Hiatt Career Center: Alumni

The first step in any successful search is to identify your goals, values, interests, motivations and skills. 

• TypeFocus helps you learn about your strengths and preferences, identifies the skills you bring to work, and teaches you how to talk about yourself in interviews.

When exploring careers, it's important to develop plans while staying open to new opportunities. Here are some resources that could help:

• What Can I Do With This Major? allows you to review various and develop strategies for being a marketable candidate as it relates to your major and experience. You can also browse professional associations and curated job boards and other resources for each major/industry area.
• Occupational Outlook Handbook provides information on responsibilities, education, pay and outlook for hundreds of occupations.

• O*NET has detailed descriptions, responsibilities, required skills, preferred interests, suggested professional associations and general work styles and environments for a variety of professions.

• Firsthand (formerly Vault) profiles 6,500+ companies in different industries with overviews, ranking, and employee reviews. Access Firsthand's 250+ guides on interview prep, resume, industries, professions, employers, and internships. 

• Network. Talk to friends, family, professors, and advisors who can all give you great information about majors and fields. Use B Connect or LinkedIn to connect with Brandeis alumni in your field and reach out for information and advice.
• Research. Find professional associations in your area of interest through O*NET. They're a great sources for networking and finding additional information on jobs, specialties, and industries. 

Thinking of pivoting into a new career/industry? Reformatting and tailoring your resume can help you articulate your transferable skills. There are three main resume versions out there that can help market your experiences.

• Reverse Chronological Resume Format — Begin with information from the most recent work or education profile and trace back to the beginning of your education. List your major achievements and responsibilities along the timeline.
• Functional Resume Format — Create a section where all significant points are grouped under relevant skills. Professional experiences are listed without many details of the responsibilities or achievements. This is recommended for those with gaps in their employment history or who've changed jobs often.
• Combination Resume Format — Combine the reverse chronological resume and the functional resume, showcasing skills and achievements with detailed evidence from your professional experience. It also highlights your work profile from the most recent to the initial stages in the industry. Bullet points are grouped based on the skills highlighted.

More info and examples can be found in the "Resumes & Cover Letters" section below.

How to Make A Big Career Change

We encourage individuals to approach career transitions with curiosity, conviction, and commitment. Here are three key areas you need to think about when considering a career change:

1. Why? (Reason for Change)
   • Reflect on the reasons for wanting to leave your current job.
   • Consider if there's a desire to experiment, build something new, or align with personal values.
   • Assess whether the motivation for change outweighs potential regrets.
2. What? (Desired Outcome)
   • Evaluate what you want to do next in your career.
   • Assess your skills, values, and long-term goals.
   • Experiment with new opportunities through side projects or experiences to gain clarity.
3. When? (Timing of Transition)
   • Prepare for rejections and challenges during the transition process.
   • Be realistic about the timeline and plan gradual changes.
   • Have a backup plan that bridges the gap between current and desired situations.

There are various strategies and tips for navigating these stages, including experimenting with new roles, conducting self-assessments, setting micro-goals, visualizing the desired future, and preparing for potential setbacks.

Successfully Implementing a Career Change

Transitioning to a new career doesn't necessarily mean starting from the bottom, as one's existing experience can be valuable. Here are some steps for a successful mid-career transition:

1. Identify the Reason for Transition
   • Assess the specific reasons for wanting to change careers.
   • Consider whether a change within the same field, a similar role in a different industry, or a complete pivot is desired.
2. Evaluate Skills and Abilities
   • List existing skills and talents.
   • Recognize transferable skills that can be applied to the new fields.
   • Identify any skills that need to be added for the transition.
3. Create a Transition Plan
   • Develop a plan based on real-world considerations, such as financial responsibilities.
   • Determine the skills needed for the new career and how to acquire them.
   • Create a timeline and to-do list for steps like classes, volunteer work, or informational interviews.
4. Transition Tactics
   • Update the resume to highlight transferable skills and abilities.
   • Utilize the existing network to explore opportunities.
   • Consider internal opportunities within the current company.
   • Attend networking events in the desired field.
   • Conduct informational interviews to learn about the new industry.
   • Prepare for job interviews by showcasing qualifications and skills.
   • Consider gradual changes or side projects to test new career paths.

Mid-career experience is an advantage that can inform the transition and contribute to the new career path, even if it's a departure from previous roles.

Switching from Academia to Industry

There are many challenges and considerations for those looking to transition from academia to other sectors. Here are some insights from industry professionals and journalists:

• Transition Challenges — Those contemplating a switch often face uncertainty, peer pressure, and fear of the unknown. You may struggle with the decision due to the familiarity of academia and concerns about career options, work-life balance, and the potential to return if the transition doesn't go well.
• Timing of Transition — The best time to make a career transition is early in your academic career or at a more senior stage. Early-stage transitions are easier due to greater flexibility and a lower investment in academia. Mid-career transitions are challenging, as you might have high costs in academia but not enough industry-relevant experience.
• Satisfaction in Industry — Recent surveys have shown that those in industry tend to be more satisfied with their jobs, receive higher salaries, and have a more optimistic outlook on their futures compared to those in academia.
• Planning Ahead — The shift away from academia is becoming more common due to increased awareness of other career options and a desire for better work-life balance. Younger generations are more proactive in planning their careers and seeking alternative paths.
• Postdoc as a Transition Period — The postdoctoral phase is seen as an opportunity for self-discovery and exploration rather than just a step toward an academic position. It can serve as a platform to apply critical thinking and skills in various fields, such as policy analysis.
• Middle Ground — Some opt for a middle ground, straddling the boundary between academia and industry, which allows for balance between interests and skills while exploring non-traditional career paths.

If you're returning to work from a long absence (medical, travel, stay at home parent, etc.) or are a working parent, check out these recommended resources. This a starting place, not a comprehensive list.

• reacHIRE — Provides women the support and clarity for an effective return to work journey after a gap
• Best Websites for Moms Reentering the Workforce — For parents returning to work after an extended break
• iRelaunch — For mid-to-senior level professionals who have taken an extended career break and want to return to work
• The Comprehensive Guide to Returnships — Info on "returnships" (internships for those returning to the workforce after a gap) as well as a database of companies who have these programs
• Deloitte’s Encore Program — Helps you obtain the training, experience and coaching needed to rejoin the workforce with confidence
• Apres — For women returning to the workforce alongside a curated job market tailored to them
• Mom Corps — A professional staffing firm specializing in flexible workplace solutions, including weekly job listings in multiple U.S. cities
• Working Mother — A digital hub of information for working mothers with "@work" and "@home" sections
• Jobs & Moms — Advice for women seeking to combine work and family life as well as targeted resources (for purchase) for career paths that have flexible work options
• Path Forward — For those who have taken time out for caregiving get back to work
• Reboot Accel — Career accelerator for women focused on helping women get updated on the latest office and job search technologies, connect with other like minded women, and gain the confidence to get back to work

The most comprehensive list of positions is always on an employer's website, but external search sites are worth exploring as they can lead you to organizations that you had not heard about but are a good fit for you.

Handshake

Log into Handshake to discover career resources, find amazing jobs, connect with organizations and participate in employer events.

Company Websites

Start researching organizations and explore industries and companies on Firsthand or look for local business journals, such as Boston Business Journal.

Job & Interview Search Sites

• General — Search for listings based on job type, salary, location and more using these sites:  LinkedIn, Indeed.com, Idealist.org, ZipRecruiter.com, USAJobs, and Serviceyear.org.
• Specific —Narrow down your search by using field-specific resources:
  • What Can I Do With This Major? has extensive job search and professional resources organized by majors.
  • Firsthand's Industries Page contains industry-specific resources.

Returning to school for more advanced education is an exciting step, whether your present work requires further training, you are making a career pivot or you are simply fascinated by a new field. 

Exploring Options for Graduate & Law School can start you on your way toward creating a timely plan for setting priorities and reflecting on important considerations about returning to school.

Pursuing advanced studies beyond an undergraduate experience is a common consideration among students. Use this interactive table to discover where Brandeisians are currently studying and what degrees they are pursuing.

There are three different types of resumes that are accepted within the industry. These resume formats are:

• Reverse Chronological Resume Format — Begin with information from the most recent work or education profile and trace back to the beginning of your education. List your major achievements and responsibilities along the timeline.
• Functional Resume Format — Create a section where all significant points are grouped under relevant skills. Professional experiences are listed without many details of the responsibilities or achievements. This is recommended for those with gaps in their employment history or who've changed jobs often.
• Combination Resume Format — Combine the reverse chronological resume and the functional resume, showcasing skills and achievements with detailed evidence from your professional experience. It also highlights your work profile from the most recent to the initial stages in the industry. Bullet points are grouped based on the skills highlighted.

There are two ways of making a Combination Resume

• Grouping Inside Professional Experience (left) — Similar to the reverse chronological resume format, but the difference is in the professional experience section, where the points are grouped by the skills that they represent.
• Grouping in the Summary of Skills Section (right) — Lists all your achievements and significant career highlights to create a separate section of the "Summary of Skills". These points are grouped under several key skills, like in a functional resume format. This replaces the summary to create a powerful snapshot of your career which is highly targeted for the job you are going to apply for.

Networking can happen anywhere, by chance or deliberate planning. Be open to all possibilities and explore our top tips on how to network. Once you've done so, you can get connected with thousands of other Brandeis alumni through B Connect.

The websites of the professional associations in your area of interest have lots of information about how to enter the field, current issues, and standards of practice. They're also a great source of additional information on jobs, specialties, and industries, and can serve as an excellent starting point for networking.

Get seamless access to professional associations by searching the O*NET database of almost 3,000 organizations related to the occupations in the U.S. economy.

Interviews are a two-way street. They provide you the opportunity to present your background and experiences and give you the ability to evaluate a work environment.

As a recent graduate or an experienced alumni everyone should review and practice interviewing before starting a new job search.

Learn more about interviewing

Congratulations — you've received an offer! Pat yourself on the back. A great deal of hard work and energy went into your success. Now you need to decide whether to accept the position.

more ON understanding and negotiating offerS

Reflect — Before approaching your boss, consider what you're seeking in terms of power, responsibility, or a new role. Align your goals with the organization's objectives and evaluate how your skill set contributes.

Do Some Research —As you move up, decisions about promotions might involve others beyond your direct manager. Seek feedback from a personal board of directors and gauge your reputation within the organization. Learn from others who've successfully secured promotions.

Build Your Case — Prepare a compelling case for why you deserve a promotion. Create a memo outlining your track record with concrete metrics, solutions delivered, and financial outcomes. Also, consider who could take over your current role and demonstrate your leadership capabilities by championing their development.

Consider Timing — Choose an opportune time to ask for a promotion, avoiding periods of turmoil. Timing after positive events, such as major deals or strong earnings quarters, could be strategic.

Plant the Seed — Approach the topic as an ongoing conversation rather than a one-time request. Express your enthusiasm, outline your impact, and express your interest in discussions about advancing.

Nurture the Seed — Continuously nurture the conversation by requesting regular feedback from your manager. Share specific insights from your work and propose ideas for your next steps.

Don't Be Reckless — While outside job offers can boost your confidence and provide market insights, using them to manipulate your current employer has risks. It can strain relationships and promote unprepared individuals.

Be Patient (to a Point) — Promotions rarely happen instantly, so remain realistic. Keep performing well and actively seek opportunities to enhance your impact. If promotion seems unlikely, communicate with your boss about your position on their list.

Recognizing the Intimidation — Asking for a promotion can be nerve-wracking due to the vulnerability it entails, the fear of judgment, and concerns about coming across as self-centered.

Importance of Self-Advocacy — Asking for a promotion is a step toward taking control of one's career trajectory and working toward a better future.

Steps to Ask for a Promotion

1. Reflect on Goals — Consider what you want from a promotion and how it aligns with your career goals.

2. Research Opportunities — Research available positions within the company and understand their responsibilities and alignment with your goals.

3. Demonstrate Value — Show your capabilities and dedication by consistently delivering high-quality work and taking on additional responsibilities.

4. Choose the Right Time — Consider the company's financial health and opportunities for growth when timing your promotion request.

5. Prepare a Compelling Pitch — Develop a well-structured pitch highlighting your achievements, impact on the organization, and plans for success in the new role.

6. Set Up a Meeting — Arrange a meeting with your manager to discuss your promotion request and present your pitch.

7. Evaluate the Outcome — Be patient after making the request; if accepted, prepare for the transition; if denied, seek feedback and determine your next steps.

Avoiding Missteps

• Maintain Professionalism — Avoid being rude or condescending, even if your request is denied.

• Avoid Comparisons — Refrain from comparing yourself negatively to colleagues when making your case.

• Use "Other Offer" Card Wisely — Use the leverage of another job offer carefully, ensuring it's genuine and not a bluff.

1. The Importance of Preparation — It's crucial to build a solid case by reflecting on recent projects and achievements that showcase your value, and to know your market worth from tools like Glassdoor's Know Your Worth™ salary estimator.
2. Choosing the Right Time to Ask — Optimal times to ask for a raise include annual performance reviews, after completing important projects, and when your manager is in a positive state.
3. Effective Communication During the Conversation — Clearly express your interest in discussing your salary and the reasons behind it. Present specific salary figures and explain the basis for your calculations, and cct confidently, express gratitude, and show enthusiasm for both your role and the company.
4. Justifying Your Raise — Provide specific examples of recent accomplishments and how they've added value to the company. Quantify your contributions with data and awards to demonstrate your impact, and be prepared to logically justify yourself.
5. Asking Important Questions — Ask yourself if the requested raise reflects your value and if it's realistic. Perhaps you can ask your manager about new responsibilities, potential for advancement, and future opportunities.
6. Expectations After the Conversation — Anticipate direct questions and negotiations during and after the raise conversation, but be open to compromise and document any future promises in writing.
7. Post-Raise Conversation — Maintain or exceed the performance levels used to justify the raise, and ensure clarity on new responsibilities that come with the raise.
8. Recovering from a Failed Conversation — If a raise isn't possible due to budget constraints, create a plan with your manager for achieving your desired salary in the future. Consider requesting additional workplace perks as an alternative compensation.

Hiatt provides resources to support you at all stages of your professional experiences. 

There are some skills that you may not learn in the classroom that are essential in post-Brandeis life. Finding a place to live, setting a budget, balancing student loans and just navigating the transition can feel like a brand new venture.