Have you ever gone online and found what seems to be the perfect internship or entry-level position for you? We all love discovering those once-in-a-lifetime dream opportunities. But what if, when reading through to the bottom of the job description, you notice that you only meet five out of the eight qualifications? Do you sigh, shrug your shoulders and move on, or do you buckle down and send in your information anyway?

In most cases, we say you should apply, regardless of the “requirements.” And here’s why.

The qualifications list the “in a perfect world” candidate – Oftentimes, employers and human resources professionals post job qualifications based on what their ideal candidate would be like. They are aware that the chances of finding a candidate who meets every subtle request are slim but, in the off-chance that the perfect candidate does indeed apply, they want to set the bar high. Who knows – you may not meet their ideal wishes, but you may be the best candidate to submit a resume.

The employer may just be weeding out potential applicants – Job listings are often circulated through a number of portals – Monster, CareerBuilder, LinkedIn, etc. – becoming visible to thousands and thousands of job searchers. To keep from drowning in a massive pile of resumes and cover letters, it’s not uncommon for employers to exaggerate their requirements to keep those who are obviously unqualified from applying. Inquire anyway – the listed qualifications may not always be 100 percent set in stone.

You miss all the shots you don’t take – If you don’t submit your information, we can pretty much guarantee that you won’t receive a call back for a position. Yes, it takes time to tailor your resume and cover letter to each individual job you apply for but, if you really want to get hired, be resilient and take that time.

Of course, there are a few exceptions to these tips. If you’re just finishing with your ISHC training program, it’s unlikely that you’ll be considered for that Fortune 500 company’s CEO position you applied for. Just keep things in perspective. If you have a chance, why not go for it? What’s the worst that can happen?

After completing your ISHC career training, finding that coveted first job is no simple task. You’ll be well-equipped and confident, but jobs don’t always fall into your lap the day after graduation. So, as you go through your resume development and interview process (see our other blog posts for tips!), think about the type of employer you’d like to work for. If you could dream up the perfect workplace, what would they be like and what would they offer?

Here are the qualities we’d look for, if you’d like our two cents!

Benefits

When just finishing school, a benefits package will provide a learning experience that you might not have had to work with yet in your life. From health insurance to retirement funds, you’ll begin understanding the building blocks of a secure financial future. Plus, benefits packages help show that employers value their workers and want to keep them around!

Plenty to do

You’re going to learn several life lessons within your first job after college. Take this unique opportunity to soak in your surroundings and learn new things every single day. You don’t want to work somewhere that bores you or doesn’t challenge you mentally. You completed your career training for a reason – to do something with it. Make sure your employer has that same outlook.

Reputation

Look for job prospects that come with a strong reputation. You’d like to work for an employer that treats its employees well, right? When researching, take a look at online reviews and see if there’s any information about their reputation or work environment. Aside from employee relations, also look for organizations that perform well in their respected industry. A first job with a great employer can lead to a job with another great employer later on down the road!

Patience

You may be an incredible, diligent student, but everyone makes mistakes every once in a while. Most employers realize that, so it’s best to find one that will take the time to let you work through a few blunders. You’ll learn from early obstacles and probably become a better, more insightful employee.

Of course, we don’t all have the luxury of being too picky regarding our first job. While some will receive multiple job offers that allow for more choosiness, others will need to jump on board with whatever position they can find. These qualities are merely what we suggest you strive for if the opportunity presents itself. Want more advice? Visit ISHC Career Services!

When deciding on a career path, there are several questions to consider. Will you make enough money to support your family? Are there job openings in the field? Will this career still be relevant 20 years from now?  Is the career growing or declining?

Well, one career that is growing at a rate much faster than the average is dental assisting.  According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov), employment of dental assistants is projected to increase 31 percent from 2010 to 2020.  As the baby-boomer generation ages, so will the need to treat and maintain their teeth, this will create an increased need for dental assistants to help dentists in their practice.

Another perk to entering a career as a dental assistant is the ability to have flexible working hours.  While most dental assistants work full-time, almost 40 percent worked part time in 2010.  Depending on the dental practice you work for, you may have options when it comes to scheduling!

So, what exactly do dental assistants do? Typically, they:

• Work with patients to make them comfortable in the dental chair
• Sterilize instruments
• Prepare the work area for treatment
• Assist dentists while they perform procedures
• Instruct patients in proper dental hygiene
• Process X-rays
• Keep dental records
• Schedule appointments
• Manage billing and payments

And more!

If you enjoy working with people, and would like to train for a career that has the potential for growth, then check out ISHC’s Dental Assisting program today!

Some say that having a mentor is one of the most significant ingredients for success. We happen to agree with those who say that. Developing and maintaining a lasting relationship with a mentor can be powerful for both your personal and professional life. Especially early on in your career, a mentor can play an important role.

Read on and see why it could be a good idea for you to think about beginning your search for the perfect mentor.

A mentor can introduce you to their professional network.

Meeting professionals in your career field isn’t an easy task. You must be proactive in your approach to meeting potential employers and co-workers. That’s where a mentor comes in. You’ll have the opportunity to connect with people you mentor has already formed a relationship with. They’ll know who’s trustworthy and who’s most likely to help you during your job search and beyond.

A mentor can share relevant experience and real advice.

A mentor can provide insight that can’t be found on the Internet. When seeking advice, which would you prefer – an unknown person’s opinion published on a message board or a personal dialogue with someone you know is both credible and successful? That’s what we thought. Also, a mentor can describe his or her past experiences and relate them to whatever career situation you may be facing.

A mentor can help you climb the ladder.

While not everything your mentor tells you will be applicable to your situation, make sure to take every bit of advice they give you to heart. There’s a reason they advanced in their own careers and became successful, and it probably wasn’t all because of dumb luck. Chances are they know their stuff. If you want a real shot at moving up in your position, take tips from someone who knows the ballgame, and then run with them.

Your mentor will be flattered that you chose them.

People like being asked for advice. It’s human nature. It means that someone respects your hard work and is willing to learn from your experience. If you find the right mentor, he or she won’t lead you astray – they’ll guide you down a path in which you can succeed. You’ll benefit from their wisdom, and they’ll take pride in knowing that others appreciate their knowledge.

If you need help coming up with ways to find a strong mentor, ask the ISHC Career Services department for assistance.

Believe it or not, public speaking is one of the most noted social fears out there. We talk to people every single day, and we listen to our teachers, friends and co-workers speak on a regular basis. But, still, standing up and presenting in front of a class or a group is a struggle for many.

If you’re one who would rather get a root canal than speak in public, here is some advice you can use to improve your skills.

First and foremost, the best way to get over speaking in public is to master the speech you’re presenting. A major reason for nervousness is a lack of preparation. It’s tough to get in front of people if you aren’t confident about your subject matter. Rehearse, rehearse and rehearse some more. If you can recite your speech in your sleep, speaking while awake will be a cake walk.

You don’t want to stutter and stumble over your words when speaking. While practicing, note how much time your presentation takes, and try and stick closely to that time during the real deal. The closer you can mimic your rehearsals, the more successful you’ll be.

No matter how much you dread it, take a look at your audience at the very start of your speech. Establishing eye contact is sometimes the most important factor in effective public speaking.  You’ll create an instant bond with your listeners and you’ll be more relaxed, too. Glancing away from the audience from time to time is fine, especially if you’re working with visual elements. But, for the most part, maintain the personal connection throughout. If you don’t look at your audience, you risk them not listening to you.

Of course, another way to grab attention is to make sure the audience hears you. Don’t shout, but project your voice enough that those in the back of the room can easily hear. You may ask aloud if everyone in back can hear, or you can make eye contact with those sitting farthest back and read their facial expressions. If they appear to be straining to hear, speak up!

Are you a shaker or a knee-buckler when nervous? If so, find a comfortable place to stand. Ask your instruction if you can use a podium or a lectern to keep yourself steady. Wobbling and changing positions can become distracting for both you and your audience, so make yourself as comfortable as possible.

Keeping your composure is crucial, so remember to speak slowly and pause when appropriate. There’s no need to rush – it will only make you more nervous. Plus, your audience may not comprehend the important message or information you’re delivering.

Most importantly, just breathe and relax. You’ll make it through just fine.

At last – spring is finally here! The sun is staying out later, birds are chirping again and new flowers are popping up every day. Everyone loves springtime, right? Right? Actually… maybe not. While spring’s beauty is a sight to behold, Mother Nature always seems to bring with her a heaping dose of allergens. 2013 is no different. Pollen levels are on the rise, and are sure to wreak havoc on those susceptible to allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes and congestion.

If you’re one of the millions who suffer from the springtime frustrations, check out the below tips for relieving the seasonal discomfort (aside from allergy medications).

1. Remove pollen from your home

An easy way to prevent pollen from getting inside is to keep the doors and windows closed. Check the seals to make sure no excess air creeps its way inside, and always maintain cleanliness inside – vacuum a few times per week, wash bedding and clothes on a regular schedule and dust the hard surfaces whenever time allows. If you’re still experiencing allergy problems indoors, consider using a dehumidifier.

2. Shower regularly

It’s impossible to remove pollen by simply wiping it off. You need a little more detail than that. When allergy season is in full swing, be sure to shower before getting into bed each night. Pollen buries itself in your clothes and hair, so bathing daily will help get rid of the pollen you can’t help but carry around. When you have a spare minute, give your shoes and glasses/sunglasses a quick cleaning, too.

3. Schedule your outdoor time

If you’re a morning person, you may think about sleeping in a little later (if you’re able). Pollen counts typically reach their daily peak between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., and then slowly drop until they reach their lowest point in the evening. Avoid the outdoors on the warm and windy days, because the pollen will be blowing around everywhere. Cooler rainy days usually are the best for your allergy relief. Seems like kind of a raw deal, huh? Don’t worry – summer will be here before you know it!

4. Cover your mouth and eyes

This is for those of you who suffer from extreme seasonal allergies. If you’re outdoors for an extended period of time – maybe working or exercising – consider wearing a bandana or mask over your mouth. Likewise, invest in a pair of goggles. They may not be your most stylish accessories, but rockin’ the thick eyewear once in a while is a small price to pay for comfort.

5. Wash pets often

Some pets love it and others absolutely hate it, but wash your animals as frequently as possible to keep them from spreading pollen in the house. Think about shaving or trimming their fur – it’ll save time when you’re washing them if you don’t have to scrub through several inches of hair.

Students in ISHC’s Medical Assistant program should especially take this advice to heart. After beginning your career in the medical field, allergies will be an issue every single year, and you can count on that.

Happy spring, everyone!

Whether you are fresh out of high school, or are a mid-career parent of four, there are several reasons why going back to school could be a smart move for you. Maybe you’re having trouble finding a job, or maybe that promotion you’ve been waiting for just hasn’t happened. Remember, it’s never too late to return to school, make a career change and better your life!

Here are five great reasons:

1. Create job opportunities

These days, with the job market being so competitive, employers look for employees who hold specific skill sets. If 300 hopefuls apply to one position, those without strong educational backgrounds may not even make the first cut. If nothing else, return to school to learn the skills that will make you noticeable when job searching!

2. Follow your dreams

Why not turn what you love into a paying career? If you think for a second, it really makes a lot of sense. There’s no reason to enter a field that you know you won’t like, so discover your passion and then learn everything you can about it. Let’s say you love taking care of those who aren’t able to help themselves. You might consider training to become a patient care technician. Those who truly enjoy their work reap the greatest benefits in their careers. There’s nothing like the feeling of waking up every day knowing that you’re doing exactly what you were meant to do.

3. Invest in your future

You are your biggest and most valuable investment. By taking the leap and going back to school, you will learn more than you’ve ever imagined, and develop the skills you need to begin a new career. Not only will you build a stronger financial future, but you will also create friendships and a network of peers that will remain a part of your personal and professional life long after you complete your training.

4. Try something new

Have you been doing the same old things, day in and day out, for a while now? Ready for a new challenge that will keep you on the edge of your toes and give you a reason to feel proud of yourself? An education could be just what you need to land a great job and try your hand at something you’ve never before experienced.

5. Set an example

Making the commitment to go back to school sets a wonderful example for your kids, friends, co-workers or even your spouse. Along with gathering the sense of accomplishment that comes from receiving an education, you may even convince others around you to make a positive change in their lives, too.

If returning to school is an option you’re considering, take that critical first step and learn about the career training programs ISHC offers!

When first beginning to job search, developing your resume can be a daunting task. The idea of it is simple, but there are dozens of little details to keep in mind. That’s why we’re here, though – to provide advice! Below are three little mistakes job seekers commonly make that, unfortunately, can make a difference to hiring managers. Read up and see if we can help improve your resume and your chances at the job you’ve worked so hard to land!

You feel like you have to tell your whole life story: you may feel like you have to cram every detail of your academic and work past into your resume to explain how you’re different from the other candidates. This just isn’t the case, especially since your resume should only take up one page. Not many hiring managers will take the time to read a novel, so a cluttered, filled-to-the-brim resume is likely to find itself in the trash can (or recycle bin, if they care about the environment). Your resume ultimately should be a snapshot of your relevant history. Try rating your history in order of importance and then work backwards, editing out the posts that don’t fit on the page. This may be one of those cases in which less is more. Aim for clarity rather than quantity.

You don’t tie your past experience to the job you’re applying for: it’s easy to create a generic, cookie-cutter resume that simply lists out what you’ve done in school and in past jobs. But if you don’t find a way to relate your experiences to the position you’re applying for, it’ll be tough to get a leg up on the competition. Before submitting your resume, do some homework on the company and industry you’re hoping to join. Observe the tone the company uses on its website or brochure, and find a way to make your language mesh with it. Also try re-reading the description of the job for which you’re applying, and include a few of the position characteristics in your resume.

You use distracting fonts and formats: Remember how we mentioned that less can be more? Make sure to take that to heart in this case. While eye-catching designs can add pizazz and freshness, they can also become a hindrance if blown out of proportion.  Let your concise wording and accomplished background convey your message, and be subtle when it comes to the aesthetic feel. If using special fonts or designs, make sure to have a friend, family member or teacher take a look and give their opinion before you send the resume to your possible future employers.

Many students take part in study groups when dealing with the hard knocks of school. Depending on the people you recruit to join you or the atmosphere you choose to study in, groups can be very helpful or detrimental to your grades and overall career training experience.

If carried out in the proper way, study groups can be beneficial for the following reasons:

Study groups break up monotony: As beneficial as studying alone can be, sometimes it gets a little dull. We know that everything you learn in class will be important to you in the future, so we don’t want you to get bored with your subject matter. Gathering with a group of students helps keep things fresh and prevents you from getting in a studying funk.

You can observe other points of view: How many times have you read a passage in a book and thought you knew what it meant, and then received a completely different explanation from an instructor or another student? There are sometimes many ways to interpret information – especially if it’s complex or not very straight forward. When you study with a group, you can all bring your unique thoughts to the table and learn from one another.

Study groups help combat procrastination: It’s tough to hunker down on schoolwork when there are other things you’d rather be doing. As the weather begins to get nice, especially, it’s too easy to put down the books and spend your time doing something unproductive. If you have a big exam coming up and need a simple way to stay focused, consider finding a dedicated study group (and also reading our other tips for battling procrastination). Everyone else is in the same boat and will be working toward a common goal. Here’s a little tip – join a study group without your best friends. They probably have the ability to distract your better than anyone else in the world.

You may learn new study techniques: In addition to collecting others’ points of view, you can also discover new study techniques. We all develop our trusted study techniques that we pull out for each and every test, and it’s easy for those to become stale at times. By joining a group, you can observe a variety of study methods in action, and maybe incorporate a few into your own repertoire. Don’t forget to share your techniques with classmates, as well. Your approach may help them just as much as it helps you.

Have you ever felt that interview questions are designed to trick you?  Here are some common yet difficult interview questions and some tips on the best ways to answer.

Why did you leave your last position?

Be careful not to take this question as an invitation to whine about your former employer or the tasks you were faced with. Instead, answer the question in a positive way that highlights the goals you’ve set for yourself in the future. Maybe the last job didn’t provide you with enough opportunities to showcase your unique skill set, so you are seeking a position that will allow you to do so. Most importantly, don’t reveal anger toward your last gig. There’s no need to show attitude before even getting hired.

What is your greatest weakness?

This is another one of those “turn a negative into a positive” questions. There’s no reason to provide a laundry list of the things you aren’t good at. All that will do is create a bad first impression. Take this time to name one of your weaker qualities, and then explain what you’re doing to improve in that area. Employers like to see their employees striving to be better. You don’t have to be perfect – you just have to show that you can apply yourself where needed. Here’s another tip – avoid listing weaknesses that subtly make you sound great, such as “I work too hard” or “I care too much.” Give them something a little more genuine.

A tough, job-specific question. 

These questions tend to get interviewees into trouble. If you have a strong answer, by all means spit it out. But if you’re unsure of the answer or don’t fully understand the topic asked about, don’t try to play it off like you’re an expert. It will only make you sound silly. It’s perfectly fine to state that you don’t know the answer to a question. The important thing is to make it known that you’re willing to go find the answer and learn more about the subject. Employers can respect that.

Why should we hire you?

Here’s your chance to show the hiring manager just how much research you conducted prior to the interview. You’ve probably already told them your qualifications, both through previous questions and your resume. Now, take those specific skills you hold and tie them to the company or organization. Having the skills may not be enough – employers want to know how those skills are going to translate into a successful employee at their company and, ultimately, boost their bottom line.

ISHC students and grads: If you are searching for a job and could use a little help, don’t hesitate to contact Career Services.  They are there to help you with resume writing, interview skills and more!