The Student News Site of Weber State University

The Signpost

The Signpost

The Signpost

The Signpost

Latest YouTube Video

How to Get a Job in Today's Economy

Weber State University’s West Center in Roy held a “How to Get a Job in Today’s Economy” workshop last week with a large audience. Of the many workshops held at the WSU West Center, this crash course sent participants out for their next job interview feeling confident and prepared.

Some of the basic “do’s” and “do not’s” of a job interview are so often forgotten and it’s more than just remembering to brush your teeth. Last Wednesday’s workshop led by WSU longtime employee Pat Wheeler, reviewed some of the most important aspects of preparing for a job interview.

During her presentation, Wheeler covered some vital “do’s” of getting a dream job.

“Don’t be afraid to talk about some of the things you do outside of work and your work experience,” Wheeler said. “Employers are often looking for someone to add some life to the work space as well as the man or woman for the job.”

Those who attended contributed to the discussion with personalized questions that were all answered by Wheeler.

“It was good to dust off those techniques that are easily forgotten. I could start contacting the companies a few days after the interview and the idea of sending a thank-you-letter was a great reminder. I’ve learned about these but this was a fresh review about my resume. It brought up a different array of aspects about the resume in getting a job,” said Paul Finster, an alumni of WSU and masters student. “I need to revamp my resume.”

Wheeler encouraged all workshop leaders at the West Center to create a hands-on atmosphere for those attending any workshop. There was no exception at Wednesday’s workshop.

According to one participant, it is necessary to always carry a resume on-hand and always have a 30-second elevator pitch ready for an unexpected ride with the CEO.

“There’s nothing phony about the thank you card. Have one ready in your car and leave it for the receptionist before you head home after the interview,” Wheeler said. “Prove to an employer that you go the extra mile.”

Every key topic from the logistics of creating a resume and cover letter to how to act and dress in the interview were discussed.

“The course drove a lot of points home,”  said Scott Dixon, a graduate of WSU. “The interview processing has changed a little bit since a few years ago and it’s good to stay fresh with things to watch for and be aware of when you’re looking for jobs.”

According to Wheeler, the Weber State coordinator of recruitment and career development from the Goddard School of Business and Economics, she has led many courses similar to this involving purely students and also enjoys working with these more diverse groups.

“I like working with so many participants in this course that have a little more experience and are trying to move in a different direction,” Wheeler said. “I strongly believe and have seen that if you prepare and do things we went over, you have a very good shot in trying to get an employer to look at you. I don’t believe that there’s any good or bad major. If you prepare for interviews well, you have just as good of a chance as anybody.”

The West Center of Roy holds many other workshops. Some that are coming up soon includes; Conquering Test Anxiety, Secrets of Managing Your Time Effectively, Achieving Balance: School, Work, and Family, and other workshops all before the end of the semester. More information about the workshops can be found at www.weber.edu/west.

Leave a Comment
More to Discover

Comments (0)

Comments written below are solely the opinions of the author and does not reflect The Signpost staff or its affiliates.
All The Signpost Picks Reader Picks Sort: Newest

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *