Personal Advancement

Be open-minded

be open-minded

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Toronto Sun

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In what work environment would you thrive? To find out, take this test by eCareerFit, the career assessment experts.

Many employers complain that new grads expect to start climbing the corporate ladder right away -- an expectation that benefits neither -- Kofman reports. Avoid that disappointment by making "information interviewing" part of your strategy.

Want a career in sales and marketing? Find out as much as you can about the industry, including starting positions and key players. "I think it's one of the most important phases of a career search, but one most young people don't do," Kofman says.

Finally, remember to be open-minded. "Some are looking for that perfect career, but it's not like there's only one route open to you," Kofman says. "It's about deciding which route is best for you and most realistic in today's workforce."

QUICK FACTS

Paul Goldenberg, Founder and President of BlueFrog Career Transitions in Toronto, offers the following steps to help you make the transition from school to career:

· Take stock of your strengths.

· Define yourself for the marketplace. Identify how you want to make an impact and understand your unique value and/or ability.

· Analyze and qualify the marketplace, including salary expectations.

· Develop your verbal and written marketing material, which includes your "elevator speech," resume and cover letter.

· Develop your "go-to-market strategy," which identifies how you're going to spend your time and energy.

· Hone your interview skills.

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