Jumpstarting an Engineering Career

Jumpstarting an Engineering Career Jumpstarting an Engineering Career Jumpstarting an Engineering CareerFor mechanical engineer Aleef Mahmud, who several years ago demonstrated an adjustable seat he developed for a disableuchtdiode sailor so that he could captain a sailboat in a competition for the first time in 31 years,the festivalhas meant moving ahead much faster in his career than he expected.Kayla Wheeler, who graduated in May with a bachelors degree in biomedical engineering and plans to go to graduate school in business, may as herbei first full-time job head up a company licensing rights for the custom protective padding for helmets she and a team designed and showcased at Imagine RIT this past May.The festival was started eight years ago when university President William W. Destler (who has an engineering background) wanted to start a festival to show the outside world what RIT is all about. In its first year, 2008, Imagine RIT attracted 17,000 visitors and the numbers have climbed every year. Since its start, more than 200,000 have attended the day-long event that celebrates the intersection of technology and creativity. On May 2 of this year, Imagine RIT showcased more than 400 interactive exhibits in the fields of engineering, science, technology, music, and art.Aleef Mahmuds teammate Christopher Sullivan demonstrates an adjustable seat he helped to design. Image A. Sue Weisler / RITMahmuds and Wheelers stories are not uncommon. Mahmud learned of the need for the seat as he was looking for a senior project. He became part of a team of mechanical engineering majors aiming to develop a seat that was lighter and more maneuverable than anything available. The system they came up with consisted of a chair that rolled on a semi-circle track mounted on the deck of the boat and included adjustable handgrips and crank-steering mechanisms.Mahmud said he had no idea how much of a sense of freedom this gave to those who needed it until he saw it in action, and that project has led to other related work since he graduated with B.S. and M.E. degreesin mechanical engineering in 2012.Working as an independent product development engineer, he has been hired as a consultant by other sailing groups that want to build such a device. Last winter I worked with a boating nonprofit for the oldest boating co-op in the U.S., he says. They asked me to build a new iteration of the adaptive system for their community of disabled members.When I exhibited at Imagine RIT, it felt so good to talk about this is what I have been doing, he says.The experience taught him much more about other valuable qualities he would need, too. It helps you learn soft skills, such as presentation, as well as the importance of understanding consumer insights, he adds. You are speaking to spectators, and they are prospective customers.He believes the real world experience from Imagine RIT has given him a head start in the working world. Things are a bit accelerated, he says. My dual degree program was very aggressive, hands-on learning as well as theory. Makes you a workaholic, but Im further along in my career.Wheelers project got its start the summer after her sophomore year when she joined other students in an incubator programaimed atdesigning headgear for athletes to offer better protection against concussions. I have always been interested in entrepreneurship, but I never had an idea that I was passionate about pursuing, Wheeler says. Because my major was biomedical engineering, it was right up my alley.The result of the teams work is a new, custom protective padding for helmets. First, the team developed a method to scan the wearers head with a special machine. Then software was used to map and configure the padding. The final product was created using a basic 3D printer that the team modified to print a foam-like material. From start to finish, the process takes just a few hours, and the padding fits inside off-the-shelf helmets. At the Imagine RI T festival, the team tested the padding with a drop test against other helmets using a test device that they also developed.Wheeler and a colleague, Patrick Streeter, who earned his B.S. in mechanical engineering from RIT in 2013 and M.S. in sports engineering from Sheffield (England) Hallam University in 2014, formed Volatile Padding Technologies to continue the work. He serves as CEO and she as president. For now, that work is part-time (he works in the sports research lab at New Balance, and she plans to continue her education at RIT to earn an MBA). Their hope is that the project will be far enough along by the time she graduates to make it a full-time job. Their immediate goal is to license or sell the rights to their patent-pending technology because of the costs of manufacturing the padding themselves. Were trying to get it going soon, Wheeler says.Nancy S. Giges is an independent writer. For Further DiscussionWhen I exhibited at Imagine RIT, it felt so good to talk about thi s is what I have been doing.Aleef Mahmud, Independent Product Development Engineer

5 Simple Changes to Update Your Resume

5 Simple Changes to Update Your Resume5 Simple Changes to Update Your ResumeSpring is almost here and you still havent updated your resume If youre still contemplating what needs to be changed, here are five simple things that will get your resume ready for your next job search or for that promotionUpdate contact information Did you move recently, change your email address, get a new phone number? This seems like a no-brainer but there are so many job candidates that forget this vital step. They submit an old resume without realizing the contact information in the heading is no longer valid. One simple mistake like this can cause you to lose out on landing a good job.Summary prfungswesen A summary statement at the top of your resume represents who you are, what you do, and what youre seeking. Since our goals and accomplishments change from year to year, a summary you wrote in 2011 doesnt paint an accurate picture of you anymore. Although you can make a few tweaks, sometimes its best to just delete it and start from scratch, especially if your last job search was over three years ago. Youve grown and your resume should reflect this.Change the layout Resumes, just like furniture and fashion change with the times. You need to update your dcor, so to speak, to visually bring your document into the current century. Play around with new fonts (but dont go crazy) and change your headings.Update work history Some revisions on your work history section will be necessary, especially at the top and bottom of your resume. Add recent positions, include relevant accomplishments and any special contributions, add new skills and accomplishments from your current or most recent job and finally, drop any position that you left before 2011. Make sure you shine the spotlight on your current career instead of past accomplishments.Add new skills and remove the old Since your last job search, youve learned new skills. Now its time to make sure potential employers take notice Where to start?First, read over the skills you have listed on your resume.Next, ask yourself if youve used each skill recently. If you cant remember the last time you used it, its probably time to delete it.Go over your list again and think about the job you most want, then delete the skills that wont help you land the position you desire.Now its time to add your most recently acquired skillsRemember, you should always keep your resume tight, clear and in-line with your current goals and plans. If youre evolving, so should your resume For more guidance, explore the tools and tips on our blog and website.

Resumes Win Interviews, but References Win Job Offers

Resumes Win Interviews, but References Win Job Offers Resumes Win Interviews, but References Win Job Offers Resumes Win Interviews, but References Win Job OffersBy Martin Yate, CPC, careercast.comResumes win interviews, so like most people your job search has probably focused on writing your and tweaking your resume and landing job interviews. You probably havent given your references much thought, but in a tough job market references win job offers. You must be certain that your references will seal the deal, not blow it away.A primary reason that one candidate will win a job offer over another is the quality of that candidates references. Human resource professionals say that about half of all checked references fall into the mediocre to poor category. Some of the comments theyve heard when checking references includeCompany policy prohibits us from saying anything. We can only verify dates of employment and title.All I can suggest is that you check his references very carefully.Ar e you certain she gave my name as a reference?We miss him very much. Too bad he was let go.After we settle our lawsuit.Hes still in health care? Well bless his heart.The better the job and the higher the pay, the tougher the competition youll face for that job and the more stringent the screening process. If youre being considered for a responsible professional job, its likely that your references will be checked.Take Control of Your DestinyTalking with potential references long before their services are required gives you the opportunity to screen both the message and the messengers you will use. When you know exactly what former managers and colleagues will say about you, you can use the references you choose with greater confidence, because you have much greater control over who gets to say what about you.Identify Potential Referencesabflug by making a list of your prospective references. Begin with your most recent/relevant job and work backwards from there. Usually references o nly get checked with immediately prior employers, but the more elevated the position the further back your references are likely to be checked. Identify people who have seen you in action, ideally performing well in adverse conditions. This list will includeManagers and supervisorsProject managers for special assignmentsColleaguesSubordinatesSuppliers and clientsCommitteesAfter completing your list of potential references, track them down and talk to them. If a reference is local, a personal meeting over coffee or lunch can be nice touch a phone call is usually sufficient, but an email request is too impersonal.Help Your References Help YouStart the conversation by catching up on each others lives since last you spoke. Be sure to cover what you have been doing professionally, especially any new skills youve developed, the projects youve been engaged with, and how youve added experience and turned old weaknesses into new strengths. Explain that you are in transition and ask if s/he w ould feel comfortable acting as one of your references when the time comes. Share a few details of the job youre targeting. Finish by saying youll be in touch again when an offer is close.When a Specific Offer Is on the HorizonWhen an offer is made and references requested, tell the employer that you will be in touch the next day with names and contact information. Choose the references you will use and reach out to each one again. Share the companys name, the job title, and the responsibilities. Tell each reference that company checkers are likely to ask for a rating of your skills in the following areasTechnicalWritten and oral communicationTime management and organization (multitasking)Short- and long-term planningAnalytical/critical thinking/problem-solvingTeamwork/interpersonal skills and leadershipCreativity in tackling the jobs ongoing challengesPersonal integrity and overall performanceIf the job is in management, a reference may also be asked aboutManagerial and employee-re lations skillsCrisis managementFinancial skillsReferences may also be asked if they would enthusiastically recommend you, what their thoughts are on the circumstances of your gestaffelte anordnung from your previous jobs, and whether they would like to provide any additional comments. If theyre willing to take the time, it can be helpful to review your references response to these topics. When you take the initiative to make this happen, you are arming your reference with all she needs to give you a stellar recommendation. Make it clear that in this security-conscious and harshly competitive world, the quality of your references is critical to winning the job offer. Once you land a new position, be sure to call your references and let them know the details. And dont forget to offer your services if there is anything you can do in returnReprinted with permission from careercast.com, 2016 Adicio, all rights reserved.

Introvert, Extrovert, Ambivert What Each Means for Your Job Search

Introvert, Extrovert, Ambivert What Each Means for Your Job SearchIntrovert, Extrovert, Ambivert What Each Means for Your Job SearchYour personality traits greatly influence the actions you take and decisions you make both personally and professionally. This is why there is rarely a one-size-fits-all solution or approach to every problem, challenge, task, or issue. And, because personality traits and type- including introvert, extrovert, and ambivert- are located on a spectrum, it should come as no surprise that approaching a job search will be different for everyone.Most of us have probably heard the terms introvert and extrovert thrown around, with many people curious about which they identify most closely. While you might have a preference for one or the other, there is a good chance you arent exactly 100 percent introvert or extrovert, but located somewhere in between- an ambivert.Lets take a look at each of these typesIntrovert ansicht individuals are usually classified as reser ved and quiet, often shying away from large crowds and being in the spotlight. Although they likely enjoy spending time with others, it can only happen in moderation as it can quickly deplete their energy levels.Extrovert These individuals are usually classified as being outgoing and enjoying being the center of attention. Since they enjoy mingling and other peoples company, they often prefer to spend time with others rather than alone since that is how they gain their energy.Ambivert Between these two extremes exists another personality trait known as ambivert. These people can identify with each category and exhibit both extrovert and introvert qualities. This personality trait is commonly seen when people enjoy meeting others, but dont like starting conversations. They also enjoy spending time alone, just as they enjoy spending time with others. Its a so-called middle ground.So, how do these personality types affect a job search? Lets examine how these different qualities impact a job search and how to use them to excel.IntrovertSince introverts tend to like to work with people they know and trust, but loath networking events, meeting new people can take a lot of effort and can be quite difficult. With networking being a huge part of job searching, this can negatively impact a job search if not approached from a different angle.For introverts, job search success can come from approaching tasks in a manner where they feel comfortable and confident. Rather than large, in-person networking events, introverts can likely excel in an online environment through social media discussion or by attending a small networking party where they know many of the people in attendance. Most conversations will also likely take distribution policy through email or chat, rather than on the phone or through video. Working from home or remote work opportunities are likely a good fit for these types too, so dont skimp on keyword searches that include those terms.ExtrovertAs social butterflies, these individuals find a great deal of success when working in groups and integrating themselves into energetic situations. This includes networking events, job fairs, and companies looking for people with relationship-building skills.Extroverts likely enjoy and feel successful by attending large networking events where they can interact with people they dont know. In a virtual environment, extroverts excel by creating opportunities for contact, either by phone or through video rather than by utilizing email or discussion forums. Additionally, for extroverts who need to interact with others, focusing on flexible jobs that apply these qualities is important. However, its equally important for extroverts to balance social interactions to not come on too strong.AmbivertWhen it comes to job searching, those with ambivert personality traits can find themselves comfortable in most situations. Although they likely wont start conversations at large networking events, or even re ach out to a recruiter to make contact, they wont turn down the opportunity to learn or potentially gain a new connection.Ambiverts can untersttzung their job search by focusing on their needs at a particular time. When exhibiting traits more like an extrovert, they may jump on the chance to get out and make contact with an employer theyve had their eye on. If theyre feeling more introverted, they may take the time to focus on connecting through social media or searching for jobs online. The important thing for ambiverts to focus on through their job search is not defaulting to one trait or another in a situation where the trait isnt compatible. Being aware of where you are on the introvert-extrovert spectrum can help you to apply appropriate traits at the appropriate time.While there is no magic formula for creating a perfect job search, everybody can create a job search that is perfect for themselves. Job searching, networking, and communicating in a way that you feel comfortable can help to create an atmosphere for job searching where you feel confident in the choices you are making. Rather than trying to fit into a specific mold, take your own success into your hands and make your job search work for you.Readers, are you an introvert, extrovert, or ambivert? Do you harness the qualities of your personality traits to excel in your job search? Share with us below

What Pros Are Not Saying About Professional Experience Resume and What This Means For You

What Pros Are Not Saying About Professional Experience Resume and What This Means For You A really professional resume is one which looks like it was created especially for that hiring manager. With our specialized therapy, you are going to be in a place to tap the complete potential of your professional network and make sure your profile on social networking channels matches the caliber of your resume. Whether you want to make an application for a designers job in a creative agency, or desire to submit an application for a hot job in a top bank, professional resumes are going to have you covered. You are going to learn how to best format your resume and the strategic advice that you want to stand out as a terrific candidate at every stage of your career. Demonstrating you have work experience is vital, even supposing it isnt directly linked to your targets. See, its elend overly hard A group of experts advocating for you Our whole team is focused on your targets, and is de voted to your success International students want to meet up with the expert experience coordinator to finish a waiver. Its possible that forfirst job resumes, its elend essential for the applicant to have a comprehensive cover letter. however, it cannot go amiss when it has to do with applying for work. All you should know to earn a stunning resume job description. Take into consideration the work description as you decide what things to include. The in depth secretary job description can help you. Your bio doesnt need to be super serious, nor does this have to begin with a joke. In fact, theres no correct or wrong method to format a resume. Your picture ought to be updated and clear. The work experience part of your resumethe part in which you describe your previous jobsis the most critical element of your whole job application. Learning how to do a resume when do not have any work experience is a lot easier if its possible to demonstrate some seasonal or short-term w ork experience. Now youre networking and building contacts in the business Since the position is sales focused, adding negotiation and presentation skills are an excellent means to show youve got the capacity to find the best bargain for the corporation. Key Pieces of Professional Experience Resume Our resume builder makes it simple to create a well-written resume in a couple of minutes. Use this format only in case youve had a couple of years professional experience and a good work history. Then it may be time to bring some style to your resume As there are many types its important to think about the alternatives and select the resume structure which best fits your profile. Where to Find Professional Experience Resume The important thing is to emphasize skillsand achievements and supply evidence of your possible value. If youre using bullet points to describe your latest position, you ought to use bullet points to describe each position youve held. No matter which type o f resume format you pick, youre not obligated to incorporate all your work experience if its not directly about the job youre applying for. However much or what kind of work experience youve got, theres a resume format that is likely to make your qualifications shine. Additionally, be sure youre not utilizing an unprofessional schmelzglas address. Each description ought to be presented in a bulleted format. Ask yourself in case the email address youre using sounds professional or not. The following are a few of the dos and donts to think about when writing a resume and additionally the information which should NOT be included on a resume. What Everybody Dislikes About Professional Experience Resume and Why Even when you lettered in three sports, it isnt a very good notion to reference high school experiences. One very significant part the work experience section is finding the ideal way to list your contributions to the corporation. So once you write you will offer a refe rence you seem to not understand the way the game is played. A chronological resume lists your employment history having the most recent position on top.

The Risk of Hiring Uncoachables - Spark Hire

The Risk of Hiring Uncoachables - Spark HireWhether yur office is a field, court, or high-rise building, chemistry is essential to your kollektivs success. Chemistry starts and finishes with the people you hire, and trust to bring your kollektiv to the next level whether that is a championship title, or a new round of funding. All it takes is one uncoachable member of the kollektiv and you can kiss chemistry goodbye. Uncoachables can have tantalizing talent, but hiring them puts the entire fabric of your company at risk.First lets reference some historically uncoachable team members Randy Moss, Barry Bonds and Terrell Owens. Randy Moss infamously proclaimed, I play when I want to play. Translation No one, not even my boss or coach can tell me what to do. Terrell Owens made his arrogance known by celebrating after each catch, and publicly ridiculing his team for not getting him the ball enough. Barry Bonds almost always sat alone in the dug-out, and reportedly introduced himself to th e new teammates by reminding them of the times he hit home runs against them in his past. In each of these moments, the message was clear this wasnt about the good of the team, it was about an attention seeking individual and their own agenda. In team sports (much like a job) as soon as you start working for yourself and no one else, the good of the company comes second.How do you recognize an Uncoachable?In the interview when you ask, whats your biggest failure? (which you ALWAYS should) youll hear crickets. Or something like, I work too hard. Just so you know, thats a lie. If they cannot admit to something from the very beginning and explain how they overcame the situation, odds are they wont be willing to admit to something later either.Back to the athlete analogy when it comes to notoriously difficult and uncoachable players we often hear they keep to themselves in the locker room or are antagonistic/arrogant. Now, their skill may be undeniably phenomenal but a nose in the air, sharpie in my sock, attitude is toxic to a team and not worth it. Barry Bonds may have been an all time home run hitter, but I cannot think of one time watching the SF Giants when I saw him surrounded by his team in the dugout. No support given, no support received.Uncoachables will lash out when you or another employee is trying to help them by correcting a mistake. They perceive help as criticism and a challenge to their skill and ego. This means whatever knowledge they came to your company with, is what theyre leaving with. In the Uncoachables mind, no one has more to offer than they do themselves.This is what you riskAll of these indicators are something you need to be aware of as a hiring manager or team leader in order to maintain the cohesiveness, productivity, and happiness of your team. The office is a learning environment, and should be collaborative. Like a machine, if you remove the nuts and bolts, everything will stop working. A good employer has employees that are moti vated by the companys mission. The glue that holds everyone together, the it-factors that inspire, are internal motivators the companys values aligned with the individuals. At SmartRecruiters, our shared goal is to get people back to work by making hiring easy. An uncoachables goal would rely solely on stock options. An uncoachable will come in and destroy the comradery achieved by the shared values. Because, they dont share these values. Their goal is to get ahead alone.This is what hiring an uncoachable says to your teamTerrell Owens, Barry Bonds, and Randy Moss are all incredibly talented athletes. No one can argue with that. Yet few of their former teammates say, I want to work with him again. When you hire an uncoachable keeping them simply for their skill you tell the rest of the team, You are not as valuable. You tell them that despite their ability to learn, grow, develop, and work with a team youd rather have this guy run 100 yards down the field or hit a grand slam in b etween the all-too-frequent suspensions. Youre telling your team that you reward bad behavior.The risk of hiring an uncoachable is too high. And trust me, the sprints of skill are not worth the damage to your teams morale.About the AuthorLexieForman-Ortiz is the Community Manager at SmartRecruiters.After graduating with a degree in Anthropology Communications from the University of Kansas she decided she never wanted to stop talking to people. She believes in creating great workplaces, developing talent, sharing knowledge and using social media for good. Follow Lexie on Twitter at LexieFO.Image Rawpixel/BigStock.com