Why You and Not Someone Else? Communicating the Value of You
bcbsm
| 2 min read
The number one thing recruiters want to hear from potential intern candidates is not necessarily what you’ve accomplished, but how you completed the various projects, events or campaigns on your resume. Unfortunately, most candidates miss the mark when presenting this information. During the upcoming Association of Latino Professionals For America (ALPFA) Michigan Chapter’s first annual Student Conference, Stefanie Thornton, director, Talent Acquisition at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) will share what makes potential candidates stand out among the hundreds of applicants. Your Personal Value Proposition, Communicating the Value of You will teach college students how to leverage and present the information on their resume during an interview or internship fair in a way that resonates with hiring managers. Her tips include: Be interested and be interesting. Having an extensive list of previous experience or a degree doesn’t guarantee a position at any company. Showing your interest in the company, its values and its mission can make a bigger impact. Don’t forget to discuss how you have executed on those passions in the past. Show off your passion. Most skills can be taught, and most employers expect you’ll need some on the job training. What can’t be taught is the drive and passion for what you’re doing every day. One of the easiest ways to demonstrate this is by pointing to your previous experiences and projects and showing an honest interest in future opportunities. Revamp your objective. Instead of a generic initial statement on a resume, find a way to creatively use this space to show what makes you different and how your passions and interests align to the job. This is the first thing a recruiter looks at, so critically think about the story you want to tell. Share the details. Many students during internship fairs or interviews are afraid to state specifics in the hopes of appealing to more opportunities. This is doing a disservice to you and your abilities. Detailed answers portray a stronger understanding of your background and your strengths. Ask the right questions. Instead of asking what positions a recruiter has available, start with ‘here’s what I have to offer’ and follow it up with specific examples. Also, have a list of smart questions prepared for the recruiter to show you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested. For more information about ALPFA’s Student Conference, please visit michigan.alpfa.org. Interested in internships at BCBSM? Check out our Careers Page for details and upcoming events. Photo credit: Texas A&M University--Commerce Marketing Communication
