Tag: employment

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How to Avoid Becoming a Boomerang Kid

By Stephanie Burke, Social Media Assistant and Account Executive
Recently, many of my friends have graduated and none of them are completely thrilled about it. When they come back to visit their friends still attending school, they say things like “Don’t leave Chico, stay here as long as you can!” 
My personal opinion about why they aren’t happy is because they are currently sleeping at their parent’s house in their old twin-size bed. No one wants to go from complete freedom to checking in with your parents before you leave the house. So why go back? Before you graduate, take some time to figure out how you can get a job and move into an apartment right after graduation. Here are some helpful tips to make it happen.
1. Make a Plan
Write down your goals. David Kohl, a professor at Virginia Tech University, says people who write down their goals on a regular basis can earn nine times more in their lifetime than people who don’t. Include in these goals where you would like to live, what job you would like to have, and what company you would like to work for. Writing down goals will help you realize what’s important to you in life and how you must allocate your time and money in order to succeed.
2. Internships, Internships, Internships
Not only do internships give you experience, but they also expand your network. Jeff McGuire of Collegeview.com says, “In today’s competitive job market it’s not just what you know, it’s what you know and who you know that often makes the difference.” Having quality internships will help you get that dream job much faster.
3. Avoid Debt and Save Money
If you know you won’t be responsible with a credit card, don’t get one. Unfortunately, many college students already come out of college with a large amount of debt because of high tuition, living expenses, etc. Save money any way you can. Make coffee at home, eat out only when you’re celebrating special occasions, and if you can, get a part-time job. 
4. Calculate How Much You Owe for Student Loans
Like stated before, many students have student loans, but also aren’t quite sure how much it’s going to cost them to pay the money back. Figure it out now before you graduate so you know what type of expense you’re in for. 
And finally, the most important thing to remember as a student is, it’s never too early to start thinking about your future.
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First Impressions

By Gregory Bloom, General Manager

Hello everyone and welcome back to a brand new semester. I hope the summer was either as action packed or uneventful as you desired.

Whatever the warm summer months might have brought you, a new school year is upon us as well as an opportunity to step up your game as a professional.

Whether you are a public relations student or a graduate taking your first step into the professional world, here are some important tips to keep in mind when meeting business clients for the first time.

-BUSINESS CASUAL, BUSINESS CASUAL, BUSINESS CASUAL!
Not to sound uptight, but first impressions mean everything in this business. Do your best to make the most positive first impression possible by dressing like a professional. For men, this means IRONED khakis, a button-up shirt, dress shoes, a good haircut and either be clean-shaven or have a well-trimmed beard. A sloppy appearance will make it difficult for a client to respect your abilities. If you can’t make yourself look good, how are you going to make your client look good? According to this survey conducted by MSNBC.com, good looking bosses are considered more competent than their less attractive colleagues. Shallow? Maybe. But why shoot yourself in the foot when it comes to respect in the office?

–It’s about your client, not necessarily you.
Remember this might be the first time your client has worked with a public relations team before. Make sure you get them comfortable communicating their needs with you.  Creating good rapport with your client will help you down the road when things get hectic. This article from eHow.com lists some great ways to instantly create relationships with people you meet.

-Create a working relationship with your team
After meeting your client, discuss with your team how each team member will contribute. Be clear on each team member’s expectations and hold each other accountable.

With these tips in mind, your efforts to create a working relationship with your client will come easier.

“You might well remember that nothing can bring you success but yourself.” – Napoleon Hill.