Aggie CAREER SUCCESS Your professional development starts here! - Career Guide
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Your professional
development starts here!
Aggie
CAREER SUCCESS
Handbook
Aggie Career Success Handbook Contents INTRODUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 General Office Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 How to Use This Aggie Career Success Handbook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Información General de la Oficina. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Cómo Utilizar Este Manual de Éxito Profesional de Aggie. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 How to Use the HireAggies Portal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 careercenter.tamu.edu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Special Populations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 DISCOVER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Creating a Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Discover Your Passion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Choosing a Major. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Exploring Career Value Activity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 EXPLORE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Career Readiness & Skills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Career Exploration Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Informational Interviewing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Utilizing Find An Aggie. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 How to Send a Professional Email. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 PREPARE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Creating an Effective Resume. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Action Verbs for Your Resume. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Creating an Effective Curriculum Vitae (CV). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Skills Self-Assessment Workspace. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Cover Letter Outline. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 References. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Thank You Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 In-Person Professionalism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Digital Professionalism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 How to Digitally Network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Build Your LinkedIn Profile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Federal Employment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
SEARCH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Gaining Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Starting Your Search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Job Search Ethics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Company Research Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Elevator Pitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Dress for Success. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Career Fairs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Common Interview Styles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Virtual Interviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Before, During, and After the Interview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Sample Interview Questions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
CONSIDER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Offers, Salary/Compensation Evaluation and Negotiation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Thinking About Graduate or Professional School? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Tips for Writing a Personal Statement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Professional School Advising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Outline Your Experiences for Professional School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Professional School Advising Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
STAY CONNECTED. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
You’re a Former Student! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Former Student Career Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
RESOURCES & INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Employer Information Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Resources at Texas A&M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Content Inspired by. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
NOTICE: Federal law prohibits any discrimination by an employer based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national
origin, or non-job-related physical or mental disabilities. If you feel that you have been discriminated against, you
should inform a member of the professional staff at the Career Center.
Production and design by Nan Mellem Publishing • www.nm-publishing.com
© Copyright 2021 Texas A&M University Career Center. All Rights Reserved.No part of this publication may be reproduced without written
permission of Texas A&M University Career Center. NMP retains copyright on NMP Library Articles and grants Texas A&M University Career
Center non-exclusive rights for use in the Aggie Career Success Handbook.
Texas A&M University Career Center, 209 Koldus Building 1233 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-1233.
www.careercenter.tamu.edu
CORPORATE PARTNER PROGRAM
Maroon Partner
Gold Partner
4 AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK careercenter.tamu.edu
Silver Partner careercenter.tamu.edu AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK 5
INTRODUCTION
IN THIS SECTION:
• General Office Information
• How to Use This Aggie Career Success Handbook
• Información General de la Oficina
• Cómo Utilizar Este Manual de Éxito Profesional de Aggie
• How to Use the HireAggies Portal
• Special Populations
6 AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK careercenter.tamu.edu
General Office Information
Career Center Main Telephone: 979-845-5139
Location: Suite 209, John J. Koldus Building
Career Center Website: careercenter.tamu.edu
Professional School Advising: tx.ag/opsa
Professional School Advising Main Telephone: 979-847-8938
Social Media: @tamucareercenter
Email:
Current Students: cc_advisor@tamu.edu | Former Students: fscshelp@tamu.edu
Drop-In Advising: tx.ag/ccdropin
Schedule an appointment: tx.ag/ccappointment
Calendar of Workshops, Career Fairs & Career Panels: tx.ag/careercalendar
Hours:
Recruiting season (last October to mid-November & mid-March to mid-April): Monday-Friday, 7:30am-6pm
All other times: Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm
Mailing Address:
TAMU Career Center, Suite 209, John J. Koldus Building, 1233 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-1233
In addition to drop-in and appointment advising, the Career Center offers programs and workshops on a
variety of topics including internship search strategies, salary evaluation and applying to graduate school, just
to name a few. Additional resources and topics are also available on careercenter.tamu.edu.
How to Use This Aggie Career Success Handbook
When to Use the Aggie Career Success Handbook
Start now, and continue as you need it. On page 13 of this Handbook, you will find a Plan broken down into
recommended action steps to complete during your years at Texas A&M. If you actively plan your career
from the beginning of your time at Texas A&M, you will have developed the competencies to help make
you ready for hire by the time you graduate.
Navigation “Did You Know?” Tips
Each section of this Handbook has its own table of contents to remind you
On many pages, we’ve pulled out
what’s on each page in that section.
the crucial information and/or
helpful additions into a “Did You
Don’t Just Read It, Interact With It Know” box.
The Handbook is designed to be an interactive resource to help you in your
career planning efforts.
INTRODUCTION
Throughout the Handbook, you will find prompts asking you to answer questions, complete statements,
or highlight, circle, or check things from a list. We encourage you to make this Handbook your own.
Complete activities, place comments in the margins, and highlight important sections!
The more you interact with the Aggie Career Success Handbook, the more helpful it will be.
You Are Not Alone
Career planning can be overwhelming, but your Career Advisor and the rest of the Career Center staff are
here to help you navigate the process.
careercenter.tamu.edu AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK 7
Información General de la Oficina
Teléfono principal del Career Center: 979-845-5139
Ubicación: Suite 209, Edificio John J. Koldus
Enlace del Centro de Carreras: careercenter.tamu.edu
Asesoramiento escolar profesional: tx.ag/opsa
Teléfono principal de asesoramiento escolar profesional: 979-847-8938
Medios de comunicación social: @tamucareercenter
Correo electrónico:
Estudiantes actuales: cc_advisor@tamu.edu | Alumnos: fscshelp@tamu.edu
Asesoramiento directo: tx.ag/ccdropin
Programe una cita: tx.ag/ccappointment
Calendario de talleres, ferias profesionales y paneles profesionales: tx.ag/CareerCalendar
Horas:
Temporada de contratación (de septiembre a mediados de noviembre y de febrero a mediados de abril): de
lunes a viernes, de 7:30am-6pm
Todos los demás horarios: de lunes a viernes, de 8am-5pm
Dirección postal:
TAMU Career Center, Suite 209, Edificio John J. Koldus, 1233 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-1233
Además de asesoramiento sin cita previa y citas, el Centro de Carreras ofrece programas y talleres sobre una
variedad de temas que incluyen estrategias de búsqueda de internado, evaluación de salarios y solicitud
de ingreso a la escuela de posgrado, solo por nombrar algunos. También hay recursos y temas adicionales
disponibles en careercenter.tamu.edu.
Cómo Utilizar Este Manual de Éxito Profesional de Aggie
Cuándo utilizar el Manual de éxito profesional de Aggie
Empiece ahora y cuando lo necesite. En la página 13 de este Manual, encontrará un plan desglosado en pasos
de acción recomendados para completar durante sus años en Texas A&M. Si planifica su carrera desde el
comienzo de su tiempo en Texas A&M, habrá desarrollado las competencias que lo prepararán para ser
contratado cuando se gradúe.
Navegación “¿Sabías?” Consejos
Cada sección de este Manual tiene su propia tabla de contenido para
recordarle lo que hay en cada página de esa sección. En muchas páginas, hemos
sacado la información crucial y / o
adiciones útiles en un cuadro de
No Se Limite a Leerlo, Interactúe Con Él “¿Sabía usted?”
El Manual está diseñado para ser un recurso interactivo que le ayudará en
sus esfuerzos de planificación de carrera.
INTRODUCTION
A lo largo del Manual, encontrará indicaciones que le piden que responda preguntas, completa declaraciones
o resalte, encierre en un círculo o marque cosas de una lista. Le animamos a que haga suyo este Manual.
¡Complete actividades, coloca comentarios en los márgenes y resalta las secciones importantes!
Cuanto más interactúe con el Manual de éxito profesional de Aggie, más útil será.
Usted No Está Solo
La planificación de una carrera puede ser abrumadora, pero su Consejero de Carrera y el resto del personal del
Centro de Carrera están aquí para ayudarlo a navegar el proceso.
8 AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK careercenter.tamu.edu
How to Use the HireAggies Portal
careercenter.tamu.edu
What Should I Know About Launching the HireAggies Portal?
HireAggies is our career portal where you can find internship, co-op, and job
postings; connect with employers; conduct mock interviews; research careers
and access many resources. Through the portal, you have access to thousands of
opportunities and over 4,000 employers!
Did You Know?
❑ Access HireAggies: You can access the portal by Check out this video for
going to the Career Center homepage and clicking more help with the portal:
on the blue “Launch HireAggies” button in the upper tx.ag/HireAggies101
right hand corner. Click on the “Student” button to
enter the portal.
❑ Update your information: Go to “My Account” ❑ Check out the Events tab: Here you will find
to fill out any missing information. The “Personal” upcoming programs, workshops, employer
tab is where you enter your student information information sessions and virtual career fairs. Some
and address. The “Academic” tab is where you will events will require you to RSVP, which you can do by
enter information that will help your job search. clicking on the blue RSVP button below the event.
Although much of the information is optional, it is Pay close attention to the details of the event for
recommended that you fill out as much as possible information on date, location and time.
to improve the chances of landing the job you want.
❑ Research Employers: Go to the “Employers” tab on
The “Privacy” tab allows you to control the types
the left sidebar. You can search by company name
of notifications you will receive from HireAggies.
or by industry type. Read about the company, see
There is an option to include your resume in the
active job postings, upcoming events, and recruiter
resume books requested by employers. This allows
contact information (if available).
employers to view your resume and contact you
directly about job opportunities, information ❑ Conduct a mock interview: Practice your
sessions, or interviews. You are able to opt for this interview skills. Go to the “Resources” tab on the left
service if you like. sidebar and click on “Mock interviews”. You can use
a template that has already been created or you can
❑ Upload your documents: Go to the Documents
create your own set of questions.
link in the sidebar to access “My Documents”.
Documents can be a resume, cover letter, ❑ Schedule an interview: An employer will notify you
unofficial transcript, etc. It’s a good idea to upload via email if you’ve been selected for an interview.
your documents in a PDF format with a simple To sign up for an interview time slot, simply log
name, such as “Firstname Lastname Resume” or into HireAggies and click on “Interviews” in the
“Firstname Lastname Cover Letter.” left sidebar. You will be able to see requested and
scheduled interviews in one spot.
❑ View job postings and create customized
searches: To view internships, co-ops and full-time ❑ Additional Resources: Access national databases
postings, click on “Jobs” on the left sidebar and then like CareerShift and GoinGlobal that are expanded
go to “Search”. You can also see previously posted job boards and resources. You can also access
INTRODUCTION
positions by clicking on “Expired Jobs” on the top Jobs for Aggies for part-time student employment
menu. Looking at previous job postings allows you opportunities. These resources can be found by
to learn about skills and knowledge required for scrolling to the “Jump To” section on the homepage
different types of jobs. and clicking the desired resource to access it.
Employer information sessions are great networking opportunities
and are usually held prior to the employer’s interview date.
careercenter.tamu.edu AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK 9
Special Populations
First- and Second-Year Students
As a freshman or sophomore, you may be thinking
that it is too early to visit the Career Center. Not true!
In order to be a competitive candidate in the future,
visit your career advisor, ask questions, and let us help
you to explore potential careers. We have advisors
specifically for first and second-year students!
tx.ag/firstsecond
First Generation
If you are the first member of your family to attend
college, you have reason to be proud. Our Career
Center advisors are skilled in helping you access and
use resources and opportunities available to you as an
Aggie. Throughout college, you will have experiences
that develop marketable skills. We want to help you
articulate those experiences in ways that help you find
a career that matches your interests.
tx.ag/ccfirstgen
International Students
Being an international student, you have the cultural
communication skills and global awareness many
employers are seeking. But you may be limited
by USCIS employment regulations. Check out the
resources the Career Center offers to help you
maximize the effectiveness of your job search.
tx.ag/ccinternational
LGBTQ+
There are no right or wrong answers or rules when
job searching, only what is right for you. Visit with our
Career Center liaison for LGBTQ+ students and the
LGBTQ+ Pride Center on campus to learn more about
finding jobs that meet your unique needs and goals.
tx.ag/lgbtqplus
INTRODUCTION
10 AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK careercenter.tamu.eduSpecial Populations continued
Master’s & PhD Students
We have specialized advisors who can provide in-depth
information about master’s and doctoral career options
and will work closely with you to develop actionable
career plans. Throughout your graduate experience,
you will develop many skills such as technical expertise,
problem-solving, teamwork, communication, and more.
Dive into an Individual Development Plan (IDP), such as
the Center for Teaching Excellence’s IDP, ImaginePhD,
myIDP, or ChemIDP, to match those skills with your
career interests and values and then identify industry,
government, non-profit, and academic career options
based on your preferences. Our website provides in-depth
resources for graduate student career exploration and job
searching. tx.ag/ccgrad
Student-Athletes
As a student-athlete, you bring a unique skillset to any
career field you choose to pursue. The Career Center
has dedicated Career Advisors assigned to work with
student-athletes of all majors.
tx.ag/CCAthletes
Students with Disabilities
The Career Center works with the Department of Disability
Resources to provide assistance and resources to students
with disabilities. Our staff members are trained to serve
the unique needs of students with disabilities who are
planning for their careers and seeking employment
opportunities.
tx.ag/ccdisabilities
Veterans
Since 1919, Texas A&M University has supported veterans
and military affiliated students. The Don & Elli Knauss
Veterans Resource and Support Center is a valuable
resource available to student veterans. Check out the
following website for additional information and resources
to help with career planning. Thank you for your service
INTRODUCTION
and we look forward to helping you plan your future
career! Utilize our Career Center, which includes staff
members that work specifically with Veterans, as well as
the Don & Ellie Knauss Veterans Resource and Support
Center for specific assistance!
tx.ag/ccveterans
careercenter.tamu.edu AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK 11DISCOVER Interests & Majors
IN THIS SECTION:
• Creating a Plan
• Discover Your Passion
• Choosing a Major
• Exploring Career Value Activity
12 AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK careercenter.tamu.eduCreating a Plan
• Build your profile in HireAggies (pg 7)
• Meet with a career advisor to identify and explore career
options (pg 5)
• Identify interests, skills, work values, and personality traits
AWARENESS
through career assessments (pg 12)
• Explore career options by using the Aggie Network and
LinkedIn to set up informational interviews (pg 18)
• Research majors, careers, industries, and employers (pg 14)
• Attend career fairs and career development events
(tx.ag/CareerCalendar)
• Join student organizations and professional associations
related to your desired career
• Use Career Center resources to learn about resumes, cover
letters, interviewing and professional networking
EXPLORATION • Register for Career Exploration Days (pg 18)
• Develop a plan to gain experience and build skills —
consider and search for an internship or co-op (pg 38)
• Continue attending career fairs and career development
events
• Upload your resume to www.vmock.com/tamu for instant
feedback
• Decide if graduate or professional school is necessary for
your career goals (pg 48)
• Build your professional network (pg 19)
EXPERIENCE • Fine tune your interview skills by doing a virtual mock
interview through the HireAggies portal
• Evaluate and edit your plan to experience and build skills —
consider and search for a co-op or internship
• Continue attending career fairs and career development
events
• Continue to follow the graduate/professional school
timeline, if applicable
• Identify professionals who are willing to serve as references
TRANSITION • Find full-time job opportunities and keep a back-up plan in mind
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to each job application
DISCOVER
• Continue attending career fairs and career development
events
Schedule a meeting
careercenter.tamu.edu AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK 13Discover Your Passion
PERSONALITY
What are
your natural
preferences?
VALUES YOUR SKILLS
What is important What are you
CAREER
to you? good at?
INTERESTS
What do you
like to do?
Career Self-Assessments
Assessments can help you better understand key attributes about yourself, giving you an
awareness of your interests, values, skills, and abilities. The Career Center offers several resources
to help you identify and explore career options. You can access the following resources by logging
into your HireAggies portal. These are available to all current and former students.
• SIGI3: Offers a series of surveys you can complete that will help you with career and major
exploration
• Career Finder: Online assessment to explore your interests by asking you to consider certain
types of work activities
• Career Explorer: Gathers information from the U.S. Department of Labor’s O*Net online. It
compiles careers and industries and is an easy-to-search tool
• The Career Insider by Vault: Explore Careers (you can find this under the Career Advice tab)
Discover the best profession for your skills and interests with in-depth profession overviews
DISCOVER
Not sure how to interpret your results?
Schedule a meeting with your Career Advisor today!
14 AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK careercenter.tamu.eduChoosing a Major
CHOOSING A MAJOR is an important decision for all college students. Keep in mind
that one major can lead to many different careers, and one career can be reached
through many different majors.
Figure Out
Who You Are
Self-awareness is an important part of
finding a career path that fits with your values,
interests, skills, and personality.
REFLECTION &
SELF-DISCOVERY
Study What
You Enjoy & Get Explore
Involved Careers
Your major does not define your career path!
Conduct research on careers related to what
You will be more motivated to attend class if
you’ve learned about yourself. Use some
you are interested in what you are studying.
of the tools mentioned on the previous
Engage on campus, and remember
page. You can also conduct informational
experiences help to better understand
interviews.
your values, interests, personality, and
skills. There are so many ways to
get involved at Texas A&M.
DISCOVER
Need help with your self-discovery?
Visit Counseling & Psychological Services for MBTI, Strong Interest Inventory, and Focus2
careercenter.tamu.edu AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK 15Exploring Career Value Activity
Where to Start Exploring Careers and Related Majors
If you are concerned about A few simple steps to begin exploring
choosing a major or the majors and careers:
approach you’re taking in
making the choice, ask yourself: 1. Take a look at the complete list of
majors offered at Texas A&M, and
• Do I feel confident in my read the descriptions as well as the
ability to make a good required courses. Course catalog:
choice? https://catalog.tamu.edu
• Am I concerned about
2. Think about these questions as you
what others will think of my
read about the majors:
choice?
• Which courses will I be most
• Do I feel the need to
interested in studying?
conform to others’
expectations? • Which major appeals most to my
learning style?
• Am I putting pressure on
myself to make a choice • Which major suits my academic
that will stick? abilities? Am I committed to
doing the work required?
• Am I limiting myself only
to the majors I know about • How might this major contribute
through family and friends? to my acquiring the knowledge
and skills for career paths that
• Am I feeling pressure to
interest me?
make this decision quickly?
• Am I hesitant to reach out 3. Research majors and careers that
to professionals to learn relate to your interests, the skills
more about their careers you would like to strengthen and
and how they prepared use, and the knowledge you would
academically? like to gain and apply. Remember
that involvement in activities on and
Make an appointment with off campus can expose you to new
your Career Advisor to work interests and may reveal strengths
through these questions you did not know you have.
when making a decision about
selecting a major.
Revisit these exercises and questions throughout
DISCOVER
your career to see what may have changed
16 AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK careercenter.tamu.eduExploring Career Value Activity continued
What skills are you most motivated to strengthen and use?
Highlight any of the career-related skills from
the lists below that appeal to you.
Analytical Creative
Analyzing Composing
Budgeting Conceptualizing
Computing Designing
Evaluating Integrating
Forecasting Performing
Researching Visualizing
Communication Management/Leadership
Interviewing Building teams
Listening Coordinating
Negotiating Envisioning
Persuading Implementing
Promoting Leading
Selling Managing
Speaking Organizing
Writing Setting goals
Physical/Technical Relationship
Demonstrating dexterity Advocating
Building Collaborating
Inspecting Counseling
Installing Demonstrating sensitivity
Operating equipment Instructing
Repairing Providing care and support
Serving clients/customers1
For additional skill and interest research, consider speaking with your career advisor, utilizing a
career assessment, or reviewing skill development options through LinkedIn Learning!
DISCOVER
careercenter.tamu.edu AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK 17EXPLORE Careers & Industries
IN THIS SECTION:
• Career Readiness & Skills
• Career Exploration Days
• Informational Interviewing
• Utilizing Find an Aggie
• How to Send a Professional Email
18 AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK careercenter.tamu.eduCareer Readiness & Skills
2
(National Association of Colleges & Employers Competencies)
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.
What Is Communication
Career Readiness? Clearly and effectively exchange information, ideas, facts, and
perspectives with persons inside and outside of an organization.
Career readiness is
a foundation from
which to demonstrate
requisite core
Critical Thinking
Identify and respond to needs based upon an understanding of
competencies that situational context and logical analysis of relevant information.
broadly prepare the
college educated
for success in the Equity & Inclusion
workplace and lifelong Demonstrate the awareness, attitude, knowledge, and skills
required to equitably engage and include people from different
career management. local and global cultures. Engage in anti-racist practices that
actively challenge the systems, structures, and policies of racism.
Leadership
Recognize and capitalize on personal and team strengths to
achieve organizational goals.
Professionalism
Knowing work environments differ greatly, understand and
demonstrate effective work habits, and act in the interest of the
larger community and workplace.
Teamwork
Build and maintain collaborative relationships to work effectively
toward common goals, while appreciating diverse viewpoints and
shared responsibilities.
Technology
Understand and leverage technologies ethically to enhance
EXPLORE
efficiencies, complete tasks, and accomplish goals.
careercenter.tamu.edu AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK 19Career Exploration Days
Look Inside Your Future Workplace!
What is the Career Exploration Days Program?
Exciting one-day opportunities allow you to Who is eligible to participate?
observe a company’s culture and operations and
learn more about potential internship, co-op, or This event is open to current students of
full-time opportunities. ALL classifications and ALL majors!
Why should I participate? When are Career Exploration Days?
Benefits include learning if your selected This program occurs every January the
major and career path are the right fit week before school starts in the spring.
for you, networking with professionals Registration occurs the November prior.
in your area of interest, and hearing Please visit tx.ag/careerexploration
first-hand what day-to-day activities for up-to-date information.
you can expect when selecting a specific
career field.
Don’t miss an opportunity to learn, network, and look inside your future workplace!
Informational Interviewing
CONDUCTING INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEWS can help you gain information about specific career
paths as well as broaden your professional network. Once you have identified networking contacts
and sent them a networking email, the next step is to conduct an informational interview in order to
gather advice, develop your network, and obtain insight from a professional. Plan to LISTEN more
than you speak!
Did You Know?
Sample Informational Interview Questions: During informational
• How did you get to where you are today? interviews, do not ask for
available positions or job
• What skills and core competencies are needed in your profession?
openings. When building your
• If you were starting your career today, what would you do differently? network, you start by making
• What can I do to make myself marketable for this career? contacts that could eventually
lead to job opportunities.
• What advice do you have for someone like me?
• What characteristics/skills make for a good ______?
EXPLORE
Remember to send thank you notes or emails immediately following the interview.
20 AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK careercenter.tamu.eduUtilizing Find An Aggie
A helpful informational interviewing tool
What is Find An Aggie?
“Find An Aggie” is an online directory of known current students, former Helpful Hints
students, and friends of Texas A&M. It is provided by The Association of • Use the networking email below
Former Students to help maintain and strengthen our Aggie Network. to help get you started.
• Don’t feel awkward reaching out
How Do I Use Find An Aggie? to someone out of the blue —
• Access the directory at tx.ag/FindAnAggie. Aggies love helping Aggies.
• Use the search box to search across the database. You can use • Not everyone will get back to you
“Advanced Search” to filter by name, location, degree/major, — that’s okay! The more people
occupational category, job title or company name, and student life. you contact, the more likely it is
о Note: Clicking “Remove Silver Taps” will remove anyone from the that you will get a response.
search results who has passed away. • Remember that this is a way
• Search Examples: to build your network, but
о Mike Aerospace Engineering 1980-1989 will find any “Mike” who networking is not a one-time
was involved in Aerospace Engineering and was in the classes thing. Use this tool as a starting
1980-1989. point, but continue to maintain
о Brazos 1940 will find anyone from class of 1940 who lives/lived in the relationship.
Brazos County. • FindAnAggie’s terms of use allow
• Once you have searched, click on a person’s name in the results to personal networking but not
view their Aggie Profile. uses such as solicitations and
• Ready to contact them? If you see an envelope icon under their commercial purposes (selling
name, that means you can reach out to them via email. product or finding clients).
How to Send a Professional Email
AFTER IDENTIFYING A
networking contact,
send an email (to an
Mr./Ms. Aggie Contact
individual only — no
group mailings) or call
Make your subject line the person to let them
Aggie Seeking Advice compelling. You want your email to know the purpose of
Alex Aggie stand out! your communication.
DO NOT send them your
Dear Mr./Ms. Aggie Contact, resume at this point!
My name is Alex Aggie. I am a student at Texas A&M, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts REMEMBER: Your
in Communication in May 20xx. I found your contact information in the Aggie Network network is like a muscle;
online directory. I am considering pursuing a career in {insert your area of interest here} it must be exercised
and am interested in learning more about the career opportunities as well as well the regularly to be powerful
existing and evolving new within the industry. Would you have a moment to share advice
when you need it.
and insights regarding your organization and the ______ industry? Any assistance you can
provide will be greatly appreciated.
Sample email
Thank you for your time.
EXPLORE
Name When writing a networking email or other
professional communication, you should refrain from using
Phone Number Aggie-isms such as “Howdy” or “Gig ‘em”.
careercenter.tamu.edu AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK 21PREPARE Before the Job Search
IN THIS SECTION:
• Creating an Effective Resume
• Action Verbs for Your Resume
• Creating an Effective Curriculum Vitae CV
• Skills Self-Assessment Workspace
• Cover Letter Outline
• References
• Thank You Notes
• In-person Professionalism
• Digital Professionalism
• How to Digitally Network
• Build Your LinkedIn Profile
• Federal Employment
22 AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK careercenter.tamu.eduCreating an Effective Resume
YOUR RESUME WILL not get the job for you, but, if effective, it will result in interviews.
Did You Know?
The Career Center offers templates to help you get started.
Visit tx.ag/reesumes to download a template.
Resume Considerations
Chronological Resume
• List your experiences, beginning with the most recent and/or relevant information and focus on work
experiences and activities
• The content in each section will be organized in reverse chronological order, starting with what you are
currently doing and working back in time
Resume Format
• One 8.5” x 11” page using Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman or Courier font (resumes for graduate or
nontraditional students can be two pages)
• Font size should be no smaller than 10 point and no larger than 12 point (excluding your name)
• Size of your name should be between 14 and 16 point
• Margin size will vary between .5” and .9” (all 4 sides) depending on space needed
• Save your resume as a PDF
Resume Content
An employer may only spend 15 seconds to 2 minutes reviewing your resume, so make sure you are providing
information in a clear, concise, and logical manner.
• Organize the sections on your resume, and the bullets within an experience, in order of relevance, listing the
most important, marketable categories/information first
• Your name, contact information, an Objective (if appropriate) and Education should be the first three
sections of your resume as you start your career
Name/Contact Information
• Your name will always be listed first, at the top of the page; it will be the largest piece of information on the
page (between 14 and 16 point)
• Include a city and state
• Include a working phone number, preferably your cell phone. Be sure to have a professional voicemail set up!
• List a professional email address . Consider an @aggienetwork.com account through The Association of
Former Students
• No need to label your information (e.g., “Email:” or “Phone:”)
Objective (optional)
PREPARE
• Tell the reader the purpose of your resume
• Should be no longer than 2 sentences
• If seeking an internship or co-op, include the time period which you’d be available to start. Example: Seeking a
summer 2021 internship in Marketing, specifically in Public Relations
careercenter.tamu.edu AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK 23Resume Considerations
Education
• List the institution you most recently attended (most likely will be Texas A&M University)
• Include the city and state
• Provide the official name of the degree you will receive in addition to your major (e.g., Bachelor of Business
Administration in Marketing)
• List your graduation month and year
• Include your overall GPR (always!). You can also include a major GPR and list the highest one first
• List any minors or certificates on separate lines below your degree
• If you have attended other institutions and received 30 credit hours or more, list in reverse chronological
order following your most recent institution
• Do not include high school information in this section. First year students can include high school information
if including high school experience. See the Alex Aggie resume on page 26 as an example
Additional Sections May Include
• Experience — categories include Work, Relevant or • Relevant Coursework — typically listed after
Volunteer Experience; use your bullets to highlight Education section
what you learned, accomplished or gained. Include • Skills — computer and technological, including
results, the name of the company and location as proficiency level
well as your position and dates of employment
• Languages — include skill level (ex. Fluent in
• Leadership Spanish-speaking, reading, writing)
• Activities • Work Authorization
• Honors or Awards • Study Abroad — typically listed after Education
section
Do NOT Include
• Personal information including photographs, age • References — these should be available on a
or marital status separate page and provided when requested by
• Abstract or intangible skills (e.g., creativity, the employer. There is no need to include the
organization, communication); instead use statement “References Available Upon Request”
examples to show how you’ve demonstrated these • High school information after your sophomore
skills year of college (Exceptions include achievements
such as Eagle Scout or Gold Award and experiences
or awards that are relevant to your current career
goals)
Building a Bullet
• Start with an action verb (see list on • Focus on your contributions (the
following page) results) to your employer/organization
• Identify • Quantify! When using numbers, always
– What you did (action) show them in their number form
– How you did it (the method) • The number of bullets you include
– Why you did it (the purpose) for an experience will depend on
PREPARE
the information; provide enough
– Transferable Skills
information so the employer knows
– What you learned what you’re talking about, but not
– What you gained so much they are overwhelmed with
– What you accomplished unnecessary details
24 AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK careercenter.tamu.eduAction Verbs for Your Resume
Management Skills
Administered Consolidated Directed Improved Motivated Recommended Strengthened
Analyzed Contracted Enhanced Increased Organized Reorganized Supervised
Assigned Coordinated Established Initiated Planned Reviewed
Attained Delegated Evaluated Instituted Prioritized Scheduled
Chaired Developed Executed Managed Produced
Communication Skills
Addressed Contacted Drafted Formulated Mediated Promoted Resolved
Authored Convinced Edited Influenced Moderated Publicized Spoke
Collaborated Corresponded Elicited Interpreted Negotiated Reconciled Translated
Composed Directed Explained Lectured Persuaded Recruited Wrote
Research Skills
Analyzed Conducted Examined Interpreted Organized Summarized
Clarified Critiqued Extracted Interviewed Researched Surveyed
Collected Diagnosed Gathered Investigated Reviewed Systematized
Compared Evaluated Identified Located Solved Tested
Technical Skills
Adapted Calculated Devised Maintained Remodeled Standardized
Applied Computed Engineered Operated Repaired Studied
Assembled Designed Fabricated Overhauled Replaced Upgraded
Built Developed Installed Programmed Solved Utilized
Teaching Skills
Adapted Communicated Enabled Explained Guided Instructed Trained
Advised Coordinated Encouraged Facilitated Individualized Persuaded Tutored
Coached Developed Evaluated Focused Informed Stimulated
Financial Skills
Administered Appraised Budgeted Developed Managed Projected Researched
Allocated Audited Calculated Estimated Marked Reconciled
Analyzed Balanced Computed Forecasted Planned Reduced
Creative Skills
Acted Created Directed Illustrated Introduced Performed Shaped
Adapted Customized Established Initiated Invented Planned Solved
Composed Designed Fashioned Instituted Modified Revised
Conceptualized Developed Founded Integrated Originated Revitalized
Helping Skills
Advocated Clarified Diagnosed Facilitated Motivated Resolved
Aided Coached Educated Familiarized Referred Supported
Assessed Counseled Encouraged Guided Rehabilitated Volunteered
Assisted Demonstrated Expedited Intervened Represented
Clerical/Detail Skills
Approved Coded Executed Monitored Purchased Scheduled Systematized
Arranged Collected Generated Operated Recorded Screened Tabulated
Catalogued Compiled Implemented Organized Retrieved Set up Updated
Charted Dispatched Inspected Prepared Reviewed Standardized Validated
PREPARE
Classified Distributed Maintained Processed Routed Specified Verified
More Verbs for Accomplishment
Achieved Expanded Reduced (losses) Restored Surpassed
Awarded Improved Resolved Spearheaded Transformed
Completed Pioneered (problems) Succeeded Won
careercenter.tamu.edu AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK 25Alex Aggie
(979) 555-5555 College Station, Texas First_Last@aggienetwork.com
EDUCATION
Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas May 20xx
Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting
Major GPR: 3.58; Overall GPR: 3.36
LEADERSHIP
Financial Management Association, Texas A&M University September 20xx - May 20xx
Treasurer, May 20xx-April 20xx
• Managed $4,000 budget and maintained bookkeeping system for organization
• Increased cash flow by 15% by finding ways to cut unnecessary spending
Chi Omega Fraternity, Xi Kappa Chapter, Texas A&M University August 20xx - Present
Vice President May 20xx - May 20xx
• Mentored and advised 200 active members regarding academic matters
• Administered meeting order and ritual
• Attained qualified speakers for 3 Chi Omega functions If multiple positions have
• Directed spring and fall Eleusinia, the bi-annual celebration of been held within an organization
Chi Omega’s heritage list beginning with the most recent and
• Interpreted, administered, and amended Chapter bylaws and providing dates for each.
standing rules
Recruitment Information Chairman May 20xx - May 20xx
• Gathered and organized information on each of the 600 potential
new members and presented information to the Chapter
• Tabulated all scoring and rankings of potential new members
• Co-coordinated recruitment “work week,” the Chapter’s preparation time one week before recruitment begins
Business Student Council, Texas A&M University September 20xx - Present
Events Committee Member-Parents’ Weekend Coordinator April 20xx
• Coordinated the annual Parents’ Weekend breakfast and presentation for all Mays Business School
students and parents, with approximately 750 in attendance
• Supervised 4 members of the Events Committee assigned to Parents’ Weekend
• Awarded Member of the Year Scholarship for 2009
RELEVANT WORK EXPERIENCE
Career Center, Texas A&M University August 20xx - Present
Student Worker, Business Career Services
• Deliver presentations to audiences with up to 225 attendees, reaching approximately 1,200 students yearly
• Advise students regarding resumes, major selection, job search strategies, and other career-related topics
• Assist in compiling and computing employment statistics in Excel for undergraduate business students
• Selected to serve on a student panel to discuss recruiting tactics from a student’s perspective
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Dallas, Texas June 20xx - August 20xx
State & Local Tax Consulting Internship
• Assisted with a State Tax Benefit Proposal from inception to final presentation to the
Executive Board Quantify the
• Prepared and edited client memos regarding various steps in restructuring process
description
• Maintained 2 state tax matrices regarding Intellectual Property legislation and add back
of your duties to
provisions of certain interest and intangible property
give your potential
• Researched state sales tax laws regarding the taxation of pre-paid phone cards
employer a sense
• Organized legal documents for clients under Texas state audit
of your level of
PREPARE
SKILLS
responsibility and
Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel; Proficient in Quickbooks, Microsoft Word, PowerPoint,
achievement.
and Access
If you claim a proficiency,
consider showing how and where you gained this skill under
Relevant Experience.
26 AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK careercenter.tamu.eduCreating an Effective Curriculum Vitae (CV)
A CURRICULUM VITAE or CV is NOT a resume. Instead, it is a professional document used to tell the
story of your academic life, including research interests, teaching experience, etc. Unlike a resume,
there are no space limitations and it may be several pages in length. For more help with CVs, check
out tx.ag/CVtips
Common Uses of the CV
• Applying to graduate school
• Applying for graduate assistantships or scholarships
• Applying for teaching, research, and upper-level administration positions in higher
education and R&D positions in industry
• Submitting grant proposals
• Publishing and editorial review boards … and more!
CV Format
• Use the same general guidelines as Resume format (NOTE: CVs are longer than
resumes and often include multiple pages)
CV Content (not limited to this list)
• Name/Contact Information
• Education
• Research Interests
• Research Experience
• Teaching Experience
• Professional Experience (academic)
• Professional Experience (non-academic)
• Publications
• Presentations
• Technical Skills
• Professional Affiliations
о Grants
о Leadership
о Service or Activities
• Other information: Language Skills, etc.
• References (these should be included on the final page of the CV)
Special Note About Education Section (include the following)
• Name of institution(s) where you obtained or are working toward a degree, listed in
reverse chronological order
• Official name of degree(s)
• Master’s Thesis and/or Dissertation Title(s)
• Name of advisor
PREPARE
Meet with a Graduate Career Advisor today for help creating or editing your CV.
careercenter.tamu.edu AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK 27Skills Self-Assessment Workspace
Skills Your Experiences
The skills below with icons are the Consider the following; courses, labs, paid and unpaid jobs,
NACE Competencies on page 19. co-ops, internships, service or volunteer work, teams, or
clubs.
Career & Self Development
Communication
Critical Thinking
Equity & Inclusion
Leadership
Professionalism
Teamwork
Technology
Analytical Ability
Conflict Resolution
Courage/Resilience
Flexibility/Adaptability
Time Management
Initiative
28 AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK careercenter.tamu.eduCover Letter Outline
THE EMPLOYER WILL evaluate you as a prospective employee based upon the
appearance, content, grammar, and punctuation in your cover letter. When
emailing a cover letter and resume, make the cover letter the text within your
email and attach your resume. It is appropriate to provide a cover letter only
when requested by an employer.
Your present address
City, State Zip Code
Date Unsure of the
recipient? Other
Mr./Ms. (first name last name), Title great options are Hiring
Name of Company Committee Chair, or
Street Address Search Committee.
City, State Zip
Dear Mr./Ms. (last name):
1st paragraph - Explain why you are submitting your resume. State the position for which you are applying.
Mention how you heard about the opening: newspaper, name of person who referred you, etc. (basically, who
you are, what you want and why).
2nd paragraph - State why you would be qualified for the position; mention The 2nd
specific qualifications or experiences you have that may be pertinent to the paragraph should
position. State any particular interest you have in the company, location, or focus on match
position. Point out relevant information that may not appear in your resume. points. Match points
are the overlaps between
3rd paragraph - Express interest in an interview; indicate interest in discussing the experiences you offer
their needs further and suggest you will call to schedule an interview time. Your (your resume), what the
closing should encourage a specific action by the reader. company is looking for
(job description) and
why you should be
Sincerely, considered.
(Handwritten Signature — leave 4-5 lines)
Typed Signature
PREPARE
For more help, visit our website at tx.ag/coverletters
careercenter.tamu.edu AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK 29References Aggie Name
123 Spring Loop, #1234
College Station, TX 77123
(979) 123-4567
Use
the same
header as
REFERENCES SHOULD BE written on a separate page from the aggiemail@tamu.edu on your
resume and should list complete contact information including resume.
the person’s organization/title, address, telephone number Dr. Xxxx Xxxx
Professor
and email, if permission is given to use it. Include your name Texas A&M University
and contact information at the top of the page exactly as it College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
109 Kleberg Bldg.
appears on your resume. Select references who have seen 2402 TAMU
you in action and can talk about your skills, experience, and College Station, TX 77843
accomplishments. (979) 123-4567
xxxx@tamu.edu
Persons used as references can be employers, professors,
advisors and any professional individuals who know you well. Mr. Yyyy Yyyy
Supervisor
Do not use relatives as references. Always ask for permission Mead Paper
first before using someone as a reference. Tell your 2705 Market Street
Chillicothe, Ohio 45601
references when you are applying for a position so they know to (419) 123-4567
expect a call and can be prepared to provide a good reference. yyyy@mead.com
For more tips on asking for references, check out
tx.ag/references. Ms. Zzzz Zzzz
Department Manager
Johnson Controls, Inc.
4527 Appleton Drive
Be sure to offer your list of references to the Sparks, MD 21152
(301) 123-4567
recruiter, particularly during an interview. zzzz@employer.com
Thank You Notes
At a minimum, thank you emails should be sent to everyone you interacted with during the recruitment process
within 24-48 hours of your visit. Consider sending a handwritten note (in addition to an email) to those you want
to impress.
Mr./Ms. Aggie Contact
Follow up with a thank you note to anyone
who spent time with you, including the person
Thank You coordinating the visit. Reference specific parts of your
Joe Aggie conversation to help jog the recruiter’s/interviewer’s
memory and help you to stand out.
Dear Mr./Ms. Aggie Contact,
Thank you for your time during your recent visit to Texas A&M on October 14, 20xx. During
my interview with you, I was excited to learn that you also pursued the Retailing certificate and
were involved in the Student Retailing Association while at Mays Business School. I appreciate
you answering my questions about the rotational internship program. I am so glad to know
that I will be able to gain experience in all departments at Nordstrom and better understand
the entire organization.
Thank You Note Formula
As discussed, please find attached my most recent college transcript. If I can provide any Writing a thank you note is as
additional information, please let me know. I look forward to hearing from you within the simple as highlighting 3 key
next few weeks regarding the Nordstrom Summer Retail Rotational Internship.
areas:
Sincerely, • Thank you for the ______.
PREPARE
Joe Aggie • It meant a great deal
because________.
123-456-7890
• Thank you again.
30 AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK careercenter.tamu.eduIn-Person Professionalism
Keep in Mind
First impressions begin immediately
• Arrive 10-15 minutes early for engagements
• Be courteous to parking attendant, receptionist, tour guides,
colleagues...everyone matters!
Pay attention to your non-verbal communication including
expressions, posture, etc. Maintain eye contact
Stand for introductions
• Use a confident, well-practiced handshake
• Smile
• Be energetic, but not overenthusiastic
Actively listen at all times
Follow the speaker’s behavioral lead
Things to Avoid
Getting too comfortable
Discussing taboo topics
• Religion
• Politics
• Money
Interrupting
Neglecting others in conversations
PREPARE
Speaking poorly about other organizations and/or individuals
Aggie/College speak
careercenter.tamu.edu AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK 31Digital Professionalism
IN THIS DAY and age, everything is shared on social media. Many recruiters will review
social media profiles of candidates. Here are some simple ways to ensure that your
online presence is presentable and professional.
Google Your Name
Guiding Principles of Social Media Search for your name online occasionally to see what
comes up, or set up automatic name alerts at Google.
Be Professional com/alerts. Search for your name on all the networks
• Consider your audience to which you’ve ever belonged, including Facebook
• Be responsible with your message and YouTube. (Recruiters check everywhere.) After a
thorough review, ask yourself: Will this social media
Be Correct and Accurate profile foster callbacks, interviews and job offers?
• Syntax check
• Grammar check Netiquette Tips
• Fact check Dan Schwabel, a personal branding expert and author
of Me 2.0, offers these tips to keep your digital reputation
Useful/Interesting clean:
• Consider online connections with co-workers • Share industry insights, useful resources, quotes
• Avoid excessive negativity and facts with your audience.
• Imaging your current/prospective
• Build a relationship through tweeting before you
employer skimming your profile
email blindly.
• Don’t come to an interview without researching
the company and the hiring manager online, using
What Would Your Mother Say? LinkedIn first.
Have a second pair of eyes to look over your profiles as
you may be too close to the situation to judge what’s
appropriate or not. Consider asking the opinion of
Did You Know?
someone who’s about the same age as your target Clean up your profile versus blocking it. Recruiters
employers, experienced in your field, or at least in the won’t be suspicious about what you’re trying to hide.
hiring process.
How to Digitally Network
• Use the HireAggies portal to find employers. You mutual friend, write a brief introduction of who you
can search for various types of companies. You will are and why you would like to connect.
be able to read about the company and see different
• Lend a (virtual) hand. As you build connections
company contacts.
and group memberships, think about what you can
• Use your inbox. Start building your LinkedIn do to support other people.
network by uploading your online address book
and connecting to friends, relatives, internship • Do your homework. Before an informational
colleagues, and professionals you know in the interview, job interview, or networking event, use
“real world”. You can identify Former Students LinkedIn to learn about the background and interests of
from Texas A&M University by geographic location, the people you’re scheduled to meet. Access company
company and what they do by using the search pages to research organizations and their employees.
function in LinkedIn. • Now step away from the computer… Be sure to
support your online networking with other forms of
PREPARE
• Get personal. As you connect with individuals
on LinkedIn, always customize your connection contact. Set up phone calls, attend live events and
requests with a friendly note, and, if necessary, a send snail mail notes to people you interact with on
reminder of where you met or what organization LinkedIn. Online methods should supplement, not
you have in common. If you are being referred by a replace, in-person relationship-building.
32 AGGIE CAREER SUCCESS HANDBOOK careercenter.tamu.eduYou can also read
