CDI 101 Workbook 2022 by Bentley University Pulsifer Career Development Center

Toolkit for Designing YOUR Career Forward!

CAREER DESIGN INTRODUCTION COURSE 2022

CONTENTS

CAREER DESIGN COURSE

WEEK 1

WHAT’S YOUR STORY What story will you tell? How do you tell your story in the right way? Embrace your story, because it is who you are!

CDI 101: CAREER DEVELOPMENT INTRODUCTION SEMINAR

INTAKE SURVEY

https://bentley.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cBhNgrL4ERFD5tj

WHAT’S YOUR STORY? 1.

Name

Hometown

Best Job or Activity and WHY?

One of your Top 5 Talent Themes/Strengths

How did you use this Talent/Strength in your job/activity?

TELLING YOUR STORY

In Writing

Verbally

To Connect

•Resume •Cover Letter •LinkedIn Profile •Elevator Pitch •Networking •Informational Meeting •Able to tell your story AUTHENTICALLY in any situation •Convey your story in the right ways to connect with people honestly

What’s YOUR Story?

WEEK 1

SYLLABUS “Where's my syllabus to guide me through life?” – Megan McCafferty

THE JOURNEY BEGINS

Instructor:

Class Day:

Office Location:

Class Time:

Office Hours:

Class Location:

Email:

COURSE DESCRIPTION Career development is an essential part of the undergraduate experience; as students need to be well prepared to not only enter into the unknown world of the college recruiting process, but also to succeed in it. In a concerted, formalized educational response to the increasing demand from students and employers for a structured, uniform, mandated delivery of this important tool and skill development, the coaches of Undergraduate Career Development will educate Bentley University students with curriculum focused on these important aspects of their future career development. Career Development Introduction Seminar will introduce the foundation of this critical tool development (personal and professional goal self-assessment, resume and cover letter development, networking and informational meetings, utilization of social media, and extended four-year career development stages). This course will teach incoming students how to identify their own interests and skills as they relate to their careers and how to best develop and utilize these necessary tools for their lifelong career development and evolution.

COURSE GOALS The course will focus on assisting students with understanding themselves, in terms of their personal and professional values, skills and goals, and helping them to start identifying these objectives during their undergraduate career. Why is self-assessment, career tool development, and understanding long term career pathing so important to understand as an undergraduate student? The course introduces students as to the “why” and “how to” of the basics of career development and recruiting. Students will be more prepared to identify and articulate their strengths and gain competency in “telling their story” through written and verbal communication including resume, cover letter, elevator pitch, LinkedIn profile, and informational meetings. This course intends to equip students with the foundational understanding and tools of how to engage in the job search in order to successfully start to navigate the process.

EVALUATION OF STUDENT PERFORMANCE

This class will be a no-credit (satisfactory/unsatisfactory) transcript bearing course. In order to complete the class satisfactorily, students will be required to successfully complete all assignments. ATTENDANCE Class attendance and participation are critical to passing this course. Students are expected to attend all classes in accordance with the Student Handbook, be prepared for each class, and engage in class discussions. All classes will contain information not covered in the materials provided in class. Only one excused absence will be allowed from students’ overall attendance.

STRENGTHS SUPERPOWERS EXERCISE Students will complete the Strengths Superpowers Exercise based on their individual StrengthsFinder Top 5 Strengths using the assignment worksheet provided in class. Students who do not follow the instructions and/or do not turn in their assignment on time will not pass this course with a satisfactory grade.

RESUME Students will prepare a one-page college resume in accordance with the techniques discussed during the class lecture and any supplemental materials provided. Students who do not follow the recommended techniques and materials and/or do not turn in their assignment on time will not pass this course with a satisfactory grade.

COVER LETTER Students will prepare a one-page cover letter based on a job description given in accordance with the techniques discussed during the class lecture and any supplemental materials provided. Students who do not follow the recommended techniques and materials and/or do not turn in their assignment on time will not pass this course with a satisfactory grade.

LINKEDIN PROFILE, INCLUDING SUMMARY SECTION/ELEVATOR PITCH Students will build or update a LinkedIn profile in accordance with the techniques discussed during the class lecture and any supplemental materials provided. Students who do not follow the recommended techniques and materials and/or do not turn in their assignment on time will not pass this course with a satisfactory grade.

INFORMATIONAL MEETING EXERCISE Students will conduct an Informational Meeting with a member of the Bentley Community (Faculty or Staff Member, Advisor, Coach, Junior/Senior who has participated in at least one internship). Students will give a threeminute verbal presentation in class to discuss what they learned during the Informational Meeting. Students who do not follow the recommended techniques and materials and/or do not turn in their assignment on time will not pass this course with a satisfactory grade.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES Knowledge & Skills:

1. Self-Assessment and Awareness: Understand the relation of values, interests, personality and skills to career planning

2. Written Communication: Develop tangible self marketing pieces: resume, cover letter, LinkedIn profile, thank you notes, and electronic business correspondence 3. Verbal Communication: Develop professional informational meeting and networking skills 4. Internships: Knowledge of internship requirements and seeking a meaningful internship 5. Career Resources: Knowledge and proper use of career exploration resources COURSE MATERIALS

Materials created by the Bentley University Pulsifer Undergraduate Career Development Center will be used and distributed throughout the course.

ACADEMIC HONESTY / INTEGRITY

This class will be conducted in full accordance with Bentley’s policies about academic integrity and the Bentley Honor Code, which can be found in the Student Handbook at:

http://www.bentley.edu/campus-life/the-student-handbook https://catalog.bentley.edu/undergraduate/academic-policies-procedures/academic-integrity/ LEARNING DISABILITIES

Bentley University abides by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 which stipulate no student shall be denied the benefits of an education solely by reason of a disability. If you have a hidden or visible disability which may require classroom accommodations, please call the Office of Disability Services within the first 4 weeks of the semester to schedule an appointment. The Office of Disability Services is located in Jennison 336 (781.891.2004). The Office of Disability Services is responsible for managing accommodations and services for all students with disabilities. Please see your instructor as soon as possible if you require assistance. We’ll make every effort to accommodate students with documented learning disabilities.

COURSE SCHEDULE (subject to modification)

DATE 1.

TOPICS COVERED

ASSIGNMENT DUE

 Course Introduction  Talent Theme Statements

N/A

 Resume Writing

 Strengths Superpowers Exercise

 Cover Letter Writing

 Resume

 Elevator Pitch  LinkedIn Profile

 Cover Letter

 Informational Meetings

 LinkedIn Profile

 Informational Meeting Reports  Internship Search  Course Conclusion

 Informational Meeting Assignment

CLASS PROCEDURES & EXPECTATIONS

You must bring your workbook to every class

Assignments must be completed in accordance with class lectures and any supplemental materials provided

Deadlines MUST be met

Assignments and expectations for the following class will be reviewed at the end of each class

https://bentley.joinhandshake.com

RESOURCES

CAREEREDGE.BENTLEY.EDU CareerEdge is where you will learn about the latest career news & advice by career communities, events, drop-in hours, recruiting information, featured jobs, resources and more!

CareerEdge

Don’t forget to customize your CareerEdge EMAIL ALERTS!

You can do and achieve more by using your TALENTS

Notice them. Use them. Share them.

WEEK 1

TALENT Do you ever wonder why you make certain choices? Why you do what you do? Why you are better at some things than others? There’s a reason. It’s your talents.

IMPORTANT RESOURCES FOR CDI 101 - STRENGTHSFINDER Your Top 5 Strengths will be incorporated into your career tool kit throughout CDI 101.

https://bentley.gallup.com

Strength = TALENT: a naturally recurring pattern of thought, feeling, or behavior that can be productively applied. The greater the intensity of the talent, the greater its power and the greater your opportunity for success.

STRENGTHS SUPERPOWERS EXERCISE! EXERCISE STEPS: 1. 2. 3.

Read the descriptions of your Top 5 Highlight/underline parts that best describe you Below, list your Top 5 in the colored boxes and complete the statement, “I am a person who. . .”

TOP 5 STRENGTHS Write each strength in the colored box below

I AM A PERSON WHO?

1.____ 2.____ 3.____ 4.____ 5.____ 19

Assignment & Expectations SUPERPOWERS - Assignment  Complete the Strengths Superpowers worksheet for your 4 remaining Top 5 Strengths  You will end up with 5 personalized Superpowers statements to use in your career toolbox!  Bring the completed assignment to class next week

EXPECTATIONS •

NEXT WEEK: RESUME DEVELOPMENT

One thing you learned about yourself:

WEEK 2

RESUME How do I tell my story in writing? How do I show an employer I am confident about my skills? Your story must be told quickly and clearly. Your resume is your “first impression,” let’s make it a good one!

RESUME PREP WORKSHEET

RESUME BUILDING EXERCISE CONTACT INFORMATION FORMATTING:    

Name should be the biggest thing on the page (12-14 point font size) & in bold Contact information: Address, Cell Phone & Email (10-12 point font size) “Bentley University” is NOT your address – 175 Forest Street, Box # is! You should have your PERMANENT address if you are looking for a job back home or in that area

EDUCATION

FORMATTING:  Bentley University, Waltham, MA  Candidate for Bachelor of Science (or Arts), Major (if known), May (or December) 20xx  Liberal Studies Major or Minor (if known)  GPA, if above 3.0 (Cumulative and/or Major)  Academic Honors (examples: President’s List, Dean’s List, Honors Program) (OPTIONAL: High School or transfer school comes second) EDUCATION: Bentley University, Waltham, MA Candidate for Bachelor of Science, Management & Liberal Studies in Global Perspectives, 20xx Minor: Marketing GPA: 3.2 Honors: Dean’s List; Honors Program St. Mark’s Academy, Westborough, MA Diploma received, June 20xx Honors: Honor Roll; National Honor Society

Suffolk University, Boston, MA 32 credit hours towards Bachelor of Science Honors: Dean’s List

RESUME FORMATTING CHECKLIST

Our online resume review system (www.vmock.com/bentley). Register for the system through the emailed invitation from VMock.

Assignment & Expectations RESUME - Assignment 1.

Type up your resume using the RESUME TEMPLATE WORD DOCUMENT SENT BY YOUR INSTRUCTOR. Also use the Resume Preparation Worksheet and class materials.

Upload your resume to VMock, our online resume review system (www.vmock.com/bentley)  You will receive an email directly from VMock to register for the system  You must achieve a score of at least 60 (with 29/30 for PRESENTATION) before you can submit your resume for grading

Upload your finalized resume WITH latest VMock score (Your instructor will give you direction on how they want to receive your FINAL copy of your resume for class credit – this resume will be critiqued and passed back to you for your tool box)

EXPECTATIONS • •

DUE: SUPERPOWERS ASSIGNMENT NEXT WEEK: COVER LETTERS

Pulsifer Undergraduate Career Development Center Career Colleague Drop-in Hours: First & Second Year Drop-Ins M-Th from 1:00 – 3:00PM In Person: Tuesday – Thursday (LaCava 225) Virtual: Monday - Thursday zoom Link:

https://bentley.zoom.us/j/95437718797

+RESUME RESOURCES

FIRST-YEAR RESUME TEMPLATE

ACTION VERBS MANAGEMENT SKILLS administered analyzed assigned attained chaired contracted consolidated coordinated delegated developed directed evaluated executed improved increased organized planned prioritized produced recommended reviewed scheduled strengthened supervised

recruited sold spoke translated wrote

COMMUNICATION SKILLS addressed arbitrated arranged corresponded developed directed drafted edited enlisted formulated influenced interpreted lectured mediated moderated motivated publicized reconciled

TECHNICAL SKILLS assembled built calculated computed designed devised engineered fabricated maintained operated overhauled programmed remodeled repaired solved trained

RESEARCH SKILLS clarified collected critiqued diagnosed evaluated examined extracted identified inspected interpreted interviewed investigated organized reviewed summarized surveyed systematized

TRAINING SKILLS adapted advised clarified coached communicated coordinated developed enabled encouraged evaluated explained facilitated guided informed instructed persuaded stimulated FINANCIAL SKILLS administered allocated analyzed appraised audited balanced budgeted calculated computed developed forecasted managed marketed planned projected researched CREATIVE SKILLS acted advertised conceptualized created introduced

invented maximized originated performed planned revitalized shaped SERVICE SKILLS assessed assisted clarified coached counseled demonstrated diagnosed educated expedited facilitated familiarized guided referred represented ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS approved arranged classified collected compiled dispatched generated implemented inspected monitored operated organized prepared processed purchased recorded screened tabulated validated

WEEK 3

COVER LETTER DEVELOPMENT How do I tell my story in writing? How do I get an employer to focus on certain skills I have? Can I tailor my cover letter to a specific position? Your cover letter is what makes you different and opens doors!

COVER LETTER GOAL!! 175 Forest Street Waltham, MA 02452 February 19, 20xx Ms. Barbara Tripp Vice President/Human Resources BayCoast Bank 330 Swansea Mall Drive Swansea, MA 02777 Dear Ms. Tripp: As a first-year student studying Economics-Finance at Bentley University, I wanted to express my interest in the summer internship position with the Investment Management division. I would love to apply my knowledge and experience to your bank because it is so deeply involved in worthwhile causes in the community, such as the Fall River/New Bedford Housing Partnership, while providing exceptional financial services to commercial banking clients. I believe that my coursework at Bentley University has aligned me as a strong candidate for this position. As a part of my Tools & Concepts of Accounting & Finance course, I researched a company and created an investment thesis. This was accomplished through researching industry and regulatory trends, comparing the company’s financial statements to their competitors’ financial statements, and evaluating the current market valuation of the company. In turn, my strong investment research skills will provide value to your Investment Management division. Complementing my learning inside the classroom is my experience with the Bentley Microfinance Group. My participation as the group’s Loan Officer has accelerated my growth in analyzing financial trends and developing solutions with a team based on quantitative reasoning. My contributions to the loan group include developing a payment schedule for a tax preparation business that mirrored the irregular schedule of expected revenue by the business – a lower payment in the months leading up to tax season and a higher payment during tax season. As a result, I recently received a promotion to Loan Director due to my ability to not only work in a group, but also to be independently motivated. Attached please find my resume for your review. I appreciate that BayCoast Bank values education and providing a meaningful job experience to students. If you would like to contact me, you may reach me at jones_connor@bentley.edu. I would welcome the opportunity for an interview to further discuss how I can add value to BayCoast bank as an intern. Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope to have the opportunity to discuss the internship and my qualifications further with you in the near future. Sincerely,

Connor Jones Attachment: Resume

IMPORTANCE OF COVER LETTERS

BUILDING YOUR COVER LETTER: CONTACT INFORMATION

FORMATTING:  Your Street Address  City, State Zip Code  Current date  Full Name of Company Contact Title of Contact Company Name Street Address City, State Zip Code  2 spaces between addresses & date

175 Forest Street Waltham, MA 02452 February 19, 20xx Mr. Neil Brennan Meltwater News 3 Post Office Square, 6th Floor Boston, MA 02110

BUILDING YOUR COVER LETTER: INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH FORMATTING:  Proper salutation (Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name:)  Who you are (major, year and school)  What position you are applying for  State an applicable Strengths Statement  Why you want to work for this company – GRABBER STATEMENT  Special information about them  State geographic ties (if appropriate) and/or referral name (when appropriate)

Dear Mr. Brennan: I would like to apply for the summer marketing internship posted on the Career Services website, Handshake. As a first-year and aspiring Marketing major at Bentley University, I am a person who is an enthusiastic visionary and a huge proponent of young, innovative, and socially aware companies such as Meltwater. The fact that Meltwater was awarded the Stevie Award for Corporate Social Responsibility in 20XX for its contribution to society is something that also sets Meltwater apart from other companies and another reason why I am very interested in interning at your organization.

BUILDING YOUR COVER LETTER: DESCRIPTIVE PARAGRAPHS FORMATTING:  Identify what the employer is looking for (skills, experience)  Match skills and experience that meet the employer’s needs  Include StrengthsFinder Superpowers using productive descriptors  Use key words from job posting

Cover Letters

Still Matter!

JOB POSTING EXERCISE [FINANCE/ACCOUNTING]

CDI 101: WEEK 3 COVER LETTER WRITING ASSIGNMENT ACCOUNTING/FINANCE Focused Internship Posting

WARING – THIS IS NOT A REAL POSTING, IT IS FOR THE CDI 101 ASSIGNMENT WARNING – THIS IS NOT A REAL POSTING, it ONLY is ONLY FOR CDI 101 ASSIGNMENT!

Accounting/Finance Summer Intern Wayside Youth and Family Support Network 1 Frederick Abbott Way Framingham, MA 01701 Contact: Rich Zemine Description: Founded in 1977, Wayside Youth & Family Support Network is a non-profit, nationally accredited human services agency dedicated to building Strength, Hope and Resiliency through its family-based outreach services, residential treatment programs, and community-based counseling services for thousands of children, youth and families throughout Eastern and Central Massachusetts. Internship Responsibilities: • General Ledger – Enter standard journal entries Petty Cash • Complete monthly balance sheet reconciliations • Accounts Payable – Assist with data entry and distribution of checks • Accounts Receivable – Assist with completing binders for audit • Audit – Assist with audit preparation for Fiscal Year Audit • Systems Implementation – Process documents for new management system Qualifications: • Must be enrolled full-time in a Bachelor's Degree Program of Accounting, Finance, or related field • Must have basic proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Word • Strong analytical and organizational skills • Strong written communication skills • Ability to work independently • Ability to manage time effectively

JOB/POSTING EXERCISE [MARKETING]

CDI 101: WEEK 3 COVER LETTER WRITING ASSIGNMENT MARKETING/MANAGEMENT-Focused Internship Posting WARNING – THIS IS NOT A REAL POSTING; it is ONLY FOR CDI 101 ASSIGNMENT! Marketing/Sales Summer Intern MK3 Creative One Rock Place, Boston, MA 02114 Contact: Melissa Shard, Recruiting Manager Description: At MK3 Creative, our interns have the unique ability to gain maximum exposure for a growing marketing agency for clients such as Bank of America, Fidelity Investments, New Balance, Converse, Liberty Mutual and other big brands. Under the guidance of senior account executives and Emmy award winning writer, producers and directors of national television shows, our interns are able to gain valuable real-life experience. Intern Responsibilities: • Help formulate concepts for marketing campaigns • Write copy for ad campaigns • Research location, talent, crews, shoot equipment, props and wardrobe for shoots • Do competitive analysis of companies • Conduct music searches for videos • Create social media content • Research and develop sales lead database Qualifications: • Strong verbal and written communication skills • A keen sense of curiosity and strong research skills • Ability to multi-task • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment • Confidence to take initiative on projects • Understanding of social media platforms • Must be currently enrolled as an undergraduate student • Solid computer skills

COVER LETTER EXERCISE WORKSHEET

JOB REQUIREMENTS

CANDIDATE’S QUALIFICATIONS

BUILDING YOUR COVER LETTER: CONCLUSION/CLOSURE

FORMATTING:  Attach your resume  Reiterate your interest in the position  “Thank you” to the reader  Contact information (email, cell phone, or both)  Appropriate sign off  Name  “cc” for referrers/recommenders after signature line  “Attachment(s)” after signature/cc lines Attached please find my resume for your review. I am confident my skills, experience, and knowledge would add value to your Marketing Internship, and I feel I would help Meltwater’s team achieve its goal. If you would like to contact me, my email is smith_joe@bentley.edu. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to having the opportunity to discuss my qualifications and the internship position with you in the near future. Sincerely, Joe Smith Cc: Betsy Newman, Vice President, Meltwater Attachment: Resume

COVER LETTER FORMATTING CHECKLIST

Assignment & Expectations COVER LETTER - Assignment  Create your cover letter using the information provided in the cover letter section of this book  Your instructor will give you direction on how they want to receive your FINAL copy of your cover letter for class credit – this cover letter will be critiqued and passed back to you for your toolbox

EXPECTATIONS • •

DUE: RESUME NEXT WEEK: ELEVATOR PITCH/LINKEDIN PROFILE

Pulsifer Undergraduate Career Development Center Career Colleague Drop-in Hours:

First & Second Year Drop-Ins M-Th from 1:00 – 3:00PM In Person: Tuesday – Thursday (LaCava 225) Virtual: Monday - Thursday zoom Link: https://bentley.zoom.us/j/95437718797

“You are unique, and if that is not fulfilled, then something has been lost.” -Martha Graham, American Modern Dancer and Choreographer

+COVER LETTER RESOURCES

COVER LETTER TEMPLATE

COVER LETTER CONTENT OVERVIEW YOUR COVER LETTER SHOULD:    

Highlight some matching skills that qualify you for the position, not a long version of your resume Be written with the reader’s mindset of “What can you do for them? What makes you a qualified candidate?” Be tailored to each company and job Be grammatically correct with no spelling errors

SALUTATION:

 Dear Mr. or Ms. Last Name:  If you don’t know their name, you can put “Dear Hiring Manager:”  DO NOT SAY “To Whom It May Concern”

INTRODUCTION PARAGRAPH:

 State WHO you are - where you go to school, your year (i.e. first-year), and major (if declared)  State WHAT you are applying for - specify position and how you learned about it  State WHY you are interested in working for them - GRABBER STATEMENT • What SPECIAL information do you know about them?  State ties to geographic location if appropriate  State referral name when appropriate  “Attached please find my resume for your review . . . ” [or can say this in Conclusion]

DESCRIPTIVE PARAGRAPH(S):

 Tell them why you are a STRONG candidate!  Tailor to functional role - what is the employer looking for (look at their hiring criteria, posting, etc.)  Two Column exercise to identify what skills/experience you have that matches up with desired skills/experience (resume vs. job description)  Identify a desired skill/experience they are looking for that you have, especially StrengthsFinder skills  Potential StrengthsFinder skills: research, analyzing, quantitative reasoning, great with numbers, leadership, teamwork • What did you do as it relates to this desired skill/experience - discuss this experience briefly  Use KEY TERMS from posting - need at least 80% hit ratio to be seen by human eyes when applying on sites other than Handshake  Confidently state how your skills and experiences would meet their needs  Each paragraph should be about one main skill/thought - do not put all skills into one paragraph, break into shorter paragraphs so you don’t lose your reader

CONCLUSION PARAGRAPH:    

State that you are attaching your resume Reiterate interest in the position Provide your contact information Thank them for their consideration and tell them you look forward to hearing from them

SIGN OFF:    

Should be professional - Sincerely Name - can put nickname if you go by that (Joe vs. Joseph) “cc” after signature line if you have someone who has referred you to the position and you mentioned them in introduction of letter Put “Attachment(s)” after signature/cc lines

EXCELLENT COVER LETTER SAMPLE #1 175 Forest Street Waltham, MA 02452 March 30, 20xx Mr. Andrew Jordan Harvard University 65 North Harvard Street Boston, MA 02163 Dear Mr. Jordan: I would like to apply for the Athletic Marketing Internship posted on the Career Services website, Handshake. As a first-year student at Bentley University and a potential Marketing major, I have developed a passion for marketing as a result of my accumulated experience in many different areas of marketing. As a young child, I fell in love with Harvard’s campus as my father used to bring me to Cambridge to watch his alma mater play football. I have thoroughly enjoyed watching your men’s basketball team make multiple recent appearances in the NCAA tournament, and it thrills me to see the athletic department grow every year – these are just a few reasons why I’m very interested in working for your university. My interest in marketing has opened quite a few doors for me over the past three years, all of which provided me with experience that makes me a great candidate for this position. My first marketing endeavor began when I created a Twitter account for my high school athletic department that provided live scores and in-game updates for all of the school’s sports teams, as well as photos and video highlights. Building the account from nothing to a widely popular account followed by over 1,000 people showed me how easy it can be to create and grow something from the ground up if it is marketed well. My interpersonal skills have been sharpened through my current position as a sales intern for Shoreline Screen printing. Through this internship, I use my communication skills to identify and contact potential new clients for the business by going out and visiting local businesses and talking with the owners directly. This communication has greatly improved my confidence and my interpersonal skills. I have also used social media sites like Facebook and Twitter to attract and reach out to potential new clients, which built upon the foundation of skills I had developed running the Twitter account for my high school. These skills would be beneficial to the Harvard Athletic Department as you seek to grow and improve your web presence as well as build stronger community relations. Attached please find my resume for review. Please feel free to call me on my cell phone at 508-555-3121 if you would like to contact me. Thank you for your time in considering me for the Athletic Marketing Internship position at Harvard University. I look forward to speaking with you in the future. Sincerely, Devon Bradford Attachment: Resume

EXCELLENT COVER LETTER SAMPLE #2 175 Forest Street, Box #431 Waltham, MA 02452 March 29, 20xx Hiring Manager Capital Advisors Group, Inc. 29 Crafts Street, #270 Newton, MA 02458 Dear Hiring Manager: I would like to apply for the Reporting Analyst job posted on the Career Services website, Handshake. As a first-year student and aspiring Corporate Finance and Accounting major at Bentley University, I have a great interest in this field and am a huge proponent of innovative and ambitious companies such as Capital Advisors Group, Inc. The fact that Capital Advisors Group warned clients about the dangers of auction-rate securities years before the market crash of 2008 highlights the company’s forward-thinking environment and is another reason why I am very interested in working for your organization. My interest in finance has driven me to get involved with the Association for Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting (ALPFA) and the Bentley Investment Group (BIG) on campus. BIG manages a portion of the university’s endowment and makes real investment decisions. In addition to investment management skills, these groups have given me the valuable experience of working on teams and making group decisions, skills that will prove beneficial to your company. Adding to my team experience, I participated in the Bentley Business Bowl this past March. The Bentley Business Bowl is a business case competition in which teams of five Bentley students present a solution to a business problem to a panel of judges. My participation in the competition not only gave me another opportunity to work in teams, but it also refined my oral communication skills. My passion for excellent customer service is highlighted in my volunteer experience at the Arlington Food Pantry, which serves the needs of Arlington residents who cannot afford to buy groceries for themselves. As a volunteer, I carried bags of groceries up the stairs for the clients and directed the clients to where different types of groceries are located. As a company that prides itself on excellent customer service and timely responding, Capital Advisors Group will definitely find my experience of working with people valuable. Attached please find my resume for your review. My email is Giorgio_Penny@bentley.edu and my cell phone number is 781-555-2314 if you would like to contact me. Thank you for your time in considering me for the Reporting Analyst job position at Capital Advisors Group. I hope to speak with you in the future. Sincerely, Santiago Giorgio Attachment: Resume

WEEK 4

ELEVATOR PITCH & LINKEDIN What’s your story? You have less than ONE MINUTE to say it all!

ELEVATOR PITCH WHAT IS AN ELEVATOR PITCH? • • •

A 30-second description you give about yourself in the time it would take to ride up in an elevator Clear, concise and to-the-point Authentic statement about you – YOUR STORY (not someone else’s)!

WHY DO YOU NEED AN ELEVATOR PITCH? • •

To quickly convey who you are, where you have been and where you are going in terms of your career goals Gives understanding about who you are and where you are coming from

WHEN DO YOU USE AN ELEVATOR PITCH? • • •

ANYWHERE really! Career fairs, interviews, networking events, panels, social gatherings Anywhere you are meeting new people – even in an elevator

EXAMPLE #1 - Basic My name is Travis Thomas, and I’m a first-year student majoring in Information Design & Corporate Communication & Public Policy at Bentley University. I have worked on social media initiatives for various organizations in my community. I’m looking for an internship in public relations for a government agency in the Springfield/Hartford area. EXAMPLE #2 with POP! My name is Julia Trenton. As a first-year student at Bentley University, I am planning on majoring in Finance. I’m interested in this area because of my work as treasurer for my high school’s student council and my strong analytical skills. My background involves playing varsity soccer and working as a lifeguard which has given me great experience in working with teams and leadership. I am a person who has a knack for identifying problems and generating spontaneous solutions which is why I am looking forward to interning in wealth management at an investment bank in Boston this summer.

EXAMPLE #3 with POP! (undecided) My name is Jordan Scott and I started attending Bentley University this past fall. Because I am a person who is numbers oriented and likes complex problem solving, I am thinking about majoring in a finance or accounting related area. At Bentley, I’m a member of the Bentley Investment Group, NABA, and a tour guide for the Admission Office. These experiences have allowed me to hone my analytical, communication, and leadership skills. I am hoping to learn about corporate finance and accounting related career paths by talking to banking and tax professionals in the field this summer.

ELEVATOR

PITCH

Career Objectives

College Activities/Jobs Year, Major & School

High School Activities/Jobs

Hometown/ Background

ELEVATOR PITCH WITH POP BRAINSTORM Fill in all applicable boxes

ELEVATOR PITCH WITH POP TEMPLATE Complete this form with information from your Elevator Pitch with Pop Brainstorm Worksheet

My name is __________________________________ and I am a _____________________________________________________. (Year, school, major of study)

My strengths include ____________________________________. (Unique qualities and/or skills)

I have worked for/been involved with _______________________ ______________________________________________________. (Types of organizations/activities)

Particular accomplishments are ____________________________ ______________________________________________________. (Accomplishments relevant to position)

I am looking for an internship in (or more information about) ______________________________________________________ (Potential field of interest)

because _______________________________________________ ______________________________________________________. (Why?)

WEEK 4

LINKEDIN What’s your story? Find, connect and build relationships with a targeted market!

WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO BE ON LINKEDIN

760 million users globally - 72,000+ Bentley alumni on LinkedIn 87% of recruiters regularly use LinkedIn 122 million people received an interview through LinkedIn 35.5 million have been hired by a person they connected with on LinkedIn

Notes

ANATOMY OF A GREAT LINKEDIN PROFILE

LINKEDIN PROFILE PREPARATION WORKSHEET HEADSHOT: Do you have a professional looking picture with appropriate background?

Yes

HEADLINE: Write a creative headline incorporating your career goals. __

__________________________________________________________________________________

EXPERIENCE: [Complete this section with information from your resume.] VOLUNTEER: [Complete this section with information from your resume.] EDUCATION: Write your degree, major, start and end year, activities and societies below. DEGREE & MAJOR: ____________________________________________________________________________________ START YEAR & END YEAR: ____________________________________________________________________________________ ACTIVITIES & SOCIETIES: _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________

LINKEDIN PROFILE PREPARATION WORKSHEET CONTINUED

SKILLS: Write down 5 skills (at least 2 based on your Top 5 Strengths). 1. ___________________________________________________________________________ 2. ___________________________________________________________________________ 3. ___________________________________________________________________________ 4. ___________________________________________________________________________ 5. ___________________________________________________________________________ GROUPS: Write down 3 types of groups you would like to join. 1. ___________________________________________________________________________ 2. ___________________________________________________________________________ 3. ___________________________________________________________________________ COMPANIES: Write down 3 companies you’d like to follow. 1. ___________________________________________________________________________ 2. ___________________________________________________________________________ 3. ___________________________________________________________________________

How to Tell Companies You’re Open to New Jobs using LinkedIn Open Candidates is a LinkedIn feature that signals recruiters your interest in new job openings. This job search tool prompts interested companies to contact you via LinkedIn. Recruiters get instant access to a talent pool through a LinkedIn search. Just activate Open Candidates in your profile. 1. Log into LinkedIn. 2. Navigate to Your Dashboard (Click your Profile photo > View Profile > Your Dashboard) 3. Go to the Career Interests section and toggle the button for Let recruiters know you’re open.

DEVELOPING CONNECTIONS

Assignment & Expectations ELEVATOR PITCH & LINKEDIN – Assignment  Create or update your LinkedIn Profile based on what you learned today  Use your completed LinkedIn Profile Preparation Worksheet  Make sure you include everything on the “LinkedIn Profile Checklist” in the First-Year LinkedIn Guide  Use your Elevator Pitch with Pop as your Summary • The Summary section will be considered and graded as your Elevator Pitch with Pop  Your Instructor will give directions on how to turn in assignments

EXPECTATIONS  

DUE: COVER LETTER NEXT WEEK: INFORMATIONAL MEETING

https://bentley.zoom.us/j/95437718797

LINKEDIN PROFILE CHECKLIST  PROFESSIONAL LOOKING HEAD-SHOT PHOTO • Make sure you post a professional looking picture with appropriate background  INTERESTING HEADLINE • INCORPORATE CAREER GOALS • NOT “STUDENT AT BENTLEY” • State your major, current job title, or career/industry interest • Think strategically about the location and industry that will be displayed – these are key filters used by recruiters  VANITY URL FOR PUBLIC PROFILE • Customize your public profile link to include your name  ABOUT • Use your ELEVATOR PITCH WITH POP as your summary • Try not to say “I” too much • Highlight achievements and explain your career goals in your own voice  EXPERIENCE & VOLUNTEER • All past and present work and/or volunteer experience, paid or unpaid • Include part-time jobs, internships, leadership roles in organizations • Detailed descriptions of work completed, and skills acquired • Can speak in first or third person – if narrative, not too many “I” statements • 1 of 5 hiring managers say they hire because of volunteer activities  EDUCATION INFORMATION • School and degree candidacy • Expected graduation month and year • Activities and societies information  SKILLS AND EXPERTISE • Add at least 2 skills based on Top 5 Strengths • Research phrases most associated with certain industries and highlight keywords • Include transferable skills related to your resume • Endorse people you know well or have worked with for their Skills – they may return the favor  GROUPS & COMPANIES OF INTEREST • Become a member of at least 2 industry groups of interest to develop professionally and learn industry insights • Follow the Bentley University Community LinkedIn Group  HONORS & AWARDS, COURSES, LANGUAGE SKILLS (if applicable)  CONNECT WITH AT LEAST 10 PEOPLE • Start by adding people you know - friends, family, family friends, coaches, faculty, bosses, co-workers • Tailor and personalize your invitations to connect • Search profiles using “Advanced Search” button • Quality of contacts over quantity

+LINKEDIN RESOURCES

CONNECTING ON LINKEDIN  MEET PROFESSIONALS/ALUMNI WITH YOUR POTENTIAL MAJOR/DREAM JOB • Type Bentley University • Then, find alumni by going to the link BENTLEY UNIVERSITY and click “Alumni”

CONNECTING ON LINKEDIN WHEN ASKING FOR CONNECTIONS FROM PEOPLE YOU DO NOT KNOW:  Create a tailored note to send in your connection request  The note should be brief and respectful and is basically like an introduction paragraph, stating: • Who you are • How you found out about them • Why you are interested in connecting with them • Requesting to connect

Hi Mr. Jones,

Sample LinkedIn Connection Request Message (*FYI: There is a 300-character limit on this message by LinkedIn.)

I’m a first-year Finance major at Bentley University and am very impressed by your profile. I am interested in Investment Banking in NYC and was hoping to connect with you to possibly learn more about your career path. Thanks, and I hope to connect with you soon. Sincerely, Terry

ASKING FOR AN INTRODUCTION FROM A CONNECTION:  When you would like to connect with someone who is connected to one of your contacts, you may ask them to introduce you to their contact so you can connect with them  Again, create a tailored, concise note indicating why you would like to be introduced to their contact Sample LinkedIn Introduction Request Message Hi Alice (or Ms. Jones if you don’t know her well), I am very interested in learning more about the sports industry and applying analytical techniques to sports data is a huge passion of mine. ESPN is the global leader in sports coverage and is a company that I highly admire. I noticed that you have a first-degree connection to Joe Smith, a Production Research Manager at ESPN, and was wondering if you would be willing to introduce me to him. I would love to gain some insight from him about starting a career in this field. Thank you and I hope to hear from you soon. Best, Matt

LINKEDIN HEADSHOT AND ABOUT SAMPLE #1

About Wei is a student at Bentley University, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems, with minor studies in Data Technologies and Information Design & Corporate Communications. Upon graduation, he will be joining Travelers as a Business Insights & Analytics Consultant within their 3-year leadership development program. Some of his strengths include presenting himself as an active leader and mentor on the Bentley campus as a MOSAIC Experience ambassador and as the Beta Omicron Pledge Class President of Delta Sigma Pi Professional Business Fraternity. He is also restorative in problemsolving, along with the passion of an active learner, since he has a great desire to learn and is enthusiastic about improving himself in both social and professional aspects. Through his experience with on-campus activities, such as Circle K International and Bentley Service Learning, he has further developed his leadership and interpersonal skills that are beneficial to his career. This year, he assisted with Delta Sigma Pi as the IT Chair and will serve on the executive committee as the Vice President of Pledge Education for the Spring 2021 trimester and continues to mentor as a Career Colleague for the Pulsifer Career Development Center.

LINKEDIN HEADSHOT AND SUMMARY SAMPLE #2

About I am currently a student at Bentley University passionate about all things marketing! I have gained diverse experiences through internships at Epsilon, Toast Inc., and my school's Office of Sustainability that have all allowed me to leverage data to provide strategic marketing recommendations. These endeavors have taught me to be adaptable by learning to be equally comfortable and competent as a team leader, team member, or individual contributor. Outside of marketing and on-campus involvements, my hobbies and interests include finding new coffee shops and trying my hand at film photography!

WEEK 5

INFORMATIONAL MEETINGS How do you learn from someone’s story? How do you explore career paths when sharing your story? An informational meeting is getting the inside scoop on a possible career path!

WHAT IS AN INFORMATIONAL MEETING

WHY CONDUCT AN INFORMATIONAL MEETING?

PRACTICE INFORMATIONAL MEETING EXERCISE

INSTRUCTIONS: Take turns starting a conversation with your partner about Bentley.

Thank your partner for talking with you.

Introduce yourself and give your ELEVATOR PITCH WITH POP.

Tell them the reason for the meeting (to learn more about Bentley).

Ask your partner the following questions:  How did you learn about Bentley?  Why did you choose to go to Bentley?  What are you considering as your major and why?  What activities are you involved in at Bentley and why do you enjoy them?

Ask for someone else at Bentley for you to talk to.

Thank them for their time.

Offer firm handshake.

INFORMATIONAL MEETING PROCESS 1.

IDENTIFY CONTACTS

OUTREACH BY PHONE, EMAIL OR ZOOM

PREPARATION

MEETING

FOLLOW UP

IDENTIFY CONTACTS Process:  Reach out to everyone YOU KNOW first – your own network  Find people who are doing what you want to do – this is where LinkedIn can come into play

OUTREACH BY PHONE, EMAIL OR ZOOM Process:  Contact person by LinkedIn message, email or phone  Request a 30-minute face-to-face meeting, phone call or Zoom meeting  When calling or writing to someone, have a script for your request prepared  Craft a concise introduction that states who you are, why you are reaching out and what you want

Sample Outreach Phone or Email “Hello, my name is Max Mustang. I am a first-year student majoring in Finance at Bentley University and am very interested in learning more about careers in Corporate Finance. I see that you are working at X company in a position that I think is very interesting. I would like to speak to you to get your insight and advice about this field and am wondering if I might make a half-hour appointment with you sometime soon to seek your advice. Thank you!”

OUTREACH BY PHONE, EMAIL OR ZOOM CONTINUED

Dear Mr. Johnson: Professor John Doe of Bentley University’s Finance Department suggested that I contact you. I am a first-year student at Bentley University, with a major in Finance and a passion for the investment management industry. I would like to ask if you have 15-20 minutes to meet with me at your convenience, either on zoom or via phone, to share your experience and insight on the investment management field with me. Please let me know a date and time that is most convenient for you. Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Betty Smith

PREPARATION Process:  Research the person you are meeting, the company and career field  Plan open-ended questions – can be about: •

Career path, organization, industry, company, future growth, salary

 Prepare and practice your elevator pitch  Dress professionally  Use a notepad, pen, and bring a copy of your resume just in case

MEETING Process:  Conduct informational meeting with contact

FOLLOW-UP Process:  Send a thank you email within 24 hours  Connect with the individual via LinkedIn with a personalized invitation if appropriate  Maintain networking contact over time and regularly when appropriate •

Reaching out with follow up questions is a great way to stay in touch periodically

SAMPLE FOLLOW UP QUESTIONS

 Would you mind taking a quick look at my resume? How should I target my resume for your industry?  Are there professional publications I should read or associations I should join?  Are there other professionals in this field you would recommend I speak with for additional information? May I use your name when I contact them?

INFORMATIONAL MEETING PREPARATION WORKSHEET Write down 5 people you know who you think would be good to talk to about their careers/major/industry/company: 1.

________________________________________________________________________________________

What are you specifically interested in learning about (i.e., industry, career path, geographic area, company, job): 1.

________________________________________________________________________________________

Create 2 new questions you would ask during an informational meeting: A. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ B. ________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________

INFORMATIONAL MEETING ASSIGNMENT WHAT IS IT? An informational meeting is an interview with an individual in a career field you would like to explore. It is one of the best ways to find out about the realities of a career. It provides an opportunity to gather information and guidance about the people, environment, and skills involved in that field. IDENTIFY SOMEONE Arrange a 15-minute interview with someone who will give you information on your possible major or career path. Possible contacts: faculty, staff, coach, advisor, or a junior/senior who has participated in at least one internship. TIP: Be strategic! Use this assignment as an opportunity to get to know someone on this campus that you might not otherwise have the opportunity to connect with, such as someone who has experience in a certain field, industry, or major that you are interested in pursuing. APPROACH Before you contact your interviewee, do some basic research on the career field or major. Think about what you hope to gain through the informational meeting. When contacting your interviewee, you should state who you are and why you are seeking career information and advice. In this instance, you can present it as an assignment for your CDI 101 class. Always ask about a convenient time for them to meet. Be confident and courteous in your communication. INFORMATIONAL MEETING For the purpose of this assignment, business casual dress is appropriate. Establish rapport and demonstrate your interest in the interviewee’s comments. Take this form with you and ask 3-5 questions you have prepared. After the conversation, thank the person for helping you with your assignment. FOLLOW-UP Send a short thank you note within 24 hours after your meeting. Keep the interview information on file for future reference – the person may be an important contact for you later. ASSIGNMENT After you have performed the informational meeting, you will be giving a 3-minute oral presentation in class based on the conversation you had with your interviewee. Make sure you bring the completed form to class with the interviewee’s signature on it. THE PURPOSE OF THIS ASSIGNMENT IS TO GIVE YOU AN OPPORTUNITY TO CONNECT WITH SOMEONE THROUGH ZOOM OR PHONE AND HAVE A CONVERSATION ABOUT AN INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE OR A CAREER THAT INTERESTS YOU.

INFORMATIONAL MEETING WORKSHEET Student’s Name: Interviewee: Title: Industry or Career Path: Location of Meeting: Questions and Responses

Signature of Interviewer

Date:

Signature of Interviewee:

Date:

INFORMATIONAL MEETING CHECKLIST  Identify someone of interest  Create outreach email or phone call script  Contact interviewee by phone/email to ask for and arrange 15-30 minute meeting  Do basic research on their career field, job, company, industry, and/or major  Practice elevator pitch  Prepare 3-5 questions to ask during meeting  Bring a notebook and pen to take notes  Wear professional attire  Write a thank you email within 24 hours after meeting  Request LinkedIn connection after meeting if appropriate  Follow up periodically by email/phone to develop relationship

Pulsifer Undergraduate Career Development Center If you have questions, you may get special assistance during First & Second Year Drop-Ins M-Th from 1:00 – 3:00PM In Person: Tuesday – Thursday (LaCava 225) Virtual: Monday - Thursday zoom Link:

https://bentley.zoom.us/j/95437718797

PASSION IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN

HAVING A JOB OR HAVING A CAREER

Virtual

Informational Meetings 89

+INFORMATIONAL MEETING RESOURCES

PLANNING FOR AN INFORMATIONAL MEETING COMPILE A LIST OF CONTACTS: • Don’t be afraid to reach out to people: people typically enjoy talking about their work and sharing their experiences • Start with your own network - think about who you know, personally and professionally • What do you want to learn? Find people who are doing it and put them on the list • Friends & family • Roommates & classmates • Faculty & staff • LinkedIn connections (alumni) • Directories and print resources • Websites • Professional Associations INITIATING CONTACT: • Be clear about your objective - set goals about what you want to gain/learn • Contact people by email, phone, LinkedIn, etc. • Prepare a script for your outreach email/phone call explaining why you are contacting them • Request a 15-30-minute face-to-face meeting Sample Outreach Phone Call: “Hello, my name is Max Mustang. I am a first-year student majoring in Finance at Bentley University, and am very interested in learning more about careers in Corporate Finance. I see that you are working at X company in a position that I think is very interesting. I would like to speak to you to get your insight and advice about this field and am wondering if I might meet with you sometime soon to seek your advice. Thank you!” Sample Outreach Email: Dear Mr. Johnson: Professor John Doe of Bentley University’s Finance Department suggested that I contact you. I am a first-year student at Bentley University, with a concentration in Finance and a passion for the Investment Management industry and am very interested in speaking with you to learn more about the investment management field. I would like to ask if you have 15-20 minutes to meet with me at your convenience either in person or via the phone to share your experience and insight with me. Please let me know a date and time that is most convenient for you to meet. Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you. Best, Your name

PLANNING FOR AN INFORMATIONAL MEETING CONTINUED PREPARING FOR THE MEETING: • Do initial research on the person you are meeting, company, and career field • Practice your ELEVATOR PITCH WITH POP, which includes your reasons for contacting this person • Prepare open-ended questions to keep the conversation flowing, instead of questions that require a “Yes” or “No” answer • Dress professionally, just as you would for a job interview • Bring a notepad, pen, and list of prioritized questions to ask, and a copy of your resume just in case DURING THE MEETING: • Start by thanking your contact for taking the time to meet with you • Establish rapport by engaging in a bit of small talk • Then start with your PRIORITIZED questions o As a rule, you should not take more than 30 MINUTES of this person’s time, so you may not be able to ask all of your questions. • Remember…This is A CONVERSATION, not an interrogation, so let it flow • If they ask you, “Tell me about yourself?,” give them your ELEVATOR PITCH WITH POP • Keep your eye on the time, and make sure you conclude at the appropriate time • Before you conclude, ask them if they know of other professionals in this field they would recommend for you to speak with for additional information • Thank them for their time and ask them if you can contact them again in the future AFTER THE MEETING: • Send a thank you note or email, indicating your appreciation of their time and advice, within 24 hours of the meeting • Follow up regularly at least once every season (4 times a year) when appropriate to develop the relationship o Following up with them may make that person think about alerting you in the future when a job opportunity arises in that organization, or he or she might refer your resume to colleagues in other organizations IDEAS FOR FOLLOWING UP: • Request to connect with them on LinkedIn • Ask questions you didn’t get to ask them before • Inform them that you have acted on a piece of advice they gave you, i.e. joining a professional association, taking a particular class • Send them an article or website link that may be of interest to them • Touch base about something that you mutually have in common • Ask them to give you feedback on your resume

QUESTIONS YOU CAN ASK A PROFESSIONAL IN AN INFORMATIONAL MEETING

ASK ABOUT HIS/HER CAREER: • How did you become interested in this career? • What is a typical workday like? What are your job responsibilities? • What are the rewards, challenges and frustrations of working in this career? • What entry-level jobs are available in this field? • What experience is necessary to enter this career? • What advice do you have for someone preparing to enter this career? ASK ABOUT ORGANIZATION/INDUSTRY: How does your position fit within the organization/industry/career field? • What is your work environment like? • What is the economic forecast for this industry? • What is unique to your organization?

•

ASK ABOUT THE COMPANY: What is your company’s mission? What are the company’s core values? • What is the company culture? • How is the company involved in community activities? • What obligations, outside of normal hours, are involved with the job? • Does this company have a formal/informal mentor program? • Who are your competitors? •

•

ASK ABOUT FUTURE GROWTH/SALARY INFORMATION: What are the employment prospects for someone entering this field? • What is the salary range for entry level positions? • What are some of the current issues and trends in this field?

FOLLOW UP QUESTIONS: Would you mind taking a quick look at my resume? How should I target my resume for your industry? • Are there professional publications I should read or associations I should join? • What other professionals in this field would you recommend I speak with for additional information? • May I use your name when I contact them? • May I have your business card?

Don’t be afraid to ask your own questions. This is your chance to get the information you need from an industry professional.

SAMPLE INFORMATIONAL MEETING QUESTIONS What you want to know: How to ask the question:

How did you wind up in this position? Would you tell me how you got into this profession/field? Can you describe your career path for me?