32 BPI Group Career Direction

Online Resources

LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a professional networking site that allows users to display their professional identity and connect with other users on the basis of industry, work history and interests. If you haven't used LinkedIn before, or are interested in learning how to better leverage it, visit Linked Intelligence. This site hosts multiple articles on how to use LinkedIn to search for jobs, develop your business, manage your career or grow your network.

Culpwrit
Written and maintained by a PR professional, this blog offers numerous pieces of expert advice and tips that can only be gleaned from a combination of experience and research.

"Google CEO Urges Grads: 'Turn Off Your Computer'"
Eric Schmidt, Google chairman and CEO, urged 2009 grads from the University of Pennsylvania to turn off their computers and live analog for a while. "Turn off your computer. You're actually going to have to turn off your phone and discover all that is human around us," says Schmidt.

"How to Network: For Introverts"
“Networking” and “extroverts” are nearly synonymous words. But how should someone who is introverted handle the business world or the job search? Written by an introvert, this article may be an asset for the thinking type. A great read packed with ideas and advice from someone who understands the difficulties that an extroverted business world often presents.

"The Top Things To Do When You Can't Get A Job"
This is a helpful article whether you've been searching for months or are just starting the journey. It gives information on topics like how to relate to an interviewer, the relationship between a résumé and a cover letter, how to use Twitter to land an interview, and how to be well prepared during the interview process. "Don't blast your résumé around like spam," the article advises.

"50 Body Language Secrets You Need to Succeed in Life"
"55% of communication comes from body language and only 7% from the words we use. In light of this study, it makes sense for anyone...to pay attention to what their body language is telling others as well as learning to read non-verbal cues from others." This article is a great read!

OneDayOneJob.com
Created by a 2006 grad who realized how difficult the job market could be, this site posts one entry level job each day. Users can browse entry level positions and internships by date or company. It also includes a blog, job search tips and job search prep.

"A Guide for Potential Grad Students: Should You Go To Grad School?"
Petersons is a great resource for making a decision on grad school. This article includes 20 reasons to go to grad school, and 15 reasons not to. Other helpful information, such as types of grad programs, is also available.

"Advice for Grads"
November 2009 was a difficult month for some May 2009 grads to cope with: it was time to make the first payment on their student loans. With that in mind, consider some financial advice. The first step listed in this article is "live below your means."

CollegeHumor.com Video
Stressed out? Watch a funny video. Collegehumor.com's video on the dilemmas that college grads and the people around them are facing.

Networking & Career Fair Events

Here at 32, we are big proponents of networking. Here are a few links to help get you started.

Carousel Expo: Job Fair Directory & Employment Resources (free sign-up required)

ConnectWork Chicago: Formerly known as Out of Work Chicago, this website is dedicated to helping the unemployed advance their careers through networking. Be sure to check out ConnectWork Chicago's calendar and blog, including its "Career Fairs Aren't Fair" article.

The Hire Big Ten Plus Consortium: This Chicago-based event offers three diversity events during the academic year which expose students to a wide range of diverse career options. Although events are infrequent, they attract a number of sought-after organizations.

LinkedIn Events: Don't leave this one off your list! LinkedIn Events makes it easy to search for upcoming opportunities in your area.

Women for Hire: This website is exists to help women advance their careers. Make sure to take a look at their jobs and career expos sections.

After you've found an event that you'd like to attend, read this article for tips on preparing for a career fair.

Have you ever thought about working for a non-profit? Check out this fantastic blog post on the subject and click on any of the following to begin your job search:

Books

Here are a few books to help with career navigation: