Career Resources

Explore and define your vision by setting achievable milestones and aligning your actions with your goals. A well-defined plan empowers you to make informed decisions and adapt with confidence as your career evolves.

Explore:

• Roadtrip Nation shares real-world career stories and insights from people across diverse fields, helping you explore your interests, define goals, and plan meaningful career paths.
• Myfuture offers free, unbiased tools and guidance to help you explore education, careers, and financial planning as they map out their next steps.
• Level All offers personalized, expert-crafted resources and planning tools to help you explore careers, college paths, internships, and financial readiness.
• MyMajors provides profiles for over 1,800 college majors, including descriptions, courses, related careers, salaries, and schools offering each major to help guide your education and career planning.
• Teach for America provides tools, networking platforms, and curated guides to advance education-sector and cross-sector career paths.
• Olympic College Programs by Interest - once you know your interests, you can explore OC programs that align with those career paths.

Define your vision and start mapping your plan while exploring:

• Find Career Ideas Worksheet
• Career Development Plan Worksheet
• NACE Career Readiness Competencies, then take the NACE Self-assessment

• Guide to Post-Graduation Success

Career planning starts with setting clear, achievable goals. Use the SMART framework to take charge of your future, one step at a time.

Resources to get started:

• SMART Goal Examples
• New Graduate's Guide to Career Planning

SMART Framework:

• S - Specific
  Who, what, when, where, and why?

  Example: “I want to land a summer internship in marketing by applying to 10 companies by March.”

• M - Measurable
  Track your progress with a clear outcome that will show you have accomplished it.

  Example: “I’ll submit 2 job applications each week.”

• A - Attainable
  Goals should stretch you, but still be realistic.

  Think: “Can I do this with the time and tools I have?”

• R - Relevant
  Make sure the goal aligns with your long-term plans, connecting to your true direction.

  Ask: “How does this support my career vision?”

• T - Timed
  Set a deadline to stay motivated.

  Example: “I’ll have my resume reviewed by next Friday.”

You can explore career options by talking to people who are doing the work. This can be done through an informational interview, a 20-30 minute conversation with a professional giving you opportunities to ask questions, gather current and first hand information, and learn what people do on a daily basis. Check out our informational interview guide for more tips on how to request and conduct an informational interview.

• Industry Professionals
• Recruiters
• Friends & Family
• OC Faculty & Staff
• Alumni

On My Next Move, O*NET OnLine, and CareerOneStop you can take free career assessments to identify your interests, values, and strengths. These tools help you explore potential career paths that align with who you are and what matters to you.

• Interest Profiler
  • Take a short assessment to discover what types of work match your interests.
• Occupations by Interest
  • Explore career options grouped by interest areas and learn about job duties, wages, and required education.
• Olympic College Programs by Interest
  • Once you know your interests, you can explore OC programs that align with those career paths.

Washington Career Bridge is Washington State’s free online career and education exploration tool. It helps students and job seekers discover career paths, compare education programs, and access labor market data to make informed decisions about their future.

Washington Career Bridge

Washington Occupational Information Service (WOIS)/The Career Information System allows you to complete online career assessments and explore a wide range of resources. 

Note: A site key is needed to access this system, email @email.

Personality assessments are designed to assess a person’s motivations, preferences, interests, emotional makeup, and interaction style with people and situations.

• Dependable Strengths offers activities to help you explore and identify your strengths as a starting point for career exploration by reflecting on your skills, talents, and academic experiences.
• Meaningful Work Kit is a tool designed to help you identify and prioritize the elements of work that make you feel fulfilled and energized.
• VIA Strengths helps you identify your core character strengths. Research shows that using these strengths can boost confidence, happiness, and positive relationships, while reducing stress and anxiety.
• 16 Personalities is based on the Myers-Briggs framework. It provides in-depth type descriptions, including insights into communication styles, strengths, and career guidance.
• Human Metrics offers a personality assessment based on Carl Jung’s and Isabel Briggs Myers’ typological theories. It provides a type formula, personality profile, key strengths, and career and education suggestions tailored to your type.
• Enneagram describes nine interconnected personality types, each with three subtypes. These are grouped into three centers of intelligence: instinctive, feeling, and thinking.

*While personality assessments can offer valuable insights, it’s important to use them as just one tool in your decision-making process.

Please note:

• These tests capture only certain aspects of your personality and don’t account for factors like your passions, values, or real-world experiences.

• Career interests and strengths can evolve over time, so what fits now may not be the best fit in the future.

• Real-world factors such as market demand, salary expectations, and personal experiences should also play a role in your career decisions. 

  • Occupational Outlook Handbook - Bureau of Labor Statistics

Resume Building Templates

• Resume Building 
• Resume Template
• Resume Checklist

Sample Resumes

• Business, Accounting
• Communications, Digital Technology
• Film
• Human Services
• Military to Civilian, Organizational Leadership
• Nursing
• Office Assistant
• Running Start
• Welding
• Federal Specific Resume (Only pertains to USAJobs.gov)

Sample Letters

• Cover Letter Template
• Networking Letter for Informational Interview
• Thank You for the Interview
• Resignation Notice
• References Page

Study the Job Description Carefully

1. Identify what is most important to the employer:
   1. Key Qualifications  
   2. Skills and Abilities 
   3. Experience 
2. Identify “buzz” words (use same words on your resume):
   1. Industry jargon
   2. Skills
   3. Abilities 
   4. Experience
   5. Equipment (industry-specific tools, systems, software, machines, programs, technology, etc.)

Determine Resume Format

1. Chronological: List work history in reverse chronological order. Use if you have:
   1. Relevant work history in your field of interest
   2. A consistent work history with no significant gaps
2. Functional/Skill-Based: Focus on transferable skills gained through education and past experiences. Use if you have:
   1. Little, older, or no work history
   2. No direct experience in the field
3. Combination: Emphasize both skills and experience. Use if you have:
   1. Relevant transferable skills
   2. Solid work history in other or related fields

Prioritize Order of Information

1. Name and contact information at the top of a resume.
2. Objective or Professional Summary:
   1. Objective is only recommended for career fairs and networking 
   2. Professional Summary is typically recommended for industry-experienced career professionals

3. Most Relevant Information:

   1. Prioritize skills, education, or experience that directly match the employer’s needs (based on the job description). For example:

   2. If education is a key requirement, list it first.

   3. If years of experience with a specific skill are emphasized, highlight that first.

4. Subsequent Information:

   1. Arrange additional details (e.g., work experience, certifications, volunteer work) based on their relevance to the employer’s needs, prioritizing the most important content near the top. 

5. Keep It Concise:

   1. Limit the resume to 1-2 pages. Ideally, they should see that you are qualified on the first page! Ensure the most important qualifications and skills are visible first to capture the employer’s attention quickly. 

   2. Federal resumes are typically longer than traditional ones, ranging from 2 to 5 pages, depending on your experience and the job requirements. Aim for a length that clearly outlines your experience, skills, and qualifications tailored to the specific position.

Do Not

1. Do not include information that is not relevant to the job or personal information such as birth date, physical factors, marital status, pictures, etc. 
2. Do not use 'I' or "my" statements on a resume. (focus on action-oriented language).
3. Do not list references. Create a separate reference page including the reference’s name, company, title, and contact information (have the list available at the interview).

Do

1. Use industry language, acronyms, and terminology.
2. Use descriptive action verbs and maintain proper verb tenses (e.g., present for current roles, past for previous roles).
3. Pay close attention to grammar, spelling, spacing, and overall document organization.
4. Proofread thoroughly and have someone else proofread as well.
5. Use white or off-white paper, preferably resume paper, with at least 11-12 point font for readability.

Explore and discover skills required for different roles using O*NET OnLine.

• Customize for each job (mirror the language in the job posting).

• Quantify results when possible (percentages, dollar amounts, timelines).

• Show context how you applied the skill through specific experiences and examples, not just that you have it.

Soft Skills (Transferable Across Most Jobs)

• Communication (verbal & written)
• Time management
• Problem-solving
• Team collaboration
• Adaptability
• Critical thinking
• Leadership
• Conflict resolution
• Attention to detail
• Customer service

Job-Specific Technical Skills 

General / Office

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides)
• Data entry
• CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot)
• Project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Trello, Asana)
• IT & Software Development: Programming languages (e.g., Python, JavaScript, C++)
• SQL / Database Management
• Web development (HTML, CSS, React)
• Git / GitHub
• Network troubleshooting
• Design / Creative: Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
• Canva
• UX/UI design
• Video editing (e.g., Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro)

Marketing

• SEO/SEM
• Google Analytics
• Social media platforms & tools (Hootsuite, Buffer)
• Email marketing (Mailchimp, Constant Contact)

Finance / Business

• QuickBooks
• Financial modeling
• Budgeting & forecasting
• Excel (advanced functions: pivot tables, VLOOKUP)

Healthcare

• Electronic Health Records (EHR/EMR)
• Patient scheduling software
• Medical coding (CPT, ICD-10)
• HIPAA compliance

Skilled Trades

• Blueprint reading
• CNC machine operation
• OSHA safety standards
• Welding (MIG, TIG)
• HVAC systems

Engineering

• AutoCAD / SolidWorks / CATIA / Creo
• MATLAB / Simulink
• Microsoft Excel (advanced: macros, pivot tables)
• Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus)
• Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
• Python / C++ / Java (for automation or analysis)
• PLC Programming / Ladder Logic
• Project lifecycle (PMP, Agile, Six Sigma)
• Technical documentation / specification writing
• Tolerance analysis / GD&T
• Engineering standards (e.g., ASME, ISO, IEEE)

1. Begin your Search Early!
   • Apply to full time roles 2-3 months before graduation.
   • Recruiting Timelines
   • For internships, the earlier the better, you can start looking as soon as your first year of college!
     • About Summer Internships for College Students
     • Tip: Don’t just look for any internship, look for the right one. The best internships grow your skills, expand your network, and move you closer to your career goals.
2. Search on Job Boards
   • Use platforms like Handshake, CareerOneStop, O*NET OnLine, USAJobs, WorkSource, Idealist (non-profit employers only), and LinkedIn.
   • Filter by location, industry, experience level, and more.
3. Visit Company Career Pages and Sign up for Job Alerts
   • Go directly to the websites of companies you're interested in.
   • Check their Careers page regularly and sign up for job alerts to be notified of new openings.
4. Attend Job Fairs and Virtual Hiring Events
   • Participate in on-campus, local, or industry-specific job fairs.
5. Use Alumni and Professional Networks or Associations
   • Connect with alumni through LinkedIn.
   • Join professional associations in your field, many have exclusive job boards and networking opportunities.
6. Apply to Rotational or Training Programs
   • Many large companies offer new grad programs or rotational roles that give broad experience.
   • Look at companies in finance, tech, healthcare, or consumer goods.

*Be aware of jobs scams - more info at Federal Trade Commission Consumer Advice page.

Internships can shape your career path, open doors, and give you a major edge in the job market. Don’t just look for any internship, look for the right one. The best internships grow your skills, expand your network, and move you closer to your career goals.

What Makes a Great Internship?

1. Meaningful Work
   • You are not just shadowing, you are contributing to real projects that make a difference.
2. Skill Development
   • You gain practical experience, whether it’s technical tools, communication, or industry knowledge.
3. Mentorship & Support
   • You have access to a mentor or manager who provides guidance, feedback, and answers to your questions.
4. Positive Work Culture
   • You are welcomed into the team, included in activities, and respected for your contributions.
5. Fair Compensation
   • Whether it’s paid or offers other benefits (like stipends or perks), your time is valued.
6. Clear Goals & Structure
   • You have defined responsibilities, timelines, and expectations, no confusion about your role.

Red Flags to Avoid

• Vague job descriptions
• No clear mentor or supervisor
• Promises of “exposure” instead of pay or learning
• High turnover or consistently poor reviews online
• You’re asked to pay fees or sell something upfront

LinkedIn Learning is available at no charge through your local Washington public library, and at your local WorkSource Center.

Free Software and IT Certification for Washingtonians
Certification is the best way to validate skills and knowledge to employers, to increase employability and wages. Washingtonians are eligible to receive free certification prep resources, and exam vouchers to become certified in dozens of software applications like Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Cloud, Quickbooks, and entry-level IT and computer science certifications. Contact your local Washington public library, or the State Library, to learn more.

Mental Health First Aid Certifications
The Office of Well-Being & Health Promotion offers Mental Health First Aid Certification courses for free to all students and staff at OC! More info here!

Trades Training: Start Preparing for a Trades Career
Explore and start your career on the right path with FREE trades education through the Path to Pro Skills Program.

Multicultural Services
NextGen LEADER Program and Community Leadership Institute

Attending a job fair is a great opportunity to connect with employers, explore career options, and practice professional networking. Preparing ahead of time and following up afterward can help you stand out and make meaningful connections. Even if an employer is not hiring right now, networking at a job fair can lead to future opportunities. Every conversation is a chance to build a professional connection.

Before the Fair

• Research employers: Review the list of employers attending the fair. Learn about their organization, open positions, and the skills they seek. This will help you ask informed questions and show genuine interest.

• Prepare your materials: Bring multiple copies of your resume, tailored to your field or industry. Consider bringing a folder or portfolio to keep materials organized.

• Practice your introduction: Prepare a brief 30-second introduction that includes your name, your program of study or experience, and the type of opportunities you are seeking.

• Dress professionally: Wear clean, neat, and professional attire. Business casual or business professional is usually appropriate unless otherwise stated.

During the Fair

• Plan your approach: Take a quick walk around the fair to see which employers are present. Visit your top choices early, while you are fresh and lines are shorter.

• Make a strong first impression: Greet employers with confidence, make eye contact, and offer a firm handshake. Introduce yourself clearly and professionally.

• Ask thoughtful questions: Instead of asking only if they are hiring, ask about company culture, typical career paths, or what skills they value most in candidates.

• Take notes: After speaking with each employer, write down key details about the conversation. This will help when you follow up later.

• Collect contact information: Ask for a business card or the best way to follow up. This shows professionalism and interest.

After the Fair

• Follow up promptly: Send a brief thank-you email within 24–48 hours. Mention something specific from your conversation and express your continued interest.

• Apply and reflect: Apply to positions discussed at the fair and review your experience. Identify what went well and what you can improve for future events.

Before the Interview

• Dress Smartly and Neatly: Ensure your hands, nails, hair, face, shoes, and clothing are tidy and well-groomed. Avoid strong fragrances to keep the focus on your professionalism.
• Prepare Your Documents: Organize all essential materials, including your resume, school certificates, letters of recommendation, work samples, and any other documents relevant to the role. Have them in a professional folder or portfolio.
• Bring the Essentials: Carry a pen, a notebook, money, and any personal items you may need. It's also smart to have a power bank for your phone just in case.
• Double-Check the Details: Write down the date, time, and location of the interview, along with the company’s full address, phone number, and area code. Keep this information easily accessible, such as in your phone or wallet.
• Know the Location and Parking: Research the company’s address, parking options, and the best route to take. Identify on-site or nearby parking, and plan to arrive at least 10-15 minutes early to allow for potential delays and ensure you have time to get to the interview location and mentally prepare. If the building has multiple entrances, make sure you know where to go once you arrive.
• Learn the Interviewer’s Name: Make sure you correctly pronounce and spell the interviewer's name. A little attention to detail shows respect and preparation.
• Attend Solo: Plan to go to the interview by yourself to ensure you appear confident and focused.
• Prepare for Common Questions: Review your personal and professional qualifications. Be ready to answer the common question, “Tell us about yourself,” in a concise yet impactful way, highlighting your strengths and alignment with the role.

During the Interview

• Arrive On Time and Solo: Aim to arrive on time, allowing for any unexpected delays. Attend the interview alone to maintain a professional focus.
• Present Yourself with Confidence: Greet everyone with a confident yet approachable demeanor. Politely inform the receptionist of your name and who you are meeting with.
• Professional Introduction: When meeting the interviewer, offer a firm handshake, smile genuinely, and introduce yourself clearly.
• Wait to Be Seated: Stand until invited to sit, demonstrating respect for the interviewer’s space and time.
• Stay Composed: Sit comfortably while maintaining a confident and composed posture. Remember to stay focused and calm throughout the conversation.
• Avoid Distractions: Refrain from vaping, chewing gum, or engaging in any other distracting behaviors during the interview.
• Think Before Responding: Take a brief moment to consider your answers. Be truthful and specific about your skills, experiences, and how they align with the role. Avoid broad or generic responses like “Anything.” Instead, focus on how your expertise fits the needs of the company.
• End on a Positive Note: Close the interview politely by thanking the interviewer for their time and the opportunity to discuss the role. For example, “Thank you for the opportunity to speak with you today. I look forward to the possibility of working together.”

Need clothing? Let us know how we can help.

How to choose an interview outfit

The right interview outfit can help you feel confident and professional. Here are some specific tips on how to dress for your next job interview:

1. Research the company’s dress code.
2. Choose clothing that matches the climate and season.
3. Check for wrinkles, pet hair or any noticeable defects.
4. Ensure clothing is wrinkle-free.
5. The night before the interview lay out or hang up your outfit to save time.
6. Use your best judgment and don't overthink it.

What not to wear to a job interview:

1. Clothing with a stain, snag or holes.
2. Clothing that doesn't fit properly.
3. Clothing that makes you feel self-conscious or needs to be readjusted as you move.
4. Anything that's uncomfortable.
5. Clothing or accessories that will be distracting or draw too much attention. (Creative industries have more flexibility with this suggestion, as long as nothing you wear will distract from what you have to say.)

Want more details? Check out this guide: Professional Dress for Interviewing

Handling Illegal Interview Questions

Tell me about yourself.

Keep it concise and focus on showcasing how your experiences make you ready for the role you're applying for! Start with your background. Briefly mention your current educational status (e.g., major, year in school, relevant studies). Highlight key experiences or skills. Mention relevant projects, internships, or extracurricular activities that have helped you develop valuable skills. Show enthusiasm for the role. Explain why you're excited about the position and how it aligns with your goals or interests. Conclude with why you're a good fit. Wrap up by explaining how your background and skills make you a strong fit for the position.

What are your weaknesses?

This is the most dreaded question, according to many job seekers. The best way to handle this question would be to minimize your weakness and emphasize the strengths you will be bringing to the position. Avoid any discussion on personal qualities and concentrate on professional traits: “I am always working on improving my communication skills in order to be a more effective presenter. I recently enrolled in a public speaking class at Olympic College, which I find very helpful.”

Why should we hire you?

The best answer to this question would be to summarize your prior work experiences: “With ten years of experience in the financial industry and my proven record of reliability, I could make a big difference in your company. I’m confident that I would be a great addition to your team.”

Why do you want to work here?

The interviewer is looking for an answer that indicates you have given this some thought and are not sending your resumes just because there is an opening. A response to this question may be: “I’ve selected key companies whose mission statements are in line with my values, where I know I could be excited about what the company does and your company is very high on my list of desirable choices.”

Why did you leave (are you leaving) your current position?

If you are currently unemployed, be sure to state your reason for leaving your previous position in a positive context: “I was able to survive three rounds of corporate downsizing, but the third round was a 15% reduction in the workforce, which included my position.” If you are employed, focus on what you want in your upcoming position: “After three years, I made the decision to look for a company that is team-focused, where I will be able to add to my current work experience.

What can you do for us that other candidates can’t?

Ask yourself, “What makes me unique?” You may want to make an assessment of all of your experiences, skills, and traits.  Be sure to summarize concisely: “Because of my past military experience, I have a unique combination of strong technical skills as well as the ability to build strong customer relationships. This combination allows me to use my knowledge to break down information in a more user-friendly way.”

What are three positive things your last boss would say about you?

It’s time to reexamine your employment portfolio and pull out your previous performance appraisals and boss’ feedback.  This is a great way to brag about yourself through someone else’s words: “My supervisor has told me that I am a great designer, he can always rely on me, and that he likes my sense of humor.”

When were you most satisfied in your job?

The interviewer wants to know what motivates you in the workplace. If you can relate an example of a job or project that you completed in school or at a prior work position in which you were excited, the interviewer will get an idea about your idea of preferences. An example might be, “I was very satisfied in my last job, because I worked directly with the customers and their problems. I felt a lot of satisfaction with helping customers find the right answer.”

What salary are you seeking?

It is to your advantage if the employer tells you the range first. However, if that does not happen, prepare yourself ahead of time by educating yourself about the going rate of employees in your area, and your bottom line or walk-away point. One possible answer might be: “I am sure when the time comes, we can agree on a reasonable amount. In what range do you typically pay someone with my background?”

What are your career goals?

Sometimes it is best to talk about short-term and intermediate goals rather than locking yourself into the distant future. For example, “My immediate goal is to obtain a position in a growth-oriented company. My long-term goal is to eventually grow into a position of responsibility at this organization.”

How do you handle disagreements with your co-workers or supervisors?

Don’t say that you never have any. Pick a situation, even a hypothetical one, and describe how you would work through it.  For example, “If I were to come to a disagreement with my supervisor, I would recommend that we have a discussion, in private, about the situation. If no mutual agreement could be reached, I would consent, unless I felt compelled to stand my ground on moral or ethical issues.”
 

The STAR method is a structured way of answering behavioral interview questions by discussing a Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Below are several situation-based STAR questions along with example answers to help you understand how to craft your own.

1. Tell me about a time you worked on a team project.

Situation:
In my second year of university, I was part of a team of four for a marketing class project.

Task:
We were assigned to create a marketing plan for a local business and present it to the class.

Action:
I took the lead in organizing our meetings and dividing up the work. I also created the presentation slides and helped another team member with the research section when she was falling behind due to personal issues.

Result:
Our team received one of the highest grades in the class, and the professor complimented our coordination and creativity.

2. Describe a time when you had to meet a tight deadline.

Situation:
During finals week, I had three major assignments due within two days, including a research paper for my psychology class.

Task:
I needed to complete a 10-page paper while managing two other projects for different classes.

Action:
I created a detailed schedule for that week, broke the paper into smaller sections, and dedicated blocks of time each day. I also limited distractions by studying in the library.

Result:
I submitted all assignments on time and received an A- on the research paper. I learned how planning ahead helps manage stress and deadlines.

3. Tell me about a time you faced a conflict with a teammate.

Situation:
While working on a group assignment, one team member wasn’t contributing equally and kept missing meetings.

Task:
We needed everyone’s input to complete the assignment on time, and the rest of the group was frustrated.

Action:
I reached out to him privately to understand what was going on. He explained he was overwhelmed with other responsibilities. We agreed on smaller, manageable tasks for him, and I shared my notes with him to catch up.

Result:
He became more involved and was able to complete his part. We submitted a solid project and maintained a positive team dynamic.

4. Give an example of a goal you set and how you achieved it.

Situation:
At the start of my semester, I wanted to improve my public speaking skills.

Task:
My goal was to become more confident during presentations, as I often got nervous and spoke too fast.

Action:
I joined the debate club and volunteered to present during group projects. I also practiced speaking in front of a mirror and asked friends for feedback.

Result:
By the end of the semester, I delivered a presentation that my professor complimented for clarity and confidence. I felt much more at ease speaking in front of others.

5. Tell me about a time when you had to learn something quickly.

Situation:
During my internship at the campus IT help desk, a student came in with a problem I hadn’t been trained to fix yet.

Task:
I needed to solve the issue quickly while making sure I didn’t give incorrect information.

Action:
I looked up the issue in the internal support guide and also asked a senior team member for a quick walk-through. I took notes so I could remember it for next time.

Result:
The student’s issue was resolved within 15 minutes, and my supervisor appreciated my initiative in handling it efficiently.

Asking thoughtful questions during an interview shows that you’ve done your research, are engaged, and are serious about succeeding in the role. Below are some strong questions that recruiters appreciate hearing from students and early-career candidates:

What does a typical workday or week look like?

Ask this question in your interview with a hiring manager. It demonstrates curiosity about the daily responsibilities and shows you're eager to understand the work environment.

Why did you choose to work for this company?

This question encourages the recruiter or manager to share their personal perspective, giving you insight into the company culture and values.

Does the organization offer a mentorship or coaching program?

This question highlights your commitment to professional development and becoming a strong contributor.

What internal or external training opportunities are available?

This is another question that signals your interest in ongoing learning and doing the job well.

How does the organization approach strategic planning? Who is involved, and how often does it occur?

This question shows demonstrates that you understand organizational structure and are thinking critically about how the company sets and achieves goals.

How would you describe the company culture?

This question helps you and the employer assess whether there's a good cultural fit.

What is the typical career progression for someone in this role?

Avoid making it sound like you're only interested in how quickly you can get promoted. Focus on learning about growth opportunities and how success is measured over time. This question shows you're thinking long-term and are interested in growing within the company.

What is the compensation range for this position?

Don’t make this your only question and only ask if the information hasn’t been provided elsewhere (such as in the job posting). Pose it amid questions about the company and don’t ask it at all if the information is available elsewhere.
 

Always remember that this is the beginning of your relationship with an employer, and how you negotiate helps set the tone for that relationship. In many cases, employers expect candidates to negotiate and often extend an initial offer toward the lower end of their approved salary range. When done professionally and respectfully, negotiation can demonstrate confidence, preparation, and self-advocacy, qualities employers tend to value. Asking for too little may leave you at a disadvantage throughout your time with the company, while asking for too much, or being overly aggressive, can create a negative impression before the relationship has a chance to develop.

Before the Negotiation

1. Express gratitude: Begin the negotiation process by thanking the employer for the offer. Show genuine enthusiasm for both the role and the organization.

2. Be prepared: Do your research ahead of time. Understand your market value and learn as much as possible about the employer before initiating the discussion. Use online tools to:

   1. Research industry standards and average salaries for the position in your location

   2. Understand the job market, company culture, and the value you can bring to the organization

   3. Determine your financial needs and priorities (such as living expenses, student loans, and savings goals). Keep in mind these factors are for your own clarity and not something you need to share during negotiations.

3. Assess your priorities: Decide what matters most to you: salary, equity, benefits, flexibility, or growth opportunities. Clarifying your priorities will help you define your terms and determine whether the company is the right fit.

4. Know your skills: Be prepared to clearly explain the skills and experience you bring to the role and the value you will add. Consider whether your skills are in high demand and decide which strengths to emphasize during the negotiation.

5. Determine your desired compensation: Based on your research and priorities, establish a reasonable salary range. Remember that compensation is more than salary alone. You may also negotiate items such as relocation or moving expenses, a signing bonus, or additional annual vacation days upfront.

6. Prepare to negotiate by email: Draft a concise outline explaining your reasons for negotiating. Highlight your qualifications, relevant experience, and the value you offer.

7. Send the email: Contact the hiring manager or HR representative who extended the offer. Express appreciation and indicate that you would like to discuss certain aspects of the offer.

During & After the Negotiation

• Present your case clearly: Communicate your request confidently and professionally. Justify your proposal by referencing your skills, qualifications, and industry standards.

• Be honest, but strategic: There is no advantage to lying in negotiations, you risk far more than you gain. At the same time, you do not need to disclose more information than necessary, including detailed personal finances or salary history. Share what is appropriate based on the situation.

• Consider the total compensation package: Look beyond salary alone. Be open to trade-offs that improve the overall value of the offer. Creative solutions can help meet your goals while allowing the company to remain fair and flexible. 

• Remember, negotiation is a two-way street: Be open to compromise and consider alternative options if the employer cannot meet every request.

• Listen actively: Pay close attention to the employer’s response. They may have valid reasons for how the offer is structured. Understanding their perspective can help move the conversation forward.

• Request written confirmation: Ensure all agreed-upon terms are documented in writing, especially if discussions take place by phone or in person.

• Accept with gratitude or decline politely:

  • If the company meets your needs, accept the offer professionally and express enthusiasm for joining the team.

  • If the offer does not align with your priorities, decline gracefully. Thank them for the opportunity and leave the door open for potential future collaboration.

Online Tools for Salary Data & Budgeting

The first step to being career ready is to define exactly what "career ready" means. The Career Center works with the key Career Readiness Competencies established by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). Developing a strong skillset in these eight competencies will prepare you for successful entry into the workforce. 

Are you career-ready? Take the self-assessment to learn how the NACE Career Readiness Competencies are demonstrated!

8 Core Skills For Career Success

1. Career & Self Development: Proactively develop oneself and one’s career through continual personal and professional learning, awareness of one’s strengths and weaknesses, navigation of career opportunities, and networking to build relationships within and without one’s organization.
2. Communication: Clearly and effectively exchange information, ideas, facts, and perspectives with persons inside and outside of an organization.
3. Critical Thinking: Identify and respond to needs based upon an understanding of situational context and logical analysis of relevant information.
4. Global/Intercultural Fluency: Cultural sensitivity, respect, openness and the ability to learn from people of diverse backgrounds, experiences, and local & global cultures.
5. Leadership: Proficiency in leveraging the strengths of others to achieve common goals; using interpersonal skills to coach and develop others.
6. Professionalism: Knowing work environments differ greatly, understand and demonstrate effective work habits, and act in the interest of the larger community and workplace.
7. Teamwork: Build and maintain collaborative relationships to work effectively toward common goals, while appreciating diverse viewpoints and shared responsibilities.
8. Technology: Understand and leverage technologies ethically to enhance efficiencies, complete tasks, and accomplish goals.

Adapted from the NACE Career Readiness Competencies (naceweb.org)

First Impressions Matter

Your arrival, appearance, and attitude set the tone for your professional reputation.

• Dress appropriately for your workplace’s dress code. Neat, clean, and professional attire shows respect for the organization and your role.

• Arrive on time or a few minutes early, for work, meetings, and deadlines. Punctuality demonstrates reliability and respect for others’ time. 

• Greet people respectfully and introduce yourself confidently to new teammates.

Communicate Clearly and Respectfully

Strong communication builds trust and collaboration.

• Use professional language in emails, chats, and in-person conversations; proofread written communications before sending. 

• Be mindful of tone and clarity, what you say and how you say it both matter. 

• Listen actively in conversations and meetings, avoid interrupting, and respond thoughtfully.

Respect People and Space

Respectful behavior promotes a positive and productive workplace.

• Treat everyone, colleagues, supervisors, and support staff, with courtesy and professionalism.

• Respect personal and shared spaces (e.g., desks, kitchens, meeting rooms). Clean up after yourself and observe unwritten norms. 

• Be considerate of noise, volume, and workspace boundaries.

Be Reliable and Accountable

Dependability builds confidence in your abilities.

• Meet deadlines and follow through on commitments.

• If you’re unsure about something, ask questions, seeking clarity is a strength, not a weakness. 

• Own your work and be willing to learn from mistakes.

Use Technology Professionally

Digital communication and presence are part of your professional image.

• Keep personal phones silenced and use them only during designated breaks. 

• Follow company IT and communication policies, use email, messaging, and shared platforms responsibly.

Understand Workplace Culture

Every workplace has its own norms, learning them helps you fit in comfortably.

• Observe how others interact, dress, and communicate to understand expectations. 

• Be open to feedback and aim to grow professionally with each interaction.