Before you start looking for a job, clean up your social media, say three business leaders participating on a panel discussion for the Northwest Vista College Business Student Organization.
Panelists confirmed that hiring managers check what’s posted on social media of candidates and these postings could be a deciding factor on whether or not candidates get the job.
Kenny Vallespin, Human Resources Partner for The Bank of San Antonio, stressed the importance of resumes. “Your resume is what’s going to get you in the door. And your resume has to match the job description, at least a bit,” he said to an audience of NVC students in Pecan Hall.
He suggested that when applying for jobs, students should “try to give the company something about yourself that differentiates you from all the other candidates.”
“Don’t be humble about your accomplishments,” added Justin Daniels, Talent Acquisition Manager for GM Financial.
Panelists also agreed on the importance of networking.
“Ninety percent of interviews happen because of someone you know,” said Dana Reeder, CEO and Founder of Reeder Consulting, which provides college and career guidance. She encouraged students to get on Linkedin and to attend networking events such as chamber of commerce or business association meetings.
Hosted in partnership with the NVC Business Council, the presentation provided various strategies, tips and experiences about job seeking, getting hired and gaining job experience.
Casey James, president of the Business Student Organization, served as moderator of the panel.
Panelists also agreed on the importance of getting an associate’s degree. “Getting your degree shows commitment and focus,” said Daniels.
Ralph Mendez, NVC accounting faculty, assisted in moderating the session. In thanking the panelists and emphasizing the importance of their discussion and interaction with students, he said, “Students need to hear from people who aren’t teachers.”
Speaker panels and presentations such as these are a project of the NVC Business Council, a membership organization which actively seeks partnerships and collaborations with businesses and their leadership for NVC and the students we serve.
Contributed by Lynne T. Dean, CFRE, Director of Institutional Advancement
