Career Services Blog - October, 2009

Network With Your Next Employer On LinkedIn

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Many do not realize what a great resource LinkedIn actually is.  LinkedIn is a business-oriented social networking site created specifically for professional networking.  There are currently over 40 million professionals in the LinkedIn network, and this number is rapidly growing due to its usefulness in job searching, keeping track of professional connections, and building careers. 

Students in colleges around the country are quickly understanding what a great resource LinkedIn is and taking advantage of it.  These students are learning how to really network with professionals.  By “making connections” on LinkedIn, students have the opportunity to get to know more people who can help them pursue their dream career.

LinkedIn also describes these connections as necessary and extremely helpful: “The more connections you have, the better your chances of having a connection with someone who can help with your job search. When you're applying for jobs, be sure to use the connections you have. Someone who is employed at the company or has connections there will be able to help your candidacy for employment.”

A great way to build connections with people on LinkedIn is by joining “groups”.  These groups are an easy way to network with other people in the same field that you may be interested in.  For example, you can join the Career Services group, http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=113018&trk=hb_side_g, and make connections with employers, career counselors, and other people interested in helping students at CU pursue their careers.  There are thousands of groups available on LinkedIn for people interested in certain fields, companies, or looking to make connections in a new field.  Take a look at the LinkedIn Groups Directory: http://www.linkedin.com/groupsDirectory. 

We know many students have had career success because of LinkedIn.  If you have success stories about LinkedIn, Career Services would love to hear about it. 

 For more information or to register visit http://www.linkedin.com.

Tips and Opportunities From Sun Life Financial

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Michelle Heath – Sun Life Financial
Sun Life Financial is a leading financial service organization. They seek high-caliber individuals who will bring excellence, talent and energy to their dynamic sales organization. Sun Life Financial is a Top 10 leader in the Group Benefits marketplace. Their product offering includes life, disability, medical stop-loss and dental insurance.  Visit http://www.sunlife-usa.com to learn more.     

Employer Insight

1. What are the top three characteristics that make a good salesperson? Self-motivated, Relationship builder, Resilient 

2. What is a myth associated with a career in sales? That only certain people are "born" to sell.  While there's no denying that there are those that make selling look easy because they have a natural competitive or outgoing personality, sales techniques and the sales process can be learned. 

3. What are the benefits of working in sales and/or for your company? You are in control and determine your own income, your position will reward you with life-long friendships with partners and clients, and you will receive individual recognition for your accomplishments and contributions. 

4. Are there any particular interview questions that stump candidates?  If so, what are they and what type of answer are you looking for? Yes the question, "Why are you interested in a career in sales?"  The #1 answer is typically "because I like people."  We're usually looking for a deeper response that indicates the candidates internal drive and desire to be successful and in control of their income.  While one may think it sounds too greedy, the response "because I want to make a lot of money" is actually preferred to "I like people."

 5. If a student is concerned about a commission sales position, what advice do you have for types of sales to pursue? Many sales positions offer a base + commission and the typical manner is to pay for performance.  That's the draw to the profession.  The more you work, the more you can earn.  If the student favors security over unlimited income potential, then they should look for another career.

Check Out these positions! Full-time sales positions BS, any major considered. Must have a drive to succeed, winning attitude, and exceptional interpersonal, decision-making, presentation and negotiation skills. New sales reps must attain state required Life and Health agent licensing and consistently meet seasonal targets and sales goals.  Summer intern junior status, pursuing BS degree program, any major.  Candidate will have the desire to pursue sales as a career and: 

-Have prior business office experience   
-Possess an excellent customer service attitude   
-Be detail-oriented and able to work independently and manage a high volume, diverse workload