7/31/2019 Urban Influence Article

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Survival Tips for Eager Job-Seekers

“It is not uncommon for us to receive hundreds of applications

for a specific job posting. That’s why applicants must distinguishthemselves from the competition.” – Chris Powell.

By: Kellie Keyes

When applying to a larger company, it’s easy to get lost in the

shuffle. “Many applicants are unaware of the corporate culture

of the company,” Powell says. “Try to speak with someone who

works there to see whether he or she likes it and to get an

understanding of the corporate culture. You might find out

that the company does not match your personality or beliefs.”

Keep resumes clean and concise. “You would be surprised how

many applicants in mid- to upper-level management fail to check –

then check again – for spelling and grammar errors,” says Powell.

“Edit your resume; don’t let it reflect sloppy work.” Before

submitting your cover letter and resume, have someone else

read them both. Keep your cover letter and resume brief – one

to two pages – and to the point.

Be prepared. Before going into the interview process, take time to

find out about the company. “In an interview, we might ask you

about your thoughts about current trends in the company,”

Powell says, “so get online and read about us. School up on

the company’s facts, mission, current trends and innovations.”

Sell your skill set. Employers want candidates who have the

passion and skill set for their company. “The best way to

distinguish yourself is to create a ‘selling’ strategy,” says

Powell. “Come up with a list of skills you are strong at and

discuss with employers how they can benefit the company

in the long run. Employers want to hire candidates who

have the skills to benefit the company and the drive and

enthusiasm to accomplish them.”

Chris Powell is responsible for the strategy, development and delivery of

initiatives, programs and policies to recruit, develop, retain and reward

employees for Scripps Networks. He also serves as a member of the boards

of directors of Women in Cable & Telecommunications (WICT) and Cableand Telecommunications Human Resources Association (CTHRA). He is

nationally recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Blacks in Corporate

America by Savoy Professional magazine.

At a time when many experienced and highly trained people are looking for work, finding a job

is not something that can be approached casually. Chris Powell, EVP of Human Resources for

Scripps Networks, understands the competitiveness of today’s diverse job market.

To help job-seekers of all levels, Powell shares his HR expertise and these survival tips for landing

the job you want.

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