personality. While you don’t necessarily have to be an extrovert, some key personality traits are must-haves if you want to learn how to qualify for recruiter jobs in Washington, DC (or anywhere). You’ll need:

  • An eye for matchmaking — Do you just have the instinct for seeing when two people will be a good fit? If so, then you already have what it takes. How to get into recruiting with no experience won’t be difficult with these qualities.
  • Recruiters have to be able to assess personalities and skill sets and match them to positions they will be successful in. 
  • Social media chops — When mapping out how to become a recruiter with no experience, it helps to be comfortable on social media. In today’s world, social media networking is one of the biggest ways that recruiters find matches. So being tech-savvy, having a large following, and knowing how to use your contacts to bring in others are a must. 
  • Positivity — If you don’t have a positive attitude, even during the worst of times, it’s hard to convince anyone of anything. Since so much of a recruiter’s job is hyping up people and positions under any circumstance, a positive attitude is non-negotiable.

2. Make Sure You Have the Education

When contemplating how to become a recruiter with no experience, the next question is whether you need the right degree. Education is a tricky one, because there is no degree in recruitment. So what field should you study? Essentially, you need some education. Recruiters frequently have bachelor’s degrees in HR or management, but this is absolutely not necessary. Do you have a degree in an engineering or science field? Recruit for a tech company.

Are you wondering, how do I become a job recruiter in the education field? Look for a position at a university. Even a lawyer is qualified to be a recruiter. They could work for a law firm or governmental agency. If a field exists in which people need to be hired, then that field’s educational background would work well for recruiting. In short, if you want to know how to become a recruiter with no experience, you probably need an education — but the sky’s the limit on what that education looks like. 

3. Make Sure You Have the Skills

Group of colleagues chatting around a table

When researching how to get into recruiting with no experience, here are four important skill sets that every prospective recruiter must have:

  • Sales Skills — Sales is the number one skill you must have when you want to learn how to become a recruiter with no experience. Recruiting is selling a job to a candidate and a candidate to an employer. If you want to prepare yourself for recruiting, go get a sales job … any sales job. Work at a clothing store and practice making people feel good about what they try on. Work at an electronics store and learn how to match people to the products they need. Try selling cars or other big-ticket items. Whatever sales skills you can develop will go a long way to helping you excel at recruiting.
  • Networking Skills — Networking is not only how to become a recruiter with no experience, it is essential to the success of a recruiter. You have to meet people to connect with people, and that means attending many social gatherings, and doing them well. Looking for a fast track answer for how do I become a job recruiter? Hone your networking skills. Go to networking events both online and in person, create and practice your elevator pitch, volunteer for organizations that you’re passionate about and any other activity that will put you in front of people.. Whatever networking you do will make you a better fit for recruiter jobs in Washington, DC. 
  • Project Management Skills — When looking at how to become a recruiter, you can’t overlook the ability to skillfully manage projects. The recruitment process is essentially a big project. A need is found. A job description is created. The job is posted. The candidates are recruited. Interviews occur. A match is made. Each of these moving parts requires a keen eye for detail and project management to keep the process on track and on time. You’re a step ahead in addressing how to become a recruiter with no experience if you have a knack for managing projects and people. 
  • Resume Writing Skills — Finally, building your own perfect resume is a great way to showcase your talents. Part of learning how to get into recruiting with no experience is to highlight the experience you do have in the best possible light. Your resume should highlight your initiative, your ability to prioritize and multitask, and your communication skills. And as a recruiter, you can put those resume writing skills to use helping others with their resumes!

How Do I Become a Job Recruiter? 

The question of how to become a recruiter with no experience may seem challenging at first. However, by following the guidelines we’ve shared, it’s a fairly straightforward path. Whether you’re seeking recruiter jobs in Washington, DC or elsewhere, following these tips will help you to launch a career in recruitment.

If recruiting sounds like the career of your dreams, don’t let a lack of experience stop you from going for it. Be proactive and apply to as many organizations that you can and be persistent. Temp agencies like Whitman Associates in the Washington, D.C. area frequently post recruiting jobs. One trick in learning how to become a recruiter with no experience is to begin with temporary employment. Temp jobs are typically easier to get and are great for resume and experience building. Check the job listings regularly and apply to each relatable posting. With a little front-end effort, you can chart your own course and learn how to become a recruiter faster than you think!

6 Remote Interview Tips To Nail Your Next Video Interview

WAI Staff
A woman showing excitement and engagement

You’ve got the interview of your dreams, but they only conduct online interviews. In today’s job market, it makes perfect sense. You could be interviewing for a remote position on the other side of the country, or your interview panel may be in various locations. Whatever the reason, video interviews are a standard part of the interview process, so you need to be prepared with video interview tips for remote interview questions and answers. A video interview is much different from an in-person interview. Here are six remote interview tips to make sure you show your best self online:

1. Prepare, prepare, prepare.

You can never (and we do mean never) be over-prepared for an interview. You need to make sure your equipment is ready. Check your internet connection, lighting, video and sound. Make sure you have a full battery on your phone or laptop. Be punctual when logging into a Zoom meeting. Video interview tips include practicing talking via Zoom or another online meeting platform to make yourself more comfortable with the technology. You want to make an outstanding first impression, and being late due to technological issues may negatively affect your interviewer’s perception of you.

Often overlooked in remote interview tips is having your documents ready to share. Just as you prepare for remote interview questions and answers, you should be ready to email your interviewers a copy of your resume, cover letter, references, and sample of your work. Don’t assume they will all have these things sitting before them. Preparation is one of the best ways to express your passion for the role you’re interviewing for. 

Additionally, think ahead of time about all possible scenarios for the interview, such as a request to share your screen. A smart remote interview tip is to keep other applications and browser windows closed so that if you have to share your screen, you’re not sharing anything personal that you don’t want your potential employer to see. Regarding remote interviews, preparation is the most essential ingredient to success.

A microphone and chair to practice interviewing

2. Be purposeful about what you show your interviewer.

You want to make a good impression. One way is by asking your remote interview questions and answers. Another video interview tip is that your video background and environment should reflect your professional qualities. Make sure it’s neutral and without distraction. Want one of our best job remote interview tips? Don’t use a picture of a tropical island or your dog Fluffy (no matter how cute he is!). Moreover, whatever you do, don’t use a video background. Select a neutral, clean and clutter-free space. 

Don’t have that at home? Consider a study room at your local library. Just ensure the lighting is good and the area is free from distractions (this includes windows with lousy lighting or distracting actions like cars driving by). Ensure your mobile’s notifications are silenced! Nothing is more annoying than the constant beeps signaling your latest TikTok post is blowing up. Use these remote interview tips if you want to impress your interviewer.

3. Wear professional attire.

Sure, things are more casual now than they have been in the past, but the fact is that your prospective employer has to see you as professional and trustworthy. Not only can you express this via your remote interview questions and answers, but these attributes are also directly reflected in your attire. One of the most essential video interview tips is always dress as you would for an in-person interview. While that doesn’t always mean wearing a full suit, it should mean that you’re dressed professionally and appropriately based on the job you are seeking. 

Our job remote interview tips wouldn’t be complete without saying that you shouldn’t assume you will only be seen from the chest up. It can be tempting to dress more casually from the waist down, but always think your outfit will be visible to your potential employer.

4. Engage the interviewer.

Video interviews can be challenging, but this is essential in our remote interview tips. It’s hard to come across as excited and interested during remote interview questions and answers when sitting on your living room sofa. Still, you must engage your interviewer and show real excitement for the position you’re interviewing for. To do this, don’t sit back with your arms crossed. Instead, sit forward on your chair with good posture. One of our best video interview tips is smiling and demonstrating positive body language and behavior. Don’t cross your arms, and don’t be afraid to use your hand to gesture as you speak (just don’t overdo it!).

A businesswoman on her laptop while drinking coffee

5. Make eye contact.

This one is tough but essential in our remote interview tips: Look directly into the camera. When you’re not looking at the camera, you’re not making eye contact. That’s a big no-no in the interview world. Always remember to look directly into the camera when answering a question. This can take some practice, especially if you’re on a computer. You can also try using a cell phone instead of an entire computer. The phone’s small screen size will make it easier to come across as having good eye contact, but be sure that it is in a stable position. Regarding remote interview tips, it’s helpful to consider how in-person interview strategies could carry over while engaging in remote interview questions and answers.

6. Don’t forget that you’re an asset.

Finally, our video interview tips would not be complete with reminding you that you are an asset and that your potential employer would be lucky to have you. While you don’t want to come across as arrogant, you do want to remember that the interview process goes both ways. You should be interviewing your potential employer as much as they are interviewing you. Don’t sell yourself short — this is an underrated but essential remote interview tip. Come up with a list of your assets that make you the perfect fit for the job, and work them into the conversation as naturally as possible. And don’t forget to prepare questions to ask your interviewer as well. Potential employers appreciate someone taking the time to consider the position fully. 

By following these six tips, you can make your video interview a spectacular way to show off the positive qualities you will bring to the job!

Check out our blog for more tips and tricks, from writing the perfect resume to nailing your interview. We hope these remote interview tips help you successfully secure a position!

What Are a Marketing Coordinator’s Job Duties, and How To Become One

WAI Staff
Woman giving a presentation on a whiteboard with two people watching

Confused by all of the different marketing positions out there? You’re not alone! There are marketing managers, marketing specialists, marketing assistants, marketing analysts… the list goes on. So let’s take a closer look at one of the many marketing positions: the marketing coordinator. 

What Are the Primary Marketing Coordinator Job Duties?

Typical tasks of a marketing coordinator include entry-level analytics and research related to sales, marketing and development. If you are thinking of changing career paths, it’s important to understand the marketing coordinator’s job responsibilities. In terms of how to become a marketing coordinator, many interviewers will ask questions about your understanding of the role. The specifics of each position vary depending on the specific needs of the employer, but the necessary skills of a marketing coordinator typically include:

  • Conducting market research
  • Analyzing sales data
  • Creating marketing materials
  • Assisting with website SEO
  • Creating marketing timelines
  • Organizing marketing projects
  • Managing digital and social media campaigns
  • Investigating market trends
  • Representing a business at trade shows
  • Collaborating with social media influencers to promote products and services

What Are the Different Types of Marketing Coordinators?

If you want to know how to become a marketing coordinator, it’s useful to understand which type of coordinator you’d like to be. The essential skills of a marketing coordinator will vary depending on the type of work that may be needed by a company. Below are three common marketing coordinator positions:

Digital Marketing Coordinator

Infographic of marketing terms

In addition to the usual marketing coordinator job duties, a digital marketing coordinator’s job description may include managing digital campaigns designed to drive web traffic to a business, handling social media accounts, or managing the content of blogs and websites for a business. Depending on the size of the organization, these tasks may be handled by one marketing coordinator, or by multiple specialized marketing coordinators. Businesses that have a strong online presence, especially with web stores, would be likely to hire this type of marketing coordinator. Candidates with strong computer, social media and internet savvy, as well as strong writers, can learn to become excellent digital marketing coordinators. 

Marketing and Promotions Coordinator

Marketing coordinator job duties can include attending trade shows and events, building relationships with industry partners, and seeking out corporate sponsorships for an organization. When you are a marketing and promotions coordinator, your responsibilities are likely to involve more active and high-profile tactics for building brands and selling products. Having an outgoing personality is a must for this role, as you will be dealing directly with the public and potential customers on a regular basis. This is a good role for those wanting to learn how to become a marketing coordinator for a larger company. Typically, larger companies or nonprofit organizations are more likely to need this type of marketing coordinator based on the job responsibilities. 

Product and Account Marketing Coordinator

The responsibilities of a product and account marketing coordinator may also fall within the duties of a marketing coordinator. This means collaborating with a sales force on building and maintaining a strong client base. They may develop sales programs and informational materials for sales teams, and they often work with other types of marketing coordinators to develop sales plans for specific products. In addition to the typical marketing coordinator job duties, these roles require exceptional people skills, so more outgoing social types are frequently drawn to them and will have success learning how to become a marketing coordinator. Businesses with large sales teams often benefit from having product and account marketing coordinators. 

What Are the Career Prospects for a Marketing Coordinator?

A marketing coordinator’s salary varies based on a candidate’s background. While the marketing coordinator role is often an entry-level position, employers typically require at least an associate’s degree, and often a bachelor’s degree. Some employers may accept industry experience in lieu of a college degree. Marketing coordinator job duties most often include reporting to marketing managers, and with the right experience, these positions can frequently lead to promotions to marketing managers. 

Acquiring the skills of a marketing coordinator can be the first step towards a larger career in marketing. Driven marketing coordinators who are willing to commit to a company can aspire to reach director level and even executive roles with the right education and experience. Additionally, the skills learned in the position easily transition to other companies as well, so career mobility is excellent. 

How To Become a Marketing Coordinator

There are a few ways you can prepare yourself for a marketing coordinator job. 

Education

If you want to pursue a career in marketing, it’s best to prepare by choosing a course of study in that field. The best route to a successful career as a marketing coordinator is to obtain a bachelor’s degree in marketing. Programs that offer concentrations in social media marketing, business analytics or consumer behavior may have particular value to a marketing coordinator’s career. Some larger businesses may require a master’s degree in marketing, while smaller organizations may be willing to accept an associate’s degree and work experience in lieu of a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

Develop the Skills of a Marketing Coordinator

Whether or not you have the ideal educational background, you should do everything possible to accumulate the skills you need for this position. To really learn the various marketing coordinator job duties, job seekers should also try interning or working part-time in marketing, advertising or graphic design while obtaining their degree. The sooner you learn how to become a marketing coordinator, the more opportunities you will have to gain experience.

Job seekers often focus on full-time positions. However, applying for temporary jobs can help you get your foot in the door at a company. A temp position in marketing is a great option for students that will provide them with valuable experience and connections in the marketing world. Look for internships or temp jobs that will help you develop a wide skill set or train you in an area that you may be lacking such as graphic design, web development or social media marketing — all of which are relevant to marketing coordinator job responsibilities. These positions can often be obtained through staffing agencies such as Whitman Associates, Inc., in the D.C. metropolitan area. 

Leverage Your Social Media Profiles

Maintaining a professional and active social profile is beneficial to show that you have the right background to perform marketing coordinator job duties. It will demonstrate your social media prowess as you start to look for jobs. Just make sure that your social accounts are positive and present a professional image. LinkedIn, for example, gives you plenty of space to highlight your skills and experience. Be sure to list any skills of a marketing coordinator that you have. In the current job market, many employers will view your resume online, which provides you with an opportunity to link your social profiles to your resume. 

Keep Your Resume Updated

Finally, make sure your resume is up-to-date, clean, error-free and highlights the in-demand skill sets you possess. Your resume should tell the story of you and be interesting without using nondescript buzzwords. If you’re looking to become a marketing coordinator, tailoring your resume to fit a specific position is a quick way to stand out among applicants. Make sure you highlight areas where the job description and your expertise overlap. 

Take the Necessary Steps To Become a Marketing Coordinator

We’ve explored several options for those wondering how to become a marketing coordinator. This is a great career path for anyone who wants to work in the dynamic field of marketing and possibly advance to even better positions later on. The varied marketing coordinator job duties result in interesting jobs and exciting career paths. By following these guidelines, you can get in on the ground floor and begin a marketing career that will excite and challenge you for years to come!

Resume Writing Tips and Tricks

WAI Staff
Resume checklist next to a laptop

Key Takeaways:

  • Most of the top tips for resume writing include keeping content simple, relevant and easy to scan through.
  • Optimizing your resume for ATS is important, but never do so at the cost of it sounding unnatural.
  • Utilizing AI for resume writing can be helpful, but approach it cautiously.

Your resume should evolve as frequently as your career does, so you should constantly be improving and editing it while on the job hunt. To help, here are some of our top tips for resume writing to keep in mind the next time you update your resume. At Whitman Associates every resume is reviewed personally by one of our recruiters, however it is still important to know how to use AI and optimize your resume for ATS.

1. Make Sure Your Contact Information is Correct

    Our top resume writing tip may seem like a no-brainer, but ALWAYS include your contact information on your resume. An email address and phone number at a minimum are a must on your resume. 

    You don’t need to include your full street address on your resume, but it can be helpful to list your city so that hiring managers know you are in the area. 

    In the same vein, your phone number should be on your resume, so make sure your voicemail is set up and that you can receive messages. While you may not leave voicemails yourself, hiring managers will. When employers hear “mailbox not set up” or “mailbox is full,” this signals to them that you don’t really care if you find work or not. 

    Feel free to include your LinkedIn profile URL if you use LinkedIn regularly. 

    2. Send a Standard File

    Another resume writing tip is to send a Word document or a PDF version of your resume if possible. 

    Shared Google Docs can sometimes have accessibility issues, and you certainly don’t want to send a JPEG of your resume. If you’re serious about optimizing your resume for ATS, this is also important because standard file types are easier for employers and software systems to process correctly.

    3. Use Simple and Consistent Formatting

    A clean resume is much easier for an employer to scan through. Don’t use more than one font for the body and the heading. It’s also helpful to have standard section headings. Even if employers are not utilizing AI to review resumes, internal ATS tools help with searching skills and experience, which is also why it’s important to optimize your resume for ATS using straightforward layouts.

    Here’s an easy-to-follow formatting checklist: 

    • Keep the font simple and readable (such as a 10 or 12-point Times New Roman or Arial).
    • Use PDF or Word file types.
    • Keep the length anywhere from 1 to 2 pages. Longform 8 to 12 page governmental resumes don’t translate well to the private sector. 
    • Use clear and standardized section titles.
    • Make sure the layout is easy to scan.

    Another tip for writing your resume: avoid sending auto-generated Indeed or LinkedIn resume exports when you can. These inevitably have formatting issues when transmitted or emailed outside those platforms. It also tells your potential employer that you didn’t spend much time on your resume.

    4. Don’t Worry So Much About the One-Page Rule

    We see a lot of articles on tips for resume writing that scare job seekers out of creating resumes that are longer than one page. 

    A resume doesn’t have to be one page to be effective. If you have held several relevant positions, it’s completely reasonable to have two pages. What matters is whether the content earns the space. 

    Now, if you have a resume that’s longer than three pages, it’s probably a sign that you have some outdated or unrelated material that you can eliminate.

    5. Showcase Your Strongest and Most Relevant Experience

    Laptop showcasing an executive summary on a resume

    One of the most important tips for resume writing is to try to highlight the work that best matches the role you’re applying for. This might mean you have to make adjustments to your resume each time you send it out, but it also increases your chances of making the biggest impact.

    When listing out the responsibilities for each job, be intentional. If some responsibilities seem irrelevant, either omit them or put them toward the end. Employers don’t have all the time in the world to read through your resume, but if they can get an idea of your strengths and experience on an initial scan, you have a much better chance of making a good impression.

    Using AI for resume writing can be helpful for determining if something is relevant or not. 

    6. Use Active Writing

    An obvious sign of a weak resume is one that sounds passive or overly padded with extraneous adjectives.

    One of the best tips for writing resumes is to start bullet points with active verbs to show what you actually did.

    Use words like:

    • Managed
    • Coordinated
    • Created
    • Improved 
    • Led 
    • Organized

    For example, if you were responsible for handling employee onboarding paperwork at your last job, you might write:

    “Coordinated onboarding paperwork for new hires and maintained up-to-date records.” 

    7. Optimize Your Resume for ATS Without Sounding Robotic

    Optimizing a resume for ATS doesn’t mean stuffing it with a bunch of keywords.

    Instead, you should actually read through job descriptions and identify which terms the employer is prioritizing.

    Here are a few ATS optimizing tips for your resume:

    • Use standard headings (e.g., Experience, Skills, Education).
    • Pull relevant keywords from the job posting to use in your resume.
    • Match the employer’s language and writing style.
    • Don’t overdo it to the point where the writing sounds unnatural.

    8. Highlight the Results of Your Work

    One of the strongest tips for resume writing is to replace your generic duties with accomplishments. Employers respond to measurable value. If you have hard data that highlights some of your top achievements, include it in both your resume and cover letter:

    For instance, instead of this:

    “Responsible for vendor communication.”

    Try this:

    “Coordinated communication with 25+ vendors and reduced response delays by 34% by improving follow-up tracking.”

    Doing so shows scale, action and outcome. 

    9. Use AI Cautiously

    Using AI for resume writing can be helpful, but use it cautiously.

    AI is great for brainstorming and arranging ideas. It can also be a helpful starting point if you want to tailor your resume to different jobs. But if you depend on it completely, your resume will end up sounding generic.

    It’s up to you to re-write, edit and take tips to make it your own.

    Treat AI like a helpful friend. AYou can ask it for advice, but don’t blindly copy what it gives you. 

    10. Proofread, Proofread, Proofread

    If your resume says one of your strengths is “attention to detail,” yet it’s filled with spelling and grammar issues, you’re doing yourself a disservice. It’s one of the biggest resume mistakes we see job candidates make. Double-check (or triple-check) your resume before sending it out.

    Grammarly can be a helpful tool for catching any issues you may have missed during a manual proofread. 

    Send Out Your Resume!

    Of course, the whole point of sharing these tips for resume writing is to ensure you are building a 5-star resume that will help you secure a job. 

    At Whitman Associates, we see hundreds of resumes a week and want to share our tips with you. We work with many job seekers, some looking for temp opportunities to get their foot in the door and others who are looking for their next permanent role. To get started on the search for your next role, send your resume to resumes@whitmanjobs.com.

    Professional Networking on Social Media

    Julie Lindgren, President, Whitman Associates, Inc.

    Is Your Personal Account Really Separate from Your Professional Life?

    It’s no secret that we live in the digital age. Well over half of the global population has a presence on social media, but many people believe that using social media professionally is totally separate from scrolling through your personal feed at home. For serious job seekers, though, social media for professional networking intersects with personal usage all the time.

    A phone screen showing a few social media apps

    Searchable Social Media Presence(s)

    Even when you have your personal account set to private, certain pieces of data are still viewable. This includes your profile picture, how many posts you have, and how many accounts you follow. You—and potential employers—can tell a lot from a simple search.

    In an article well before the pandemic, Forbes explained that “social media is a key player in the job search process today,” and “more than a third of all employers utilize these sites in their hiring process.” We can expect percentages to be much higher now, as employers and job seekers alike have grown more used to conducting business online and using social media professionally. The application of social media for professional networking is a common, even expected, facet of the workforce.

    Employers commonly browse the social media of prospective employees, evaluating character and personality. This includes aspects such as whether the job seeker:

    • Maintains a standard of professionalism, including politeness and respect. For instance, a hiring manager may rule out a candidate if they see them make derogatory comments on Twitter. It’s best to always keep in mind that your social media is for professional networking, even when you think it’s a personal rant.
    • Seems like a good fit for the company culture. Companies often use social media as a tool for evaluating candidates’ behavior and preferences.
    • Has the qualifications appropriate for the position. Resume truth distortion is usually easy to spot through a quick social media search. Your presence on social media typically represents your actual employment and education history.
    • Demonstrates a genuine interest in and passion for their field. For example, a publishing company looking to hire a new marketing specialist will probably love seeing a candidate who has a clearly cultivated presence on Instagram where they review books.
    A smiling woman seated at a table holding a notebook

    Be The Best Version of Yourself

    When considering your personal and professional social media, it’s most important to still be yourself online. When you try too hard to use social media professionally, perhaps liking every post from your dream employer, you may end up coming across as inauthentic.
    Posting personal updates and pictures shows off your personality, but it’s best to consider a broad audience. The “Grandma Rule” is a good principle. If you wouldn’t want your grandmother to see it, don’t post it. Even if you have separate accounts, you probably have friends and family members following your professional account, or colleagues and classmates following your personal account. It’s best to assume that your coworkers will see your posts to err on the side of safety and professionalism.

    The Connectivity of Social Media

    It’s called social media for a reason. It’s fun to browse on TikTok or scroll through an Instagram feed, but even these platforms aren’t just or primarily for entertainment: social media is for professional networking. While LinkedIn is traditionally associated with networking, there are so many other ways to connect with peers, past employment sources, prospective colleagues and employers, and more. Connections across various social media presences often bridge the gap between personal and professional. Now, more than ever, we discover networking opportunities through our personal social media. 

    Smart job seekers will maintain an active presence on social media, cultivating their participation to be both authentic and impressive. You can be the one to link others to prospective opportunities, like connecting a colleague with your own personal contacts, and see the same energy and benefit come back around to you. Through social media, you can make connections with people you would never otherwise know. There’s a potential opportunity for you to find your dream job through social media connections.

    Use Social Media to Your Career Advantage

    In conclusion, seeing your personal and professional social media presences as totally separate will not serve you well. Professional behavior matters everywhere. When you understand the intersection of personal and professional social media, you can use your presence on these platforms to your career advantage. Professional networking on social media is generally expected now, so don’t be afraid to try it.

    If you’re ready to take your career to the next level, let Whitman Associates help you. We have contacts we would love to share with you. Simply email your resume to resumes@whitmanjobs.com to get started.