By Kaylee Johnson
and Darren Johnson
Campus News
Entering the career market straight out of college has never been such a maze, as COVID has added numerous unforeseen obstacles that make the struggle to get hired after graduation even more strenuous. The nontraditional nature of searching for jobs during this hectic season has added a lot of stress and anxiety to college students, as many question what exactly employers are looking for in the era of COVID-19. Are there certain standout attributes that will make a person more hireable during a pandemic? How can an active student or graduate make themselves stand out during these times and how should interviews be approached? These questions have habitually crossed our minds and the minds of other students and recent graduates.
We had the pleasure to sit in on a lecture by Vince Thompson (pictured), founder of MELT (Marketing, Entertainment, Lifestyle and Trends) to learn about the various ways college students can make themselves more marketable to employers. “I wanted to create a nimble company that would not only adapt with industry and consumer change, but also drive it,” says Thompson when speaking about the four driving pillars of his company. More recently, to accommodate the computerized society we are currently living and learning in, MELT has gone virtual and now offers career tips and insight from high up professionals on Zoom and other popular platforms like it.
Thompson has also written a new book called “Build Brand You,” available December 1st. This is a great read if you are trying to become established in your chosen field, as it describes the steps it takes to crack into the workplace effectively and make a lasting positive impression. He also tackles topics that may seem rudimentary, like resume writing and networking, but goes more in depth, as there are a lot of inner workings under the surface that lead to landing a dream position.
As far as making yourself marketable and desirable to employers as a college student, Thompson really emphasizes the importance of professionalism on social media. He says, “If you do not want your grandmother to see it, do not post it. The first thing I and any other employers do is check out your social media platforms.” He later adds that it is fine to be fun and creative on these platforms, but to remain clean and uncontroversial. It is better to fly under the radar than raise eyebrows. If you must post opinionated or questionable content, be sure your social media platforms are securely locked and protected.
Thompson also claims, “The campus is the ultimate professional career lab.” What he means by that statement is, pay attention to the events going on around you. Be aware of what is going on and utilize the services offered to you. There are many people willing to help you on campus, and staying in the know, especially since many services are covered by your tuition, is one of the most proactive career choices you can make in college.
When it comes time to proofread and fine tune the resume you will be sending to employers, Thompson reminds us that careful wording is important. “Whether or not you are a barista paying your way through school, do not just put ‘I served coffee’ on your resume. Put ‘I am on the front lines of consumer behavior during the COVID crisis, serving hundreds of customers a day.’” Employers are aware of the adverse work conditions that many students have been thrown into and know that these topsy-turvy limitations have made some workers better under pressure, but you should always make that clear on your resume and highlight those strengths.
If you are attempting to build your own brand, Thompson recommends focusing heavily on the modern influence of social media. “Look at people you may admire on social media…and look at how they position their brand. Look at the companies you admire…develop your value system around this. Your reputation equals your brand position.” He also reminds aspiring business owners and influencers that it takes fire to make it work. You have to have a vision and make it come to life through hard work and passion.
While most college students are just starting to use LinkedIn, or have not created an account yet. Thompson describes it as “The greatest professional marketing tool in the history of business,” as there are multiple different outlets for making networking connections and staying connected with others in your field.
It is also possible to land a job or start talking to somebody with ties to a business that you would like to work for on LinkedIn, but most of all it is a way to get your name and skills publicized.
Above all else, Thompson reminds college students to stay hopeful and zealous in the era of Zoom and gloom. While you might have to attend interviews from your dorm room or home office instead of a modern art adorned room in a sophisticated building, you must keep trekking and honing your skills. These unique circumstances will ultimately make you a more skilled worker when this crisis does end.
Bonus: The Comics (Click on Other Stories to See More Comics)
“Broom Hilda” by Russell Meyers. In agreement with TCA. Click to Expand.
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