Five Ways to Wow a Hiring Manager
by Allison Stacy
You’ve heard the statistics: For any job opening you pursue, dozens (if not hundreds) of other applicants are vying for the same position. If you find those figures disheartening, you’re not alone. The hiring manger—that is, the person who has to root through that mountain of resumes and arrive at the right candidate for the job—shares your trepidation.
I know this because I’ve been on both sides of the resume pile. As editor of a national consumer magazine, I have the responsibility of hiring the editorial and design staff, including entry-level positions. From this experience, I also know that going up against a zillion other applicants doesn’t have to be a disadvantage—it can actually be an opportunity. Hiring managers look for people who stand out from the crowd, and the truth is that few applicants do. But you can: From the resume to the interview, here are five ways to impress the person who holds the key to your employment fate.
Make your resume distinctive. A hiring manager’s first impression comes from your resume, so be sure you’re truly putting your best foot forward. When you describe your work experience, emphasize accomplishments, not job functions. Suppose you spent a summer interning in the marketing department of the local arts council. Saying that you “wrote press releases” and “maintained the Web site” won’t tell a hiring manager anything she doesn’t already know. (What PR intern doesn’t write press releases?) Nor does it showcase how well you did the job. But if you instead explain that you “devised a low-cost online publicity campaign to encourage donations” and “created e-newsletter content that drove a 20 percent increase in Web site traffic,” that will make her take notice.
Tailor your cover letter. A lot of hiring managers see cover letters as a necessary evil: Managers enjoy reading them about as much as you enjoy writing them. But that’s only because they usually all sound the same—and they merely reiterate what’s in the stack of resumes. This is a shame: Why waste this prime opportunity to impress a potential employer?
When I’m reviewing applicants’ materials, I’m always delighted to come across an original cover letter—especially one that shows me why the author is an ideal candidate for the open position. (Note that I said show, not tell.) This can be as simple as forging a personal connection to the work you’d be doing. For example, because I work for Family Tree Magazine, a how-to publication for genealogy, I’ll sometimes get cover letters relaying how the applicants have researched their own family trees or how their families’ history and heritage have influenced their lives. That kind of letter always makes me give that person a second look. (Warning: This could backfire if you become cliché, such as telling the Chicago Cubs you’re a lifelong fan.)
Subtle flourishes can be even more effective. Editors don’t stop thinking like editors while they’re reading your cover letter. That means they’ll notice your attention to details, such as your conscious correct usage of a common grammatical faux pas or that you penned your letter according to the publication’s house style (which you’d discern from studying recent editions).
In case you haven’t yet gotten the hint, you should be customizing your cover letters for every position or company. Yes, it’s extra work—but if you’re not willing to make that effort, what message are you sending to the person you want to hire you?
Show you’ve studied your subject. The last thing a hiring manager wants to do is find himself in the same place—understaffed and in serious need of a replacement. So he’s going to be considering your level of interest in the position and company in addition to your qualifications. The best way to express that you really want the job (and not in a I-can’t-go-back-to-living-with-Mom-and-Dad kind of way): Let him know you’ve done your homework.
Of course, this starts with research. Learn everything you can about the publication, station, or organization. What’s its mission? What audience does it serve? Broaden your investigation to the parent company. What other products does it produce? How has it been making news lately? Such information is now easy to track down on Web sites, such as I Want Media.
You can weave some of your newfound knowledge into your cover letter. In fact, that’s another good way to let the hiring manager know he hasn’t gotten yet another generic form letter. But you’ll totally knock his socks off if you put your awareness to work: Along with your resume, cover letter and work samples, include a list of article pitches perfectly suited to the magazine, a new ad campaign idea for one of the agency’s clients, or whatever project is appropriate. Not only does this showcase your research skills, it shows the hiring manager you want the position badly enough that you’re willing to work for it.
Know the competition. Every Web site, publication, TV news operation, ad agency, and PR firm has competitors. You’ll really impress a hiring manager by coming to an interview with an understanding not just of your prospective employer, but also of who its rivals are. If you were the editor of Modern Ferret, wouldn’t you be wowed by an applicant who knew that Ferrets Magazine also serves the ferret-owning public? The interview questions will probably give you a chance to show off your knowledge; if they don’t, work it in when you have the opportunity to ask questions.
Go the extra mile. No matter what position or journalistic discipline you work in, managers like employees who take initiative. So show you’re a go-getter: If you’re asked to complete a test or assignment as part of the application process—and you most likely will be—go above and beyond the requirements. To give a couple of real-life examples: I was impressed by a managing editor candidate who, in her test edit of a feature article, included artwork and design ideas based on my magazine’s past feature designs. Likewise, I asked art director candidates to devise a photo or illustration idea for a particular article and describe their instructions for the photographer or illustrator. The graphic designer I ultimately hired went a step further and provided a sketch of her illustration concept. Follow her cue, and you’ll get hired, too.
Allison Stacy (BSJ ‘99) is editor of Family Tree Magazine, published by F+W Publications in Cincinnati, Ohio. Allison can be reached at allisonstacy@yahoo.com.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
The Perfect Handshake
You may look at the title of this article and think, “Really? What’s the big deal about a handshake? How hard can it be?” Well, take it from someone who has shaken a lot of hands over the years: handshakes matter.
Most people don’t realize that there are right and wrong ways of shaking hands. Believe me, you don’t want to be known around the office as the “wet noodle” or the “bonecrusher.” People DO notice your handshake and they DO make judgments about your character and level of confidence through your handshake. Communicating confidence and reliability are crucial to your success in not only business, but life. A well-executed handshake is probably the best and easiest to develop business skill.
While a handshake might seem like a straightforward no-brainer, there are a few things you need to remember:
1. Shake hands whenever you are introduced to someone, whenever you introduce yourself to someone, and whenever you say goodbye.
2. Say something when you shake hands. “It’s very nice to meet you Mr. Smith” and “It’s great to see you again” are appropriate.
3. Make sure your hands are dry. No one likes clammy hands. In fact, sweaty hands communicate nervousness and can make people think you are not up to the job or that you have something to hide. Experts recommend carrying Kleenex or baby powder with you to absorb excess moisture.
4. Think about your grip. A medium-firm grip conveys confidence and authority, which is what you want to exude.
5. Respond with pressure that meets the pressure you receive and don’t try to overpower the other person if their grasp is more timid.
6. Shake palm to palm and keep your hand perpendicular to the ground.
7. Know when to let go. The ideal handshake lasts about three seconds. The hands can be pumped once or twice, but that’s enough. Continually pumping hands comes across as overzealous and, quite frankly, kind of awkward.
8. Make eye contact and smile.
9. Only do the hand-in-hand handshake when congratulating someone you know well. The hand-in-hand is when you sandwich the other person’s hand with both of your hands. If you do this to someone you don’t know very well or have just met, they can feel uncomfortable, overpowered, or even threatened. So be careful and use this handshake sparingly.
In today’s business world, both men and women shake hands. The idea that a woman should not extend her hand first or a man should wait for a woman to extend her hand is outdated. Both men and women can feel free to extend their hands out first when meeting someone. In fact, I recommend it. The perfect handshake is one that conveys a friendly, welcoming attitude. A firm handshake helps make a good first impression for both men and women.
Below are some common types of “bad handshakes.” Pay attention because you don’t want to be the person who greets others with these handshakes.
The “Wet One”: Hand is clammy and cold. This type of handshake is universally unpopular and is read by the receiver as a lack of commitment to the encounter.
The “Dead Fish”: Hand is limp, lifeless and just hangs. This type of handshake leaves the impression that you don’t have an interest in the meeting and conveys a lackluster personality.
The “Bone Crusher”: Handshake is hard and forceful and involves squeezing the other person’s hand tightly. A trademark of the overly aggressive person, this type of handshake reveals a desire to dominate and assume early control.
The “Fingertip Grab”: A handshake where the fingers are grabbed instead of the entire hand. This type of handshake shows a lack of confidence.
The “Stiff Arm Thrust”: Hand is stiff and body is leaning forward. This type of handshake is used by aggressive types to keep others at a distance and show control.
The “Pumper”: Hand is pumped with energy and a rhythmic series of rapid vertical strokes. This handshake is overly eager and insecure. This person doesn’t know when to quit and stalls because he/she doesn’t know what to do next.
The “Don’t Touch Me”: Hand is not even fully offered. This person will barely put three or four fingers in your hand—and then withdraw them quickly, almost as if afraid of catching a disease. This appears timid, sheepish, and distant.
The “I’m You’re Best Friend”: Hand and arm are clasped forcefully. This person comes across as too familiar, clasping your arm and perhaps attempting to hug you. This behavior may be appropriate at a funeral, but it comes across as condescending and inappropriate in a business setting.
Please take note of the above mentioned handshake types because they can help you become a better “shaker.” Jill Bremer, a professional image consultant and co-author of It’s Your Move: Dealing Yourself the Best Cards in Life and Work says, “Handshakes are the only consistent physical contact we have in the business world. They happen first, so they set the tone for the entire relationship,” and everyone knows how important first impressions are.
Sharon Metzung (BSJ 2003) is the Publications & Graphics Manager at Lake Metroparks in Concord Township, Ohio. She can be reached at s_metzung@yahoo.com.
Most people don’t realize that there are right and wrong ways of shaking hands. Believe me, you don’t want to be known around the office as the “wet noodle” or the “bonecrusher.” People DO notice your handshake and they DO make judgments about your character and level of confidence through your handshake. Communicating confidence and reliability are crucial to your success in not only business, but life. A well-executed handshake is probably the best and easiest to develop business skill.
While a handshake might seem like a straightforward no-brainer, there are a few things you need to remember:
1. Shake hands whenever you are introduced to someone, whenever you introduce yourself to someone, and whenever you say goodbye.
2. Say something when you shake hands. “It’s very nice to meet you Mr. Smith” and “It’s great to see you again” are appropriate.
3. Make sure your hands are dry. No one likes clammy hands. In fact, sweaty hands communicate nervousness and can make people think you are not up to the job or that you have something to hide. Experts recommend carrying Kleenex or baby powder with you to absorb excess moisture.
4. Think about your grip. A medium-firm grip conveys confidence and authority, which is what you want to exude.
5. Respond with pressure that meets the pressure you receive and don’t try to overpower the other person if their grasp is more timid.
6. Shake palm to palm and keep your hand perpendicular to the ground.
7. Know when to let go. The ideal handshake lasts about three seconds. The hands can be pumped once or twice, but that’s enough. Continually pumping hands comes across as overzealous and, quite frankly, kind of awkward.
8. Make eye contact and smile.
9. Only do the hand-in-hand handshake when congratulating someone you know well. The hand-in-hand is when you sandwich the other person’s hand with both of your hands. If you do this to someone you don’t know very well or have just met, they can feel uncomfortable, overpowered, or even threatened. So be careful and use this handshake sparingly.
In today’s business world, both men and women shake hands. The idea that a woman should not extend her hand first or a man should wait for a woman to extend her hand is outdated. Both men and women can feel free to extend their hands out first when meeting someone. In fact, I recommend it. The perfect handshake is one that conveys a friendly, welcoming attitude. A firm handshake helps make a good first impression for both men and women.
Below are some common types of “bad handshakes.” Pay attention because you don’t want to be the person who greets others with these handshakes.
The “Wet One”: Hand is clammy and cold. This type of handshake is universally unpopular and is read by the receiver as a lack of commitment to the encounter.
The “Dead Fish”: Hand is limp, lifeless and just hangs. This type of handshake leaves the impression that you don’t have an interest in the meeting and conveys a lackluster personality.
The “Bone Crusher”: Handshake is hard and forceful and involves squeezing the other person’s hand tightly. A trademark of the overly aggressive person, this type of handshake reveals a desire to dominate and assume early control.
The “Fingertip Grab”: A handshake where the fingers are grabbed instead of the entire hand. This type of handshake shows a lack of confidence.
The “Stiff Arm Thrust”: Hand is stiff and body is leaning forward. This type of handshake is used by aggressive types to keep others at a distance and show control.
The “Pumper”: Hand is pumped with energy and a rhythmic series of rapid vertical strokes. This handshake is overly eager and insecure. This person doesn’t know when to quit and stalls because he/she doesn’t know what to do next.
The “Don’t Touch Me”: Hand is not even fully offered. This person will barely put three or four fingers in your hand—and then withdraw them quickly, almost as if afraid of catching a disease. This appears timid, sheepish, and distant.
The “I’m You’re Best Friend”: Hand and arm are clasped forcefully. This person comes across as too familiar, clasping your arm and perhaps attempting to hug you. This behavior may be appropriate at a funeral, but it comes across as condescending and inappropriate in a business setting.
Please take note of the above mentioned handshake types because they can help you become a better “shaker.” Jill Bremer, a professional image consultant and co-author of It’s Your Move: Dealing Yourself the Best Cards in Life and Work says, “Handshakes are the only consistent physical contact we have in the business world. They happen first, so they set the tone for the entire relationship,” and everyone knows how important first impressions are.
Sharon Metzung (BSJ 2003) is the Publications & Graphics Manager at Lake Metroparks in Concord Township, Ohio. She can be reached at s_metzung@yahoo.com.
Tips for Making Small Talk and the Art of Working a Room
Do you need a job? Does the prospect of walking into a room full of strangers make you break into a cold sweat? If your answer to either of these questions is “YES,” then I encourage you to keep reading.
Looking for a job can be terrifying and time consuming, and networking might seem like the least attractive part. When I graduated and heard anyone talk about networking, I would tense up because I had absolutely no idea what to say to people. However, in the past few years, I have come to realize that networking really isn’t that difficult. The key is being open and willing to have a conversation with someone. The ability to connect with people through small talk is an acquired and practiced skill, but it can lead to big things like job leads, mentoring opportunities, and professional connections.
This article focuses on mastering small talk and how you can go from wallflower to social butterfly. The tips offered here are simple and will make it easier for you to speak to people at networking events, business functions and other social events.
1. Be the first to say "hello." It is not going to kill you to take the initiative and start a conversation. Plus, it takes the pressure off the person you are introducing yourself to and makes them more likely to engage in a conversation. Offer your name to ease the pressure. Smile first and always shake hands when you meet someone.
2. Pay attention during introductions. Make an extra effort to remember names and use them frequently. It shows people that you are interested and are taking the conversation seriously.
3. Don’t be afraid of clichés. Break the ice by talking about the weather, sports, movies or TV shows. These topics put people at ease because they are topics that everyone can talk about and will usually lead to other subjects. If you stay up to date on current events in your field (or desired field) you will be able to talk intelligently on a wide variety of subjects, making it easier to talk to people.
4. Use conversation builders such as "What do you think of...?" “Have you heard...?" and “What is your take on...?" Stay away from negative or controversial topics, and refrain from long-winded stories or unnecessary detail in casual conversation. Talking about the time you threw up on someone at The Union is not a good networking conversation.
5. Be honest. If you are sweating bullets because you are nervous about the situation, it is okay to say so. Say something like, “This is the first meeting I have attended, and I’m never certain what to say or what questions to ask. You really handle yourself well. Any suggestions for me?” If you are honest about it, people will probably be empathetic with you. Most people will understand your feelings. Most were probably uncomfortable in networking situations before, too!
6. Ask questions. The best conversationalists mix talking with listening. As people talk about themselves, you can ask about their job, company, or business projects. This frequently leads to opportunities where you can indicate how your skills can be of benefit or how you might be able to help. To obtain really good information, ask open-ended questions. For example: "Why?", "What if?", "What is your opinion?", or "That's really interesting. Can you tell me more?" By asking questions and showing sincere interest in a person’s response, you come across as both professional and communication savvy. If you ask questions and do not appear interested in the person’s answer, you will have lost an opportunity to establish a good personal or business relationship. Listen intently and do not interrupt. Give feedback and maintain eye contact. Sincerity brings you respect and admiration, and people hire individuals they know and respect.
7. Accept business cards gratefully. If someone hands you a business card, accept it as a gift. Don’t just throw it into your briefcase or pocket without a glance. Take a moment to read it to show that you appreciate receiving it.
8. Act confident even when you’re not. If you look uncomfortable, you are going to make the people you are talking to uncomfortable. Don’t stare at the floor, shift your weight or stand with your arms crossed.
9. Be respectful. If you decide to enter a conversation that is already in progress, stop to observe and listen. Don’t just interrupt the conversation because you want to get involved. If you stand to the side and show interest, it is more likely that those in the conversations will notice you and invite you to join.
10. Exit gracefully. Exiting a conversation is often tougher than starting one. Have a few exit lines ready, so that you can gracefully move on. For example: "I've enjoyed talking with you. I've noticed a couple of new guests that I haven't met as yet. Would you please excuse me?" or "I need to check in with a colleague over there." If all else fails, head to the restroom. Don't be embarrassed to move on; you do not want to overstay your welcome. One of the biggest mistakes in networking is to talk too much. You want to make a good impression and leave people wanting more. To do that, “Mingling Maven” Susan RoAne advises: "Be bright. Be brief. Be gone."
11. Follow up on leads. If a person gives you their business card, give the person a call or send them an email a few days after the event and thank them for taking the time to talk with you. The worst thing that can happen is that you don't get a meeting or job lead. You are no worse off than you were before. But if you make the call, odds are something will materialize. At the very least, you just might make a new friend who is willing to keep any eye out for other job opportunities.
12. Attend every opportunity possible to work a room or connect with new people. Something is bound to come from these small talk opportunities. If nothing else, you will gain practice in the art of working a room. And we all know that practice makes perfect!
Sharon Metzung (BSJ 2003) is the Publications & Graphics Manager at Lake Metroparks in Concord Township, Ohio. Sharon can be reached at s_metzung@yahoo.com.
Looking for a job can be terrifying and time consuming, and networking might seem like the least attractive part. When I graduated and heard anyone talk about networking, I would tense up because I had absolutely no idea what to say to people. However, in the past few years, I have come to realize that networking really isn’t that difficult. The key is being open and willing to have a conversation with someone. The ability to connect with people through small talk is an acquired and practiced skill, but it can lead to big things like job leads, mentoring opportunities, and professional connections.
This article focuses on mastering small talk and how you can go from wallflower to social butterfly. The tips offered here are simple and will make it easier for you to speak to people at networking events, business functions and other social events.
1. Be the first to say "hello." It is not going to kill you to take the initiative and start a conversation. Plus, it takes the pressure off the person you are introducing yourself to and makes them more likely to engage in a conversation. Offer your name to ease the pressure. Smile first and always shake hands when you meet someone.
2. Pay attention during introductions. Make an extra effort to remember names and use them frequently. It shows people that you are interested and are taking the conversation seriously.
3. Don’t be afraid of clichés. Break the ice by talking about the weather, sports, movies or TV shows. These topics put people at ease because they are topics that everyone can talk about and will usually lead to other subjects. If you stay up to date on current events in your field (or desired field) you will be able to talk intelligently on a wide variety of subjects, making it easier to talk to people.
4. Use conversation builders such as "What do you think of...?" “Have you heard...?" and “What is your take on...?" Stay away from negative or controversial topics, and refrain from long-winded stories or unnecessary detail in casual conversation. Talking about the time you threw up on someone at The Union is not a good networking conversation.
5. Be honest. If you are sweating bullets because you are nervous about the situation, it is okay to say so. Say something like, “This is the first meeting I have attended, and I’m never certain what to say or what questions to ask. You really handle yourself well. Any suggestions for me?” If you are honest about it, people will probably be empathetic with you. Most people will understand your feelings. Most were probably uncomfortable in networking situations before, too!
6. Ask questions. The best conversationalists mix talking with listening. As people talk about themselves, you can ask about their job, company, or business projects. This frequently leads to opportunities where you can indicate how your skills can be of benefit or how you might be able to help. To obtain really good information, ask open-ended questions. For example: "Why?", "What if?", "What is your opinion?", or "That's really interesting. Can you tell me more?" By asking questions and showing sincere interest in a person’s response, you come across as both professional and communication savvy. If you ask questions and do not appear interested in the person’s answer, you will have lost an opportunity to establish a good personal or business relationship. Listen intently and do not interrupt. Give feedback and maintain eye contact. Sincerity brings you respect and admiration, and people hire individuals they know and respect.
7. Accept business cards gratefully. If someone hands you a business card, accept it as a gift. Don’t just throw it into your briefcase or pocket without a glance. Take a moment to read it to show that you appreciate receiving it.
8. Act confident even when you’re not. If you look uncomfortable, you are going to make the people you are talking to uncomfortable. Don’t stare at the floor, shift your weight or stand with your arms crossed.
9. Be respectful. If you decide to enter a conversation that is already in progress, stop to observe and listen. Don’t just interrupt the conversation because you want to get involved. If you stand to the side and show interest, it is more likely that those in the conversations will notice you and invite you to join.
10. Exit gracefully. Exiting a conversation is often tougher than starting one. Have a few exit lines ready, so that you can gracefully move on. For example: "I've enjoyed talking with you. I've noticed a couple of new guests that I haven't met as yet. Would you please excuse me?" or "I need to check in with a colleague over there." If all else fails, head to the restroom. Don't be embarrassed to move on; you do not want to overstay your welcome. One of the biggest mistakes in networking is to talk too much. You want to make a good impression and leave people wanting more. To do that, “Mingling Maven” Susan RoAne advises: "Be bright. Be brief. Be gone."
11. Follow up on leads. If a person gives you their business card, give the person a call or send them an email a few days after the event and thank them for taking the time to talk with you. The worst thing that can happen is that you don't get a meeting or job lead. You are no worse off than you were before. But if you make the call, odds are something will materialize. At the very least, you just might make a new friend who is willing to keep any eye out for other job opportunities.
12. Attend every opportunity possible to work a room or connect with new people. Something is bound to come from these small talk opportunities. If nothing else, you will gain practice in the art of working a room. And we all know that practice makes perfect!
Sharon Metzung (BSJ 2003) is the Publications & Graphics Manager at Lake Metroparks in Concord Township, Ohio. Sharon can be reached at s_metzung@yahoo.com.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Political Conventions
Although I really never planned on attending a Democratic or Republican national convention, I'm glad I had the opportunity to attend both earlier this month. My firm, Lesic & Camper Communications, is working on an issue education campaign called the Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease, which is aimed at educating policymakers, elected officials and health care stakeholders about the need for better prevention and management of chronic diseases in our health care system. Because chronic diseases, like diabetes, heart disease, cancer and others, account for 75 percent of our health care costs.So my boss and I went out to Denver and Minneapolis/St. Paul with the Ohio delegations of each party to help spread the word. We were able to have breakfast speakers at both Ohio delegations' events, and delegates received PFCD t-shirts, pedometers and brochures. It was pretty cool to see some of the delegates actually walking around with the pedometers!
But enough about work. These trips were fun too. I was able to see speeches by Hillary Clinton and former Virginia Governor Mark Warner at the DNC Convention, and Fred Thompson at the RNC Convention. I also caught glimpses of celebrities like Ashley Judd, Chevy Chase, Aisha Tyler, Cyndi Lauper and Jon Voight.
However, my favorite part was meeting Luke Russert in Denver. As you may know, he was covering the youth vote at both conventions for NBC. I was even hoping to meet him before I went out there, and I just happened to see him outside of our hotel. So I asked if he'd take a picture with me, and he graciously agreed.
Sometimes working in public affairs may not sound like the most exciting option as a student, but I certainly have valued some of the opportunities I've had this fall.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Reasons to Move to DC: public transportation, go-go music* and chili-dogs**
Thinking about moving to the Nation's Capital? A few things to consider:
1) Washington, DC is a wonderful city - full of an eclectic group of people from around the world all pursuing different goals. From politics and lobbying, which seem to go hand-in-hand, to associations, banks and media organizations – employers are wide-ranging and far-reaching! A few suggestions if you are interested in looking for a job/internship:
http://www.dcjobs.com/ - comprehensive list of jobs
http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/jjj/ - not only can you find a job/internship on Craig’s List, but also an apartment or a used toaster if you so desire!
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wl/jobs/home - another reliable, comprehensive list of jobs
http://asi.careerhq.org/search.cfm - numerous association headquarters are located in the DC-Metro area from the Association of Pickle Packers (google it – it does exist!) to more well-known associations like the National Education Association. I have/had friends who work for associations – writing for their trade publications, blogging about the DNC and RNC, event planning, etc.
http://www.rcjobs.com/ - Capital Hill jobs – from policy jobs, to the press side of things – your journalism degree can certainly translate well into a job on the Hill
http://www.hillzoo.com/jobs/ - Capital Hill jobs
2) DC offers public transportation - http://www.wmata.com/ - which not only cuts down on commuting time and money, but allows you to get anywhere in the city without a car! Go green!
* Go-go is a subgenre of funk that originated in the Washington, D.C., area during the mid- to late-1970s.
** http://www.benschilibowl.com/
1) Washington, DC is a wonderful city - full of an eclectic group of people from around the world all pursuing different goals. From politics and lobbying, which seem to go hand-in-hand, to associations, banks and media organizations – employers are wide-ranging and far-reaching! A few suggestions if you are interested in looking for a job/internship:
http://www.dcjobs.com/ - comprehensive list of jobs
http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/jjj/ - not only can you find a job/internship on Craig’s List, but also an apartment or a used toaster if you so desire!
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wl/jobs/home - another reliable, comprehensive list of jobs
http://asi.careerhq.org/search.cfm - numerous association headquarters are located in the DC-Metro area from the Association of Pickle Packers (google it – it does exist!) to more well-known associations like the National Education Association. I have/had friends who work for associations – writing for their trade publications, blogging about the DNC and RNC, event planning, etc.
http://www.rcjobs.com/ - Capital Hill jobs – from policy jobs, to the press side of things – your journalism degree can certainly translate well into a job on the Hill
http://www.hillzoo.com/jobs/ - Capital Hill jobs
2) DC offers public transportation - http://www.wmata.com/ - which not only cuts down on commuting time and money, but allows you to get anywhere in the city without a car! Go green!
* Go-go is a subgenre of funk that originated in the Washington, D.C., area during the mid- to late-1970s.
** http://www.benschilibowl.com/
Monday, September 15, 2008
NBC Finally "Gets" this Internet Thing
It wasn't too long ago that NBC was scrambling to remove it's now infamous SNL "D*ck in a Box" skit from Youtube (and any other site that was impinging on its 'copyrighted' material). Their official and on-record vigilance about removing any trace of the SNL skit caused thousands (maybe millions) to be unable to access and view it. The only problem with this course of action, of course, is that while protecting their intellectual property, NBC was shelling one of their first truly "did-you-see-that" talk-value SNL skits in a long time.
SNL had started to go the way of the dinosaur, and NBC seemed determined that viewers would only be rewarded with content if they tuned in at 11:30 on Saturday nights for the original broadcast. And the attitude at NBC seemed to be a big "too bad" if you were eating, sleeping, or doing anything else than making an appointment with your TV for SNL viewing. In a time of fragmented consumer attention, this was totally counterintuitive-- as if NBC was single-handedly going to buck the will of millions of consumers by re-introducing a literally captive audience to their television broadcasts.
That was a little over a year ago. Enter the 2008 Olympics. The games are taking place in a country that is many time zones removed from ours, forcing NBC to re-think this tune-in-live-or-too-bad policy. NBC partners with Microsoft for live streaming video from the games, hosting on NBCOlympics.com. This would appear to be a vast improvement, with NBC now allowing their 'copyrighted' material to circulate on the web.....
Except for one little catch. The time zone thing was tricky for prime-time broadcasting-- NBC decided to delay showing big events for prime-time TV in an effort to draw a large audience to the broadcast. If those events were allowed to be viewed online live, that meant NBC's prime-time broadcast might be hurt. So, only select streams were made available live, and some streamed only after the on-air broadcast. Personally, I didn't watch an ounce of the Olympics in prime-time. Even as a rabid sports fan, the idea of knowing the result hours beforehand tends to kill the impact of the match. I did, however, stream online when NBC allowed me to.
The site was a step for NBC, nonetheless, and one that paid off--42 million unique visitors to the site, spending an average of 27 minutes during the games. That's a huge amount of eyeballs, and a depth of engagement that no doubt, NBC was happy to capture-- and didn't want to miss by not streaming events online.
Now, NBC has joined the networks that stream popular shows online. It even has a fancy new tagline, "Chime In." This is likely to highlight they are coming out of the dark ages and allowing conversation around their own product. A small move that I noted and appreciated, but I wasn't sold on NBC as a network that was innovating or embracing online conversation by any means.
The real watershed for selling me on NBC came with Sunday Night Football this year. Like many ridiculously-addicted NFL fans, I was thrilled when the season opened on September 4th. Like many NFL-addicts who live on the West Coast, I was upset that the game began during the workday here on the West Coast. Millions of NFL fans have been forced, in the past, to settle for bad text updates via mobile phone or internet browser ("Manning incomplete pass on 3rd down"). This compared in no way to watching a game.
NBC shocked me by beating ESPN's Monday Night Football to the punch, and launched Sunday Night Football's site, http://www.sundaynightisfootballnight.com/. Besides being a beautiful site, it's also rich with what is the best streaming sports coverage to-date. The interface of the game is the same you would see on-screen, PLUS PLUS. It offers 5 different camera angles, ability to see plays in instant replay, and overall, adds up to the most satisfying sports experience online. ESPN has been innovating at a rate far beyond its stodgy network competitors for years-- but NBC nailed this one. I was highly disappointed on Monday when I looked to stream Monday Night Football from ESPN.com, only to have the same old text-tracking experience that frankly, wasn't worth monitoring. For the 2008 season so far, NBC Sports, 1 : ESPN, 0.
Oh, and the latest SNL skit to go to "must-see" status is Tina Fey's recent rendition of vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin. I missed the live broadcast of the SNL skit, but I caught it on Youtube. Because NBC allowed me to catch it on Youtube, in addition to displaying the skit for video play prominently on their own homepage.
Thanks, NBC, for finally "getting it" and realizing that if your content is good enough to be sought out online-- that isn't a bad thing, but an incredibly good thing. An incremental kind of thing, not a detrimental kind of thing.
I'll be streaming Sunday Night Football while I watch the broadcast on Sunday. Have you seen the site yet? What do you think?
SNL had started to go the way of the dinosaur, and NBC seemed determined that viewers would only be rewarded with content if they tuned in at 11:30 on Saturday nights for the original broadcast. And the attitude at NBC seemed to be a big "too bad" if you were eating, sleeping, or doing anything else than making an appointment with your TV for SNL viewing. In a time of fragmented consumer attention, this was totally counterintuitive-- as if NBC was single-handedly going to buck the will of millions of consumers by re-introducing a literally captive audience to their television broadcasts.
That was a little over a year ago. Enter the 2008 Olympics. The games are taking place in a country that is many time zones removed from ours, forcing NBC to re-think this tune-in-live-or-too-bad policy. NBC partners with Microsoft for live streaming video from the games, hosting on NBCOlympics.com. This would appear to be a vast improvement, with NBC now allowing their 'copyrighted' material to circulate on the web.....
Except for one little catch. The time zone thing was tricky for prime-time broadcasting-- NBC decided to delay showing big events for prime-time TV in an effort to draw a large audience to the broadcast. If those events were allowed to be viewed online live, that meant NBC's prime-time broadcast might be hurt. So, only select streams were made available live, and some streamed only after the on-air broadcast. Personally, I didn't watch an ounce of the Olympics in prime-time. Even as a rabid sports fan, the idea of knowing the result hours beforehand tends to kill the impact of the match. I did, however, stream online when NBC allowed me to.
The site was a step for NBC, nonetheless, and one that paid off--42 million unique visitors to the site, spending an average of 27 minutes during the games. That's a huge amount of eyeballs, and a depth of engagement that no doubt, NBC was happy to capture-- and didn't want to miss by not streaming events online.
Now, NBC has joined the networks that stream popular shows online. It even has a fancy new tagline, "Chime In." This is likely to highlight they are coming out of the dark ages and allowing conversation around their own product. A small move that I noted and appreciated, but I wasn't sold on NBC as a network that was innovating or embracing online conversation by any means.
The real watershed for selling me on NBC came with Sunday Night Football this year. Like many ridiculously-addicted NFL fans, I was thrilled when the season opened on September 4th. Like many NFL-addicts who live on the West Coast, I was upset that the game began during the workday here on the West Coast. Millions of NFL fans have been forced, in the past, to settle for bad text updates via mobile phone or internet browser ("Manning incomplete pass on 3rd down"). This compared in no way to watching a game.
NBC shocked me by beating ESPN's Monday Night Football to the punch, and launched Sunday Night Football's site, http://www.sundaynightisfootballnight.com/. Besides being a beautiful site, it's also rich with what is the best streaming sports coverage to-date. The interface of the game is the same you would see on-screen, PLUS PLUS. It offers 5 different camera angles, ability to see plays in instant replay, and overall, adds up to the most satisfying sports experience online. ESPN has been innovating at a rate far beyond its stodgy network competitors for years-- but NBC nailed this one. I was highly disappointed on Monday when I looked to stream Monday Night Football from ESPN.com, only to have the same old text-tracking experience that frankly, wasn't worth monitoring. For the 2008 season so far, NBC Sports, 1 : ESPN, 0.
Oh, and the latest SNL skit to go to "must-see" status is Tina Fey's recent rendition of vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin. I missed the live broadcast of the SNL skit, but I caught it on Youtube. Because NBC allowed me to catch it on Youtube, in addition to displaying the skit for video play prominently on their own homepage.
Thanks, NBC, for finally "getting it" and realizing that if your content is good enough to be sought out online-- that isn't a bad thing, but an incredibly good thing. An incremental kind of thing, not a detrimental kind of thing.
I'll be streaming Sunday Night Football while I watch the broadcast on Sunday. Have you seen the site yet? What do you think?
Friday, May 23, 2008
Communications Manager Position (Springfield, Ohio)
This job notice comes by way of Scripps alumnus Kyle Rose, who knows a thing or two about the position: It's his old job.
For application details, see https://jobs-internationaltruck.icims.com/internationaltruck_jobs/jobs/candidate/job.jsp?jobid=8350&mode=view.
If you'd like to know more, contact Kyle directly.
| Position Purpose: |
Develop, administer and execute effective communications strategies and plans for the Springfield Plants, inform and consult with Plant management in an advisory capacity to ensure effective internal and external communication and establish sound Company relations with employees, organizations, news media and the general public. To effectively market the Springfield plant and assist the plant in maintaining positive customer relations. |
| Basic Requirements: |
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If you'd like to know more, contact Kyle directly.
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