How to land your dream job and other takeaways from NWNY’s panel on Human Resources
A group of HR experts revealed to our community what happens behind the curtains during the process of recruitment and hiring
Written by Maria Pyaterneva
On January 16, New Women New Yorkers (NWNY) hosted a panel discussion with Human Resources experts to provide an inside look at general HR and hiring practices. Abbey Longyear, NWNY’s Chief People & Culture Officer, and panel moderator, began the evening by explaining the various functions and departments that encompass Human Resources. Members of NWNY’s community were excited to learn what happens during the recruitment and hiring process. The question “What do you hope to learn tonight?” prompted the discussion, as the audience wrote their expectations on the whiteboard: “Do/Don’t for CV”, “How do you get your CV noticed?”, “Are there any recommended certificates for HR?” (yes, for spoiler, check it here).
Panelists Anne Nogami, from Guardian Life, Annie Stankevich, from LinkedIn, Claire Raynes, from The Rockefeller Foundation, Elizabeth Himeles, from JDC, and Jamie Langhaus, from Datadog, started by talking about the challenges and obstacles they have faced in a job search or during their careers, and shared some preliminary advice. “At the beginning of my career I was underpaid as a nonprofit employee. I realized that I was not valued. That work culture was not for me”, said Himeles. Langhaus explained that situations like these help us to grow and to learn, but it’s important to take a break. “Take care of yourself, don’t place a lot of pressure on to yourself.”
The audience was eager to understand the most pressing question for all job hunters: how to stand out from the crowd? Nogami, from Guardian Life, recommended crafting a resume and cover letter that focus on keywords, adapting the language used on job description postings. “Find your dream job and reflect it in your CV”. Himeles, from JDC, recommended making sure to add measurable work achievements. “Highlight your accomplishments in your resume. Write ‘I changed something here and there.’”
As hiring managers, they also talked about the traits they are looking for in candidates. “Show the ability to learn new skills. Show that you are loyal and adaptable”, said Langhaus, from Datadog. Stankevich, from LinkedIn, recommended the audience to stay true to themselves: “Your personality will show up anyway. Be you. Don’t be too rehearsed.” Raynes, from The Rockefeller Foundation, suggested doing research about the company and asking questions during the interview. Two good examples are “Are there opportunities for professional development?” and “What do those opportunities look like?” According to her, not asking questions tends to be viewed as a lack of interest. Himeles, from JDC, suggested asking for feedback after a rejection. While companies might not provide it for a variety of reasons, this shows you are open to learning.
Networking was also discussed. Stankevich, from LinkedIn, told the audience that the company hires 80% of its employees by networking or referral. She recommended taking a look at the Board, if it’s available online. If the company shows that it is already diverse, with women and minorities, this possibly means it is open to recruiting and hiring a diverse workforce. Nogami, from Guardian Life, suggested reading the book “The 20-Minute Networking Meeting”, by Marcia Ballinger. In the end, the audience had the chance to sharpen their networking skills, connecting with each other and with panelists. “I left the HR panel feeling very inspired.”, said Tais Gregorio, from Brazil, who is interested in transitioning from Accounting to Human Resources.
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