January 2014

JAN 2014

ENTREPRENEURSHIP & INITIATION ISSUE eHub: the Center of Entrepreneurship Campus Food Guide Interview with BMO Branch Manager Running your own business

Julia Rudolf

STUDENT

diving headfirst into new opportunities SPOTLIGHT

Helvetica. (now that we've got your attention, here's our real message.)

Lazy Faire is looking for a new Art Director.

Details on the job description, qualifications & how to apply at lazyfaire.com and on our Facebook page.

Please Recycle Me! Lazy Faire is printed on Xerox forest certified paper.

Let’s contribute our efforts and do a little recycling of our own!

Pass this preloved Lazy Faire to someone else or return it to one of our news stands!

Much thanks & appreciation in advance.

C O N T R I B U TO R S Editor-in-Chief RACHEL LEE Executive Editor LOUIS LIU Managing Editor TAYLOR BANISTER Writers CARISSA THAM EILEEN LEE ELNUR KASUMOV FELICIA LIANG GABRIEL NUNES ILHAAM JIWAJI JAMES LO JEREMY JAKUBOWSKI KAWTHARA SHIRE LINDSAY HOFER ROSHNI PARHAR THOMAS YONAN

ENTREPRENEURSHIP & INITIATION 4

CALENDAR

5

EDITOR’S NOTE

6

WHAT’S UP

8

TIRINDAR GREWAL How to network with the pros

9

WINTER FASHION Stay warm; look classy

Content Contributor TAMMY LEUNG

DESIGN FA SHION

Art Director ASHLEY TRUONG Associate Art Director LINNEA LAPP Designers BONNIE TRUONG CHRISTINA STEFANIUK COLLEEN DO DAVID TON-LAI EILEEN LEE JENNY TRUONG JENNY WANG KATIE TURNER MICHAEL BAKER SHIRLEY DU

TRENDS

10

CEFE Taking family business and entrepreneurship to new heights

11

ICA All about consulting in all areas

12

JULIA RUDOLF Diving headfirst into new opportunities

14

RICK LAROQUE BMO's branch manager on always improving yourself

19

UNIVERSITY & ENTREPRENEURSHIP How important is a University Degree?

22

JARED ZAMZOW Meet the founder of Rhynopack

MEET THE TEAM A close-up of select contributors

18

FITNESS How to stay fit in 2014

COMPREHENSIVE FOOD GUIDE From sweet to healthy to classy eats

20

EHUB INITIATIVE The new hub of all things entrepreneurial

Photography Director CARISSA THAM Photographers ARIANNA BIASINI CARISSA THAM DAVID HE ELLA LIN FELICIA LIANG

ONLINE Technology Director WILSON HUANG Social Media Director KEVIN PAUL ESPENIDO

EVENTS

EXTERNAL

R E L AT I O N S

Production & Events LESLIE CHIANG Coordinators SHIRLEY DU

P RO D U C T I O N Sponsored by XEROX CANADA Special Thanks to DIANA WYLEY A LAZY

Contact us

UOFALAZYFAIRE @gmail.com CHAT

cover photographed by ARIANNA BIASINI

7

16

23

COMPREHENSIVE RESUME GUIDE Your guide to effective job searching

M 30

JANUARY

T 31

W 1

TH 2

F 3

S/S 4/5

9

10

11/12

NEW YEARS DAY

6

7 DRAGON’S DEN APPRENTICE

8

BUSINESS WEEK APPRENTICE (BSA) BSA BEER APPRENTICE OLYMPICS CASE COMP

BEACH NIGHT

13

14

BSA WINTER GALA (11th)

ANTI BURNOUT

15

16

17

18/19

BSA BOOK SALE ENACTUS INFO SESSION WALL ST PREP JDC WEST

20

21

BACKSTAGE PASS

ELECTIONS INFO SESSION (BSA)

22

23

24

25/26

BEA INFO SESSION NETWORK OF EMPOWERED WOMEN CONFERENCE

27

28

29

30

31

1/2 ANPCC

64

EDITOR’S

N O T E

DEAR READER January is the new beginning to a new year and a month full of changes, resolutions and fresh starts. In this way, January often reminds me of what life stands for.

We make new resolutions, embark on new decisions and start new semesters. We try our best to accomplish these goals and walk towards the end with newfound hope. Sometimes we get there, sometimes we don’t and sometimes our resolutions don’t even make it past January 1st, but all of these thoughts, successes and failures make up who we are. Our resolutions show us what we want and our efforts show us our determination. The results show us the consequences of our actions and our progress shows us how we live in the present. It shows us our future goals, our present state, and what paths we have taken in the past to come to where we are today.

Many of us probably lose focus of our determination because somehow, we justify to ourselves that what we didn’t do today can be done tomorrow. Maybe we convince ourselves that we can start exercising tomorrow, that today will be the last day to finish that box of chocolates. Maybe we convince ourselves that we can start on the homework tomorrow, because it’s due the day after tomorrow. Or maybe we convince ourselves that we can pursue our true interests after we earn enough money to support ourselves.

For the year of 2014, I am going to try to live as if the step we didn’t take today cannot be taken tomorrow. To live each day in the present, as if it is the irreversible last chance that I will get. How much impact will such a perspective have on our lives? What kind of results will I be looking back to in 2015? It will be interesting to see.

BEST WISHES, RACHEL LEE

Editor-in-Chief

designed by ASHLEY TRUONG photographed by ELLA LIN

5

W H A T ’ S

With the New Year fast approaching, the Lazy Faire decided to ask students at the School of Business about entrepreneurship, plans for the Winter semester, and long term goals in this edition of What’s Up. written by THOMAS YONAN

Student Poll*

designed by LINNEA LAPP

Quotes

New Years Tips

U P

Pro tips for achieving your New Year’s resolutions: Be realistic: choose goals that can be achieved in a set time period.

Don’t make too many resolutions: create a set number of objectives, and work hard towards each

“Entrepreneurship isn’t about being the most creative person in the room. It’s about having a solution to a problem, extreme amounts of passion, the courage to make it happen, and the self-confidence to get back up if you fall.”

“Every time you state what you want or believe, you’re the first to hear it. It’s a message to both you and others about what you think is possible. Don’t put a ceiling on yourself.”

Kristiann McCool, 3rd Year SoB SMO Major

Oprah Winfrey

Q1

Q2

Q3

Do you think of yourself as an entrepreneur?

Do you actively save/invest money to support your future endeavours?

Do you plan to open a business at some point in your life, or do you prefer to work for someone else?

Yes

Always | 48%

8%

No

44% 48%

Occasionally | 46%

50%

26%

24%

Who knows?

Open business

Just work

Not really | 6%

Maybe in the future

Q4

Q5

Q6

Where do you see yourself living and working after graduation?

With the holidays approaching, do you plan on donating food or money to charity?

Do you plan on making resolutions this New Year?

Edmonton | 14%

Yes | 62%

Western Canada | 36%

No | 38% Going to | 66%

Eastern Canada | 16%

Not going to | 8%

Abroad | 34%

Pro Tips for 2014

Already have | 26%

Let go of the past.

Now is the time to

Energize those

evaluate the people in

around you. Life is

your life. If you have

about contributing

and learned over

ties to people that

to your community.

the years, but stay

aren’t contributing

Always stay posi-

focused on your

to your life’s journey

tive and help your

goals and where

in a positive way,

friends reach their

you’re headed.

chances are they’re

dreams, because one

Reflect on regrets

holding you back.

day they might help

Be proud of what you’ve achieved

only enough to learn

Past

Present

you reach yours.

from them, and then move on.

6

*Sample size: 50 people

LINNEA LAPP Associate Art Director written by THOMAS YONAN designed by JENNY WANG photographed by ELLA LIN

Linnea is in her fourth year of the Bachelor of Design program, specializing in Visual Communication Design in the Business/Marketing route. Some of her hobbies include sewing and doing DIY projects with friends, as well as outdoor activities. One of Linnea’s long-term goals is to live in Italy at some point in her life!

How would you describe yourself?

I always think of myself as being logical and literal I’ve been told I see things as very black and white!

With this month’s issue all about “Entrepreneurship & Initiation”, what are your plans and resolutions for the New Year?

One of my main goals for the New Year is to figure out what I’m going to do after I graduate in April. I’m debating continuing on with school and pursuing a Master of Design degree, but I still need to apply to the schools I’m interested in attending (one of them is in England!)

SHIRLEY DU Designer, Production & Events Coordinator

LESLIE CHIANG Production & Events Coordinator

Shirley is in her second year of business, majoring in Accounting and minoring in MIS. Some of her interests include stargazing, nature photography, and watching hockey. As a long term goal, Shirley would like to travel the world someday.

What drew you to join Lazy Faire Magazine?

I was attracted to Lazy Faire due to my interest in the print design of magazines. It seemed like a great opportunity for me as a graphic designer to try something that could potentially lead to a career path in magazine design.

How would you describe yourself?

I would say I am someone who is a reliable, hardworking team player. I strive to put forth my best effort in everything I do.

With this month’s issue all about the “Entrepreneurship & Initiation”, what are your plans and resolutions for the New Year?

My goals for the New Year are to read more books and get to bed before 1 AM! I try to exercise, get a good night’s sleep, and use deep breathing techniques to stay healthy and to relieve stress.

Leslie is a second year business student with a major in Finance and a minor in International Business. His hobbies include photography and men’s style. As a long term goal, Leslie aspires to live and work internationally in either Europe or Asia.

What drew you to join Lazy Faire Magazine?

Lazy Faire provided a medium to express my creativity and love for beautiful designs. I wanted to be part of one of the best business school magazines in Canada!

How would you describe yourself?

I would describe myself as driven, confident, and a bit of a perfectionist. That might make me sound a little cocky, but I do have a good sense of humour too!

With this month’s issue all about “Entrepreneurship & Initiation”, what are your plans and resolutions for the New Year?

One thing I want to do in the New Year is to keep expanding my social circle.

What drew you to join Lazy Faire Magazine?

I was actually approached by Rachel to join Lazy Faire, but what’s kept me here is the amazing talent and drive that each of our members possess.

WILSON HUANG Technology Director Wilson is currently in his fourth year of business, majoring in MIS. He enjoys playing dodgeball with the Edmonton Sports and Social Club, and trying out different foods. One of his long term goals is to explore the world while discovering new cultures. Wilson was also behind the construction of the new Lazy Faire website which debuted last month!

teams. I am always happy to help when I am able to, especially when it comes to courses such as MIS! With this month’s issue all about “Entrepreneurship & Initiation”, what are your plans and resolutions for the New Year?

I hope to meet many new people! My plans and resolutions include spending more time with friends and family, as well as sticking to a healthy diet by spending less money in HUB. If all goes well, hopefully I will also get to graduate this year!

How would you describe yourself?

What drew you to join Lazy Faire Magazine?

I am determined and enjoy solving problems in

The people and culture drew me to Lazy Faire.

Although I knew a few individuals before joining, I have met many more during our events; including our Secret Santa exchange for Christmas!

7

Tailored Advice for Students

written by ROSHNI PARHAR designed by KATIE TURNER

For this month’s feature, we bring you the expert networking knowledge from Tirindar Grewal, the BUS 301 instructor and Business Communications Advisor for the Alberta School of Business. With four years as the BUS 301 instructor, years of experience as a co-op coordinator, and ten years of banking under her belt, Tirindar offers a few pieces of crucial advice when it comes to networking with the pros.

Welcome to Lazy Faire! Could you please tell our Lazy Faire readers a bit about yourself to get started?

Tirindar: My role here at the School of Business is as a business communications instructor. The course focuses on business communications in terms of writing strategies and career development, but also on business etiquette and everyday business interactions. I am a graduate of the School of Business, with an Education degree to complement my BCom. I come from a varied background and whatever I teach I’ve had to do myself, so I think that the practical background helps me relate when students go into the workplace. I’m someone who loves networking because I love learning about what other people are involved in. I love learning about new business ventures and different changes that affect our lifestyle, like yoga. I really enjoy interacting with students and seeing their passions and willingness to learn because it charges me.

Students are often apprehensive of meeting professionals at networking events, so how do you suggest students approach someone they are interested in connecting with?

Remember that anyone you are meeting is at an equal level as you. By that I mean that each of us have the same amount of worth, so if you go there thinking, “I have one unit of worth and so does this person I’m meeting”, you don’t feel so apprehensive to approach them. Practice equalizing yourself with others and thinking of them as people first, and practice meeting people of all ages and backgrounds.

Since many people attend networking events, do you have any tips about making yourself memorable?

1.

Be prepared to have a few talking points about yourself. Use the 1-2 minute elevator pitch to your advantage. It doesn’t have to be something that everyone will find amazing, but it should emphasize what you offer.

2.

Plan to be interested and curious about the people you are meeting. Read about the event; know about the community and company.You do have to make a targeted investment in time, so it’s much easier to make small talk if you go prepared. Think about what you can do for someone else, what you’re good at. It has nothing to do with the business you’re going into necessarily, but with what you can do with others.

3.

“Be yourself, be genuine, & be engaged.”

-Tirindar

Practice ‘palms up’ networking, which is essentially asking, “What do I have to offer to this person; how can I help them?” Basically, any sort of service of giving without wanting anything back. I think a lot of us feel that networking can be very greedy, you just go in and get something, like collecting a bunch of cards or thinking, “What’s in it for me?” If you go in like that, people can tell, and you don’t make genuine connections. ‘Palms up’ should help you make connections because you want nothing other than to meet people and learn about them.

4.

Always remember the 3 P’s: Patience, Perseverance, and Positive Attitude.

Do you have any parting pieces of advice to our readers on effective networking?

Fall in love with people. Everyone has interesting stories, trials, and triumphs, so pay attention. There is something to learn from everyone. Most people are happy to talk about themselves and how they got to where they were. Don’t talk about yourself too much; ask more questions about them and their business. Think about who their potential customers are, and if you have anyone to connect with them. Again, you aren’t doing anything for yourself, but you’re giving back to them, which eases the burden off you.

Know more about yourself as well, so that when you go to speak to those in your network, you have something to say to them. In turn, when they go to network, they can say something about you. Network even when you aren’t looking for a job. Start early, it makes everything a lot easier.

8

FA SHION written by GABRIEL NUNES designed by LINNEA LAPP photographed by ARIANNA BIASINI

TRENDS

HOW TO SPICE UP

YOUR WINTER WARDROBE Winter break has come and gone but the cold weather still continues. Temperatures may be going down but don’t let your fashion sense plummet too. The facts are this: there are a variety of small tricks that can help you look your best in this chilly weather!

SCARF STYLE Scarves are the perfect way to add some zest to your outfit during the winter. Wearing a scarf with your ensemble is a simple way to complement your other wardrobe pieces, and is a fantastic accessory that comes in numerous colours and styles. Start wearing a scarf and showcase that personal flair you possess!

CONTEMPORARY BOOTS You can tell a lot about a person by the type of boots they wear. Invest in a pair of boots, and instantly add a touch of sophistication and depth to any winter outfit. Boots will keep your feet warm and dry while making you look super fly. If you find a comfortable pair that suits your style, you won’t want to wear anything else!

BRIGHT COLORS Most people opt for neutral tones in the winter, so why not change things up? Try throwing something on that pops amongst the gloomier colors that most are accustomed to wearing. If you pull it off right, you will definitely enhance any winter outfit.

In order to give you some more winter clothing inspiration, we have interviewed 3rd year SoB Marketing students Saadia Reaz and Edward Manolii for some pro fashion tips.

Why do you think winter fashion is important?

EDWARD You’re always trying to strike a balance between staying cozy and looking good. As a business student, you never know what might come up or who you may meet.

A classy winter outfit is definitely one way to make an impression!

SAADIA Winter fashion is important, as dressing nicely increases an individual’s ability to feel good about themselves.

What is your tip to winter fashion?

S Stay warm, but look classy.

E I’m personally a big fan of sweaters and cardigans to compliment a wardrobe!

9

COMMUNIT Y

CEFE: Taking Family Business and Entrepreneurship to New Heights C E N T R E written by LOUIS LIU designed by EILEEN LEE

After reading the trials, tribulations, and eventual successes of some of the entrepreneurs featured in this magazine, perhaps you’ve been inspired to pursue an idea or a breakthrough concept of your own. An idea that you stored away in your thoughts but never found the time, drive, nor courage to work it to fruition. Maybe you even have a position lined up in the ol’ family business waiting for you upon graduation. After all, starting your own business or taking over the family business can be extremely daunting tasks. Where do you start? Who do you talk to? What, why, when, how?

This is where the Center for Entrepreneurship and Family Enterprise (CEFE) steps in to fill the void. As a globally recognized research center for family business and a stepping stone for new entrepreneurs, CEFE is the Alberta School of Business’ helping hand for all students looking to start a business, run a current business, or even take over a family business. With a more focused approach towards family business studies and research, CEFE is dedicated to understanding the particular conditions of family firms. CEFE has put family business on the map as an important scholarly field by engaging leading researchers, contributing to and editing key publications in family business, and hosting the internationally-recognized Theories of Family Enterprise Conference each year to bring the world’s leading scholars to explore and discuss family entrepreneurship.

Moreover, CEFE works with the Alberta School of Business to build and provide the Entrepreneurship and Family Business

Major/Minor degree programs as an offering for all students including undergraduate, MBA, and PhD. Students enrolled in the program benefit substantially from substantial scholarships, visiting speakers, international field trips, and individual course offerings in family business and entrepreneurship. Besides attaining invaluable entrepreneurship and family business expertise, students in the program can benefit immensely from the CEFE Scholarship for Family Enterprise and RBC Financial Group Scholarship in Family Enterprise offered by the School.

Remember those nagging questions? Who, what, when, where, why, how? If the thought of entrepreneurship or takeover of a family business is something that you’re interested in, definitely take some time out of your busy day and explore the endless possibilities that CEFE and the School’s Entrepreneurship and Family Enterprise degree have to offer. It’s the next step towards transforming your entrepreneurial dreams and goals into reality.

Take the opportunity, we assure you that you’ll be happy you did.

You can take that next step by checking out CEFE’s website at http://www.business.ualberta.ca/ Centres/CEFE.aspx, or arranging a time with an advisor at the Business Undergraduate office to learn more about your fit with the Entrepreneurship and Family Business degree offered by the Alberta School of Business.

10

written by FELICIA LIANG designed by DAVID TON-LAI

Interdisciplinary Consulting Association For this month’s issue, the Lazy Faire had the opportunity to sit down with ICA members Keita Hill, Ranek Kiil, and Andy Cheema to learn more about the various opportunities offered by the Interdisciplinary Consulting Association.

The ICA is a new initiative on campus that brings students across various faculties together to work on their consulting skills. By offering biweekly case sessions, members can develop their problem-solving, team-building, and leadership abilities, which are all universally invaluable skills to possess.

What is the ICA and what are its objectives?

Keita: The ICA is a unique club, as it is open to students across all disciplines, and is focused on

our own cases;examining situations of interest to us, researching the facts, and then forming a new case for our members to work on.

showcasing the boundless areas of practise that exist in consulting. The club has two main objectives.

The first is to raise awareness of what consulting is, and provide a chance for students to discover how it can help them achieve their career goals after their degree. Secondly, the ICA aims to equip students with the skills needed to tackle cases. We also provide a network for students; those who join our mailing list receive upcoming employer information.

In addition, we run industry workshops with experienced consulting professionals; one highlight being

Keita: We welcome students from all faculties.

Members of the ICA have complementary skill sets, and this allows us to learn from each other. For

cases under an interview context comparable to those found in large consulting firms. Through these sessions, students work on structuring a problem, thinking through it logically, and finding strategies to solve the case. We’ve also started developing

opportunity. Not only are members able to meet students outside their own faculty, but we’ve also started building connections with companies in industry.

Ranek: As seen during our session with McKinsey in May, our members have had the opportunity to

tion style from ICA members, as it’s not something

meet potential employers and see what their work-

I’ve encountered often in my coursework.

place is like. There have also been opportunities to

Ranek: All ICA members have common passion for

the members, as their ultimate goal is to employ

interviewees — and we work through standard

Keita: Aside from developing your problem solving

helpful to develop my presentation and communica-

How does the ICA achieve these goals?

Generally, we have two groups – interviewers and

What are some benefits that members can gain from being a part of the ICA?

example, as an engineering student, I’ve found it

solving problems. Despite having different perspec-

students can come in and work on a case together.

Visit http://ica.ualberta.ca/ for more information. A sample case can be found under “Documents”. Registration form can be found on the homepage.

skills, the ICA also provides a great networking

How does diversity play its role in the ICA team?

a trip to McKinsey & Company in Calgary.

Ranek: We hold biweekly case sessions where

Interested in the ICA? Be a part of an amazing team!

tives, there is a high degree of cooperation between

meet individuals at various firms in industry, giving our members the ability to better judge potential lifestyle fit, as well as get tips from potential colleagues and interviewers.

their critical thinking skills to come up with solutions

Andy: Recruitment is a very competitive process,

to the cases they work on.

but in reality it is not a zero sum game. The best way

Andy: The breadth of experience and diversity of backgrounds in the ICA, to some extent, reflects the diversity of real consulting teams in industry. Bringing different sets of knowledge to the table allows us to tackle a problem from different angles, and come up with an optimal solution that we may not

to improve your skills is to work with other like-minded students, share resources, and collaborate. Also, because the ICA gives you a chance to embody the role of an interviewer, it gives you the ability to think like the person on the other side of the table,and sharpens your eye for what interviewers are looking for.

have been able to reach individually.

11

STUDENT

January is a month of new beginnings, change, and initiation.

SPOTLIGHT

It’s a month where ideas are created, and new opportunities are explored. In light of this, the Lazy Faire decided to feature 3rd year SoB student, Julia Rudolf in our Student Spotlight.

Julia has become somewhat of an expert when it comes to new opportunities and experiences. Her most recent experiences include a trip to Singapore for the Asian Business Case Competition; and an 8 month Accounting co-op term with EY. Julia amazed the Lazy Faire through her continued desire to grow her network and experiences in the SoB. This year, Julia is co-chair of the Network of Empowered Women, a member of the JDC West Not-for-Profit Team, and will be going on an exchange to Vienna, Austria in February.

Being co-chair of

with NEW; I was

the Network of

new to business and I

Empowered Women,

didn’t feel that I knew

what is the main

what I was doing.

message that NEW

However, through the

strives to educate

Network of Empow-

people about, and

ered Women, I was

how has it affected

able to meet so many

you personally?

inspirational women

I think what NEW really wants to share is that regardless of other people’s ideas and perceptions of what you are “supposed” to do, you can really do anything that you want in life.

In general, we are just trying to encourage people, especially

ing myself in this community of empowerment has helped me find confidence, and become comfortable with who I am and what I want. I have realized that I’m just as capable of changing the world as anybody else could be.

women, to pursue

You are entering

their ambitions, and

a new chapter of

to go out there and

your life this year

do exactly what they

with your upcoming

desire, even if it is

exchange to Vienna.

difficult.

What are you most

Personally, I didn’t have a lot of confidence when I started

12

and students. Engag-

looking forward to about this experience?

Do you have any

there, and it is presented, I just go

“

I often don’t feel ready for “things, but if the opportunity is

first

into it. goals or expecta-

terms of expectations,

knew I didn’t know as

to do after I graduate.

selves. Opportunities

prepared for what I’m

tions going into the

I try not to go into

much as other people

I am an Accounting

come your way even

about to take on, but

exchange?

things with a lot of ex-

did and I felt that I

major considering

when you don’t expect

sometimes you have

pectations. I am open

couldn’t contribute

my CPA designation;

them to, and they are

to take opportunities

to whatever comes

as much. I realized

it is an awesome

completely differ-

even when you don’t

my way!

people are willing to

designation, and it

ent from what you

feel ready for them;

help but sometimes

can get you to a lot of

thought they would

because by the time

they don’t know how,

different places, but I

be. I just want to see

you are ready, they

so you have to learn to

realized through my

what comes my way

won’t be there for you

ask questions and take

co-op degree that this

and where my passion

any more. I often don’t

a proactive approach

might not be the path

lies. In the end, I want

feel ready for things,

when you don’t know

I am meant to be on. I

to do something that I

but if the opportu-

something. Regardless

think in the long run,

am passionate about,

nity is there, and it

of where you end up

regardless of what I

and feel that I am

is presented, I just go

working, people will

do, I really want to

making a real differ-

headfirst into it.

always be willing to

make a difference. I’ve

ence in whatever area

help you. They were

been entertaining the

I end up working in.

in your position once

idea of a not-for-prof-

I was really excited to

and they understand

it, because they make

start co-op– I think it

what it is like being

such a difference in

I want to go into the

came at a really good

a student or a recent

our community. I

exchange and take

time, because I was at

graduate.

think I would still be

every opportunity

the point where I had

that I can, and to not

learned a fair amount

say no because of fear

in my undergraduate

or financial restric-

degree, and I wanted

tions. I’ve heard that

to take it and apply

exchanges are a self-

it to the real world.

discovery process, so

While at EY, I learned

I hope to learn a little

to ask questions. At

more about myself

first I was very shy

while in Vienna. In

and intimidated; I

I am looking forward to putting myself in a different environment and stepping outside

You recently com-

of my comfort zone.

pleted an 8 month

I find the experience

co-op term with EY.

of visiting different

What were your

countries and learn-

initial feelings about

ing about different

entering a new work

cultures is valuable,

place, and how will

because you become

you draw on the

more accepting of

experience once you

other cultures and

graduate and start

other people, and

working full-time?

also learn more about yourself.

Faire her true passion

to success when ap-

for the numerous ac-

proaching new expe-

tivities she is involved

riences or change?

in within school, and

I try not to go into

path had I not gotten

new experiences with

involved, realized

any set expectations,

how many opportuni-

and try to go in with a

ties are present out

fresh outlook. An op-

there, and understood

portunity will be what

where my skills are.

I make of it, and I have

I have realized that

to make sure that I

To be honest, I have

sometimes career

make the most of it.

no idea what I want

paths develop them-

I don’t always feel

aspirations after you graduate? How do you think being involved in the School of Business will help you realize your goals?

Julia showed the Lazy

What is your key

on that accounting

What are your career

During our interview,

the professional way that she carries herself. It was easy to see how Julia ended up in our Student Spotlight feature for the month, and the Lazy Faire was honoured to showcase the amazing person that she is.

written by LINDSAY HOFER designed by ASHLEY TRUONG photographed by ARINNA BIASINI

13

EXTERNAL

R E L AT I O N S

RICK LAROQUE

EXTERNAL RELATIONS BRANCH MANAGER AT BMO written by ELNUR KASUMOV designed by CHRISTINA STEFANIUK photographed by DAVID HE

“

Only one person is going to be satisfied with your success, and that is the person in the mirror.

14

”

On a c old D e c emb er morning, we s et out to interview Rick Laro que, Branch Manager at BMO on Whyte Avenue, who welc ome d us to his offic e with a warm smile. We learne d lots ab out motivation, leadership, and of c ours e, how to efficiently run a bank.

Originally from Saskatchewan, Rick studie d in Lethbridge and starte d his care er in the newspap er business. He quickly understo o d that the growing wave of te chnology would have detrimental effe cts on that industry, s o he joine d his wife in the banking s e ctor, working as a team manager at TD Waterhous e. Comp etitiveness and desire for s elf-improvement quickly move d Rick up the ranks at TD until the investment s ervic e c enter he worke d at was c ons olidate d by the c ompany to Ontario and Queb e c. Rick de cide d to stay in Alb erta, supp ort his wife in the new p osition she was starting, and pivot his growth toward a care er at BMO.

What got you to where you are today?

“I’m very competitive, I always challenge myself. I look around and find the best person around me, talk to them, figure out what they are good at and how to get better than them.” As an example Rick explained to me that he used to challenge himself by learning to sell different products in order to improve as a salesman. He also mentioned that he reads a lot of books, and recommended Jack Welch as a good guide for management. “I read 1-2 leadership books every month.”

What motivates you?

After thinking long and hard, Rick said: “I want to be the best. I constantly want to improve myself and those around me. I’m excited to wake up and come to work to get challenged. Concentrating on my people and making them better – that is the guiding force.”

What advice do you have for people starting a new job?

“You’ve got to have a plan, not just: I want to be CEO some day. How are you actually going to get there? What’s your plan today? What’s your plan next week? Next month? Even, what’s your plan in the next few hours?” Rick suggested going through the steps and outlining the objectives and the stages of your advancement. “You have to allow yourself to gain experience.” Never seek to move up until you’re confident you’re the best at the present position,” he explained. “Also, keep in mind your next position: be the job you want to be, not the job you have.”

afraid to tell you their honest opinion.

At a new position, always seek feedback because self-improvement goes a long way. Get out and talk to people, because self-improvement goes a long way. Social media and LinkedIn are good leads.” Rick has had many conversations with students who connected with him through LinkedIn. “Be proactive, move things forward, people who do that are the ones who are going to be successful.”

What’s your definition of leadership?

“Someone who can maximize the effort around them toward a goal.”

What steps are necessary at the beginning to establish a good leader?

“Allow them to fail. I don’t know anybody

“Energy. In this day and age, people are constantly asked to do more with less; leaders have to have the energy every day to follow through with the day. If you are excited about people, you have a good lead over the competition.”

What is your favourite part about the job?

Rick is proud of the fact that over 70% of his time at work revolves around people and coaching. “My most proud achievement,” says Rick, “is how many people I helped with their career. It gives me pleasure seeing them succeed.” Rick talks about the generosity-gene that was introduced in one of his readings.

He explains that people who possess this conceptual gene are ones “who get excited about seeing others succeed.”

in leadership who hasn’t made a mistake.

If you haven’t taken risk, you probably haven’t moved forward. Mistakes are golden learning opportunities. You have to allow people to experience the role.

Do not set them up, but do question their decisions and judgment. Ask them things like: What’s the benefit? What’s the cost? Are you prepared to live with the consequences? Allow them to make their own judgment calls.”

What is your management style?

“To be compassionate and to have fun.

People are going to want to come to work and do their best. If they do their best it’s for the best of their clients and everyone involved! I enjoy coaching, being direct, and talking to people. I don’t micromanage, I believe in being there for support.”

What’s the best advice you’ve been given?

Here, Rick told me about his most eye opening experience as a leader and people manager. In a previous position, one of Rick’s employees had performed a trade that lost the company a significant amount of money. This has come at a bad time, as Rick was stepping into a new position. On top of that, the employee tried to cover it up, and if they hadn’t done so, the loss could have been avoided. Shaken, once he found out, Rick sought after some advice from his manager, who replied: “what would make that person feel the need to hide this fact? What have we done wrong as management?” Rick explained that as a manager : “you s et the environment, the plac e and the tone for everyone

In one word, what kind of leader are you?

“Don’t forget to find a mentor, one who can guide you, who you can bounce ideas around with, who would not be

What do you look for in a leader?

els e to b e a suc c ess or a failure.”

Energetic.

15

Campus Food Guide As we all try to get back into our routines at the School of Business and buckle down for another semester, keeping ourselves well fed is always a must. Discovering a new place to eat is always a great personal experience, or an experience to share with others. Here are some of my top food locale recommendations to check out around Campus!

L

H

Healthy Eats A. Jacket Potato Man; HUB Mall

and those crispy bites that make their chicken salad so addicting.

112 STREET NW

I

There’s something about the sauce

B C A

B. BEEZ; HUB Mall Try the many different smoothies offered, or go for the Chili, oh so good.

C. Feta & Olives; HUB Mall (pro tip: BSA card discount) Greek Salad. Enough said.

Coffee

Pizza

Japanese

D. Remedy; 8631 109 St NW

F. Leva Cappuccino Bar; 11053 86 Ave NW

G. Kabuki; 8724 109 St NW

(Vegan, Late Night) (Pro tip: BSA card discount)

(Gluten Free and Vegan Options, Late Night)

(Vegetarian options available)

Chai Tea Lattes are a must here.

Leva is a great place to sit down for a fancier

Kabuki is one of my favourite sushi places

meal with a friend. For breakfast try the

because of the freshness of their Chop Chop

E. Transcend Coffee; 8708 109 St NW

Breakfast Pizza with an over easy egg and

scallop roll. Other recommendations are

(Free Wi-Fi, Late Night)

ham. For those who are fans of gluten free,

the Flaming Unagi Roll which is still on fire

their pizzas are also available on a rice crust.

when it reaches your table and the Goma-ae

Aside from pizza, there are also paninis,

appetizer if you want to eat a little healthier.

salads, and one of the best cappuccinos on

For those who aren’t too keen on sushi, there

campus.

are also bento box options and udon noodles.

If you’re looking for a quiet place to sit down and enjoy a cup of coffee, go to Transcend.

I decided to check it out for the first time and was impressed with its study friendly atmosphere and student friendly prices. I decided to try the Jacqui, which was creamy hot chocolate with lavender infused steamed milk. Other options include espressos, mochas, and lattes (complete with latte art).

Did I also mention there’s a cherry blossom tree right in the middle of the restaurant?

Comfort Food K. Sugar Bowl; 10922 88 Ave NW

L. Marco’s Famous; SUB

(Vegetarian and Gluten Free options

This is where I always go to get my cheese

available, Late Night, Free Wifi)

donair fix when I’m on campus.

The Sugar Bowl has become my new favourite place to eat on campus with its

M. Steel Wheels Pizzeria; 10307 85 Ave NW

excellent weekend brunch menu and just as

(Late Night, Cheap Eats)

mouth-watering dinner options. Brunch at the Sugar Bowl is a great way to start your day if your brain is in for an intense mental workout. Some recommendations include their Cinnamon Buns, Three Cheese Bacon Omelette (which is loaded with bacon and mushrooms in every bite), and from their dinner menu, indulge in the Pulled Pork

Open from 6pm-3am every day, Steel Wheels provides cheap late night eats such as Bulgoki Pizza, kimchi stew, and dumplings.

It’s definitely one of the most interesting places to eat on campus with just about every surface covered in graffiti from past customers.

Poutine. It’s not always on their menu, but they might make it for you if you ask nicely!

M

85 Avenue

J

Y BOULE GATEWA

86 Avenue

D 109 STREET NW

F

110 STREET NW

111 STREET NW

87 Avenue

VARD

G

E

104 STREET NW

K

83 Avenue

WHYTE AVENUE a.k.a. 82 Ave

Korean

Desserts

H. Gaya Korean Restaurant; 11147 87 Ave NW

I. Barteca; HUB Mall

(Vegetarian options available) Gaya offers some great authentic Korean food

A quick froyo (frozen yogurt) before heading to class, anyone?

options. My favourite is the Stone Bowl Bee Bim Bap. It’s a rice dish served in a hot stone bowl with cucumbers, carrots, seasoned meat,

J. Gama Store; 10418 82 Ave

There are so many options available in and around campus. I hope you agree with some of my with some of my top picks, and that I’ve sparked your interest in others! We have a whole semester ahead of us, so make sure you nurture your brain with some good food!

and an undercooked egg. The best part of this

(Free Wi-Fi)

dish is scraping the bowl for the last crispy

This is the only place I know in Edmonton

bits of rice stuck on the sides. In addition,

to get fresh Taiwanese pancakes. If you’ve

every dish comes with a side of kimchi and

never had one before, then it is a must try,

beansprouts, which are great additions to

especially when they are freshly made. I can

written by EILEEN LEE

any meal. Gaya is a nice small place to grab a

only describe it as a hot pancake sandwich

designed by ASHLEY TRUONG

quick bite to warm you up this winter.

with delicious sweet filling inside. My favourite is the melting gold filling.

17

5

S

T

E

P

S

TO A FITTER YOU

constantly mentioned it, but has never actually gotten around to doing it? If this isn’t you, chances are you know many people like that. We often have all sorts of excuses for not working out. For many, working out is hard work so it’s only natural to shy away from it even if it’s good for us. Hopefully, with this article, you’ll have a surer sense of how to go about starting to exercise, and regularly at that. Exercise is really easier than you think. But like

written by CARISSA THAM

everything, it requires time, effort and perseverance.

designed by MICHAEL BAKER & ASHLEY TRUONG

1

Understand the benefits of exercising. We know that exercising is good for you, but how exactly? We know exercise helps with losing weight but that is only the tip of the iceberg and should not be your main reason for exercising. Science has proven that exercise helps with many health problems that will plague us in our later years—but for us young daredevils, this carries little weight for us at this point of our lives. So why not consider reasons like: exercise can increase confidence, increase energy levels, improve moods by decreasing stress levels, help with concentration a.k.a. potentially improve our grades, etc? Now we’re talking. Last but not least, exercise helps improve the quality of our sleep as well.

18

Do you know anyone who wants to start working out, and has

2

Figure out why you want to start exercising. In our diet-andthin-obsessed world, many people exercise to lose weight.

However this is one of the worst reasons to exercise. Not only does it have the potential to lead to having an unhealthy body image, it may also lead to having an unhealthy relationship with food. Instead, exercise because you want to be healthier, because you want to be fitter. Because you want to feel less tired, because you’re sick and tired of feeling so lethargic all the time.

Because you have too much pent-up energy looking for a release.

3

Understand the different types of workouts — resistance training, cardio or plyometrics.

Most guys will be drawn to resistance training, while most girls will be inclined to hit the treadmill repeatedly. While resistance training and cardio have their benefits, we need a balance of both. Resistance training helps increase metabolism and bone density, cardio improves stamina and lung capacity, and eliminates that huffing and puffing after three flights of stairs. Resistance training gives you that athletic look while cardio helps with fat loss. Don’t focus too much on this point though, but instead understand that you need various types of exercise to increase all aspects of fitness.

4

Try as many different types of exercise as you can to figure out what you like.

A big part of being informed on different types of exercise is doing research on the Internet. Proper form is critical for weight training—other types of exercise also have their do's and don’ts that are essential to prevent injury. The most difficult part may be when you actually start working out. If you’re wondering where to work out, it depends on what type of exercise you want to do. Body weight training can be done at home. Our own fitness centre at Van Vliet is great too.

Many find our fitness centre intimidating, but know that no one is there to judge you and everyone starts somewhere.

5

Create a workout plan that suits you and plan ahead. I can’t emphasize the importance of planning ahead more.

For most of us the better part of our days are spent on campus.

It will be a good idea to plan your workouts in terms of weeks.

Determine which days you will be working out so you’ll know to pack your bag beforehand. This will give you fewer opportunities for excuses too. If you don’t have time, make time.

THOUGHT

VS THOUGHT

Is a University Degree Crucial for Entrepreneurial Success? written by JEREMY JAKUBOWSKI & CARISSA THAM designed by JENNY TRUONG

The Proposition Do you ever wonder if it is critically important to obtain a University degree in order to become a successful Entrepreneur in life? Do you wonder whether the skills you learn in University are instrumental for Entrepreneurial success, or not necessary to become your own boss in the real world?

Two of our contributors this month had the pleasure of debating over this heated topic, and gave plenty of reasons why you need, and neednot have a University education in order to be a successful Entrepreneur in the world.

f Jeremy | Yes Think of the following question when you read this article. What is the value of a four-year business degree? Do you believe employers hire students based on their GPA, because a student that achieves a 90% average in their undergrad has retained 90% of the content they were taught throughout their studies? University is a medium that provides students the tools necessary to approach and deal with problems.

A degree tells an employer that the applicant has experience managing problems, and will find a way to deal with the problems that arise in the world of business.

An entrepreneur is not an employee;

they are their own boss. As many of us discovered in Business 201, a products’ success depends on more than just the idea. Entrepreneurs need to solve the problems that arise when working with less than perfect suppliers, they need to manage schedules, and they need to be leaders. Where does the university degree play into this?

University provides the entrepreneur with a controlled environment to develop numerous approaches in tackling real world problems. They discover themselves through the difficult classes they take, the case competitions they work through, and the clubs they manage. Univer-

sity prepares us for the challenges we will face in the real world. We face the challenges in a classroom setting, so that we have the foundations on which to approach a new challenge.

For me, a four-year degree in terms of employment is like the army’s basic training for combat. A soldier learns the tactics, runs the drills, and gets exposure to tough leadership situations. Whether they live or die in battle will depend on a multitude of uncontrollable factors. However, they will have the skill set needed to achieve their potential in combat.

This is the value that a university degree provides to the young entrepreneur.

f Carissa | No While a degree can benefit us in numerous ways, it may not always be necessary for entrepreneurial success.

There are many brilliant examples of successful people who either did not graduate from, or dropped out of University—David Karp, founder of Tumblr, Steve Jobs of Apple, Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook, Michael Dell, founder and CEO of Dell, Richard Branson of Virgin Group, and the list goes on and on.

However, these successful people who did not graduate from University seems to share a similarity—most already had something they were extremely zealous and

passionate about. David Karp had learnt HTML at a very young age and was very knowledgeable in web development and the like before he founded Tumblr. Richard Branson’s exceptional interpersonal skills helped open many doors for him early in his career—this also happens to be one of his top pieces of advice for budding entrepreneurs, and it is something he is widely known for.

When it comes to entrepreneurial success, one thing remains the same; whether or not you have a degree— you will need to be highly knowledgeable in your field, put in sheer hard work, be extremely dedicated,

and have great interpersonal skills to get connected to the right people.

Although a degree can help with these critical traits for entrepreneurial success, it is not the only way to acquire these skills.

For those looking to be an entrepreneur without a degree, there are several things you need—established hard skills that you have acquired somewhere else or maybe even self-taught, exceptional soft skills, and a clear plan as to the steps you will take from now on.You should delve into working towards your goals right away with the plans you have made.

19

COMMUNIT Y

eHub – Turning Visions Into Reality C E N T R E Did you know Bejeweled was created by students at the University of Alberta? Neither did we! Want to be the next successful startup student that the University of Alberta will boast about? Keep reading!

written by ILHAAM JIWAJI designed by SHIRLEY DU photographed by CARISSA THAM

I sat down with Qasim Rasi, the Assistant Director of the Technology Commercialization Center at the University of Alberta, to speak to him about his new position as the Director of Entrepreneurship of the eHub Initiative that is being launched this year on the university campus.

What is eHub, and what do you think sets it apart from other programs offered at the university?

On the university campus there are resources to turn to for almost every student needs, except student startups. We talk about entrepreneurship but we don’t currently have a support center for it. The Alberta School of Business’s Technology Commercialization Center has recognized this gap and has created eHub to solve this problem. eHub produces a space to cater to the needs of entrepreneurial students and create an interdisciplinary bridge between faculties on campus.

We have already initiated this program through looking at the top business plans at the School of Business to become a capstone project for Computing Science 101.

All too often, students work so hard on these business plan projects and then have no resources to actually create their plans. eHub hopes to become the resource students turn to, to make their vision a reality.

What created the idea for eHub, and what motivated you to get involved?

I’ve always been driven by entrepreneurial activities. I finished my postdoctoral fellowship at the School of Medicine and dentistry in the department of medical genetics. I then received a scholarship to pursue my MBA in Finance.

I was involved with building a new software this past summer at the university and we didn’t have a lot of resources, so I brought together teams from the School of Computing Science and high schools to brainstorm. The School of Business

20

then approached me to initiate the same method on campus to build teams around ideas, and that’s how the idea for eHub germinated.

The eHub initiative utilizes a 3-pronged approach. Can you tell me a bit about each of these three?

Curricular Approach: We are introducing a general elective called Entrepreneurship 101, which can be taken by any student attending the University of Alberta. Within in this class, students will present business plans and the top team receives a monetary reward. Our goal is to have most of the projects from this class actually be built through an interdisciplinary approach.

We are also connecting our TechComm students in our MBA programs to allow them the opportunity to take smaller ideas and build around it. On top of that, we are starting entrepreneurship classes specifically catered towards postdoctoral fellow students. We also hope to heavily involve students from the entrepreneurship and family enterprises stream within the SoB. We want to create an ecosystem of innovation culture and we believe getting all students involved on campus will achieve this.

On Campus Partnerships: We want to promote an interdisciplinary partnership. We have already achieved a partnership with the Business and Computing Sciences faculties and are now currently working on getting other faculties involved. We have received a lot of support so far throughout campus and would like to open eHub to everyone on campus, no matter their faculty. We want to create excitement among students to relate what they are learning in school to the real world.

There is also a new service called “Venture Mentorship Ser-

vices” where we offer students mentorship services. The men-

To help students, and be part of a new culture is something in itself. The excitement that one day I can look back and tors are successful local entrepreneurs. Since the year 2000 say I was part of multiple success stories. eHub in itself is Alberta has had over 6 Billion successful entrepreneurship a startup story and just like other startups it faces similar exit stories. A lot of those entrepreneurs have come forward challenges. But we have the support needed to make it a to support our eHub program. The mentors will be able to written by JENNY WANG success. We hope to make entrepreneurship very visible on reach out to the industry to assist students in their business designed by JENNY TRUONG campus. Next time a student has a start up idea, we want venture. eHub to be the next person they contact.

We chose HUB mall because it is a very strategic location. It We also hope to create a central calendar to consolidate all is central to campus and experiences a lot of student traffic. the entrepreneurship opportunities on campus, which will All students from across campus come to HUB mall so it is be posted on our website. the perfect place to showcase eHUB. We want to be known to all students and show them the entrepreneurial activities How does a student contact eHub? on campus. We hope to inspire passing by students once they know that there is an office dedicated to helping them achieve Our website would be the best way to get into contact with their goals. us (http://entrepreneurship.ualberta.ca/), or stopping by our office in HUB mall, 9005.

Off Campus Partnerships:

Did you know

We have partnered with Startup Edmonton and we will be offering students an opportunity to partner with them, along with Tech Edmonton organizations. On January 28th we are hosting an event at the SoB where students will be able to come and talk about their business ideas. We hope to build teams around some of those ideas. Teams will be sent to Startup Edmonton for 5 weeks of training. They will refine their idea through a pre-flight program. On March 8th all these new refined ideas will be pitched, and the top teams will be given space at the eHub office where they will build their product.

What is an entrepreneur to you?

Someone with grit, who is not afraid of failing. They will fail repeatedly, but learn from those failures.

As well as someone who is excited by new challenges.

Best advice you’ve ever received?

I was once told at a job interview to seek mentors. At the time I didn’t realize its importance. Overtime I have realized seeking mentorship is one of the most important steps for an aspiring entrepreneur to take.

What are you most excited about and what are some of your future goals with eHub?

A LAZY

CHAT

A Lazy Chat with Jared Zamzow written by KAWTHARA SHIRE designed by BONNIE TRUONG photographed by CARISSA THAM

So, let’s start from the beginning, what did you think you would be doing when you entered the SoB? Jared: I was going into Accounting. I came from NAIT as a transfer student, and going in that was what I wanted to do. Accounting was actually recommended to me by people I respected and seemed like a good compliment to my Finance diploma. I was also a co-op student, and going in I was interested in the BSA and participating in the main first year events. However, I still didn’t truly know what I wanted to do, I wasn’t sure if a designation was what I wanted. Ultimately I wanted to explore my options, and that was the mindset I came in with.

Tell me then, how did you end up realizing that you wanted to pursue Entrepreneurship instead?

I never made a conscience decision to switch into Entrepreneurship, but the closest I came would have to be this past summer. I was all set to go into the last CMA program, and based on what I had done and wanted to go into, it was something I had worked really hard toward - but on the last possible day, I ended up dropping out of advanced financial accounting and took SMO 431, the New Venture Creation class. It’s amazing and I definitely recommend it to everyone!

What was your Business 201 experience like?

Same as everyone’s in a lot of days, you sort of recycle bad ideas and then there’s group tension because for certain people the course is a bigger priority, and for others it isn’t. But through that experience, someone outside the group suggested we take a look at this idea of power in backpacks, and we just went from there.

22

So from there, you went on to eventually be the Founder of Rhynopack. Rhynopack is such a great idea, as it allows you to charge your smart phone wherever you are, with no need to use an outlet! How did the idea come to you?

Three years ago I got the opportunity to volunteer at a music festival called Boonstock, and I was able to bring a group of my friends out to the festival. I noticed year after year that there was this same problem: everyone’s phones were dying, so how was I supposed to reach my friends? The second year they all used my truck and over the course of the weekend my truck was destroyed, I couldn’t even boost it! I had to get my truck towed out of there. So I was frustrated and was thinking “I don’t want that to happen to me again”. It’s interesting to go from that experience, to facing this same problem as a student out and about.

The next semester, Fall 2013 when I took Business 201, it was something I thought about when coming up for ideas.

B You can’t take things personally when you mess up because it’s a lesson C What lessons have you learned so far as an entrepreneur?

One lesson is time management. Even if you’re good at it, automatically and immediately it’s something you have to deal with.

Another lesson is being objective with yourself, and having thick skin. When taking on a lot of responsibilities you could step into areas where you’re not strong; you can’t take things personally when you mess up because it’s a lesson. Follow your vision and learn to handle criticism.

‘

COMPREHENSIVE RESUME GUIDE

written by JAMES LO designed by BONNIE TRUONG

Let’s not beat around the bush here. The goal of completing university is to land a great job and ultimately have a long and successful career. And that’s the only reason why we all decided to attend the University of Alberta’s School of Business. Or maybe it’s because you couldn’t cut it in Engineering and your parents would have killed you if you dropped out of university, so business became your backup, but that’s another story. However, just because you

Top 5 Cover letter Tips 1 Focus on the value you bring to the employer NOT what they can do for you and what you will gain from this opportunity. The cover letter should focus on what you can do for them.

2

Ensure each cover letter is tailored to the specific

employer. Make sure your message is “I want this job

complete university, doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed a job

with your company” not “I want a job”. Do research and

upon graduation. In today’s economic climate, completing

show your interest in this specific role with this specific

your MBA can’t even guarantee you a great job sometimes.

employer.

Regardless, possessing the fundamentals is critical to landing a job in any industry, and one of those fundamentals is the resume. Whether you’ve visited Business Career Services to polish the ol’ resume or taken BUS 301, having a clear, concise and unique resume that represents you well is crucial to ensuring that you stand above the rest.

3 Prove you are a suitable candidate. Don’t make unsupported claims. No one will say they are unreliable, habitually tardy and unskilled. Telling them you are reliable, punctual and capable is meaningless unless you prove these claims. Focus on two or three of the

Recently, Michelle Height, the new Career Coordinator for

strongest skills you offer that are suited to their needs.

Business Career Services, wrote a resume and cover letter

Use SAR (Situation Action Result) to provide specifics

tips article for the Institute of Chartered Accountants of

to prove you have the skills you claim to have.

Alberta Capitalize Magazine and was nice enough to share her top 10 cover letter and resume tips with us below: In preparing for your job search, the single most important first step is to ensure your application materials are representing you well. While each application is unique, the following are some basic recommendations that will help you to be more effective and impactful. Remember that if you cannot get an employer to be interested in you on paper, you will never make the cut to getting an interview.

4

Use positive, clear and concise wording. Watch

wordiness and overly long sentences and ensure you concisely promote what you offer.

5

Use a proper business letter format (ONE PAGE)

with heading, salutation and signature with flawless spelling and grammar. Typos can cost you the interview as they show your lack of attention to detail and professionalism.

‘‘SS

Top 5 Resume Tips

1 Two pages maximum – no exceptions. Don’t waste space on objectives or highlights – this is what the cover letter is for. Use the resume to provide an employer with insight into your full range of applicable skills and experiences - all supporting the claims made in your cover letter.

2 Focus on relevant transferable skills when writing your bullet points for your work and volunteer experience. Go beyond the tasks or duties you completed for the past employer. Show them what skills you gained that you can transfer to a new role and employer. Show tangible results whenever possible- for example: “consistently exceeded sales quotas by 10%”.

3 Include any awards, hobbies, volunteer activities and interests that provide information about your initiative, leadership skills, energy, versatility, or dedication. This is NOT filler – this tells them about who you are when you aren’t working.

4 Include hard skills such as computer skills, language skills and relevant certifications. You never know what might help differentiate you from the other applicants.

5 Never make any false claims or pretend to be someone you are not.

23

The one thing that never changes is our values.

We succeed through satisfied customers.

We value our employees.

We deliver quality and excellence in all we do.

We require premium return on assets.

We use technology to develop market leadership.

We behave responsibly as a corporate citizen.

–Joseph C. Wilson, Xerox Founder, 1961

Last year across Canada 170 new grads joined our team.

Find out why findyourXfactor.com. Xerox is a proud sponsor of the University of Alberta BSA.

© 2012 Xerox Corporation. All rights reserved. Xerox®, Xerox and Design® and Ready For Real Business are trademarks of Xerox Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Xerox Canada Ltd. is the licensee of all the trademarks.