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08.18.11 The Social Media Takeover
Posted under: Job, Lifestyle Posted by:

Since you’re looking at this blog, I already caught you indulging yourself in the virtual world. How can you not? The internet has so much to offer: every sort of deal, videos galore and just pure entertainment, but when does this entertainment become too much? Well when I started to get on Facebook and Twitter before I finished my homework or a job application, I knew I was at the beginning of a major problem.

The internet has become the gateway to practically anything and everything. No longer do we have to call someone to reschedule a doctor’s appointment or drive to a clothing store for that little black dress. Verbal communication is out the door and email, chat and messaging is in. Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr and Flickr have created introverts in all of us. Why confront the new kid at school in person, when you can glimpse at their Facebook profile and see their interests, photos with friends and relationship status right at the safety of your computer? This new way of life not only takes us away from those classic awkward introductions, but allows for further pre-judgment. Honestly, if I see that you have more than 3,000 friends on Facebook, I am going to question your value of friendship. If your Tumblr page only features pictures of famous people, I am probably going to question your grasp of reality. While these may seem like minor prejudices, a fellow classmate is not the only person who has access to your social media sites (even if you have adjusted it to privacy settings).

Your parents, coaches, employers and college admission counselors use these sites too! In fact, they judge your social media pages more than me! They have an agenda- to see how you carry yourself on the World-Wide Web. If your friends post profanity on your Facebook, they will take that into consideration as a reflection of you. Employers want someone that will represent the company justly, which means no crazy party pictures or notes/blog entries about a person you despise.

When it comes down to it, social media is a great tool for companies especially from the hiring stand-point, but you cannot deny the threat it has on us teenagers. We spend countless hours on the internet instead of doing homework and forming real-life relationships. Then we undermine other’s perception of our personal social media sites and say whatever we want, whenever we want. Now that school is starting up, the effects of being on the computer 24/7 are the most harmful. You don’t want to get grounded from the Homecoming dance or cut-off from allowances because of a failing grade or inappropriate comment. Limit your time online and spend more time studying and forming real-life relationships with people. After all, these are the years that truly count!

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07.06.11 Welcome Kemi
Posted under: Job, Lifestyle Posted by:

Hey guys! My name is Kemi. I am one of the new social media interns for i[x] at GOCU, so you’ll be hearing from me over the next couple weeks! Writing my first blog is a little intimidating, but I hope you guys find this info helpful!

It’s sweet summertime, your bored and looking for something to do. If your anything like me, you have your Twitter and Facebook pages open and you refresh, tweet and like basically everything to fill the void that was once school. With all this extra time, have you ever thought about getting a job? Everyone loves some extra money and those sunglasses and music aren’t going to buy themselves! So start looking! Visit you local shopping centers, apply online and use those amazing connections you have to find the job that’s right for you. Remember not to be discouraged if you don’t find the perfect job right away! Keep looking around and talking to everyone you know. Once you’ve found that job stick to it. Before you know it you’ll be making bank! And don’t forget that hard work is the key to success (and a bigger wallet)!

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05.24.10 Finding A Summer Job
Posted under: Job, Lifestyle Posted by:

With the end of school nearing or having already ended for some, the summertime is a great time to find a job to earn a little cash.  A summer job is also a great way for students to get a foot in the door toward a real job.  With the job market very competitive and tough right now, you have to be able to stand out.  Here are a few tips you can follow to help you get that edge over the competition:

- Pursue a job that you are interested in.  If you are not sure what really interests you, ask yourself if you want the job for career experience or just for fun. 

- Network: As the saying goes, “It’s not what you know, but who you know.” Never pass up an opportunity to get your name out to professionals.  If you have yet to develop a solid network, don’t be afraid to talk with family and family friends.  They are a great place to start when trying to find available jobs.

-Don’t Give Up: If you are having a hard time finding open jobs, search on the internet.  There are thousands of jobs listed.  If there are certain companies that you know you would like to work for, give them a call about open positions-the worst they can say is “no”.

-Be Prepared for the Interview: Once you have your interviews set up, research and know everything there is to know about the company.  Potential employees love it when you come in looking like you belong.  Also, dress for success.  You can never be over dressed for an interview.  My dad always said “Dress for the job you want to have.”

So get out there and get you an awesome job for the summer.  Who knows, it may turn out to be your career!

Update: Found this article from the AJC that also gives some tips on summer work.

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12.04.09 Learning & Earning
Posted under: Job, School Posted by:

The percentage of students working and going to school has risen among 16-24 year olds in the past several years. What’s more, is that with the current economic climate, many families are feeling the pinch of tougher times and need every able member of the family to work. Whatever the reason, you may find yourself trying your hand at this delicate balancing act.

A couple of things to lift your spirits for those of you who are, or who are thinking about, working while going to school:

First, a recent study published in USA Today stated that around 77% of undergraduate students are working; so you’re not alone-you’re in the majority. Second, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average male college graduate in 2007 earned 58% more than the average male who completed only high school. Among women, college grads earned 78% more than non-graduates. So, see? Apparently, money doesn’t grow on trees, but it can grow from Degrees. If working + going to school or not means the difference between attending THE college of your dreams or…well, not, then it may be in your best interest to put forth the effort and become an expert of this balancing act.

1. College town benefits. The good thing about looking for jobs in a “college town” is that employers are used to having students work for them and are more flexible when it comes to hours, work load and studies. Be honest with yourself and your employer as to what you’ll be able to handle, let them know what your school schedule is like and figure out how adjustable both of you can be.

2. Have a set schedule. If you know you work Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, it’s easier to plan ahead for big tests or assignments and avoid any potential conflicts.

3. Build good rapport with your co-workers. You never know when you may need someone to cover or switch shifts for you.

4. Consider your specific personality traits. If you find that you’re most productive in the mornings, then get a job where you can work evenings and save the a.m. for work on your school assignments.

5. Campus jobs. The pay is good and you’ll be in an environment where they really understand the complex situation of working and going to school.

Above all, keep in mind that school is the most important thing.  If you feel overwhelmed or your grades are suffering beyond repair, you may need to consider cutting back on hours or foregoing the job all together. You can always pick up extra cash and hours during the summer months to help you throughout the school year.

Also, speaking of a balancing act, it’s important to stay balanced yourself. School and work may be necessities, but so is making time for the things that you enjoy doing.

My Last Two Cents: At one particularly stressful point in my college career, I suddenly realized-I’m only 20, I’ve got my whole life to be stressed and overworked. It will take an active effort, but achieving equilibrium between work, school, and play will be well worth it.

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11.20.09 27.6%!?!
Posted under: Job Posted by:

I bet you have a good read on the unemployment situation out there. It stinks. As bad as that is, if you are looking for part-time work to make extra cash the picture is worse. We’re not here to stress you out but let’s look at the facts and then do something about it!

How bad is it you ask? Try 27.6% bad. That is more than double the rate of our parents and it’s the highest rate that has EVER been recorded since they started keeping records in 1948. Yikes. Things might not get better for teens until this time next year which means if you do want to get a job you need to be creative and persistent.

So here, at absolutely no charge, are some job hunting ideas from your friends at i[x] and Georgia’s Own

Search Smarter: Have you visited Snagajob.com? Sure beats going door-to-door at the mall asking if they are hiring. There hundreds of part time jobs on this site so get clicking.

Make Something: Are you artistic, crafty or have a keen eye for sweet vintage gear? Head over to etsy.com and set-up your own shop up in less than five clicks. Listings only cost $.20 and you can sell your works all over the world.

Go Local: Ever thought about doing work right in your neighborhood? With the downturn in full effect many families cut back on professional yard work, house cleaning, chores and even dog walking. Simply putting out some flyers could land you a new gig.

Get Some Guidance: It may not seem like the first place to look but have you talked to the guidance counselor at school? They are trained professionals and believe or not they really do care about you. It’s their job to be connected, so talk to them for advice on where to look locally.

Remember that every problem can be an opportunity. Turn this churn into a sweet job for yourself. You can do it!

So, now it’s your turn. Are you stressed out about finding a job? Are your parents worried about their jobs? Were you able to land a job and if so what sort of money are you making? Share! The i[x] team wants to know what is going on in your life so we can help you and others get ahead with your money.

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