Flo Valley Career Center Offers Opportunity

By Holly Shanks
STLCC-FV The Forum Student Newspaper

  Rome was not built in a day and neither is a career. Setting out on the road to a rewarding and successful career is exciting and challenging. Competition for jobs is an inescapable condition especially in a recession. Expectations can be hard to manage and some disappointments will be inevitable. Learning to cope and adjust to the environment will play a crucial role for job seekers.

  A solid support system in career development and employment services can make a difference, maybe even help give a job applicant the winning edge.

  The Career and Employment Services (CES) department is an excellent resource for the current student, graduate, or alumni of St. Louis Community College. Those looking for their first career opportunity or making a career transition will benefit by taking advantage of the services offered.

  All current and former students of St. Louis Community College that have completed three or more academic credit hours are eligible for lifetime access to the Career and Employment Services department.

  The on-line job posting system eRecruiting allows STLCC students and alumni to search a comprehensive listing of jobs and internships. It also allows employers to search for applicants who have resumes loaded into the system. To open an eRecruiting account make an appointment with a CES staff member by calling 314-513-4227.

  Submitting resumes on-line is becoming the standard for many companies. Large numbers of applicants apply on-line and understanding what keywords to use and how to make your resume stand out is an important component in today’s job market.  The Career and Employment Services will hold an On-line Application Workshop, Wednesday, October 12, 2011 from 1-3pm, located at the Counseling and Career Center, RSVP to 314-513-4227.    

  For more job search tips, strategies and other services contact the Florissant Valley Career and Employment Services department Open House on Tuesday, November 15, 2011 from 11am to 1pm, located at the Counseling and Career Center located in the upper level of the Student Center or call 314-513-4227 or http://www.stlcc.edu/Student_Resources/Career_and_Employment_Services/.       

  A qualified CES staff member can help students and Alumni evaluate and develop a professional cover letter and resume that is an important part of any job seekers arsenal. The CES also provides mock interviews so students can practice because a face-to-face job interview can be arduous whether the applicant has several years of experience or looking to land a first job. Knowing what to expect and being prepared can add to a professional and confident appearance.

  Career fairs are an excellent way to meet with employers. One advantage to a Career fair is a resume can be personally submitted to a company representative. The job seeker and the representative have immediate access to ask questions, explore benefits and current opportunities.     

  Job searching tips can be an asset and understanding how to utilize them can make a difference. According to Career and Employment Services department a few tips are networking, joining professional organizations, creating a professional image by keeping email addresses, voice mail messages and social networking postings professional. Consider working temporary or contractual positions as they can provide excellent skills and experience and can often lead to full time employment.