Tag Archives: impression

Make a Cool Impression at Your Summer Job

cool_impression_summer_job_webEvery summer, many students look for temporary work while they take a break from school. Summer jobs are a great way to make money, meet new people, and enhance your resume. They’re also an important stepping stone in your career path, whether the job you choose is part of your overall career goals or not. According to Nicole Williams, a business owner in New York City, “You want to impress your boss. You want to do everything in your power to make this job a great opportunity for you.”

So, how do you impress your boss and make sure your summer job leads to bigger and better opportunities? Check out the tips below to stand out from the competition this summer.

Adjust your routine.
Staying healthy and rested makes you a better employee. Instead of staying up late or spending hours watching television before the lights go out, create a bedtime routine that will allow you to get the sleep you need for better job performance. If you like to unwind before bed, consider reading a book instead of spending time in front of the screen. According to Reuters, using a technological device before bed dramatically increases the likelihood that you’ll need more than 60 minutes to fall asleep. Getting better sleep can make you less drowsy, which in turn can up your creativity and efficiency. Plus, walking in the door on time or a few minutes early helps show your boss that you take the job seriously.

Go above and beyond.
While your current role may be perfect for you, if you have plans to move up in the company, you may want to consider taking on additional projects to show your initiative. According to career author Dan Schawbel, “If all you do is what is listed in your job description, it’s impossible to get ahead.” So, keep an open mind when you’re asked to take on additional projects or roles and see if your can-do attitude helps you get noticed.

Learn from your mistakes.
It’s impossible to be perfect all the time. Once you accept this fact, you can learn to embrace any mistakes or failures you experience on the job. If you receive a performance review or other feedback that is less than perfect, try to recognize the constructive criticism as a way to improve. Look for the lessons in your mistakes and use them as a chance to grow both personally and professionally. “If you aren’t afraid to learn, then you’re going to be in a position for more success in your second, third, and fourth jobs,” Williams said.

Network, network, network.
We talk a lot about networking on this blog, and for good reason. Networking is an important way to connect with people who can help you land a job, find a new opportunity, or expand your list of references. Even if you only plan to work at your summer job for a few months, you can use the opportunity to meet as many people as possible. You never know what connections they may have or how they can help you with your future career goals.

Pay attention to your wardrobe.
If your summer job requires a professional wardrobe, don’t skimp on quality. Looking professional is important in the workplace and can make a positive impression on your boss, co-workers, and customers. Luckily, there are cost-effective ways to achieve a professional look. Check out clearance sections at department stores, or consider looking at local second-hand stores for professional attire without breaking the bank. If your job requires a uniform, always keep yours clean, ironed if necessary, and professional. Showing up to the job with a uniform that isn’t up to par can make you seem uninterested or unmotivated–two qualities you don’t want a potential reference to mention with your name.

Whether your summer job is part of your career path or just a way to work while taking a break from classes, your workplace performance matters. Make connections, learn new skills, and use learning opportunities as a chance to grow and be better prepared for your next job.

How do you plan to make a great impression at your summer job? Let us know in the comments section below!

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

The Worst and Best Interviews in Movies

Job Interviews in MoviesPreparing for a job interview can be a big task. It can take hours at a time and could start days in advance of the actual interview. They can be stressful, nerve-wracking, and exciting all at the same time. But, job seekers can spend so much time and energy practicing and preparing to avoid mistakes that they don’t notice how much they actually do right.

To ease the tension that comes from interviewing, here is a list of my favorite job interview scenes from the movies. You’ll see interviews that go horribly wrong, and others that go really well.

Please note, the video clips herein and their sponsors do not necessarily represent the views of Express and are used for educational purposes only.

The Worst

Staffing Agency in “Mrs. Doubtfire”
Robin Williams plays Daniel Hillard – a down-on-his-luck father whose lack of responsibility and maturity have caused divorce and custody battles. Before he hatches a scheme to disguise himself as a British nanny, Daniel tries to find solid work through a staffing agency. While hobbies and passions can be used as an aid, not displaying solid transferable skills can result in a less than productive interview experience.


In it For The Money in “The Wedding Singer”

Honesty is one of the most important aspects of the job search. But, when it comes to payment and negotiation, being honest is expected. Employers know you are there to work for money, but they want to know why you want to get paid by them instead of their competition. Focus on applying for jobs at organizations you are passionate about so you don’t end up like Adam Sandler’s character Robbie Hart.


Columbus Day in “You, Me, and Dupree”

You are trying to sell yourself in an interview. The whole point is to prove to an employer that you are the best candidate for the position. Owen Wilson, playing Dupree, does the opposite. He even gives up after learning that he won’t get off work for Columbus Day. While he’s a comedic example of an extreme slacker, you could take notes on being aware of company culture when interviewing.


The Best
I Know All About You in “Family Man”
Nicholas Cage plays Jack Cambell, a man trying to regain his old life back. While he appeared unqualified and only had knowledge from his past life, Jack came into the interview prepared and well educated about the potential employer.

Internship Interview in “The Pursuit of Happyness”
Chris Gardner, played by Will Smith, was arrested the night before his interview and had no choice but to show up wearing his painting clothes. Being calm, collected, and aware of his situation helped him get the internship he was after, despite making mistakes.

What are your favorite interview scenes in movies? Sound off in the comments section below.