Mac Prichard's Blog, page 16

9 Great Nonprofit Networking Opportunities for Seattle Professionals

If you’re looking to advance your nonprofit career in Seattle, or you want to transition into the nonprofit sector, the single best thing you can do is network. Networking is the most effective to connect with your peers, make yourself known among industry leaders, and find hidden opportunities for meaningful employment.

Seattle is a growing hub of nonprofit organizations and, as a result, there are more opportunities than ever to grow your network. Here is a list of Seattle networking opportunities for nonprofit professionals so you can make new connections, attend and volunteer at more local events, and build a better network.

YNPN Seattle

If you’re a college graduate or young professional looking to find work in the nonprofit sector YNPN Seattle is a great place to start. The Seattle chapter of Young Nonprofit Professionals Network (YNPN) is dedicated to helping young professionals break into the nonprofit world through networking opportunities, educational resources, training sessions and more. Start serving local nonprofits and building community by becoming a YNPN member. Membership is currently free, and all you need to do to join is show up for their next event.  

YNPN Upcoming Events

Washington Nonprofits

Washington Nonprofits is an association established to help nonprofit organizations grow and succeed by connecting them with educational resources, influencing policymakers, and connecting nonprofits with viable solutions. They are heavily involved with hundreds of nonprofits and can help connect you with dozens of credible nonprofit employers. Washington Nonprofits also hosts an annual conference for nonprofit professionals from all over the state to meet with local leaders, network with fellow professionals, and discover how to create change.  

Washington Nonprofits Upcoming Events

501 Commons

501 Commons helps over 1,000 nonprofits across Washington by providing consulting services, human resources experts, accounting services, additional training opportunities and more. Check their events calendar for upcoming networking opportunities.

501 Commons Upcoming Events

Nonprofit Assistance Center

The Nonprofit Assistance Center is a resource for local nonprofits and community-driven organizations by providing opportunities for coaching and collaboration. It strives to create an environment where nonprofit professionals can unite to find common ground and join efforts to create change in the community. They host educational clinics and webinars for professionals and organizations.

Nonprofit Assistance Center Upcoming Events

The World is Fun

The name of this group belies the optimistic, community feel you’ll get from their programming. The World is Fun offers a great mix of volunteering and networking opportunities. Within its network of 135 nonprofit partners, it hosts volunteer opportunities that allow professionals to have fun, network and socialize with nonprofit employers. Their volunteer calendar is perfect for the bust working professional, as you can choose as many opportunities as you like that work with your schedule, based on the level of commitment you are willing to give. If you are interested, they also host fundraising events to help raise money for charitable causes.

The World Is Fun Upcoming Events

Emerging Leaders – United Way of King County

Emerging Leaders, a national program by United Way, is a great opportunity for like-minded professionals to connect and build their networks through volunteering. The King County group is especially active, and you can get on their email list to stay abreast of new opportunities, which range from learning events to casual networking meetups to group volunteering. Give back while you grow your network!

Emerging Leaders Upcoming Events

AFP Advancement Northwest

The Association of Fundraising Professionals is a career hub for professionals who focus on raising money for nonprofit causes. It offers career resources on a variety of topics including career planning, professional training, research assistance, plus a frequently updated calendar of networking events. By becoming a member, you can network with fellow nonprofit fundraisers, advance your career development, and brush up your leadership skills.

AFP Upcoming Events

Net Impact Seattle

Net Impact Seattle is a networking group for nonprofit professionals who are passionate about social responsibility, and socially-conscious organizations. They host annual community events, social networking events, happy hours, sustainability forums and more.

Net Impact Upcoming Events

Seattle Works

Seattle Works mission is to bring together and energize young nonprofit professionals to make an impact in their city. Their volunteer calendar is a great place to get a preview of upcoming opportunities where you can help lend a hand at local gardens, farms, soup kitchens, and more.

Seattle Works Upcoming Events

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Seattle Business Networking Events from 9 Top Organizations

Building a career in Seattle? It’s time to learn the power of networking. Whether you’re new to Seattle or looking to make a change in your career, there’s no time like the present to meet new people, learn new things, and dive deeper into your chosen field. But in a big city like Seattle, it can be hard to know which networking opportunities will be valuable for you.

Often, it’s best to start with a group of like-minded professionals who are already meeting up regularly. From there, you can learn from your peers about other great events, volunteer opportunities, and even job openings that could move your career forward!

Ready to start networking? Use the list below to learn more about some of the most well-established Seattle business networking groups. These are folks who host regular events for professionals around the city, so check out their websites for event calendars and other announcements. Happy networking!

Networking in Seattle
Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce

Connect with business leaders and stay in the know as the city grows by attending Chamber events. They host over 300 events each year! Seattle’s largest business association hosts a huge variety of events, many of which aren’t career-focused. But, these events are a great opportunity to meet people who share your professional interests. And with multiple events going on every week, you have lots of choices.

Get connected with the Chamber:

Surf their extensive events calendar.
Learn more about Chamber programs and get involved by visiting their website: seattlechamber.com

Young Professionals of Seattle

If you’re looking to meet friendly, engaged professionals of all stripes in Seattle, check out Young Professionals of Seattle. They host a fun mix of professional networking and social events to help you thaw the so-called Seattle Freeze and grow your personal and professional networks! Check out their monthly Last Tuesday happy hour event, and don’t let the “Young” in their name turn you off. According to their website, “How old is “young”? We don’t really care… but if you’re active and passionate about entrepreneurship, business, networking or simply forwarding your career, then join our community.”

Get connected with Young Professionals of Seattle:

Learn more on their website: youngprofessionalsofseattle.com
Check out YPOS upcoming events.

Impact Hub Seattle

Impact Hub is Seattle’s most well-known co-working space with a focus on supporting businesses for community good. And the space itself is home to a rotating cast of events where professionals can connect, learn, and get inspired.  

Get connected with Impact Hub:

Browse the events hosted at Impact Hub: impacthubseattle.com/events  

Professional Networking in Seattle: By Industry
Advertising – AAF Seattle

AAF Seattle is the Western Washington chapter of the American Advertising Federation, which is a great destination for anyone building their career in advertising, marketing, and design. Luckily for Seattlites, the regional AAF chapter is well-run and active, with lots of different ways to get involved, learn about the industry, and build your network. Their events calendar features a variety of options, but AAF Seattle typically hosts at least one event a month!

AAF Seattle Upcoming Events

Finance – Northwest Association of Financial Professionals

The regional chapter of the Association of Financial Professionals has been serving the financial workers of the Puget Sound for more than 30 years! They offer a monthly meeting for members featuring different professional development topics, as well as resources and opportunities to gain certifications to advanced careers in the financial field.

NWAFP Upcoming Events

Human Resources – Seattle Society for Human Resources Management

The Seattle chapter of the Society for Human Resources Management is a great resource for anyone working in the HR field. Not only do they host regular networking and learning events that are open to both members and non-members, they also offer a variety of Special Interest Groups that focus on building skills and expertise in specific areas, including benefits and compensation, coaching, recruiting, and more.

Seattle SHRM Upcoming Events

Marketing – American Marketing Association Puget Sound

Most professional marketers know the AMA for a solid lineup of professional networking and learning opportunities. The Puget Sound chapter is a perfect example. With a well-established Board of Directors and events throughout the Puget Sound region, AMA Puget Sound offers plenty of ways for local marketers to sharpen their skills and expand their networks.

AMA Puget Sound Upcoming Events

Public Relations – Public Relations Society of America Puget Sound

PRSA membership is a given for many public relations professionals, and local pros have a robust resource in the PRSA Puget Sound chapter. They’re one of the busiest PRSA chapters in the nation, hosting at least one event every month. And their events are diverse, from panel discussions to storytelling features to case study discussions focusing on public relations work across industry sectors.

PRSA Puget Sound Upcoming Events

Tech – New Tech Seattle

New Tech Seattle bills itself as Seattle’s largest monthly event, so if you’re ready to dive in with the tech scene’s best and brightest, this is the event to start with. Also check out their parent group New Tech Northwest for events throughout the Pacific Northwest.

New Tech Seattle Upcoming Events

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Job Search Perseverance: Michael Horenstein’s Job Search Success Story

When you’re juggling resumes, cover letters, your full-time job and new job applications all at once, how can you stay focused and organized in your job search? Michael Horenstein found himself struggling to maintain focus and keeping his schedule free of unexpected interruptions. With a seemingly endless list of tasks on your to-do list to find a job, it can be easy to get overwhelmed and discouraged. Read Michael’s story to discover how he overcame this challenge,  utilized new tools, and persevered in his job search.

What do you do for a career? Who do you work for?

Currently, I document software for Intek Integration Services, a developer of warehouse inventorying and supply chain execution (SCE) software.

How long did it take you to find this job?

Let’s just say many months, although I had a few short-term contract jobs in the interim.

How did you find your job? What resources did you use? What tool or tactic helped the most?

I found my job through a not-well-known feature of LinkedIn (LI) called “ProFinder,” where registrants are notified via LinkedIn and emailed freelance/contract opportunities that fit their interests. Prospective clients looking for candidates can post a brief but structured RFP that you, as the job seeker, can respond to ASAP in no more than 1500 characters. I thought this process was very much like writing a targeted cover letter.

What was the most difficult part of your job search? How did you overcome this challenge?

I had a number of them, but I think one of the most difficult ones was staying organized and on focus, even with participating in activities that related to my job search, e.g., attending networking events. My schedule often seemed to be nonlinear and unpredictable in that going to a meeting (sometimes spontaneously) would interrupt a job application process, which, in turn, would interrupt my composing a thank-you note to a prospective employer or info interviewee, and so on. This too-often induced feelings of anxiety and being overwhelmed, especially when I realized that many of these activities, regrettably, did not lead to meaningful connections, e.g., unreturned messages, absence of job offers.



I don’t know that I completely overcame these challenges, but with no other choice but to remain persistent and be open to new, outside, and/or unconventional approaches to my job hunt such as using LinkedIn ProFinder and attending targeted MeetUp groups (which I started doing mostly in the last couple of years).

What is the single best piece of advice you would offer other job-seekers?

In addition to those I just listed above, I would advise seekers to maintain good personal health, including ample exercise, eating right, and getting adequate sleep.

Why do you love your job?

I’ve only been doing this job for less than a month, so I can’t say that I love it yet. If it extends beyond the initial 6-8 months that I’ve been told would likely be the minimum duration, I can envision potential tasks and responsibilities that would make my current role more exciting and challenging.

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What You Need To Know Before Moving to Seattle

If you’re thinking of moving to Seattle, the Emerald City offers a vast array of professional opportunities as well as a vibrant creative scene, great food, entertainment, stunning natural beauty, and of course, coffee. Cups and cups of coffee. The university town bustles with lots of energy, and thousands of new students every year, but is equally a place where one can find quiet, natural tranquility along the shores of the Puget Sound. As is generally true, visiting a place is different from living there, so if you’re looking for new opportunities in this Pacific Northwest city, here are a few things to know before you move.

The cost of living is on the rise.

West coast cities are known for their high rent and food costs, and Seattle is no exception with costs running 24 percent higher than the national average. When it comes to rent, Seattle is 34 percent more expensive than its neighboring city, Portland. However, when compared to San Francisco, you’d need $1,700 more to maintain the same standard of living that you could have in Seattle. With its famously stunning skyline, Seattle offers the feel of a big city with all the perks of a place that loves all things local. Just be prepared to pay a little extra for it—or get a roommate!

Invest in a public transit pass.

Seattle is the kind of city where you can easily get around without a car, and as traffic grows steadily worse, locals often find it preferable to use the various public options. The bus and monorail get you to and from the airport and around the city and the monthly ORCA pass allows you access to most public transportation. Ride-sharing is taking off and is a great way to get to know people in a new city. But, nothing will say you’re a Seattlelite more than commuting and enjoying the city on your bike—yes, even in the rain.  

Prepare for rainy days.

Speaking of rain. Yes, it really does rain as much as you’ve heard—152 days out of the year, on average. There are plenty of grey, cloudy days which means Vitamin D and a light box should be among your first purchases. Invest in some quality rain gear too—there’s nothing quite as miserable as soggy feet. Being prepared and protected from the elements makes it easier to acclimate and you’ll probably be used to it before you know it. Just don’t bring an umbrella—that’s a surefire way to look like a tourist. If all else fails, you can always comfort yourself with the fact that you have more clear days than Portland.

Explore natural wonders.

Seattle has a reputation for its music scene, drawing thousands of tourists a year to visit the grunge mecca of the world. But, it’s the city’s stunning natural scenery that makes it unlike most urban areas. With the view of glorious Mount Rainier as its backdrop, Seattle has all sorts of hiking options, and numerous local parks dotted across the city, including its largest—Discovery Park which overlooks the Puget Sound. And if you’re drawn to the water, you can easily enjoy the thrill of white-water rafting or the breathtaking beauty of whale-watching. You’ll be hard pressed to find as much access to natural beauty in another city.

Big names are here to stay.

Seattle is headquarters to some very well-known names such as Amazon, Microsoft and Starbucks which draw professionals from around the world. This has created a vibrant and growing tech industry with numerous opportunities for careers in cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data analytics. If you’re moving to the city for this reason, be ready to network your way into this competitive field. While the big names attract lots of talent, it’s the local connections you make that will help you stand out.

Coffee is part of the culture.

You can’t talk about Seattle without talking about coffee and while Starbucks is perhaps the most famous brew name in the city, there are literally hundreds of other options to explore. From tiny holes-in-the wall, to large, futuristic spaces with coffee robots—yes, robots—you’ll have no problem finding the perfect spot to enjoy your favorite brew.

Thaw the “Seattle Freeze.”

With all the attractions Seattle has, it’s not without its downsides, one of which has become known as the Seattle Freeze. Newcomers have described that it’s hard to get to know people in the city, that people are friendly enough on the surface, but that’s where it ends. Making long-lasting friendships is essential to thriving in a new place, so knowing ahead of time that it may take some time is important to know. It’s true that Seattleites may prefer to keep to themselves, but the key to building a community—like most things—is perseverance. Taking up a new hobby, finding a meet-up in your area or volunteering are just some of the ways you can meet people and, they’re an excellent way to build your professional network too.

Scout the neighborhoods.

Downtown Seattle is great for tourists and hotels and you should definitely check out Pike Place Market—but you’ll soon discover that it’s really all about the neighborhoods. Straying from the main roads is definitely a must when it comes to the city. Capitol Hill and Belltown are where locals go for great food and a vibrant nightlife.

Seattle is a Fido-town.

There are more dogs living in Seattle than children. So, if your best friends are furry, bring them with you and you’ll find an instant community of dog-lovers. The countless urban parks and hiking trails make it an easy city to keep your pets happy and you’re more likely to be happier yourself with your faithful companion at your side.

Seattle has tons to offer and if your job search is taking you there, keep in mind that every city has its pros and cons and that’s what makes it unique. As is true for both a job search and in general, building a strong network might take time but it’s definitely worth it. Make that your top priority when moving to Seattle and hopefully you’ll want to stay forever.  

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How To Land a Job at Amazon, Boeing, or Microsoft in Seattle

Amazon, Boeing, and Microsoft are all Fortune 100 companies with incredibly impactful global footprints. They are also three of Seattle’s largest and most recognized employers.

Landing a job at any of these high-profile global corporations means competing with thousands of applicants from all over the world. And as an extra challenge, many of their open positions are not listed on job boards. These companies don’t need to do a lot of job advertising or candidate outreach, because qualified applicants come to them.

So if you want to get hired at Amazon, Boeing, or Microsoft, where do you start? Here are some strategic tips to get you ready to compete for these highly coveted jobs.

How To Break Into Seattle’s Corporate Job Market

Before you begin, it’s necessary to lay a strong foundation for your candidacy by conducting some research, networking, and leveraging online platforms and recruiters. We recommend starting your search by following these four steps.

1. Conduct extensive research.

Do some foundational research on the Seattle job market to start. Especially if you’re new to the area. Find out the types of jobs available, and conduct salary research to see what your skills and experience are worth in the local market. Once you have some basic research on your industry, start researching available roles. The strategic alignment of your background, skills, and experience is the key to landing any job. If you are struggling to find job openings that align with your experience, don’t forget to use your transferable skills.

When you have identified a role that you feel passionate about, take a look at the company’s culture. Make sure their values, work style, and brand personality match authentically with the kind of company you want to represent. You should be prepared to demonstrate how your professional goals align with the organization’s goals.

Now that you’ve discovered a great position with a brand you admire, finish up your preliminary research by identifying your accomplishments that align with the needs of the job, and prep quantitative results that you can share in your application and interviews.

2. Get your foot in the door.

Whether or not the “Seattle freeze” is real, getting your foot in the door at a new company is not easy. That’s especially true for large organizations like Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, and other big players. Candidates who have an inside connection to the company have a major advantage. The hidden job market means that many Seattle companies hire from a trusted pool of talent that they have already vetted through colleagues and internal employees.

In order to set yourself apart from the competitive Seattle job market, you must become known to the right people. Set up informational interviews. Attend networking events in your industry to connect with current employees at your target company. Connect with these people, get to know the type of candidates they seek, and the types of problems they are trying to solve. Once you’ve made a strong connection, let these people know when you’ve applied for a job. And ask for a referral. You can even ask your connections if you can mention their name in your cover letter. Example: “I heard about this position from David, your product marketing director.”

3. Leverage LinkedIn.

Internal recruiters at large corporations often use LinkedIn as a first point of connection when searching for talented people with the skills they’re looking for. If you want to get recruited, keep your LinkedIn profile polished and up-to-date. Join relevant groups and contribute to group discussions. Seek out connections at these companies and maintain your professional relationships. Ask for introductions and referrals. Then, return the favor!

And don’t just lurk on Linkedin. Post regular updates to your profile. Add to your skill set and accomplishments. Make sure to highlight projects or career development experiences that showcase your continual learning on the job. Add keywords and phrases to your profile that match job openings you find interesting. In short, be active.

4. Find a recruitment program.

The beauty about working for a large company is the support structures they’ve built for finding and retaining talent. These programs can help you find your job fit. Here are some examples from Seattle’s big three:

Microsoft has a suite of inclusive hiring programs, designed to provide opportunities to candidates with disabilities, and they are dedicated to hiring diverse candidates.
Boeing has an engineering internship program, and a business internship program that allow you to get access to Boeing site tours, attend networking events and develop connections with mentors. Boeing says “The intern experience goes beyond your assigned job.” so you’ll get to work on team projects and potentially take on additional responsibilities.
Amazon has developed several programs to recruit people from parts of the labor market that are currently being underserved. These initiatives include programs like university recruitment and military recruitment.

Now that you’ve got some info about job search strategy, it’s time to focus on how to fit in at your target company. By using specific strategies, you’ll have a better chance at landing a job at Amazon, Boeing, or Microsoft.

How To Land A Job at Amazon
Ensure your culture fit for a successful Amazon career

If you want to work at Amazon, you should start by reading their company motto: “Work hard. Have fun. Make history.” This motto sums up the Amazon work culture, so make sure it aligns with your work personality. You have to be a problem solver, a go-getter, and someone who knows how to celebrate their achievements and embrace challenging situations. As one Amazon employee told Fast Company, “If a candidate enjoys an environment where they solve problems and own projects, they will thrive in roles I hire for at Amazon.” Amazon is a fast-paced environment that strategically looks for candidates who can handle the rapid pace of work, and who can resourcefully find solutions.

Curate compelling career stories

Amazon has 14 leadership principles. Curiosity, frugality, and “customer obsession” are just a few of the values that they look for in their new hires. In order to set yourself apart from other candidates, use these principles to frame your career story. Draft several examples of your career story that support each principle. In a fast-paced work environment like Amazon, “speed matters,” so be sure to include examples of how you have taken calculated risks and solved major issues in previous positions.

How To Land A Job at Boeing
Lead with your innovation

Boeing looks for candidates that go the extra mile, ask questions, and who are passionate about their career. As an innovator in the aerospace industry, Boeing hires innovative candidates that strive to go above and beyond in their commitment to advancement. Identify your achievements with key examples of your ingenuity and creativity.

Additionally, you need to show your interest in the company’s deep history in the Pacific Northwest. While the company moved its headquarters out of Washington in 2001, nearly half of its total workforce is still based here. That makes Boeing the largest single employer in the state! Read up on Boeing’s presence in Washington state. Your knowledge of and respect for Boeing’s work will give you an advantage when applying to work at Boeing.

Optimize your resume with keywords

To break into a career with Boeing or any other employer that hires at scale, it’s essential to optimize your applications for Applicant Tracking Systems or ATS. Examine the job description for keywords, and include those same keywords in your resume. If your resume doesn’t mention important keywords and qualifications from the job posting, the ATS will instantly remove you as a viable candidate for the position. Instead, take the time to customize your resume for each position. Implementing keywords when relevant is essential to competing with the thousands of other resumes that Boeing receives for each job opening.

How To Land A Job at Microsoft
Be curious, and go beyond what’s required

Successful candidates at Microsoft “don’t stop at understanding the position they’re interviewing for.” If you want to get hired, you should conduct comprehensive research to form an in-depth understanding of Microsoft’s operations as a business. Then, you should discover how your desired role fits into the bigger picture. Microsoft is specifically looking for candidates who have a broader vision, who can clearly articulate their career goals, and who can explain where they see themselves moving and growing their career within the company structure.

You should also be ahead of the curve on trends in the tech industry. Take the time to assess Microsoft’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in the specific area where you’re applying. That way you’ll be prepared to deliver solutions from the application through the interview process.

Demonstrate your problem-solving skills

When you walk into an interview with Microsoft, the first thing you should know is they are going to ask you questions related to the professional connections you have grown and maintained with former bosses and coworkers. They are interested in learning how you work with others and how you foster professional relationships. According to their careers website, Microsoft looks specifically for candidates with a “strong desire to learn, intelligence, a passion for technology, a willingness to work hard, rock solid skills, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a desire to be the best.”

Also, to determine if you’re the right fit for their company culture, Microsoft recruiters are interested in learning how you approach and solve problems. So be prepared to show your work. You should put together several examples that demonstrate clearly how you solved a large-scale problem in a work project, in a team environment, or an unforeseen challenge. Explain in detail how you found a solution and worked to solve the problem effectively and efficiently. Microsoft values clear communication, so working through your thought process and problem-solving skills ahead of time will help with your confidence!

Landing a job at one of these companies is certainly competitive. But you can give yourself the best chance by networking strategically, getting to know the organizational culture and needs, and being prepared to tell stories that demonstrate how your skills are the best fit for the position, the team, and the company.

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Jumping Out of Your Comfort Zone: Kelly Anderson’s Job Search Success Story

Are you ready for a career change, but feeling fearful of embarking into a new industry, or new work style that puts you outside of your comfort zone? Kelly Anderson faced this same challenge in her job search. Kelly decided to leave a job that she had put a ton of energy and focus into, in order to find a new position that was a better fit. Along the way she discovered how to trust her inner voice, frame her biggest accomplishments, and trust her instincts. Read Kelly’s story to hear what led her to a leadership position with a local medical practice.

What do you do for a career? Who do you work for?

I am the Director of Human Resources for Rebound Orthopedics and Neurosurgery, a medical practice of 35 physicians and 375 employees.

How long did it take you to find this job?

From the time I dipped my toe in the water and started to look, it took about four months.

My hiring process with Rebound lasted three months and involved seven different conversations. I consulted during this time and embraced the slow and steady pace. I had been in my previous position for 15+ years and was focused on finding the right fit over the quick fit; I appreciated that they were in a position to take their time too.

How did you find your job? What resources did you use? What tool or tactic helped the most?

Jenny Foss of Job Jenny was a fabulous resource. I had been approached by recruiters over the years, but I hadn’t proactively applied for a job in a long time and my resume reflected it. Her expert eye modernized my resume and helped frame my accomplishments in a way that I may have downplayed. Though I am often the go-to person for writing resumes for others, I found it was more difficult to craft my own.

I listened to Mac’s Find Your Dream Job podcast and found the stories people shared to be helpful and relatable. The range of ages, fields, and backgrounds of guests means that there will absolutely be a story that resonates with you and there will be something you can takeaway.

I also felt lucky have to have a supportive spouse and great friends who I bounced things off of during my search and this can’t be understated as a resource. My husband Scott was my biggest cheerleader and encouraged me to leap into the unknown. He has always prioritized my career along with his and works hard to ensure our family roles and the emotional labor within it are equitably shared. This helped in my search more than anything else.

What was the most difficult part of your job search? How did you overcome this challenge?

I had been in my previous job a long time and held leadership responsibility in three distinct areas: human resources, communications, and fundraising. I had to take some time to figure out which leadership area I wanted to pursue and how to focus my resume on the role I wanted next instead of the many areas of responsibility I have held.

The hardest part for me began before my search–it was deciding to leave a job that I had put my heart and soul into and choosing to leave it and take some time off before I knew what was next. I had to step out of my comfort zone and leap, but it was the right call. Our daughter was headed off to college across the country and I knew I’d regret having time with her before she left. I was also experiencing burnout as I was juggling three roles and wanted to recharge before picking my next opportunity so that I could give my very best.

What is the single best piece of advice you would offer other job-seekers?

I believe in doing your research and then trusting your instincts. I chose not to accept some positions and waited until I found the right fit. Trust that inner voice, it is your wisdom talking.

Why do you love your job?

There is a strong positive culture at Rebound and I get to build on it to create a great workplace for every employee. I have the opportunity to work on diversity, equity, and inclusion and to enhance how we manage change. I have the good fortune to work with a smart and collaborative leadership team and to lead a team of human resource pros and that I value and respect.

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Cover Letter Openers: How To Draw Employers In From The First Sentence

The opening line to your cover letter can make or break your job application. Employers are often reading through hundreds of cover letters. Your first sentence needs to make an impact, showcase your unique perspective, and compel the hiring manager to ask you to come in for a job interview. Let’s break down the components of effective lines to use in your cover letter, including examples of opening lines that will draw employers in from the first sentence.

Use the hiring manager’s name

Let’s start with your greeting. Nothing says old-school cover letter like: “To Whom This May Concern.” Do not use this outdated practice. Address your letter to an individual at the organization. This quick change instantly makes it more personal and will instantly set you apart as a candidate who pays attention to detail. Sometimes the hiring manager’s name isn’t listed so you may need to do some research on the company’s website or LinkedIn, but it is definitely worth your time. If you come up empty, consider emailing them and asking outright who the hiring manager is—your initiative will shine through.

If you put in all that effort and still can’t find the hiring manager’s name, try an informal greeting. I’ve seen people use “Dear Hiring Manager,” or even a simple “Hello” in the right situation.

Showcase your knowledge of the company’s challenges.

Take some time to research why the company is hiring and showcase your fit for their needs in your opening paragraph. Are they creating a new position or is this the third time they are hiring for the role in the last year? Discovering an employer’s pain points is critical because it shows you have taken the time to learn about them and are ready to bring solutions. Employers also want to know how you think you will grow and benefit from working with them, so ensure you are specific about why you think you are a great fit for the organization.

Example : “When I heard that your organization was looking to build its sales program from the ground up, I knew this would be a great fit for my skills and significant experience in collaboration and innovative problem solving.”

Highlight how your experience informs your approach.

Don’t regurgitate information from your resume or discuss your experience without context. So you have worked in customer service for five years? Saying that in your cover letter doesn’t give the hiring manager the information they need. Instead speak to the specific, unique skills you built during your time there. Explain what set you apart and helped you contribute. Highlight key aspects of your experience and how they are transferable to this specific job. This is especially important if you are looking to make a career change and need to show how your unique perspective gives you a better approach to the role.

Example: “After 10 years working in event planning, being resourceful and solving unexpected problems are part of my daily routine.”

Spotlight your achievements.

A cover letter opener that merely tells an employer how excited you are to be applying will likely not set you apart. Instead, weave your unique accomplishments into your opener. Provide concrete, measurable proof of your achievements from previous positions to prove you have got the goods to match your enthusiasm. And, let’s face it, numbers talk—discussing your proven results won’t impress like a concrete statistic will. An employer wants to know you’re worth taking a risk on and nothing will make them feel more comfortable than some solid figures.

Example: “As marketing manager, I boosted our organic traffic by 30%, increased social engagement by 50%, and spearheaded the redesign of our website for a better user experience.”

Name drop a valuable connection.

Your cover letter is the perfect place to name drop. In fact, it’s encouraged. People hire individuals they know—or that someone they trust knows. A referral tells the hiring manager someone working at their company knows you and can attest to your skill set. So if you heard about the position from a trusted employee at the prospective company, it’s essential to mention your connection. But, like most things, go the extra mile—don’t drop a name and leave it there. Show an employer you have more to offer than knowing someone in their organization. Use it to pivot to their pain point and demonstrate how you’re ready to bring solutions.

Example: “Mac Prichard informed me of your company’s rapid growth and need for a skilled event management professional and encouraged me to apply for the position of event coordinator.”

Show your personality

At the end of the day, you’re writing to a human. Offering an employer a glimpse into your sense of humor is an effective way to stand out. It also tells them what kind of person they’ll be working with, and if you’ll make a good fit with the company culture. Proving you’re more than a name on a piece of paper will make you memorable.

Example: “I live and breathe social media. Some may call me obsessed, but when it comes to understanding what drives traffic, increases engagement, and converts real customers from social, I’m your expert.”

Use keywords

I can’t overemphasize the importance of using relevant keywords in your cover letter. Yes, you need to tailor your cover letter to each individual position you apply for. wWhile that can become tedious, it pays off. As more companies hire using Applicant Tracking Systems, incorporating specific words from the job description cover letter may be the only reason you get past the first automated screening. Plus, starting your letter by directly addressing an employer and repeating their needs shows you’re not just randomly spraying applications into the ether, but you’re interested in solving this specific company’s problem.

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Discovering Common Goals In Your Network: Ally Rumpakis’s Job Search Success Story

Ally Rumpakis started her job search by narrowing down her focus to determine what kind of marketing positions she wanted to go after. After attending networking events, connecting with recruiters, and reaching out to friends and family, Ally discovered her current position through her sorority network. Learn more about Ally’s month long job search, how she stayed patient despite rejection, and why she recommends finding people in your network with common goals and interests in this Success Story.

What do you do for a career? Who do you work for?

I am a Community Manager contracted with Tillamook. My day to day work involves supporting our social media channels and overseeing total engagement. I love being able to interact with Tillamook fans and learn what they love most about our brand!

How long did it take you to find this job?

It was about a month after I quit my previous job that I was presented with the opportunity to work with Tillamook, and then another month after that when I started the role.

How did you find your job? What resources did you use? What tool or tactic helped the most?

I initially found out about the position through a sorority sister from college. I’m an active member of our Alumnae Chapter here in Portland, and she reached out to our board to ask if we could get the word out to members across the Portland area. I was the chapter’s communication contact at the time, and immediately replied with my interest in the position. She was able to set up me up with an interview and I was offered the job shortly after!

Before I was offered the position, I was constantly scouring job boards, including Mac’s List, and applied for marketing/social media positions I came across that I thought would be a good fit. I reached out to family and friends to expand my network, and by doing so, was connected with a recruiter who kept an eye out for jobs in the Portland area that she thought would fit my career criteria. I attended an industry-relevant Mac’s List event, participated in career-related online seminars through my alma mater (Oregon State), and attended other networking and career building events through university alumni networks (for example the Oregon State Design Network).

By expanding my tight knit network just a little further, I was able to gain some valuable insight into the Portland job market, and meet new people who had common connections/interests.

What was the most difficult part of your job search? How did you overcome this challenge?

The most difficult part of my job search was learning to narrow down what I was looking for. I’ve joked with friends and family that finding a job in marketing is a blessing and a curse – the blessing is that there are so many options, and the curse is that there are SO many options. It was hard for me to pinpoint what kind of marketing I wanted to work in.

The other difficult part of my search was learning to be patient, and realizing that some companies won’t acknowledge your application. It’s hard in the moment to wait for the right opportunity to come along, but you have to keep a positive attitude and know that somehow, everything works out the way it’s meant to.

What is the single best piece of advice you would offer other job-seekers?

Utilize the networks you already have, and be active in them! I’m not a fantastic networker, so I like to be in areas where there’s already common ground, and then branch out from there. I stay active in my sorority alumnae chapter as well as Oregon State Alumni groups and events, and have met so many wonderful people through them. I’ve personally found that when there is that common denominator, people are even more willing to help you in your job search. From there you can expand your network, and already have a reference/person in your corner.

Additionally, don’t be afraid to use your friends and family as a sounding board. You’d be surprised that sometimes they may know you better than you know yourself.

Why do you love your job?

The people I work with are wonderful and they truly love what they do. The work environment is collaborative, fun, and energetic. Everyone here shares a sense of community and a genuine connection to the brand. It’s exciting to work for a brand that I love and grew up with here in the PNW, and now get to share that with people from all over!

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Common Expectations vs. The Reality of Working with a Recruiter

You’ve probably heard negative stories about recruiters who don’t return calls or “headhunters” who pursue a candidate aggressively, only to disappear. If you listen to all the buzz, recruiting professionals seem to be more likely to lead people on and ghost than a bad Bumble date.

If you’ve ever been frustrated working with a recruiter or recruiting agency, there are two probable reasons for that. Either you were working with a bad recruiter, or you had false expectations about what working with a recruiter is really like. Here are five truths about the recruiting business that will help you learn what to expect from recruiters and get the most out of any future encounters.

Expectation: I should only reach out to a recruiter when I’m actively looking for a new job.
Reality: The best time to connect with a recruiter is while you’re content with your employment situation, but want to stay open to other options. 

 

Recruiters are typically not a good last resort, but you’d be amazed at how many people come to us with comments like, “I’ve been looking for two years and I’m finally reaching out to a recruiter.” Except perhaps in temporary placements, this is the worst time to rely on a third party.

When you’re feeling vulnerable, frustrated, and maybe even desperate in your search, use as many resources as possible, because so much of the process is based on timing. You might be the greatest Payroll Specialist in the world, but if the recruiter you’re working with isn’t working on a payroll position at that time, they’ll be unlikely to provide help on the timeline you need.

So, make sure you are clear on your expectations and timelines up front.

Expectation: Every recruiter I meet will be well-versed on a variety of industries and career fields.
Reality: Most recruiters are industry specialists or only work on specific types of positions. 

 

In fact, you want your recruiter to specialize in what you do! If your experience or interests don’t align with our specialty, we’re typically not as useful to your search because we won’t have the connections, relationships, or experience to be a valued resource to either you or the employer in that area.

There was a viral post by a recruiter on LinkedIn where he broke down this specialization (he’s an accounting recruiter) and the comment section was flooded with responses like: “I graduated top of my class and have 20 years of engineering experience! Are you saying you wouldn’t place me?” And the recruiter’s answer was an emphatic no, because he didn’t work on engineering roles. And you’d be amazed (or maybe not) at how many people were offended by his answer.

I’m always a little surprised at how upset people can get around this subject, but if you think about it – we don’t expect a person selling real estate in New York to find us a house in Arizona and we don’t expect a tax attorney to handle our divorce.

Wouldn’t you rather work with a market expert rather than someone who does a little bit of everything? One easy way to get the most out of working with a recruiter is to exercise due diligence on a recruiter’s areas of expertise before connecting with them.

Expectation: Serving my needs is my recruiter’s top priority.
Reality: Like many professionals who work in human resources, recruiters serve two masters: employers and job seekers. 

 

Although we’re here to be a resource and an advocate for candidates, the placement fee paid to recruiters is always paid by the employer. Our job is to identify and engage great talent, and to keep the process flowing smoothly. Armed with a thorough knowledge of your skills and interests, a recruiter will present you for jobs that match what you’ve told them you’re looking for and our client’s needs.

However, even if you are qualified, you may not be the most qualified candidate for the role. In these scenarios, the recruiter’s job is to satisfy the employer’s desires regarding what they think is best for the role rather than presenting a candidate who fulfills only the basic requirements. For example, if I was working with a creative agency, and they asked to see candidates who had worked in creative environments, I wouldn’t be a good partner to that client if I submitted a candidate coming out of a manufacturing environment, even if the title and job duties were the same, and even if the candidate really wanted to be in a creative field. Moreover, that candidate would have much more success applying for that role on their own, without a client considering an agency’s fees in addition to their lack of industry experience.

Additionally, recruiters are almost never the decision-maker determining whether you get an interview or job offer. We typically have input into the decision, and are often the ones who deliver the good or bad news to the candidate. Your recruiter should be as honest and forthcoming as they can be, given the feedback and information available from the client.   

Expectation: I can go to my recruiter for career coaching.
Reality: Recruiters are not career coaches (although they generally offer career advice).

 

If you need or want a career coach, there are many excellent fee-for-service career coaches. However, since recruiters are a free resource and don’t have the same training and expertise as career coaches, you shouldn’t expect in-depth assistance in figuring out what you want or to switch careers.

Generally, recruiters are very helpful with specific resume advice, and can offer solid information on current market trends. They are often less helpful for candidates who are “open to anything” because if you don’t know what you want, you can’t expect a recruiter to do the legwork for you! Additionally, recruiters are typically not a strong resource for those looking to switch career tracks, because their task is to source candidates with proven, documented experience in a role, industry, etc.

Career coaches, unlike recruiters, are usually very helpful for job seekers who want to invest in career exploration, which is an often intensive and thorough dive into new careers options, roles, and industries. A career coach can help bridge the gap between roles in career change by helping candidates build skills, network effectively, and articulate transferable skills.

A career coach is also an amazing resource for more hands-on job search assistance. They’ll give in-depth advice, resources, and coaching on resumes, interviews, cover letters, salary negotiations, etc. Career coaches are not free, but they’re great for people in transition, feeling lost, or who want to level up in their career.

Recruiters tend to be best for job seekers who have identified their top skills, roles, or industries they want to pursue, but want to benefit from the connections, market insights, general feedback, and support that a recruiter brings. Working with a well-connected recruiter means tapping into their networks, relationships, and influence with clients. Instead of being one in a pile of resumes hitting an employer’s desk, the right candidate for a position can be showcased directly in front of a waiting employer’s eyes.

Expectation: Recruiters can help me define my expectations and hone my interests, and I can call them with frequent questions.
Reality: Recruiters are salespeople, and try to spend their time in high-value ways, which means you should set communication expectations up front.  

 

Generally, we won’t call you just to chat — if we don’t have jobs that fit what you’ve said you want, or where you wouldn’t be a strong match for the role, we probably won’t be in touch. Sometimes, we’ll run multiple roles by you, but we may be working on jobs that aren’t in sync with your background. We’re usually working hard to close another deal and are focusing our energies and attention on that. It’s important for both candidates and recruiters to set expectations. It doesn’t mean we don’t think you’re great, or can never help you, or that we aren’t accessible. Feel free to check in with questions, especially, if anything changes in your search.

So, in summary: if recruiters can help, we usually will! We make our living creating matches between candidates and employers and gain a lot of pleasure from hearing about how our services impacted a job seeker’s life in a positive way. However, it helps to know a little bit about what we do, to get the most benefit from our services.

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Letting Your Passion Drive Your Job Search: Larissa Printzian’s Job Search Success Story

If you’ve been hunting for a job for several long weeks or months, desperation can take over. You’ll start trying to apply for any position that could work, instead of focusing on the opportunities that are right for you. Larissa Printzian faced this same challenge in her year long job search. Instead of putting all of your effort into job applications that don’t align with your interests, Larissa recommends letting passion drive your job search, and networking with your community to build solidarity. Read Larissa’s story to see how following her passion and volunteering with local organizations sped up her job search.

What do you do for a career? Who do you work for?

Currently I work in quality assurance and compliance for Catholic Charities of Oregon.

How long did it take you to find this job?

One year and 16 days.

How did you find your job? What resources did you use? What tool or tactic helped the most?

I began as a volunteer financial mentor in April of 2018 for the Save First Financial program. In June, I was hired as an interim Asset Specialist, while an individual was on family leave.  The Q&A position opened up and the Save First Financial program manager of recommended me for the job.

What was the most difficult part of your job search? How did you overcome this challenge?

The most difficult part is writing the cover letters.  I really put 110% into the cover letter. It can be discouraging to put that effort in and not get results.

Part of overcoming the challenge is exploring which jobs are a good fit and worth your efforts. Sometimes when you are unemployed, desperation can drive you. That can lead to wasting time on cover letters and applications that aren’t the best fit for you. Letting your passion drive you makes the job preparation easier.

What is the single best piece of advice you would offer other job-seekers?

Networking is really helpful. You establish links to the community, to recruiters, to hiring managers, as well as build solidarity with others looking for  job.

Also, finding a volunteer or temporary job in an industry you are passionate about can lead to a permanent opportunity. I was fortunate enough to have a temporary job with Nonprofit Professionals from May through August, in addition to the interim position with Catholic Charities.

Why do you love your job?

I get to support the organization using my writing and data analysis skills. I work with all the departments and meet committed, passionate people who want to serve others and build a better community.

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