The second post in the How Do You Hire series features a bit of a different perspective. This time, we are granted access to the perspective of resume writing and career placement from the Regional Director of Career Management for Vandalia Enterprises, Mrs. Julie Warden.
In contrast to the traditional headhunter/recruiter, Julie works on the back lines with college students ready to graduate – helping to prepare their resumes both on paper and in practice. This unique perspective a offers similar, yet differing outlook on the importance of effective resume writing, networking and professional development.
1. Let’s get to know you a bit better. What is your name, your position and your company affiliation? What is your favorite part of your current position?
My name is Julie Warden and I am the Regional Director of Career Management for Vandalia Enterprises. I oversee graduate career preparation and placement at each of our five campuses and I am entirely in charge of building our Alumni Association. My favorite part of my position is having the ability to work with students to prepare them for their futures…as cliché as it sounds, the tools we teach our students assist them in finding positions in their field of study helps that start their careers…not just another dead-end job.
2. What is the number one mistake you see on job applicant’s resume? What is your number one tip for a successful resume?
The most common mistake I see on resumes is not taking the time to proofread. Make sure there are no grammatical or spelling mistakes! Check capitalization and tenses of your bullets. I think the best tip for a successful resume is using a clean, easy-to-read font and format with clearly outlined information. Employers want to see what you can do easily and quickly…not have to search for it.
3. What are the top 5 methods you use to find qualified job applicants?
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4. How much do you rely on the Internet for job applicant recruits?
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5. What social media site, would you say, is the most effective communication tool for reaching qualified job applicants?
When hiring for positions at our college, my personal networking Facebook site has been the most successful for reaching qualified job applicants. I have a network that reaches individuals in my areas of work…so when I post jobs, they know that I am looking for the best potential candidate for the position.
6. What is the most unbelievable thing you have ever seen on a potential applicant’s social media page that caused them to be passed over for the job?
SMOKING MARIJUANA ON THE DEFAULT PICTURE
7. It has been said by marketing professionals that the social media platform, Linkedin is a far superior source of recruiting talent than even some job search sites like Monster.com. What are your thoughts on this statement? What are your candid thoughts on Linkedin as a resource for job seekers?
I think LinkedIn is an outstanding tool. I love the recommendations section because this gives an employer the opportunity to see what others have said about you before you even walk in the door. I hope that LinkedIn becomes a larger tool in our state…I don’t think it has quite reached its full potential here yet.
8. What are companies looking for in regard to experience? In regard to education?
I think this is dependant entirely on the job. Our students are trained and education to receive a Specialized Associate Degree – this means they take general education courses for a well-rounded degree, but they are highly trained in their specific field of study. Companies seek the students who have a good reference, good attendance record and who have taken the time to gain in-field experience through an internship.
9. What are your candid thoughts on the phrase, “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know.”?
It’s true. This is why professional networking is such an important part of job seeking in today’s economy.
10. If you could give one piece of advice for current and potential job seekers, what would it be?
Professionalism and Networking are two key words that you need to live by. Always portray a professional image because you never know who you’ll meet and constantly be on the lookout for potential new individuals in which to network. Whether you are at the grocery store, at a networking event or heading to a job fair…utilize any time you are out to meet potential individuals who can serve as a networking resource.




