Leaving The Nest

You have made it to the final round of interviews! Congratulations are in order for making it this far, especially since that means that you definitely have the job, right? Wrong. Just because you have made it to the final round of interviews does not mean that it's time to mentally accept the job, and in this episode, I am breaking down the very real, very overlooked truth about final round interviews: they're still interviews. You haven't crossed the finish line yet, and treating it like a victory lap could cost you dearly. I walk you through what it actually means to be a final round candidate and how to handle it like the strategic candidate you are. We're talking about mindset, like how to stay sharp without spiraling, and I share what to prep for, how to read the room, and why cultural fit isn't just a buzzword that HR throws around. You'll also hear why enthusiasm beats arrogance every single time, and when to definitely not bring up salary or perks! I also share with you why sending a thank-you note isn't optional but is necessary, why continuing to apply elsewhere isn't disloyal, and how to handle it if things stall or, worse, disappear. Final rounds are definitely important, but again, they are not a guarantee, and I want you walking into that room prepared, focused, and fully aware of what's still at stake. This isn't about being paranoid but rather about being smart. It's about showing up with clarity, confidence, and a killer game plan that reminds them exactly why you are the one they've been looking for, so let's get into it! Key Takeaways: Final round interviews are so important and shouldn't be taken lightly. Prepare thoroughly by researching the company, its values, and mission. Focus on showcasing your cultural fit and enthusiasm for the role and the company! Maintain a professional demeanor, body language, and attire; first impressions matter! Ask thoughtful questions about the role, challenges, and growth opportunities to show your interest. Avoid discussing salary and benefits at this stage, as the focus should be on your fit for the position. Follow up promptly with thank-you notes! after each interview, as it shows appreciation. Stay positive and persistent, as the right job is out there! Thanks again for listening to Leaving The Nest! To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677.   Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast   Connect with Kathleen: Kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 703-579-6677

Let's talk this week about the dreaded panel interview. Yes, the panel interview, the one where you're the only person on one side of the table (or Zoom screen), and there are four or five people staring at you from the other side, shooting rapid-fire questions at you. I know; this doesn't sound fun, but that's why I am doing this episode of Leaving the Nest! If you caught the last episode, we talked about group interviews – multiple candidates, one or two hiring managers, but today we're flipping that for this episode - one candidate (you), multiple interviewers (them), and, of course, a whole lot of nerves. I'm walking you through how to handle this intimidating setup with as much grace and confidence as possible, even if your palms are sweaty and your brain is screaming at you. We cover the essentials (yes, you still need to be on time), but also the little things that can make a big difference, like how to engage the whole panel, what to do if you blank on someone's name, and how to tailor your answers so they actually land with each interviewer. I also give you some tips on asking questions that show you're not only prepared but sharp, and as always, I remind you how to leave a solid impression that sticks long after you log off or walk out. Panel interviews can be a lot, but with a little prep, I promise you that you can be fully prepared! Key Takeaways: l  Prepare thoroughly by researching the interviewers and the company and customizing responses to each interviewer's interests. l  Maintain confidence and engagement throughout the interview by making eye contact, using positive body language, and addressing the entire panel. l  Ask thoughtful, specific questions to demonstrate your interest and understanding. l  Summarize why you are a good fit for the role, and thank the interviewers individually at the end. l  Follow up with a personalized thank-you note to leave a lasting positive impression! Thanks again for listening to Leaving The Nest! To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677.   Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast   Connect with Kathleen: Kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 571-446-2819  

This episode is one that I know a lot of you have asked about because, let's be honest, group interviews are intimidating. They're uncomfortable, they're high-pressure, and half the time you walk in wondering if you're supposed to treat the other candidates like competition or potential coworkers. If you've never been a part of a group interview, you are not alone. I actually haven't either (at least not as a candidate), but I have sat in on the other side, and let me tell you, there are things I've seen that still haunt me. That's why I am spending time in this episode to break down everything that you need to know about handling a group interview with confidence. I am, of course, talking about the factors that are within your control, the things that will make you stand out in the right ways while others are making rookie mistakes.  I also discuss why it is that some companies even choose this style of interviewing (it's not just about saving time) and what they're really watching for when you're sitting with that group of strangers. This episode is all about preparing you for the group setting so that if and when you find yourself in one, you're not thrown off. You will know exactly what to do and what not to do in order to leave the right impression. Thanks for tuning in! Key Takeaways:  Research the company and role thoroughly before the group interview. Dress professionally, and bring multiple copies of your resume, along with a notebook and pen for notes. Punctuality is critical, so plan ahead for traffic, parking, and navigation; aim to arrive 5-10 minutes early. Avoid distractions such as your phone - stay engaged and ready to interact from the moment you arrive. Group interviews assess teamwork and communication, so engage respectfully with both the interviewers and other candidates. Thanks again for listening to Leaving The Nest! To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677.   Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast    Connect with Kathleen: Kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 571-446-2819

Thanks for tuning back in to Leaving the Nest, dear listeners! Join me for this episode as I discuss a topic that might sound a bit tongue-in-cheek at first: how to lose a job in 10 days (inspired, of course, by the 2003 rom-com How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days)! Of course, I am not actually setting you up for failure; instead, we will focus on what NOT to do when starting a new job so that you can avoid making costly mistakes right out of the gate. It's so important to make a positive impression, and I am using this episode to share some practical tips on how to do just that! From being punctual to managing breaks, I highlight the key factors that can either make or break your success in those critical first days. Showing up to work on time is more important than you might think, and I explain why those extra few minutes could set you apart. I also discuss reliability and the importance of communicating openly with your employer if something goes wrong, whether it be a family emergency or a sick day. (Trust me, employers absolutely notice these things!) It isn't all just about avoiding mistakes, though, as success is also about making an effort to integrate into your new workplace culture, so listen as I discuss how to be friendly and approachable and how asking questions and staying focused can help you thrive. If you've ever wondered how to make sure that you don't lose your job in ten days, tune in for some actionable advice that I hope will help you on your journey to success! Key Takeaways:  It's incredibly important to be on time to your job (even more important than you might think)! Plan ahead by preparing for work the night before to avoid delays. It's also crucial to be reliable and to try to avoid taking time off in your first few months. Fit into company culture, and be proactive in making connections with colleagues! Stay focused, take notes, ask questions, and demonstrate your ability to learn and solve problems. Thanks again for listening to Leaving The Nest! To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677. Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast  Connect with Kathleen: Kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 571-446-2819

Welcome back to Leaving The Nest! I am so happy to have Devin Jones from episode 13 join the show again, this time to talk about how to make the most out of your first career fair experience! We share some helpful tips that will help you present your best self to employers, everything from your attire to your elevator pitch. Devin has truly seen it all when it comes to career fairs, everything from nervous first-timers to seasoned pros, and she shares what works and what doesn't when it comes to dressing the part, developing a confident elevator pitch, and why it's important to be engaged and respectful at the booths. We talk about how to avoid common mistakes and pitfalls such as getting too distracted by your phone which can send the wrong message. We focus instead on some strategies for making a lasting impression, be it via a quick conversation or by simply making eye contact and being polite. In addition, we discuss the far too often overlooked post-fair follow-up. It's not just about dropping off your resume. You need to also show maturity and initiative and make connections that will benefit you long after the event ends. Whether you are a student getting ready for your first career fair or someone looking to refresh your approach, this episode is packed with advice that you will not want to miss! Key Takeaways:  Dress professionally, and wear neutral-toned, business-appropriate attire; avoid casual clothes like sweatpants! Keep your elevator pitch short and confident by introducing who you are, why you are there, and what you are looking for. Engage in a respectful manner, and avoid distractions such as your phone. Arrive prepared with 20-30 copies of your resume! Be sure to follow up by sending a thank-you message within 48 hours! Thanks again for listening to Leaving The Nest! To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677.   Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest PodcastLeaving The Nest Episode 13: Graduating During a Pandemic with Devin Jones  Connect with Kathleen: Kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 571-446-2819 Connect with Devin: Devin@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 703-579-6677  

I am so thrilled to be bringing you this milestone of Leaving the Nest - the 50th episode! Today I am joined by fellow ROCS colleague Kaitlin Hawes as we take some time to reflect on the highlights of 2024 from career advancements to personal triumphs. Join us as we take a trip down memory lane discussing a year full of growth and change! Kaitlin shares her own journey of Leaving the Nest and brings us up to date where she is currently thriving in her career here at ROCS!  She'll also open up about her rise in the company, moving from Recruiter to Associate Account Manager to Account Manager in just a matter of a few months!  It isn't just business that we discuss, though. We also get personal and reflect on the moments that shaped us, such as events out of the office and other major family moments. We even discuss some funny memories including our team celebrations and the balloons that almost ruined Kaitlin's promotion moment! I hope that you will join us for this fun and heartfelt conversation as we celebrate not only our professional growth but also the amazing people and memories that have made this year truly unforgettable for us here at ROCS. Thank you so much for being part of the journey, and here is to 2025! If you enjoy this episode, please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just "Leaving the Nest." Key Takeaways:  We reflect on our career milestones over 2024, including major promotions. Hear about the success that ROCS Grad Staffing has seen over this year as a team! The ROCS team enjoyed summer Fridays, team events, and personal downtime. ROCS turns 21! 2024 was our biggest year yet!  Thanks again for listening to Leaving the Nest! To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677. Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast  Connect with Kathleen: Kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 571-446-2819 Connect with Kaitlin: Kaitlin@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 571-488-9805   

What better time is there to talk about being ghosted by potential employers than during spooky season? Ghosting isn't just something that happens in the dating world; it can also occur after you've gone through multiple interviews and feel confident that the job is yours. Maybe you have discussed start dates or salary, only for the hiring manager to suddenly disappear, leaving you with no explanation. Listen in as I break down why this might happen. While it's frustrating and no one enjoys being ghosted, it's important to remember that it's rarely about you or your qualifications! I also cover how to handle this situation and the importance of keeping a positive attitude. Remember to manage your own expectations as you continue to apply for other roles. I ultimately want to remind you that ghosting is an unfortunate but very real part of the process, but it doesn't define you or your worth as a candidate. Tune in for practical advice and tips on how to handle this situation. If you enjoy this episode, please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just "Leaving the Nest." Key Takeaways:  Ghosting by employers is common, even after multiple interviews and discussions about job details. Ghosting may result from various factors such as hiring internally, budget changes, or emergencies. Don't take ghosting personally! Remain professional when following up with employers. Continue applying for jobs until you have a signed offer letter to avoid halting your job search prematurely. Remember, the right job will eventually come along, so focus on maintaining professionalism and managing expectations. Thanks again for listening to Leaving the Nest! To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677.   Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast    Connect with Kathleen: Kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 571-446-2819

Join me for this episode as I take on the far too often overlooked but crucial aspect of job applications: providing professional references. As you approach the final stages of your job search, the right references can truly play a pivotal role in solidifying the positive impression that you have already made.  You will learn how to select, prepare, and present your references effectively so that you can seal the deal!  Tune in as I discuss some of the common pitfalls, such as including unnecessary lines on your resume, and offer guidance on choosing the right types of references—academic, personal, and, most critically, professional. Learn why it's so essential to seek permission from your references beforehand, ensuring they're ready for that all-important phone call. I also offer practical tips on how many references to provide and how to format your reference sheet so it complements your resume. We'll explore the typical questions employers ask during reference checks so you can help your contacts highlight your strengths and skills. Finally, I emphasize the importance of maintaining relationships with past colleagues to build a robust network for future opportunities. Whether you are just beginning your career or are looking to make a change, this episode will equip you with the tools to navigate the reference check process confidently, helping to ensure that you are ready when it really matters. Listen in for all the details! If you enjoy this episode, please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just "Leaving the Nest." Key Takeaways:  Timing of References: References are typically requested later in the hiring process, indicating that you're close to receiving an offer! Reference Types: Prioritize professional references (former supervisors), and consider academic or personal references as supplementary. Ask for Permission: Always obtain consent from your references before listing them to avoid catching them off guard. Quantity Matters: Provide at least three references, with five to six as a backup to help ensure availability. Presentation Format: Format your reference sheet similarly to your resume, including names, titles, relationships, and contact information for consistency! Thanks again for listening to Leaving the Nest! To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677.   Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast    Connect with Kathleen: Kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 571-446-2819

Welcome back! In today's episode, I'm excited to reconnect with you one-on-one! I've had the pleasure of hosting many incredible guests recently, but today, I'm diving into an essential topic for anyone looking to build a strong personal brand: professional headshots. You don't need to spend a fortune to get a great headshot from a professional photographer. As a fan of the DIY approach, I'll guide you through everything you need to know to capture a polished, professional image that truly represents you. We'll explore seven key areas, starting with appearance and dress. I'll share my top tips for looking your best—think clean, neutral, and polished—without going overboard. I'll also cover the dos and don'ts of headshot photography, from avoiding selfies and mirror shots to selecting the perfect background that keeps the focus on you. In addition, I'll walk you through lighting, angles, and how to infuse your personality into the photo in a way that feels authentic. Whether you need a headshot for LinkedIn, your company's website, or future opportunities, this episode will equip you with everything you need to make a lasting first impression. If you enjoy this episode, please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just "Leaving the Nest." Key Takeaways:  Your Appearance: Focus on hair, face, makeup, and professional attire, and keep photo editing minimal. Photography Tips: Ensure the background highlights your face, use strong natural lighting, maintain eye contact, and position yourself head-on! Showing Your Personality: Don't be afraid to let your personality shine in the photo. Support: ROCS is happy to help! Be Yourself: Avoid overthinking; just stay true to who you are! Thanks again for listening to Leaving the Nest. To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677.   Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast  Leaving The Nest Episode 6: What To Wear For An Interview   Connect with Kathleen: Kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 571-446-2819

Tune in to this episode as I chat with Aishwarya Nagy who shares her fascinating journey from studying criminology and pre-law at George Mason University to landing a role at Google in a completely different field. We discuss her experiences as a student, a ROCStar Intern, her early career struggles, and the pivotal moments that led her to where she is today. From internships to her first job at a small nonprofit, Aishwarya candidly discusses the challenges she faced and how she navigated through them. Discover how Aishwarya's hunger for knowledge, willingness to take risks, and commitment to learning propelled her career forward. She shares valuable insights on building relationships, embracing rejection as an opportunity for growth, and finding success in unexpected places. Whether you're considering a career change or looking for inspiration to pursue your passions, Aishwarya's story is sure to resonate with you. Listen in to learn how she turned setbacks into stepping stones and embraced the journey of self-discovery and professional growth. I hope that you enjoy this candid conversation with Aishwarya! If so, please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just "Leaving the Nest." Key Takeaways:  Transitioning Between Fields is common and okay! Networking and Building Relationships: the key to career growth Gaps in Knowledge: It's okay to admit to them and seek opportunities to learn. Taking Risks: why it's important to be willing to take risks and explore new avenues Rejection is not the end but an opportunity to learn and grow. Thanks again for listening to Leaving the Nest. To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677.   Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast  jobscan.co   Connect with Kathleen: Kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 571-446-2819   Connect with Aishwarya: LinkedIn

Join me for this episode as I sit down with Meg Kadrmas, an Internship Coordinator with extensive experience in career counseling and talent development. We tackle a plethora of topics essential for anyone navigating the job market, from resume writing and job searching strategies to interview preparation and the value of internships.  Meg shares invaluable insights into crafting resumes tailored to beat applicant tracking systems, emphasizing simplicity and keyword optimization. We explore job search strategies, including the surprising effectiveness of platforms like TikTok and LinkedIn for networking and finding job opportunities. As we transition to interview preparation, Meg stresses the importance of research and preparation, offering tips on showcasing relevant experiences using the STAR method and projecting confidence during interviews. We discuss the nuances of confidence-building, combatting imposter syndrome, and approaching interviews as mutual assessments of fit. With her expertise in internships, Meg highlights the flexibility and potential for customization in securing internship opportunities, advising networking and volunteering. We discuss the benefits of year-round internships, remote options, and the importance of gaining practical experience to bolster one's candidacy. Throughout the conversation, Meg offers actionable advice for recent graduates, emphasizing the significance of networking, seeking support from career services, and leveraging available resources to accelerate the job search journey. Whether you're a recent graduate or seasoned professional, this episode offers guidance for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of career development and advancement. Tune in to unlock key insights and strategies for success in your professional journey! I hope that you enjoy the conversation! If so, please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just "Leaving the Nest." Key Takeaways:  Understanding Applicant Tracking Systems: Keep it simple, and use helpful tools like Jobscan Networking Is Key: LinkedIn expands connections, with 75% of jobs found through personal networks, boosting job prospects. Research and Preparation for Interviews: Prepare for interviews by researching the company and position. Tailor knowledge to align with company initiatives to stand out. Confidence Is Crucial: Approach interviews confidently, knowing the hiring team sees potential. Combat imposter syndrome by recognizing they want you on their team. Internships Offer Valuable Experience: internships offer opportunities for self-discovery. Fall and spring internships provide personalized experiences, while remote options are common. Thanks again for listening to Leaving the Nest. To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677. Resources:ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast jobscan.co Connect with Kathleen:Kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 571-446-2819 Connect with Meg:LinkedIn  

Join me as Career Coach Chris Ricci returns to the podcast to discuss all things LinkedIn! If you have been neglecting LinkedIn, Chris has the expertise to turn it into a thriving career searching tool!  Today we'll delve into the various nuances of LinkedIn etiquette, from the importance of the right banner image to the perfect headline and beyond. Chris busts some common myths, emphasizing the impact of a well-crafted “About” section, the often overlooked headline keywords, and the power of a compelling value profile statement. Chris doesn't just stop at the basics. He guides us through maintaining a credible and updated experience section, sharing insights on networking, posting, and even handling recruiter interactions. Whether you're a recent grad or a seasoned professional, Chris offers practical tips to make LinkedIn work for you. Thanks for listening! I hope that you enjoy this conversation with Chris! Please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just "Leaving the Nest." Key Takeaways:  LinkedIn as a Crucial Networking Tool: LinkedIn's importance as a primary networking tool for recent college grads to attract recruiters Visual Optimization: the significance of visually optimizing LinkedIn profiles, including the use of a professional banner image and an appropriate profile picture Headline and Keywords: the importance of crafting a compelling headline with relevant keywords from desired job postings to capture recruiters' attention About Section: why you should have a well-crafted "About" section with a value profile statement Consistent Profile Maintenance: the need for regular updates on LinkedIn profiles, aligning them with the resume Networking and Posting Activity: the value of networking through LinkedIn, creating posts about one's major or career interest, and engaging with other professionals' content to increase visibility and credibility Thanks again for listening to Leaving the Nest. To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677.   Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast  Listen to Chris' Previous Leaving The Nest Podcast Episode   Connect with Kathleen: Kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 571-446-2819   Connect with Chris: LinkedIn NVA Career CoachingCall: 703-606-8125  

In this episode of  "Leaving the Nest," I sit down with Lee Kaiser to delve into the transformational power of goal-setting for personal and professional growth. Throughout the episode, Lee imparts his valuable insights on the correlation between self-confidence, risk-taking, and his secrets for turning resolutions into daily routines that help you build lasting habits for success. Plus, Lee shares his advice for those just "Leaving the Nest." Listen in for a blend of wisdom, positivity, and actionable advice for those embarking on their journey of setting and achieving meaningful goals.  Thanks again for listening to "Leaving The Nest." I hope you enjoy my conversation with Lee! Please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just "Leaving the Nest." Key Takeaways:  Lee Kaiser, father of three with 31 years in education, brings diverse experience as a teacher, counselor, coach, and involvement in educational associations. Lee shares his secrets for turning resolutions into daily routines to foster lasting habits for success. The vital importance of reflecting on both successes and failures to create a blueprint for continuous improvement. How visual reminders help you maintain focus and make better choices. An introduction to the SMART goal framework for practical goal setting. Lee's advice for recent students and recent college grads emphasizing self-belief and risk-taking. Thanks again for listening to Leaving the Nest. To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677. Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast  Connect with Kathleen: Kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 571-446-2819 Connect with Lee: Positiveattitude@cox.net   LinkedIn Eavesdrop Brewery    

Today, Ana Kuzemka, our newest Recruiting Manager joins me to share her journey with ROCS and reflect on the accomplishments of our team this past year. As we close the chapter on 2023, we enjoyed taking a stroll down memory lane and reflecting on the exciting events, milestones, highlights, and lessons learned this year at ROCS! Join us as we bid farewell to 2023 and look forward to what's in store for the ROCS team in the coming year. Thanks again for listening to "Leaving The Nest." I hope you enjoy my conversation with Ana! Please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just "Leaving the Nest."  In This Episode [00:33] - Today, we're wrapping up 2023 with a conversation with Ana Kuzemka, the new Recruiting Manager at ROCS, with a look at her two-year tenure with the company and a look back at the year at ROCS.  [02:04] - Ana provides insights into her journey, noting the challenges of transitioning from part-time to full-time and her perspective shift from business marketing to recruiting. [09:00] - Kathleen shares the joy of Jessica's return from maternity leave, celebrating the arrival of her son, Griffin, and highlighting Jessica's essential role in the team. [11:18] - Kathleen introduces the March Madness bracket challenge, recalling the amusing tradition of her puppy Muffin and the surprising outcome this year.  [13:26] - Kathleen transitions to another Q1 event, recalling an internal contest at ROCS where participants could choose prizes.  [17:53] - Kathleen reflects on the significance of ROCS being represented at career fairs.  [18:37] - Kathleen recognizes the Core Values Recognition Award as a way to appreciate team members who stand out and commends Ana's well-deserved recognition. [20:05] - Kathleen announces Ana's promotion to Lead Recruiter and asks Ana to share her experience with the transition. [21:27] - Ana reflects on the progress of learning and achieving a task in a short period, appreciating the growth and improvement. [25:47] - Kathleen recaps Q3, highlighting ROCS outings to Rudy's, more qualifiers for the company trip, and Abby's promotion to Recruiting Manager, commending Abby for her hard work and positive energy. [29:41] - Kathleen discusses the continuous growth of the team and encourages potential candidates to apply, emphasizing the rewarding experience of seeing candidates grow in their careers. [30:13] - ROCS impact and evolution in the past 20 years. [33:15] - Kathleen acknowledges the team's hard work in a hiring sprint, expressing gratitude for their dedication and successful outcomes. [45:02] - Kathleen and Ana share their resolutions for 2024.  [47:27] - Thanks again for listening to Leaving the Nest. To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677. Resources:ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast  Connect with Kathleen:Kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 571-446-2819 Connect with Ana:Ana@rocsjobs.com  LinkedIn  

The landscape of employee benefits packages can be a bit of a maze to navigate. If you've already landed a job or you're in the process of deciding on the job that's the right fit for you, these benefits play a crucial role in your overall job satisfaction as well as your financial well-being. So it's only natural to have questions! Today, Jessica Lepp, Director of Operations at ROCS Staffing joins me to share her valuable insight on what recent graduates can anticipate when reviewing their employer's benefits package. We'll delve into the various types of health insurance plans, time off benefits, retirement savings plans, and other perks that companies may offer. Plus, Jessica shares her most valuable piece of advice for recent college graduates just “Leaving the Nest.” Thanks again for listening to "Leaving The Nest." I hope you enjoy my conversation with Jessica! Please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just "Leaving the Nest."    In This Episode [00:34] - Kathleen introduces her colleague Jessica Lepp, the Director of Operations at ROCS Staffing, who is here to share her journey and role at ROCS and offer listeners valuable insights for understanding the complex world of employee benefits and company perks. [01:53] - Jessica shares with us how her role has evolved over her ten years at ROCS, and the relationships she built  [04:34] - Jessica shares some of the milestones that she's seen and her favorite memories at ROCS over the years.  [06:59] - Kathleen and Jessica fondly reminisce about various memorable moments at ROCS, highlighting the strong company culture and camaraderie. [08:37] - Kathleen and Jessica delve into the HR aspects of her role onboarding new hires and addressing benefit inquiries. [08:57] - Jessica shares what benefits are, the percentage they make up of an employee's total compensation package, and the elements—like health insurance and 401(k) plans—typically included.  [09:45] - The introduction of benefits into the hiring conversation. [10:02] - Jessica shares how some companies use benefits to differentiate themselves with specifics generally being introduced at the offer stage. [11:03] - Breaking down the most significant components of the benefits umbrella: medical, healthcare, dental, and vision coverage. [12:06] - Jessica uses a car insurance analogy to explain the concept of health insurance costs, the employer's portion, and the employee's financial responsibility. [15:29] - The complexity of insurance terminology: Jessica explains some of the key concepts like "premium", "deductible" and the "yearly out-of-pocket maximum." [17:22] - Discussing various time-off requests and accrual, like sick time, vacation time, and PTO. [17:45] - Jessica elaborates on the accrual method, where employees earn PTO as they work, and how it can vary by company, including rollover and "use it or lose it" policies. [20:20] - Sick time vs Personal time [21:21] - The impact of COVID-19 on attitudes towards sick time and the shift in work culture and employee expectations regarding health and safety. [22:34] - The financial benefits and perks offered by employers: Jessica provides insights into the importance of retirement savings plans and the value of paying your future self first. [25:37] - Jessica describes Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs) for more options for managing healthcare expenses. [26:13] - Even the “Friends” characters' had to worry about retirement plans and health insurance showing just how relatable and common these financial topics are in everyday life. [28:11] - Kathleen and Jessica discussed lifestyle perks that employers may offer to enhance employee satisfaction as part of their benefits packages, like gym memberships, childcare reimbursement, pet insurance, and more. [30:51] - The importance of paying attention to waiting and enrollment periods for things like health insurance and your organization's policies so you are ready with your selections.  [37:42] - Jessica shares her top piece of advice for recent graduates just entering the workforce. [39:24] - You can connect with Jessica on LinkedIn or email her at Jessica@rocsjobs.com  [39:34] - Thanks again for listening to Leaving the Nest. To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677.   Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast    Connect with Kathleen: Kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 571-446-2819   Connect with Jessica: Jessica@rocsjobs.com  LinkedIn

Have you considered launching your career in sales? It's an excellent starting point, especially if you possess strong communication skills and untapped potential.  Today, Wendy Weiss is joining me on the show. Wendy is The Queen of Cold Calling™ the Founder of the Salesology® , the author of "The Sales Winner's Handbook," and a  speaker, sales trainer, and sales coach who has been featured in “The New York Times,” “Business Week”, “Entrepreneur Magazine,” and more.  Listen in as Wendy shares the four key factors affecting your sales success as she shares her insights, drawn from her background as a former ballet dancer. From warmups to rehearsals, she'll walk us through the three vital components you need to secure responses and appointments quickly.  Plus, her most valuable piece of advice for recent college graduates just “Leaving the Nest” to quickly move the needle in your sales career.   Thanks again for listening to "Leaving The Nest." I hope you enjoy my conversation with Wendy! Please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just "Leaving the Nest."    In This Episode [00:34] - Kathleen introduces listeners to Wendy Weiss, the Founder, and President of Salesology®, a sales training and coaching consultancy firm based out of New York. Wendy is also an author, speaker, sales trainer, and sales coach who has been featured in “The New York Times,” “Business Week”, “Entrepreneur Magazine,” and so much more.  [02:29] - Wendy shares her intriguing background as a ballerina, the surprising story of how she became a sales trainer, and how she shares what was taught to her to help sales professionals find more opportunities and close more sales more quickly.   [04:33] - Wendy explains what ballet class taught her about life and business and the three-step method they use to increase qualified appointments and sales.  [05:07] - You don't just run out onto the field and start “playing the game” what you need to do first, so you don't hurt yourself and your bottom line.  [06:10] - Why you need to rehearse—in ballet AND sales. The importance of technique.  [06:40] - Salespeople are born knowing what to do and say, OR are they? Wendy shares the importance of learning the craft of sales in order to successfully execute. [08:09] - Kathleen asks Wendy to share some techniques you can use before you hit the phones to start selling.  [08:26] - Wendy shares the three vital components you need to have defined before you jump on the phone with a prospect. [12:01] - The key to sales success: Kathleen shares her own growing pains and her experience transitioning from quick, impulsive sales calls to a more researched and deliberate approach, and the challenge of finding the right balance. [13:02] - Wendy explains how having a precise and narrow definition of your target audience makes your sales efforts more efficient. [14:10] - The most important thing to look for when starting a sales career.  [14:52] - What about a “sales script”, Wendy, and Kathleen each share their opinions of using them and the pros and cons.  [15:27] - Wendy shares why salespeople need scripts and the key question you need to ask about yours in order to engage prospects (and avoid hang-ups).  [16:57] - How having each next step defined as you move through a call can help newly hired sales representatives be effective fast.  [18:13] - How rehearsing predictable sales scenarios can help sales professionals deliver more effective responses. [21:55] - Wendy shares how they use rapid role-playing.  [22:31] - Learning for success in the field of sales. The difference between being trained on product knowledge and comprehensive sales training. [23:53] - Wendy shares the similarities between stage fright and fear of rejection in sales and how preparation helps to alleviate that. [25:17] - Kathleen asks Wendy to share her advice for those who are struggling in sales.  [26:12] - Wendy shares some advice from a world-renowned life coach and the importance of adhering to proven processes (and scripts) for achieving sales success. [28:46] - Wendy shares the four things that will impact your sales results if you are stuck. Plus, the one thing that you can do to quickly move the needle.  [31:43] - Sales—luck or is it a numbers game? Wendy says it's neither. It's all about converting your conversations, she explains.  [32:43] - Wendy shares her eight-touch process for getting a response and the appointment.  [36:11] - Everyone knows staying top of mind is huge. Kathleen and Wendy share their tips and tricks for making those conversions.  [38:19] - Wendy shares her most recent book, called "The Sales Winner's Handbook" as well as their podcast called, Salesology®: Conversations with Sales Leaders and more, all available on the Salesology® website. They also have FREE gifts for listeners of the podcast. Check it out.  [41:24] - Thanks again for listening to Leaving the Nest. To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677.   Resources: The Salesology® Vault The Sales Winners Handbook Cold Calling for Women: Opening Doors & Closing Sales Salesology®: Conversations with Sales Leaders Podcast ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast    Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 703-579-6677   Connect with Wendy: Salesology®  LinkedIn  

Today, in the second part of our two-part series, I'm sharing my valuable insights as a Recruiter on crafting a standout resume. In this episode, I'll guide you through the complete process of writing your resume, starting from the top and working our way down. We'll cover everything, including the essential sections to include, how to tailor your skillset to align with your target job, tips on the effective use of cover letters plus practical insights that will help you make a lasting first impression. Listen in for valuable advice on how to best showcase yourself on paper, present a compelling case for your candidacy, and secure that interview! Thanks again for listening to Leaving The Nest.  Please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just "Leaving The Nest."    In This Episode [00:34] - In this episode, we're discussing the basics of resume writing, formatting, and common mistakes to avoid.  [01:26] - The importance (and proper formatting) of your contact information. [01:50] - A common mistake some job seekers make when listing their address and why it might cost them their dream job.  [02:32] - Kathleen covers the three areas you absolutely must include on your resume. [02:43] - The other "nice to include" things you can add to your resume but don't break the #1 rule of resumes for entry-level candidates.  [04:57] - How to elevate your education section and what to include if space permits.  [07:38] - The importance of personalizing your resume: how to make your resume your own while still operating within the required norms of a professional resume.  [08:59] - Work experience: what to include and in what order. Plus, the one thing you need to make sure you get right in this section.  [10:56] - How to be sure your resume stays grammatically precise. [12:27] - How to tailor your skillset to align with the job you are applying for—using both technical and interpersonal qualities to make a compelling case for your candidacy. Plus, don't forget the keywords.  [14:40] - The importance of crafting your resume to be a captivating first impression, showcasing your true self while paying attention to the details to amplify its appeal to prospective employers. [17:50] - The next step: how to get the feedback you need to help you refine and perfect your resume for maximum impact. [20:20] - Kathleen shares the biggest thing to remember when it comes to your resume.  [20:32] - Taking a look at the cover letter: what's the difference between it and the professional summary, and when you should include one with your resume. [22:33] - Kathleen shares her tips for structuring your cover letter into three paragraphs. [23:16] - Setting yourself up to land the interview. [23:47] - If you need further assistance or advice, reach out directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com.  [24:10] - Thanks again for listening to Leaving the Nest. To find your next job, visit us online at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, feel free to give Kathleen a call at 703-579-6677   ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast    Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 703-579-6677  

Today, I'm joined by Meg Martin, an expert in the field of human resources who has dedicated her career to helping job seekers navigate the intricate world of career development. For the past three years, she's been sharing her wealth of knowledge as an outside consultant helping craft resumes that get applicants noticed. In this two-part series, we're delving into the art and science of crafting the perfect resume. We'll discuss topics ranging from the importance of keywords to make your resume stand out in the sea of applicants, the challenge of quantifying your experiences as a student, and the age-old question: should you include a cover letter with your job application?  Meg also shares her insight into how to highlight your "secret sauce" in the professional summary to differentiate yourself along with her most important piece of advice for those embarking on their professional journey fresh out of school. Thanks again for listening to "Leaving The Nest." I hope you enjoy my conversation with Meg! Please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just "Leaving The Nest."    In This Episode [00:34] - Kathleen introduces Meg Martin who has over 30 years of HR experience, here to discuss resume and cover letter writing for beginners. [03:34] - Meg shares her passion for helping college students and recent graduates launch their careers. [06:20] - Tips for formatting contact information, including using a city and state for address and creating a professional email address. [08:43] - The importance of checking and maintaining your voicemail for job-related calls. [09:32] - What job seekers can do if they either want a fully remote job or hybrid or can travel. [10:35] - The importance of the professional headline [12:23] - How to highlight your "secret sauce" in the professional summary to differentiate yourself. [13:04] - The importance of aligning your headline and summary with the job you're applying for. [14:17] - The significance of tailoring your resume to demonstrate a deliberate career pivot when necessary. [14:51] - The worst thing a job applicant can do when applying for jobs. [15:33] - Why keywords matter: Meg and Kathleen share some tips to be sure you are including the right ones for your skills and job search.  [18:35] - The importance of aligning skills mentioned in the skills section and the value of illustrating skills through specific examples in the experience section. [19:54] - Outcomes over responsibilities to make a resume more impressive and relatable to hiring managers. [22:01] - How entry-level candidates can quantify their experience from jobs like lifeguarding or restaurant work.  [24:10] - The top request from employers, especially in entry-level positions. [25:08] - What to list in the education section to make your resume stand out (and what to leave out) [26:58] - Exploring non-professional details to include on a resume, such as participation in Greek organizations, unique hobbies (e.g., playing the accordion), and the value of sparking interesting conversations during interviews. [28:56] - Potential resume red flags. [30:52] - The importance of being prepared to discuss everything listed on the resume during an interview—it's okay to bring notes! [31:53] - The true purpose of a cover letter (hint: it's not meant to restate your resume). [34:12] - When including a cover letter can be the difference between a YES or a NO.  [36:03] - Writing effective cover letters that can help you stand out.  [36:57] - Meg offers her most important piece of advice for new job seekers.  [39:24] - You can connect with Meg at HRMeg or reach out to her via LinkedIn.  [41:14] -Thanks again for listening to Leaving the Nest. To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677.   Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast    Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 703-579-6677   Connect with Meg: HRMeg  LinkedIn 

Today, I am joined by Kevin Nunes. With over a decade of experience, Kevin offers valuable insights into the intricate interplay of factors that contribute to a successful career journey. Kevin shares his insights on the significance of taking chances and pursuing your passions, and the crucial role networking can play in opening doors and creating opportunities. Listen in as he shares how to leverage internships and campus involvement to kickstart your career. Plus he offers his valuable insight into the most important attributes hiring managers are seeking in recent college graduates “Leaving The Nest.” Thanks again for listening to "Leaving The Nest." I hope you enjoy my conversation with Kevin! Please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just "Leaving The Nest."    In This Episode [00:33] - Kathleen introduces her guest Kevin Nunes, VP of HR at Quick International, here to discuss his career journey and offer his advice for entry-level job candidates. [01:19] - Kevin introduces himself, and talks about his role at Quick International, and his journey within the company. [02:56] - Kevin discusses his college experience at Quinnipiac University and being a student-athlete. [04:21] - The challenges of time management as a student-athlete and the structure it provided Kevin. [06:39] - Time management advice and comparing college student schedules. [08:20] - Kevin's transition from college to career, starting as an Intern at Learning Dynamics. [09:32] - Kevin explains Learning Dynamics, his internship experience, and the impact on his time management skills. [12:02] - Kevin discusses his internship at Learning Dynamics and the difference between that and his current office job. [13:06] - Kevin shares his thoughts on transitioning from academic settings to professional responsibilities. [14:15] - The learning curve in adulthood and professional development. [15:10] - Kevin discusses the value of professional etiquette and learning from trial and error in the workplace. [16:31] - The importance of diving into learning experiences and mentions the gaps between academic and professional preparation. [17:22] - The real-world skills not typically taught in academia, such as interviewing, conflict resolution, and accountability. [18:07] - Kevin shares an awkward experience with sending a handwritten thank-you note and the importance of being conscious of how you come across. [20:12] - Kathleen emphasizes the value of standing out through memorable actions. [21:37] - Kevin shares how he chose industrial organizational psychology, and how he got involved with Learning Dynamics. [22:11] - Kevin discusses his interest in industrial organizational psychology and networking to secure his internship at Learning Dynamics. [24:31] - Kevin advises listeners to prioritize networking over blindly submitting resumes online for better career prospects. [25:13] - Kathleen discusses the importance of networking and how students sometimes underestimate their existing network. [26:15] - Kevin shares an important point with listeners about the limited differentiating factors in early career stages and the importance of networking and experiences beyond your GPA. [28:41] - “Leaving the Nest”: Kevin shares his gradual transition from college to adulthood, adjusting to a routine, and letting go of certain college habits after starting his first full-time job. [30:23] - Kathleen discusses the challenge of adjusting to a set schedule after the flexibility of college and mentions her experience hiring recent grads who struggle with the change. [31:23] - Kevin explains his current role as responsible for the HR function at Quick International Courier, which operates in multiple countries, and highlights the complexity of managing HR across different locations. [33:20] - Kevin acknowledges the challenges of working in a large company but also appreciates the opportunities for growth and making a significant impact in a more decentralized organization. [34:46] - Kevin contrasts the stereotypical processes of large companies with his experience at KN, where he's had the opportunity to contribute and make a name for himself. [36:04] - Kathleen congratulates Kevin on his almost twelve-year tenure at KN and inquires about his career growth within the company. [36:38] - Kevin reflects on his journey of working his way up at KN and shares the contributing factors.   [38:48] - Kevin shares a poignant story about how a role he currently holds became available due to unforeseen circumstances and highlights the role that luck has played in his career path. [40:49] - Kathleen reflects on the unpredictable nature of career paths and how various factors often come together to shape one's journey. [41:38] - The attributes and qualifications Kevin looks for when hiring entry-level candidates for HR and talent acquisition roles. [42:06] - Kevin emphasizes the importance of behaviors and character in entry-level hires and how to develop the desired behaviors a job candidate needs. [42:58] - Kevin shares some specific scenarios where behaviors and character traits play a significant role in evaluating candidates' suitability for a role. [43:30] - Kevin shares his advice for interviews and the importance of providing specific examples from past experiences, that showcase a positive attitude and energy. [43:51] - Kathleen shares her insight into what might tip your hand in an interview if you lack experience. [44:26] - Kevin emphasizes the importance of avoiding societal pressures in career choices, highlighting the importance of knowing your true career goals and balancing your professional ambitions with other life priorities. [46:06] - The less glamorous aspects of growing your career.  [47:43] - Kevin talks about the importance of grit, and staying focused in the face of setbacks. [48:35] - The realities of career paths and social media portrayals.  [49:07] - You can connect with Kevin on LinkedIn where he welcomes connection requests and messages from professionals seeking advice or networking opportunities. [49:58] - Thanks again for listening to Leaving the Nest. To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677.   Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast    Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 703-579-6677   Connect with Kevin: LinkedIn

Today, I am joined by Philip Wilkerson, a career advisor and host of the "Positive Philter" podcast.  Phil shares his insights and strategies on personal branding, networking, and building meaningful connections. Listen in as he shares his practical tips for networking effectively and promoting yourself in the digital space through aligning your personal brand with who you truly are and how to use the power of consistency and leveraging your stories to build your brand reputation. Plus, Phil shares his most important advice for recent college graduates “Leaving the Nest.” Thanks again for listening to "Leaving The Nest." I hope you enjoy my conversation with Phil! Please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just "Leaving the Nest."  In This Episode [00:33] - Kathleen introduces listeners to Phil Wilkerson. Phil is here today to share his valuable advice on building your own brand, effective networking, and relationship-building. [01:18] - Phil shares his college journey and how he navigated his career path, from being uncertain in college to finding his passion. [04:22] - The one thing in Phil's background that sparked his interest in education and his decision to pursue school counseling at George Mason University. [04:49] - Phil's decision to switch from the school counseling track to the community agency track and the one thing that changed his perspective. [06:49] - Phil's journey after graduation and a return to George Mason University. [09:10] - The importance of maintaining relationships: how Phil's connection with the staff at George Mason University led to a job opportunity. [08:11] - Importance of networking and building relationships, not just for transactional purposes but as an opportunity to create genuine connections based on shared interests. [08:39] - Networking is a long-term game where opportunities arise organically. Phil shares his best networking tips and where you should put your focus.  [11:44] - Networking is a two-way street; what you should focus on to expand your network.  [13:12] - Follow-up and staying in touch: the who, what, when, and where of reaching out.  [15:23] - Balancing virtual and in-person engagement for networking success. Phil shares his strategies to leverage online platforms like LinkedIn, LinkedIn audio events, Twitter chats, and Instagram hashtags to connect with professionals virtually. [17:47] - Utilizing LinkedIn's features to make a memorable impression.  [19:26] - How to avoid paralysis by analysis. Putting your best foot forward and showcasing yourself is essential, but excessive rehearsing and perfecting may hinder finding a balance that works for you. [20:47] - Phil shares the key to building confidence and improving networking skills.  [24:04] - The skills networking helped you develop that you might not have thought about before.  [24:24] - What goes into building YOUR personal 'Coca-Cola style' brand? [25:01] - Presenting yourself to the world: the importance of brand alignment. [26:44] - How brand alignment helps others connect with you AND builds trust.  [28:04] - How embracing authenticity and consistency in personal branding, even on off days, helps build a solid reputation. [28:39] - Strategies small and medium-sized businesses can implement to build their brand on campus, get their name out there, and reach up-and-coming talent and recent grads looking for entry-level jobs. [31:34] - A behind-the-scenes look at how Phil started the "Random Rambles of Philip Wilkerson" in his car, which eventually led him to discover podcasting and launch the "Positive Philter." [33:40] - Philip's number one piece of advice for someone just leaving the nest to leverage the experiences and journeys of others who have achieved what you aspire to. [37:43] - Phil's challenge for Kathleen.  [38:28] - Philip can be found on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter for his podcast, the "Positive Philter." [39:52] - Thanks again for listening to Leaving the Nest. To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677. Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast  Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 703-579-6677 Connect with Phil: LinkedIn  "Positive Philter"

Today, I am joined by Robert Harris, a local Talent Acquisition Specialist at Euclid Systems Corporation.    Robert shares his wealth of experience and insights into the world of career development and finding purpose in one's work.  Listen in as he shares his education and career journey and how his love for basketball has played into his leadership roles in college and his career. He discusses how to stand out in the job market, nurture your passions, and keep dreaming big while building a game plan for success.  Plus, he shares his most important advice for anyone graduating college and Leaving the Nest on the power of pursuing what you love to find fulfillment in your professional life and unlock your true potential to achieve greatness in any field. Thanks again for listening to "Leaving The Nest." I hope you enjoy my conversation with Robert! Please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just Leaving the Nest.  In This Episode [00:32] - Kathleen introduces us to her guest, Robert Harris, a local Talent Acquisition Specialist, and the episode will focus on the importance of doing what you love and being passionate about work. [01:42] - Robert introduces himself and shares his background, including his basketball prowess.   [02:08] - The call Robert received that took him back to Shenandoah University, the role he played there, and how he got his start in recruiting.  [03:58] - The significant role basketball played in Rober's career path. [04:30] - Robert's big advice to anybody headed to college. [05:55] - Robert emphasizes the importance of doing what you love and finding excitement in your daily life. [06:10] - The need for personalized guidance and conversations about a student's interests and passions. [06:49] - Robert encourages pursuing unique talents and incorporating them into academic pursuits, sharing his experience as a basketball coach. [07:26] - Robert highlights his involvement in sports marketing and promotions, implementing Division One-level strategies at the Division Three level. [08:41] - Robert discusses his roles as an Athletic Director, Director of Basketball Operations, and Job Coach and how those roles serve his passion for coaching and developing people. [10:04] - Robert discusses his career transitions and his desire to expand his horizons by always being open to the next challenge.  [12:01] - The question of balancing academics, athletics, and counseling and the importance of doing what you love and finding joy in the activities. [13:51] - Robert describes how understanding goals and problem-solving were simplified by his mathematical background, which he carried into his career. [14:40] - Overcoming the daunting aspects of balancing academics and parental expectations, how Robert persevered and achieved his goals. [14:55] - Kathleen acknowledges the pattern in Robert's career— each job had its own niche but shared similarities.  [16:39] - Robert highlights the need to understand and adapt to each individual's diverse characteristics and skill sets to motivate and guide them effectively, drawing parallels to coaching basketball. [17:17] - Where true leaders find success.  [17:57] - Why working with people is the best (and worst). [18:56] - How you can be a part of doing something you love, even if you lack the necessary skills. [20:04] - Every job has something you don't like, but knowing your why helps.  [21:54] - Robert discusses his son's passion for basketball and explores alternative career paths within the sports industry that would allow him to stay involved in what he loves. [22:54] - Success is achieved by planning and taking steps towards your goals. [23:43] - Robert admits he's not a big risk taker; having a game plan is crucial. [24:06] - Robert shares the importance of dreaming with people who believe in you in moving forward with determination towards your dreams.  [24:29] - Robert stresses the significance of putting your plans down on paper for purpose and direction. [24:49] - Kathleen shares the importance of having the right kind of energy around you.  [25:49] - Robert uses LeBron James as an example to explore the meaning of "working hard" and emphasizes the importance of dedication and mastering tasks. [28:20] - More than merely graduating from education is needed; one must strive to improve and enhance their skills. [28:58 - How to make your learning curve to success shorter.  [29:52] - Robert shares the advice he would offer if he were standing in front of the students graduating from Shenandoah who are about to leave the nest and start their careers.  [31:06] - Robert loves to help people and support their dreams; if you would like to get in touch with Robert, you can find him on LinkedIn. [31:49] - Thanks again for listening to Leaving the Nest. To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, feel free to give Kathleen a call at 703-579-6677. Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast  Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 703-579-6677 Connect with Robert: LinkedIn  Euclid Systems Corporation   

Today, I am joined by Claire Shriver, an Early Talent Recruiter with Lenovo. We delve into the world of job hunting, recruiting, and finding the perfect fit. Claire brings her expertise and insights from her experience in the field, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs faced by both job seekers and recruiters. Claire shares her personal journey of landing her current role and emphasizes the significance of finding the right job rather than settling for just any opportunity. Listen in for valuable tips for candidates to make a lasting impression during their screening calls and interviews. We also discuss the importance of perseverance, staying positive, and networking during the job search process, and share some inspiring stories, too. Thanks again for listening to "Leaving The Nest." I hope you enjoy my conversation with Claire! Please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just Leaving the Nest.  In This Episode [00:32] - Kathleen introduces Claire Shriver. She shares her journey as a recent college graduate and the challenges she faced in finding her first job. [01:38] - Claire introduces herself as an Early Talent Recruiter at Lenovo and shares her love for cooking and being a group fitness instructor. [02:29] - Claire talks about her experience at the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, her participation in Greek life, and various clubs and organizations. [03:17] - Claire shares the challenges she faced during her junior year and the disruption caused by COVID-19 during her junior year, and the unique living experience she had in her senior year. [05:19] - There's a “One Tree Hill Connection”—Claire reveals her involvement in volunteering at “One Tree Hill” conventions in Wilmington and which cast members she knows personally.  [09:28] - Choosing Communications: Claire explains her decision to study communications as her major and shares who she credits for guiding her in the right career direction. [11:29] - Kathleen discusses the significance of communications as a major, highlighting its relevance in various job sectors such as writing, website development, and marketing.  [12:27] - Claire shares her experience of having an internship at Wake Forest during her sophomore year, the crucial role it played in shaping her path to recruiting consulting and her connection to  Stuart Mease, the Director of North Carolina Operations at ROCS. [17:18] - Claire shares her struggles of finding her first job after “leaving the nest.” [18:17] - Claire discusses her job application process, how many jobs she applied for, and the advice Stuart gave her for keeping track of her applications.   [20:01] - Claire reflects on the struggles of the job search and offers her advice for students embroiled in the search right now.  [22:03] - Kathleen commends Claire for delivering an important message to recent graduates, emphasizing the need for patience and positivity.  [22:26] - Claire shares the process of finding her current job at Lenovo, emphasizing the importance of networking [23:50] - Claire describes her job and the ways in which it suits her personality. [25:43] - Kathleen expresses her happiness for Claire's success in finding the right job and praises her for not settling for a role that didn't feel right. She discusses the balance between being picky and keeping an open mind in the job search, highlighting the importance of finding the right fit for long-term career growth. Kathleen acknowledges the significance of networking and connections in Claire's career journey and suggests discussing these topics in future conversations. [26:23] - Kathleen notes that each recruiter has their own preferences and interview style and offers her advice to job seekers during their interviews.  [27:58] - Claire explains her role as a non-technical recruiter on a small team at Lenovo, describing the fast-paced nature of her work and the experience of recruiting for multiple positions simultaneously, and the opportunity to contribute to the overall recruitment process. [30:17] - Kathleen discusses the different aspects of recruiting between her and Claire, highlighting that Claire recruits for her team while Kathleen recruits for multiple companies and entry-level jobs.  [31:01] - Claire explains her screening process when speaking to candidates and how she helps them prepare for the next stage of the interview process. . [33:13] - Claire mentions her instincts in evaluating candidates during the screening process, what she is paying attention to from the candidate's communication skills, and signals that indicate a candidate might not be a good fit for the team or the company. [34:06] - Kathleen emphasizes the importance of taking each step seriously as a job seeker and what you should strive for in a balanced conversation with a recruiter. Plus, her advice on what she believes will lead to a successful outcome. [35:01] - If you want to get in touch with Claire, you can find her on LinkedIn or feel free to email her. [36:56] - Thanks again for listening to Leaving the Nest. To find your next job, visit us at ROCS Grad Staffing. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, feel free to give Kathleen a call at 703-579-6677. Resources: Episode 29: Introducing Stuart Mease our new Director of North Carolina Operations ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast  Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 703-579-6677 Connect with Claire: LinkedIn cshriver@lenovo.com

In our last episode, we talked to John Ragano of SWBC Mortgage to discuss financing a home. Today, I am joined by Sydney Beckman, Realtor at Jennifer Mack Properties of eXp Realty, to discuss the process of finding and buying your first home.   From your buyer's consultation to finding “the one” and finally making an offer, Sydney shares the ins and outs of buying your first home. Sydney explains the first thing you need to do before starting your home search and the steps you can take to ensure a smoother transaction.  Plus, why it's essential to work with a trusted real estate agent who can guide you through the process and help you make informed decisions.  Listen in to learn the most important factors to consider when searching for your dream home, what to know about new construction, why you shouldn't skip the home inspection, and more!  Interested in Real Estate as a career? Sydney shares the process of becoming an agent and the skills required to succeed.  Buying your first home can be a complex process, but with Sydney's guidance, you'll have the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions and navigate the journey with confidence. Thanks again for listening to "Leaving The Nest." I hope you enjoy my conversation with Sydney! Please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just Leaving the Nest.    In This Episode [00:32] - Kathleen welcomes Sydney Beckman, a Realtor from Jennifer Mack Properties of eXp Realty, to discuss the house-hunting process today. [01:48] - Sydney introduces herself and mentions that her team covers Northern Virginia, Maryland, and West Virginia [03:02] - The first step for first-time home buyers who want to work with a realtor. [05:04] - Sydney walks us through her buyer consult with every new client, where they discuss budget, location, size and qualities to look for in a house [06:41] - Sydney reveals a crucial aspect of working with first-time homebuyers: managing their expectations and how she guides them toward finding their dream home. [07:54] - Sydney's recommendations to buyers to help them get a better understanding of what they want. [09:26] - The benefits of going to open houses. [10:54] - What you can and (probably) cannot change—Sydney shares the dos and don'ts of house hunting and the most important things to consider that will help you find the right house for you. [13:19] - Kathleen shares her love for watching Fixer Upper with Joanna Gaines and how it relates to house-hunting [13:38] - Kathleen discusses how buyers often miss little details during showings. Sydney offers her advice for going through things in detail—especially approximately how long you should spend with a home inspector at the house.  [15:14] - Don't rely on Zillow— how to really get the inside scoop on houses in your price range that will be coming up for sale (especially in this low inventory market). [16:33] - Ready to buy? Sydney talks about what goes into making the right offer, the process of putting an offer on the house, and how to strategize the offer price based on the market and other factors. [18:16] - Kathleen talks about the importance of finding a trusted realtor and the one piece of advice she has for first-time home buyers.  [19:18] - There's a house for everyone—Sydney recounts an experience with clients who initially were only looking at resale houses but ended up finding their dream home in new construction within their budget. [19:56] - Kathleen talks about how she and Jason also wanted new construction, but the prices often skyrocket with added features. [21:39] - The inside scoop on new construction: Sydney shares her own experience of finding and purchasing a new construction home and the process of selecting a lot and model, plus what to be mindful of.  [25:33] - Knowing the players involved in your real estate transaction and what happens before you receive the keys.  [26:37] - Putting your trust in your realtor for more than just finding your dream home—how to work with them to line up the other professionals you need to get the deal done.  [27:55] - The importance of using local lenders and title companies. [30:21] - Thinking of a career in real estate? Sydney talks about becoming a realtor, the skills (and flexibility) required for the position, and her favorite part of the job. [34:21] -If you'd like to work with Sydney, you can contact her via her profile  or find her on Instagram!  [34:48] - To find your next job, visit us at ROCSjobs.com. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please call Kathleen at 703-579-6677.   Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast    Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 703-579-6677   Connect with Sydney: Sydney's Website  Instagram LinkedIn  

Today, I am joined by John Ragano of SWBC Mortgage to discuss the process of buying a home.   From credit management to down payments to financing options, John shares the ins and outs of buying a home and how to make informed decisions about your finances. He offers his expert insights on the current state of the housing market, the benefits of homeownership, and how to navigate the home-buying process as a first-time homebuyer.  Listen in as John shares the importance of understanding your options when it comes to financing your home, including down payment assistance programs, and low down payment loans. Plus, he offers his advice for those struggling with their credit on improving their score and qualifying for better loan options. Thanks again for listening to "Leaving The Nest." I hope you enjoy my conversation with John! Please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just Leaving the Nest.    In This Episode: [00:32] - Kathleen introduces the topic of buying your first home. She welcomes John Ragano  of SWBC Mortgage as her guest in part one of this two-parter to discuss the financial aspects and things to consider when buying your first home.  [02:03] - John Ragano introduces himself and his 30 years of experience in the mortgage business, including his background working for credit bureaus and how credit scoring has become crucial in personal finances. [03:26] - John discusses the importance of income and credit in home-buying (especially for recent graduates with student loans and the ease of getting credit cards). He offers advice for managing credit to the debt-to-income ratio when calculating affordability. [06:58] - John suggests parents can help their children build credit by adding them as authorized users on their credit card accounts. [07:52] - Kathleen shares her personal experience with credit cards. [08:57] - John applauds Kathleen's responsible behavior, discussing the importance of understanding credit and being responsible when using it. [12:00] - Kathleen discusses the importance of using credit cards instead of debit cards to prevent fraud and build credit. [13:22] - John suggests starting with a small credit limit and paying off the balance monthly to build credit. [14:10] - The difference between Credit Karma scores and the credit score modeling used in the mortgage industry. [15:15] - John explains the credit scores provided by Credit Karma and the credit bureau are different from the credit score modeling used in the mortgage industry and what they look for. [17:03] - John explains why credit scores can differ from bureau to bureau. [17:41] - John discusses why Credit Karma and other consumer-based credit scoring companies can differ significantly from other scoring methods. [18:34] - Why simply making payments on time is not enough—maxed-out accounts can hurt credit scores even if payments are made on time. [19:29] - Properly assessing risk and its impact on credit scores. [22:51] - Getting pre-approved for a mortgage: gathering information on your financial situation before proceeding with the pre-approval process. [25:31] - John shares the factors affecting a homebuyer's down payment. [27:23] - Making a budget you can live with—it's not just about how much you can qualify for. [29:57] - How the pre-approval process can help first-time homebuyers determine the price range they can afford so they can work with an agent to help them find properties that fit their budget and preferences. [31:40] - A good investment opportunity; consider the potential rental income when purchasing a home. [35:10] - John talks about the different types of loans available for home buyers, the down payment options, and the various down payment assistance programs offered by different states. [37:09] - John advises listeners to speak with a lender to learn about the costs and qualifications for buying a home and be bold and ask questions about the process. [38:33] - John emphasizes the importance of not buying into the noise and not being intimidated by the process. He shares that helping first-time home buyers is the most rewarding part of his job. [39:58] - Kathleen shares the importance of using resources to achieve goals and encourages listeners to contact John if they have any questions. [41:32]  - John adds that people who have had credit issues in the past can also talk to a lender and build a plan to improve their credit score instead of trying to fix credit on their own, as lenders have models that can help facilitate a better program. [42:47] - To find your next job, visit us online at rocsjobs.com. If you are a business in need of help staffing entry-level positions in your office, please reach out to Kathleen directly at Kathleen@rocsjobs.com. if you have any comments, questions, or suggestions. Feel free to give Kathleen a call at 703-579-6677.   Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast    Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 703-579-6677   Connect with John: John Ragano | SWBC Mortgage  SWBC Mortgage

Today, I am joined by Stephanie Baker, Chief Experience Officer at WAEPA. Stephanie has extensive experience in hiring entry-level professionals and mentoring individuals in their careers. In this episode, Stephanie shares her tips for recent graduates on how to stand out in the job market and what employers look for when hiring entry-level professionals. Listen in to hear Stephanie's valuable insight on how to make your resume stand out, what details employers are looking for during the interview process, why it's essential to stay humble even after getting hired, and the benefits of having a mentor in your professional life. Stephanie also discusses her involvement with Chief, a private membership network for women executive leaders. Thanks again for listening to "Leaving The Nest." I hope you enjoy my conversation with Stephanie! Please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just Leaving the Nest. In This Episode: [00:34] - Kathleen introduces Stephanie Baker, Chief Experience Officer at WAEPA, who will share her journey and discuss her perspective as a hiring manager. [01:34] - Stephanie introduces herself as the (at the time of recording) Senior Vice President of Member Services at WAEPA and shares that she is originally from Connecticut but moved to Maryland 20 years ago. [03:30] - Stephanie talks about her own experience "Leaving the Nest" and talks about starting her career at Fidelity and Guaranty Life Insurance as an Account Representative, then being promoted to team lead and manager. [04:16] - Stephanie shares what she enjoyed most about beginning her career after college. [06:00] - Stephanie discusses her promotion to Vice President of Insurance Services at Baltimore Life Insurance Company, which included responsibility for new business and customer service and being customer-facing. [07:50] -Stephanie shares her advice for new graduates entering the workforce.  [09:15] - Stephanie elaborates on the importance of asking questions and ways new hires can show commitment and flexibility. [10:11] - Stephanie shares what you should look for in a mentor, her experience of finding hers, and how a mentor can help you see things differently. [13:01] - Kathleen highlights the importance of learning from peers and emphasizes that building a relationship with a mentor can benefit both parties. [14:02] - Stephanie explains that WAEPA is a nonprofit organization that provides group life and term insurance to civilian, federal, and rural employees and offers additional services such as financial workshops to its members [15:57] - Stephanie shares her day-to-day role at WAEPA and their success in hiring candidates from ROCS. [18:03] - Stephanie shares that they are currently recruiting for a Membership Services Representative and shares why being eager to learn, punctual, and having a clear idea of their desired career path is the key to securing their desired position. [20:38] - Kathleen shares her take on the importance of punctuality in the workplace. [21:14] - Stephanie shares a personal experience that taught her the importance of punctuality and committing fully to work. [24:13] - Stephanie shares what she looks for when reviewing resumes, including how she handles gaps in employment or job hopping. She also offers us the most important question she asks during interviews.   [26:02] - Stephanie explains how she opens up interviews to build instant rapport while also allowing her to learn more about the candidate as an individual. [26:57] - What qualities does Stephanie look for in an entry-level hire? [29:14] - The importance of discerning the reason for new employee's questions to ensure that that training is thorough and provides an understanding of roles. [31:06] - Stephanie advises that one should always be prepared for opportunities and view every step as an audition for both the individual and the organization. [31:34] - Stephanie shares information about Chief, a private membership network connecting and supporting women executive leaders through a personal board of advisors and access to business experts and programming, with an annual cost and sponsorship options for women at the vice president or above level. [34:33] - Stephanie shares her biggest piece of advice for young professionals starting their careers and emphasizes the importance of seeking out a mentor and also being a mentor as you progress in your career because it's important to give back and help the next person, and as a leader, grooming the next person to take your place is crucial. [37:01] - Stephanie shares an example of how her mentor worked in her life to help her learn in her career and what that experience taught her.  [39:35] - You can connect with Stephanie on LinkedIn. Resources: Chief WAEPA  ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast    Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 703-579-6677   Connect with Stephanie: LinkedIn

Today, I am joined by my colleague, Joanie Belo. Although this episode was recorded in 2022 and has been in production for some time, I'm thrilled to share Joanie's journey with you.  In this episode, Joanie takes us through her journey from Virginia Tech to becoming an Entry-Level Recruiter at ROCS, where she now holds the title of Recruiting Manager.  She offers us a behind-the-scenes look at her initial expectations versus the reality of the job and how she learned to navigate the unpredictable but fulfilling nature of the work.  We'll dive into Joanie's experience starting her career at ROCS, her transition from remote work to a hybrid schedule, and the biggest challenge that most recent graduates face when navigating the real world.  Listen in to hear Joanie's valuable insight and advice and get a glimpse into the dynamic world of staffing–especially if you're looking to start a career in the industry. Thanks again for listening to “Leaving The Nest.” I hope you enjoy my conversation with Joanie.  Please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just Leaving the Nest.   In This Episode: [02:20] - We're introduced to our guest, Joanie Belo. [02:47] - Joanie shares her journey to Virginia Tech and Human Resources. [05:44] - Joanie shares the three main classes she took in the Human Resources field at VT and the one that sparked her interest in talent acquisition. [08:36] - Joanie shares the one club she stuck with that helped her give back and the one that gave her a whole new view.  [09:41] - The growing pains Joanie experienced in her transition to the "real world." [12:48] - How her friends and family showed up for her as she navigated her next move out of college.  [15:57] - Why connections matter—how Joanie found her future at ROCS. [18:36] - Joanie shares why she loves the ROCS hybrid work setup.  [21:18] - The rewards, challenges, and dynamic nature of recruiting from Joanie's experience. [23:22] - How supportive colleagues and trainers helped Joanie learn how to conduct interviews and pitch jobs. [25:33] - The requirements for recruiters to understand the job and candidate at an entry-level staffing firm like ROCS (and the story of Joanie's first placement). [26:23] - Joanie shares what she finds most rewarding about recruiting.  [27:31] - The advice Joanie received as she transitioned into account management with ROCS and the benefits of seeing the recruiting BIG PICTURE. [29:27] - The natural progression from recruiting to sales. [30:05] - Joanie shares her two favorite ROCS memories so far.  [32:32] - Joanie shares her biggest piece of advice for someone interested in the staffing industry. [34:38] - How to get in touch with Joanie.  Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast    Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 703-579-6677   Connect with Joanie: Joanie@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn

Introducing Stuart Mease Hey, everyone! Welcome back to another episode of Leaving The Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino, from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world.  As we continue to move further into the new year of 2023 and the post-pandemic era, it has become increasingly apparent that there have been significant shifts in the realm of college recruiting and staffing.  With the rapidly evolving nature of the job market, companies and job seekers must stay updated on the latest trends to stay competitive. ROCS is increasing our staff and expanding our markets to help clients and candidates navigate these dynamic and evolving times. Today, I have Stuart Mease with me, who has recently joined the ROCS team as the Director of North Carolina Operations. With a wealth of experience in the private, government and higher education sectors, Stuart brings with him a deep passion for helping recent graduates connect with employers. I'm excited to have him on the show so our listeners can learn more about his story as he shares his knowledge with us. Thanks again for listening to Leaving The Nest! Be sure to leave us a review wherever you are listening and to share this episode with others you know who are just leaving the nest! Enjoy my conversation with Stuart!   In This Episode: [2:13] - We're introduced to our guest, Stuart Mease.  [4:32] - Stuart shares the reasoning behind his sports analogies.  [5:14] - We hear about Stuart's experience "Leaving the Nest." [5:46] - Stuart shares how his educational foundation and experience prepared him for his role as the Director of North Carolina Operations for ROCS.  [8:28] - How seeing young people struggle to select a valuable educational path fueled Stuart's passion for college recruiting.    [09:59] - Stuart recounts the origin of the reverse job fair at Virginia Tech, where students were the ones in the booths rather than employers. [13:25] - Stuart offers his perspective on how important it is for students to make informed decisions about their majors, increase their chances for success (and decrease their chances of being underemployed). [17:20] - How guidance from people who have already navigated the college major selection process can be incredibly valuable for those currently making the same choices. [18:19] - Stuart reflects on his time at Virginia Tech.  [23:12] - Stuart recounts the amusing story of his first meeting with Tom and Brandon of ROCS. [27:26] - The delight in witnessing the achievements of those we have known for a long time. For Stuart, this is especially true for the students he works with.  [29:12] - Stuart shares the behind-the-scenes of his move into the staffing industry and the crucial knowledge he has acquired during the process. [30:38] The three main areas Stuart is focused on for growth at ROCS. [32:02] -The post-pandemic disruption in college recruiting and how he's using his position at ROCS to help level the playing field for small and medium-sized businesses.   [34:18] - How ROCS is uniquely positioned to help clients and candidates navigate these dynamic and evolving times. [36:42] - Stuart shares his interests outside of work. [37:59] - Sharing some of his favorite ROCS memories so far, Stuart recounts his experiences and shares why everyone loves it when he visits the ROCS HQ. [41:18] - Stuart lets us know how we can connect with him, and Kathleen wraps up the conversation.  Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast    Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 703-579-6677   Connect with Stuart: stuart@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn

New Year, New Job with Kristen Reed Hey, everyone! Welcome back to another episode of Leaving The Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino, from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world.  It's a new year, the perfect time for a new job and a fresh start. But during challenging times, it can be harder than ever to stand out in a saturated market, especially when you only have a few seconds to make a strong impression. It's important to be creative and find ways to catch the eye of the employer amongst the other applicants.  Today, I am joined by Kristen Reed, a marketing professional in the Fredericksburg area and a former employee of Job.com. She's here to help me shed some light on what job searching looks like in January and what it takes to succeed.  We'll discuss ways to customize your resume and cover letter and quantify your experience with rock-solid examples of your contributions. She'll share both the good and bad news of starting a job search in the new year,  examples of mistakes job seekers often make and the importance of personal branding in the digital age.  Thanks again for listening to Leaving The Nest. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Kristen.  Please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just Leaving the Nest. We wish you all a happy holiday season and a wonderful New Year!    In This Episode: [01:33] – We're introduced to our guest, Kristen Reed.  [02:17] – Kristen shares her experience as a student-athlete at WVU and how it helped develop her work ethic. [04:25] – Kathleen and Kristen share why the new year is an excellent time for new hobbies.  [05:15] – We hear about Kristen's challenging experience Leaving the Nest. [06:21] – Kristen shares why referrals are still the primary source for finding the right job.   [07:09] – We hear from Kristen about her job search in the age of the fax machine.  [09:47] – Kristen shares her experience working at Job.com during a recession.  [11:38] – How job seekers can help themselves stand out during a challenging hiring economy.  [12:55] – Out of desperation, the gig economy and billboard resumes were born.  [14:09] – Kristen shares the most critical aspects to focus on when searching for a job.  [18:10] – The difference between finding a job in the 2008 recession and today. [19:13] – Finding a job in the age of personal branding.  [20:14] – How COVID-19 opened up more options. [21:21] – How the core aspects of job searching have stayed the same.  [22:02] – How technology has sped up the hiring process and why it's crucial for job seekers to be ready to make decisions more quickly, just as employers are.  [24:06] – Kristen shares what job searching looks like as we tiptoe into a fresh new year.  [27:11] – It's still a numbers game: why you don't want to lose momentum in your job search. [28:11] – Kristen shares what she's up to now.  [30:02] – Kristen shares her one piece of advice for someone looking for their 1st job out of school. [31:12] – Kristen shares some important advice from Gary Vaynerchuk.    Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast    Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  Call: 703-579-6677   Connect with Kristen: LinkedIn Kristen Reed - Simpatico Design Studio   

ROCS a Year in Review: 2022 Hey, everyone! Welcome back to another episode of Leaving The Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino, from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world.  Today, my guest is a colleague and a friend, Abby Atwater, a member of our recruiting team, and she's here to help me share some of the highlights of 2022 and shed a bit more light on who we are behind the scenes here at ROCS. As a team, we accomplished so much this year and we'll be sure to continue that momentum going into 2023. We're continuing to grow and are always on the hunt for new ROCStars to join us in our mission. Aside from work, we got to celebrate growing families, weddings, new pets and new addresses!  Thanks again for listening to Leaving The Nest, I hope you enjoy my conversation with Abby! Please leave us a review wherever you are listening and share this episode with others you know who are just leaving the nest or are starting one of their own. We wish you all a happy holiday season and a wonderful New Year!    In This Episode: [01:27] – Abby Atwater introduces herself and tells us how she came to be a member of the ROCS team.  [02:01] – An exciting honor for Q1: The ROCS team was named one of the best staffing firms to work for by the Staffing Industry Analysts (SIA). [02:38] – Abby shares what it was like to welcome others to the team at ROCS.  [05:16] – Sharing the growth of ROCS to over 20 people. [06:10] – Recalling the annual March madness challenge and a shout-out to the winners. [09:55] – ROCS staffing and social media sharing.  [10:38] – Kathleen shares her special announcement from Q1 2022 and the reactions of her coworkers.  [11:21] – How Family Feud plays into the ROCS culture (and a behind-the-scenes look at how they determine who gets to play host).  [14:58] – Abby shares highlights from her first in-person career fair at George Mason in Q2.  [15:57] – How the career fair helped build the ROCS team. [17:47] – Highlighting the growing fur families of ROCS during Q2. [19:32] – Celebrating the Moxie Award 2022 and a top five showing for one of the best places to work in Greater Washington in 2022 from the  Washington Business Journal.  [20:19] – Kathleen shares about launching the ROCS Blog.   [21:57] – ROCS: getting together and giving back through Food for Others. [24:59] – Kathleen shares a funny story about an explosion at the food distribution center. [29:08] – Cheering team members on as they did a 5K for The Arc of Virginia (and Tom's first-place WIN amongst the ROCS team.      [31:24] – Abby introduces us to Panini, her puppy, and shares details about her nuptials in July 2022.  [34:23] – Post-Covid: celebrating weddings and more for the team. [35:51] – Stuart joined the team as the Director of North Carolina Operations in Winston-Salem, NC, doubling ROCS' exposure. [37:56] – Baby shower time for Kathleen and the birth of McKenna. [40:31] – Kathleen shares the story of ending up in the ICU and how the ROCS team rallied around her.   [41:38] – Showing up and showing team spirit at the  The Ballpark Loudoun.  [45:17] – Kathleen and Abby share some ideas for relieving workday stress.  [45:51] – Kathleen shares how they celebrated the first anniversary of the Leaving the Nest podcast.  [46:23] – Abby shares the celebration of her first ROCSiversary and reflects on where she is a year in.  [45:17] – Kathleen and Abby share some ideas for relieving workday stress.  [45:51] – Kathleen shares how they celebrated the first anniversary of the Leaving the Nest podcast.  [46:23] – Abby shares the celebration of her first ROCSiversary and reflects on where she is a year in.  [47:30] – Sharing the ROCS Recruiting Outlook for 2023 Webinar.   [49:20] – A shout-out for the support for Kathleen's maternity leave and Jessica's baby shower. [52:21] – Puppy playdates and a photo shoot for Muffin the ROCS Swag Model.  [52:54] – Sharing the stories of Q4, the ROCS Holiday Celebration Olympics, and the white elephant gift exchange.  [57:57] – A company milestone: putting the core values of ROCS on paper.  [59:02] – Sharing a shout-out to our clients, those who've been with us awhile, and those who just joined us.  [60:06] – Thank you to our listeners and everyone who has tuned into Leaving the Nest podcast. [61:52] – Abby shares her New Year's resolutions for 2023.   [63:58] – Kathleen shares her New Year's resolutions for 2023.   [67:41] – The details on how to connect with Abby.    Resources: ROCS Recruiting Outlook for 2023 Webinar ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast    Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleenpellegrino/ Call: 703-579-6677   Connect with Abby: Email: Abby@rocsjobs.com 

College Grad Career Job Search Tips: The Power of Internships with Kyler Zampiello Hey, everyone! Welcome back to another episode of Leaving The Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world. Today, I have Kyler Zampiello who is so energetic, bubbly, and so much fun to talk to. I'm glad you're listening in today to hear her story. Kyler went to James Madison and had lined up multiple internships during her time there. She was a student-athlete then and now she's working as the Director of Recruitment for Northwestern Mutual in Reston, Virginia. Thanks again for listening to Leaving The Nest! Be sure to leave us a review wherever you are listening and to share this episode with others you know who are just leaving the nest or perhaps are starting one of their own. Enjoy my conversation with Kyler! In This Episode: [1:17] – Kyler Zampiello introduces herself and tells us her elevator pitch about her life. [3:09] – How much of Kyler's family went to JMU and did this influence her decision on going? [6:06] – Kyler answers if she would get the same degree if she could go back to college.  [6:45] – This is what being a student-athlete was really like, according to Kyler. [9:39] – Did Kyler feel overwhelmed with everything she had going on in college?  [11:06] – The transition from undergrad to graduate school. [13:49] – The search for internships during the summer of 2020 right after the worldwide COVID-19 lockdowns. [17:04] – Kyler explains how she found a full-time opportunity.  [18:15] – This is how Kyler used LinkedIn to make herself relevant during her job search. [20:43] – The biggest takeaway from her interview, according to Kyler. [23:00] – We hear about Kyler's internship at Northwestern Mutual. [24:59] – What made Kyler decide to stay with Northwestern Mutual after her internship? [27:11] – This is what Kyler's day-to-day work life looks like. [30:23] – What does Kyler miss most about leaving college life after leaving the nest? [33:00] – Kyler shares the advice she would give to recent college grads and student-athletes. [35:50] – This is how we can contact Kyler. Connect with Kyler: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyler-zampiello/ Connect with the ROCS Grad Staffing Team: Visit our Website: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast  Give us a call at: 703-579-6677 Send us an email: info@rocsjobs.com Check us out on social: ROCS Facebook Page ROCS on Instagram ROCS Grad Staffing LinkedIn Company Page Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 703-579-6677

Relationship Building with Meredith Leutbecker Hey, everyone! Welcome back to another episode of Leaving The Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world.  Today, I have with me Meredith Leutbecker who is someone I met a few years ago and we've stayed in touch ever since. She also has a passion for helping recent college grads navigate early adulthood. She remembers what her experience was like and talks a lot about building relationships, being true to yourself in interviews, and what you can bring to the table.  I know you'll find Meredith charming, intelligent, and super relatable and I can't wait for you to hear more about her experience leaving the nest.   Thanks again for listening to Leaving The Nest! Be sure to leave us a review wherever you are listening and to share this episode with others you know who are just leaving the nest or perhaps are starting one of their own. Enjoy my conversation with Meredith! In This Episode: [1:44] – We're introduced to today's guest, Meredith Leutbecker.  [3:00] – Meredith walks us through her time at VCU and how she found her true self.  [4:30] – How did Meredith manage the workload on the path to graduating early? [6:30] – This is what drove Meredith to take ballet on top of everything else at college. [8:08] – Meredith shares with us the events in her childhood that led to her choosing VCU. [11:43] – Meredith had a very unconventional start to her career.  [14:20] – After a year in her entry-level role, Meredith wanted to slow down and narrow her focus.  [16:45] – This is why Meredith loves short-term projects, but we learn what ultimately moved her to a position with more long-term stability. [19:25] – There were times Meredith helped her buddy on his food truck during her unconventional career start, and she loved every bit of the hustle. [20:53] – Is it hard to adapt to different organizations when taking on so many contracts?  Meredith gives her take on it.  [23:03] – In the end, it's about the intent behind the task.  Here's what that means. [25:47] – Meredith elaborates on building relationships.  [29:07] – This is one of the most important parts of an interview, according to Meredith.  [31:16] – We hear about Meredith's responsibilities in her role at GAMA Global. [34:07] – It's a lot to balance international calls and kids at home, but Meredith enjoys the challenge. [35:10] – What advice does Meredith have for “younger Meredith” just coming out of school?  [37:31] – When college grads leave school and enter the workforce, Meredith says many of them are still in the mindset of being in college.  [40:25] – Here's how we can connect with Meredith.   [42:13] – ”Chatty Kathy” and Meredith wrap up the conversation. Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Listen to Leaving The Nest Podcast    Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleenpellegrino/ Call: 703-579-6677   Connect with Meredith: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/meredith-leutbecker-50a64629/ Instagram - @rhcpmere

Career Advice from Kaleb Lewis, Director Of Career Services, George Mason University School of Business Hey, everyone! Welcome back to another episode of Leaving The Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world.  It is now September 2022, so summer is behind us. I'm excited, though, because fall is my favorite season! With school starting up and the semester rolling, many find themselves getting back into the comfortable rhythm of college life.  But at some point, some students in their final year start thinking about what they want to do with their lives after college, and many might not yet know what their future holds. Today, I have with me Kaleb Lewis. Kaleb is the Director of Career Services for the School of Business at George Mason University. Kaleb assists students and alumni with career counseling, internship opportunities, and employer connections, and I know you'll enjoy hearing the advice he has to share with all of you. Thanks again for listening to Leaving The Nest! Be sure to leave us a review wherever you are listening and to share this episode with others you know who are just leaving the nest or perhaps are starting one of their own. Enjoy my conversation with Kaleb! In This Episode: [1:20] – We're introduced to our guest, Kaleb Lewis. [2:33] – Kaleb tells us a little more about his educational journey. [4:07] – The experience at George Mason was a little polarizing, according to Kaleb. [6:42] – We hear about Kaleb's experience going from an undergrad degree straight to a graduate degree. [9:00] – Kaleb explains how he found his calling working for the university. [10:22] – Kaleb reveals what it was like Leaving the Nest. [11:45] – Kaleb was still putting out a lot of applications, but his persistence finally paid off. [13:15] – A career advisor can help diagnose where any potential roadblocks might during the application process. [15:00] – We learn about how being a Hall Director helped prepare Kaleb for his current career path. [17:27] – One day, Kaleb woke up and realized he wasn't passionate about his work as a Hall Director anymore. This led him to a path of self-discovery for what he really wanted to do. [19:50] – Kaleb shares how he helps students and alumni today. [23:00] – What does Kaleb hear from employers about what they look for from an applicant? [25:24] – COVID-19 changed the game. Kaleb explains how. [28:08] – This is what Kaleb would say to someone who doesn't know what they want to do with their professional life. [31:05] – Information gathering is an important stage to learn more about a potential career path. [33:48] – Kaleb gives his advice to students just leaving college. [36:15] – Documentation can help justify why an employee is worth the raise they deserve. [38:30] – Returning to campus has been interesting. Kaleb explains why. [40:00] – Kaleb lets us know how we can connect with him, and Kathleen wraps up the conversation.  Connect with Kaleb: LinkedIn KLewis31@gmu.edu Connect with the ROCS Grad Staffing Team: Visit our Website: ROCS Grad Staffing Current Job Openings Give us a call at: 703-579-6677 Send us an email: info@rocsjobs.com Check us out on social: ROCS Facebook Page ROCS on Instagram ROCS Grad Staffing LinkedIn Company Page Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 703-579-6677

Episode 23: Bethany Brown - A ROCS Success Story!  Hey, everyone! Welcome back to another episode of Leaving The Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world.  Today, I have Bethany Brown, a candidate I started working with back in 2018. When Bethany first came to ROCS for an interview, she really didn't have any office experience, but she had so much potential. I knew I had to place her somewhere! Her story goes to show that you never know where a conversation can lead you to. One interview with ROCS can open up a lot of doors. The best part of my job is to see where our “ROCStars” go after we place them in their entry-level positions. If you're on the fence about working with a staffing firm, you won't want to miss this episode!  Thanks again for listening to Leaving The Nest! Be sure to leave us a review wherever you are listening and to share this episode with others you know who are just leaving the nest or perhaps are starting one of their own. Enjoy my conversation with Bethany! In This Episode: [1:21] – We're introduced to our guest, Bethany Brown. [2:14] – Why did Bethany choose Virginia Tech for college even when it wasn't originally her number one choice? [4:20] – We learn about Bethany's major and what makes it unique. [6:30] – Bethany shares her perspective on looking for internships early in her career. [8:29] – This is the one thing Bethany wishes she spent a little more time preparing for her interview for the internship with ROCS. [10:35] –  Kathleen shares what she recalls from Bethany's interview. [11:53] – Bethany didn't have office experience before applying to ROCS. Here's what she had instead. [13:31] – Bethany reveals some of her funny IHOP stories. [14:58] – What stood out about Bethany's interview with the team at ROCS? [17:01] – We hear about BMRA. [18:50] – Kathleen started to look for other companies where Bethany could do well. [20:50] – Bethany compares and contrasts the interview styles for ROCS and BMRA. [22:55] – Did interviewing in a coffee shop make a difference to Bethany? [24:25] – Bethany's first real office experience, from her perspective. [26:54] – Was it tough for Bethany to balance work and classes? [28:45] – The transition to marketing was organic. [30:44] – Although her work experience was growing, how did it impact Bethany's social life at Virginia Tech? [33:00] – This is how COVID-19 impacted Bethany's final year at college. [36:08] – As Bethany approached graduation, she knew BMRA had the most growth potential. [38:02] – We hear what Bethany misses most about college. [39:51] – The job responsibilities at BMRA, according to Bethany. [42:22] – Bethany shares the advice for those who might be following in her footsteps. [44:33] – How we can connect with Bethany. [45:00] – Kathleen wraps up the conversation. ‍Connect with the ROCS Grad Staffing Team: Visit our Website: ROCS Grad Staffing Current Job Openings Give us a call at: 703-579-6677 Send us an email: info@rocsjobs.com Check us out on social: ROCS Facebook Page ROCS on Instagram ROCS Grad Staffing LinkedIn Company Page Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 703-579-6677

Episode 22: ROCS Alumni Success Story - Against All Odds with Caitlin Gunning Hey, everyone! Welcome back to another episode of Leaving The Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world.  I hope you're enjoying your summer break and doing some fun things out there. It's already the middle of July which is crazy how fast time flies. I'm excited that you're here because today is going to be a very, very, very special episode! If you listen to the whole thing, you'll know why.  In the meantime, I wanted to introduce our special guest, Caitlin Gunning. She is a close friend of mine, and we met a few years ago when she was interning at ROCS and we have stayed in touch ever since. I'm so glad that she's here because her story is incredible! I look up to her so much, and it's so inspiring with what she's been through since a young age. Caitlin has never let any of her experiences stop her from accomplishing her goals. And don't forget to leave us a review wherever you are listening and to share this episode with others you know who are just leaving the nest or perhaps are starting one of their own. Enjoy my conversation with Caitlin! In This Episode: [1:54] – We're introduced to our guest, Caitlin Gunning. [3:28] – Caitlin takes us back to her high school years and we learn what drew her to the University of Houston.  [5:38] – Did Caitlin have difficulty transitioning to a school so far away from friends and family? [7:30] – During Caitlin's final year at college, she found out she was pregnant. This is what changed in her well-laid plans. [10:27] – We hear about Caitlin's internship at ROCS and transitioning to online school for her senior year in college. [12:50] – What was it like having to reveal the “big secret” when working at ROCS? [15:25] – Caitlin reveals her favorite memory of working at ROCS. [19:10] – We learn more about when little Olivia finally arrived. [21:12] – Caitlin shares what she believed her biggest accomplishment was as her friends in Houston were walking across the stage to graduate. [22:46] – Caitlin went into a sales development role after she left her ROCS internship. [24:16] – Rather than keeping Olivia as a “big secret” at her new job, she ripped the bandage off and let her new coworkers know she was a new mom, and here's how that helped her career. [26:49] – Caitlin talks about her move to Deltek. [29:16] – Balancing a full-time career and a newborn at home was like working 2 full-time jobs. Caitlin describes how this motivated her to push herself harder. [31:52] – We hear the advice Caitlin would give to someone who is inspired by her story. [34:20] – Training is hard and painful, but Caitlin reminds us that failing is harder and more painful. [36:10] – This is how we can connect with Caitlin. [37:10] – Kathleen reveals a “big secret” of her own. [38:30] – Kathleen wraps up the conversation and gives us an idea of what to expect moving forward. ‍Connect with Caitlin: LinkedIn ‍Connect with the ROCS Grad Staffing Team: Visit our Website: ROCS Grad Staffing Current Job Openings Give us a call at: 703-579-6677 Send us an email: info@rocsjobs.com Check us out on social: ROCS Facebook Page ROCS on Instagram ROCS Grad Staffing LinkedIn Company Page Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 703-579-6677

Episode 21: Career Coaching Spotlight with Stephanie Zimmermann, Local Entrepreneur Hey, everyone!  Welcome back to another episode of Leaving The Nest.  I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world.   Today, we are so lucky to have with us Stephanie Zimmermann who is a local business leader here in the Northern Virginia area.  She went to George Mason and is still really involved with the university today. She's a council member for the Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship program at the School of Business and an Advisory Board Member for the Women In Business Initiative.  She started her own company and is heavily involved with the local chamber.  On top of all that, she's also a mother of two! I could go on—Stephanie really has done it all! I'm so thankful that she has taken the time to sit down with all of us to share her story and advice for new entrepreneurs.  Enjoy my conversation with Stephanie! And don't forget to leave us a review wherever you are listening and to share this episode with others you know who are just starting out in their careers.  Enjoy! In This Episode: [1:20] – We're introduced to our guest, Stephanie Zimmermann. [2:50] – Why did Stephanie choose to go to George Mason? [5:13] – Stephanie reveals the best piece of advice she received from a financial advisor. [7:00] – Stephanie reminisces about college games and the pep band. [9:12] – We hear how the normal space on the college campus is changing post-pandemic. [10:27] – Yelling at the refs is one of the best things about going to the sports games, in Stephanie's opinion. [11:12] – This is what Stephanie is excited about when going back to the George Mason campus today. [14:18] – The Word Wall is a waterfall of knowledge.  Here's what that means. [15:47] – The most important thing to think about as alumni, according to Stephanie. [16:27] – Stephanie shares her experience after graduating and leaving the nest. [18:30] – A huge part of Stephanie's job working at Geico was keeping track of the analytics for how different ad campaigns were performing. [20:00] – The paradigm shift from Geico to working with her dad in the financial industry. [22:06] – Stephanie talks about the move to a financial consulting company after the sale of her father's financial practice. [24:37] – Lend A Box was at first meant to be a side hustle. [25:21] – What is Lend A Box? [27:09] – Moving to a warehouse made her company feel more real. [29:00] – Lend A Box is an idea that should be more widely adopted.  Stephanie talks about the challenges of forging a new path. [30:45] – Stephanie shares a story about how she and her sister Jan brainstormed this entrepreneurial adventure. [32:00] – We hear why Stephanie believes her sister is the perfect business partner. [33:39] – This is the biggest piece of advice Stephanie would give to those wanting to start their own business. [35:00] – These are the challenges when family members hold high positions in a family-owned company. [37:20] – Stephanie explains that she has more experience working with family members than not, so her advice to new entrepreneurs is rooted in this understanding. [39:27] – We're reminded that we don't have to go it alone when starting a business. [41:03] – Stephanie elaborates on the groups she's involved with at George Mason. [43:53] – We learn about the book club.  [46:10] – Stephanie enjoys being on the volunteer side of academia because it's a lot more of the “warm and fuzzy stuff.” [48:22] – Stephanie is grateful George Mason reached out to her after she graduated, and this reintroduced her to the culture and community that brought her back to volunteer at the university. [50:40] – Kathleen and Stephanie conclude the conversation. ‍ Connect with Stephanie: LinkedIn Connect with the ROCS Grad Staffing Team: Visit our Website: ROCS Grad Staffing Current Job Openings Give us a call at: 703-579-6677 Send us an email: info@rocsjobs.com Check us out on social: ROCS Facebook Page ROCS on Instagram ROCS Grad Staffing LinkedIn Company Page

Episode 20: Tips on Employee Time-Off Requests, Part Two of Two  Hey, everyone!  Welcome back to another episode of Leaving The Nest.  I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world.  This is Part 2 of the Time-Off Requests mini-series. In the first episode, we spoke primarily about when to take time off, how to take it, making sure you know who to talk to, and general best practices. For this episode, we are going to assume you've been given the green light to take time off and I want to make sure you're setting yourself and your team up for success so you can enjoy your time away. Don't forget to share this episode with others you know who are just starting out in their careers —you might be able to coordinate your time-off requests together!  (Just don't forget to put that time on your calendars!) Enjoy! In This Episode: [1:14] – Kathleen shares a funny little thought she's been having and wants to pick our brains. [3:13] – This is what we should do as soon as we start planning to take time off. [4:35] – Everyone is a little different with their time-off requests. [5:30] – Taking a week off is very different than taking a Friday off for a long weekend. [7:12] – Generally, it's good to have a document that has a list of all job responsibilities and who to call for follow-up while we're out. [9:07] – What is an out-of-office reply and what should go in it? [11:37] – Kathleen shares what happened when she put her personal contact info in her out-of-office reply. [13:56] – Make sure the dates, contact info, and subject line are all correct. [14:55] – This is the mistake that recent college grads tend to make as it applies to out-of-office voice messages. [15:59] – What do we do when our vacation is over and it's back to our work-life reality? [18:13] – Kathleen reminds us to allocate time to catch up with colleagues, catch up with what came in while we were out, and tackle our normal workload. [19:04] – Here's how to earn extra brownie points with the office when you get back from vacation. [20:42] – Kathleen gives her final thoughts on taking time off. Connect with the ROCS Grad Staffing Team: Visit our Website: ROCS Grad Staffing Current Job Openings Give us a call at: 703-579-6677 Send us an email: info@rocsjobs.com Check us out on social: ROCS Facebook Page ROCS on Instagram ROCS Grad Staffing LinkedIn Company Page

Episode 19: Tips on Employee Time-Off Requests, Part One of Two  It's that time again!  The birds are chirping, the ocean waves are crashing, the sun is shining, and students are graduating.  And do you know what that means?   It's time for a discussion about time-off requests!   Welcome back, listeners! Thanks for joining us for another episode of Leaving the Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world. Today, we're going to be chatting about time-off requests. I figured this was a perfect time of the year to have this episode come out because summer is upon us, we just got through Memorial Day, and a lot of people were requesting off for that weekend.   And as the weather gets warmer, a lot of people are going to want to start going on vacation at the beach rather than working in an office.   We're going to break this conversation into a few different parts.  We'll primarily be talking about what to take time off for, how to request it, general best practices, and more!   If you're in your first year at a new job, this episode is for you.  Be sure to share this episode with others you know who are just starting out in their careers also—you might be able to coordinate your time-off requests together! Enjoy! In This Episode: [1:06] – Kathleen introduces the topic for today's episode: time-off requests. [2:20] – The biggest thing to take away from today's conversation. [4:30] – How does someone get vacation time? [5:42] – This is when you should not be taking time off when you first start a job, according to Kathleen. [6:52] – We hear the process of informing companies about the desire to take time off. [8:57] – Planned time off during a job search. [11:22] – Are pre-planned trips a deal breaker during the interview process? [13:30] – We live in a world where people can work remotely while on vacation.  But is that acceptable? [15:10] – These are the times when it's not acceptable to ask for time off, in Kathleen's opinion. [18:09] – Kathleen reminds us that we don't want to live with regrets. [21:02] – Kathleen wraps up the conversation and lets us know how we can contact her if we have questions. Connect with the ROCS Grad Staffing Team: Visit our Website: ROCS Grad Staffing Current Job Openings Give us a call at: 703-579-6677 Send us an email: info@rocsjobs.com Check us out on social: ROCS Facebook Page ROCS on Instagram ROCS Grad Staffing LinkedIn Company Page

Questions & Answers Session One  Hey there, listeners! Welcome back to another episode of Leaving the Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world. I've got to say I've missed you all!  It's been a long time since I've been able to host a solo episode.  That's a good thing, though, because I've been fortunate enough to have been joined by some amazing guests. (Be sure to listen to those previous episodes; I'm sure you'll find some awesome advice to help you take that next big step in leaving the nest!) For today, I wanted to address the burning questions a lot of our listeners have been sending in.  Everything from interviews to resumes, from asking questions to standing out from the competition, this episode is a great crash course for many of the topics we've covered in the past as well as some topics soon to come. Thanks again for listening and sending in your questions.  And don't forget to leave us a review wherever you're listening and share this podcast with the recent college grads you know.   Enjoy! In This Episode: [1:00] – Kathleen sets the stage for today's Q&A. [2:23] – Do resumes really need to be one page?  Kathleen shares her thoughts. [4:37] – We should be proud of our GPAs, especially if they are above 3.0.  But should they be on a resume? [7:05] – These are the interview questions applicants should always be prepared to answer. [9:07] – Questions about longevity can be tricky to answer.  Kathleen explains why. [11:11] – This is what it takes to stand out without securing internships during college. [13:45] – The power of sending thank you notes. [14:45] – Applicants should always ask interviewers questions, but what questions should they ask? [17:59] – What about follow-up emails and addressing our greatest weaknesses? [21:06] – Asking about pay during an interview is allowed but it needs to be done at the right time.  Here's what job seekers need to know. [23:36] – This is what employers look for when interviewing for marketing and communications roles. [25:13] – Kathleen hones in on the importance of a skill section on a resume. [26:15] – Tips and advice on networking. [28:04] – Kathleen reveals the advice she wishes she had early on in her career. [30:24] – ROCS Grad Staffing has great relationships with their clients, so applicants often have a great chance of landing a great role.   [32:18] – This is when you can expect to hear back from ROCS if you're in the early stages of the application process. [33:40] – Kathleen concludes the conversation. ‍Connect with the ROCS Grad Staffing Team: Visit our Website: ROCS Grad Staffing Current Job Openings Give us a call at: 703-579-6677 Send us an email: info@rocsjobs.com Check us out on social: ROCS Facebook Page ROCS on Instagram ROCS Grad Staffing LinkedIn Company Page

Episode 17: Every Job is an Opportunity; Advice from Karen Long  To all the aspiring entrepreneurs out there, what's going through your minds as you get close to graduation? Or have you already graduated and you're waiting for that right opportunity to present itself? Hey there, listeners! Welcome back to another episode of Leaving the Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world. Today I have with me one of my clients, Karen Long.  She is the President and Founder of Streamline Government Contracts and she's here today to share her story.  Throughout her career, Karen has worked as a Director of Operations, Contracts Manager, and Financial Analyst, and she founded her own company back in 2012. In today's episode, we'll hear more about Karen's journey and I hope her advice and tips will help you in yours.  I'm so excited for you to meet her, she's super sweet and very easy to talk to, so let's go ahead and welcome her to Leaving the Nest! And don't forget to leave us a review wherever you're listening and share this podcast with the recent college grads you know.   Enjoy! In This Episode: [01:26] - We're introduced to our guest for today's episode, Karen Long. [04:09] - Karen shares what her experience was like leaving the nest. [06:10] - Karen took on second jobs to help supplement her income early in her career. [07:35] - Teaching in a private school wasn't a good fit for Karen; so after years of attempting to get into the public school system, Karen decided to make the change to the business world instead. [10:06] - We learn about Karen's next step in working for Vantage and what she thought about her experience there. [13:01] - Karen was encouraged to continue with her collegiate career and earn her MBA. [14:23] - The value of making connections and working temp jobs, according to Karen. [15:42] - Karen admits that she resigned with a year still to go on her MBA.  This is how that experience changed the course of her life and led to the idea that became Streamline. [17:17] - We hear what Karen was feeling as she was venturing out to start her new company.  [18:00] - What is government contracting and how does Streamline help those in the DC area? [21:12] - How have things been going at Streamline since 2012? [22:44] - Streamline has always been a remote workforce and was ahead of the times before the COVID-19 lockdowns put the rest of the world into remote work.  [23:48] - What advice would Karen give to aspiring entrepreneurs?  [24:51] - Karen has a message for recent college grads about what lies ahead after leaving the nest. [26:45] - Here's how to contact Karen. ‍ Connect with Karen: LinkedIn ‍Connect with the ROCS Grad Staffing Team: Visit our Website: ROCS Grad Staffing Current Job Openings Give us a call at: 703-579-6677 Send us an email: info@rocsjobs.com Check us out on social: ROCS Facebook Page ROCS on Instagram ROCS Grad Staffing LinkedIn Company Page

Leaving The Nest - Episode 16: Working at the FBI and in Federal Law Enforcement with Zack Lowe Have you ever wondered what it would be like working for the FBI?   Hey there, listeners! Welcome back to another episode of Leaving the Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world. I'm so excited for today's episode because we have with us Zack Lowe.  Zack is an Army Veteran and he worked for the FBI for over 22 years.  I'm very thankful he has offered to come on to Leaving the Nest to share his advice and his input—all the ins and outs of working in federal law enforcement agencies, what it takes to get in, and what it takes to succeed. I think he'll be able to answer a lot of the questions you may have if you're interested in going into this type of career.  Let's go ahead and welcome him on and hear more about what he has to say! Also, be sure to leave a review wherever you're listening and share this podcast with the recent college grads you know. Enjoy! In This Episode: [01:19] - We're introduced to today's guest, Zack Lowe. [03:06] - Did Zack know in high school that he would end up going into the Army?  [05:10] - Zack talks about the value of building relationships.  [05:56] - Things changed in Zack's life after being in the Army resulting in a shift in his life's goals. [08:01] - These are the people we need to have hard conversations with when it comes to setting goals in life.  [09:22] - Advice on how to get a job working in the FBI. [11:44] - Suitability in the FBI means a change in lifestyle.  Here's what that means. [14:20] - How long does it take to get hired by the FBI after starting the application process?  [16:50] - This is what Zack would suggest to keep a healthy mindset while waiting to hear back from the application process for the FBI. [19:49] - Zack answers the question whether there are too many applications versus seats to fill. [21:09] - Most of the people that start the training almost always make it through.  Zack explains why. [23:00] - A day in the life of someone going through training for the FBI, according to Zack. [24:26] - Zack discusses his day-to-day working for the FBI.  [26:36] - What is the work/life balance for an FBI agent?  [29:23] - Was there ever a time Zack wasn't able to involve his wife and family with work decisions?  [31:15] - Zack discusses what it was like working his way up the FBI ranks. [33:58] - This is how “who you know” compares to “what you know” as it applies to the FBI.  [36:50] - How has the FBI changed since the 1990s?   [39:17] - Zack shares his opinion on how the FBI is portrayed in the media and in entertainment. [41:35] - This is how FBI agents in training can benefit from the entertainment industry. [44:20] - We learn the biggest piece of advice Zack would give someone wanting to pursue a career in the FBI. [46:22] - A healthy lifestyle is critical for being successful in the FBI. [47:33] - What is Zack up to now?  Connect with Zack: LinkedIn ‍Connect with the ROCS Grad Staffing Team: Visit our Website: ROCS Grad Staffing Current Job Openings Give us a call at: (703) 579-6677 Send us an email: info@rocsjobs.com Check us out on social: ROCS Facebook Page ROCS on Instagram ROCS Grad Staffing LinkedIn Company Page

Leaving The Nest - Episode 15: Career Coaching Spotlight - An Overview of Human Resources with Becky Millis At ROCS Grad Staffing, we often interview a ton of great candidates who are interested in working in Human Resources but they can't seem to get their foot in the door.  My guest today is here to share what her day-to-day is like and what a job in HR actually entails. Hey there, listeners! Welcome back to another episode of Leaving the Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world. Today, I'm sitting down with Becky Millis who works as an HR Director for a local company in Herndon, Virginia. She's here today to share her story with all of us, give some advice to those seeking a career in HR, and challenge us to explore new roles and opportunities where we may find our true calling.   I love having the opportunity to interview business leaders in the area, hear about their careers, and learn what it was like for them when they left the nest. I'm very thankful that Becky agreed to join us, so I hope you enjoy our conversation! Also, be sure to leave a review wherever you're listening and share this podcast with the recent college grads you know. Enjoy! In This Episode: [02:21] - We're introduced to Becky Millis. [03:53] - Becky shares what her experience was like when she first left the nest.  [05:55] - This is how Becky ended up in HR. [08:15] - What is HR and what does a person working in HR do day-to-day?  [10:20] - Becky's finance background really helped out when she started working in HR. [11:50] - What experience should a candidate have before they start looking for a career in HR? [13:55] - Kathleen and Becky compare how different roles can teach all sorts of skills. [15:49] - Becky gives her opinion on how the younger generations appear to change jobs more frequently. [17:51] - The pros and cons to changing careers regularly. [19:41] - Becky discusses why she loves her current company All Traffic Solutions, what they do, and who they do it for.  [21:44] - These are the trends that Becky sees when hiring entry-level employees. [24:08] - Taking the time to learn about a role or review team members' LinkedIn profiles is a big plus for Becky. [25:33] - Becky's daughter, Melissa, is doing great after trying several different roles to find what she liked. [28:25] - The value of networking is very powerful and Becky hopes recent college grads take the time to hone these skills. [31:04] - Kathleen wraps up the conversation. Connect With Becky: LinkedIn ‍Connect with the ROCS Grad Staffing Team: Visit our Website: ROCS Grad Staffing Current Job Openings Give us a call at: (703) 579-6677 Send us an email: info@rocsjobs.com Check us out on social: ROCS Facebook Page ROCS on Instagram ROCS Grad Staffing LinkedIn Company Page  

Leaving The Nest - Episode 14: Career Coaching Spotlight - Work in Northern Virginia with Michael Batt Have you ever wanted to work for a big-name company like Microsoft?  If so, you won't want to miss the insights and tips from one of our own local business leaders! Hey there, listeners! Welcome back to another episode of Leaving the Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world. Today, I'm sitting down with Michael Batt and he's a lifelong resident of the Northern Virginia area.  Michael graduated from Marymount University with a Business degree and then spent most of his career working for Microsoft. I'm sure you'll enjoy hearing how he got in with Microsoft and how he worked his way up. Michael and I will also chat about what he's been up to since retiring. Today, he is the Director of the Talent Initiative Program for the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority, or FCEDA. This is a really great program and I'm really excited for you to hear about all of the tools that they provide. Their website, www.WorkInNorthernVirginia.com, posts thousands and thousands of job opportunities and internships that you can apply for as well as different tools for anyone looking to work in the Northern Virginia area.  I'm really grateful that Michael reached out to be a part of this podcast and share all of these tools and insights with all of our aspiring job seekers. Enjoy! In This Episode: [01:54] - An introduction to our guest, Michael Batt.  [02:51] - Mike reveals what it was like when he first left the nest. [04:44] - How can someone get an opportunity to work for a big company like Microsoft?  Mike shares his experience. [06:46] - What did Mike believe were the pros and cons of working for Microsoft for over two decades? [09:42] - The value of staying the course at one company in terms of retirement plans and benefits. [11:21] - Mike elaborates on the pros and cons of working for big companies. [13:39] - Mike's journey to management in Microsoft. [15:25] - We hear about Mike's transition out of Microsoft shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic. [18:31] - What is the Talent Initiative Program for Northern Virginia and DC? [21:12] - Mike and his team are working with a premium marketing company to educate job seekers about what Northern Virginia has to offer.    [23:57] - Kathleen recaps the great tools offered through FCEDA. [26:42] -This is the greatest piece of advice Mike would share with recent college grads.  [29:22] - Mike didn't get the job the first time he applied at Microsoft, but he reminds us not to give up. [30:50] - An example of how networking has helped further Mike's career. [33:04] - Mike's plan is to have his kids go through ROCS to find their careers right after graduating. [35:36] - How to connect with Mike. Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing www.WorkInNorthernVirginia.com Connect With Mike: LinkedIn ‍Connect with the ROCS Grad Staffing Team: Visit our Website: ROCS Grad Staffing Current Job Openings Give us a call at: 703-579-6677 Send us an email: info@rocsjobs.com Check us out on social: ROCS Facebook Page ROCS on Instagram ROCS Grad Staffing LinkedIn Company Page Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 703-579-6677 ‍

Leaving The Nest - Episode 13: Graduating During a Pandemic with Devin Jones Do you remember what it was like during that first week of COVID-19 lockdowns in March 2020? For many of us, life was so certain the week before. But in a matter of days, everything became so uncertain so quickly. Now imagine being a senior in college getting hired at your dream job only to find out you wouldn't be able to walk at graduation and your start date was pushed out to an unknown time in the future. This can be difficult for some of us to imagine, but it's exactly what happened to our guest for today's episode. Hey there, listeners! Welcome back to another episode of Leaving the Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world. Today I am joined by Devin Jones who graduated from George Mason University in May of 2020. I think we all have a special place in our hearts for May 2020 grads because they graduated and joined the workforce at—shall we say—a very unique time. We're going to hear all about Devin's experience from waiting for her job to start, wondering if it ever would, starting virtually, training virtually, meeting her team in a remote environment, meeting them for the first time in person—there's just so much to talk about that we can all relate to. I hope you'll be as inspired as I have been after hearing how Devin was able to adapt and thrive during one of the most uncertain times we may ever face. I can't wait for you to hear more about her story!  In This Episode: [01:30] - We're introduced to our guest for today's episode, Devin Jones. [03:44] - Devin shares her origin story. [06:13] - Why was George Mason University the golden ticket for Devin's collegiate journey? [07:24] - Devin's time management skill set has its roots in high school. [09:40] - The experience at George Mason University was everything Devin thought it would be. Here's why. [11:22] - We hear about Devin's senior year in college leading up to February 2020... [13:50] - …and then lockdowns began and no one came back from Spring Break. [15:31] - Kathleen and Devin reminisce about enjoying a cup of coffee together and how off-kilter everything felt being in a new location. [17:20] - Where was Devin when the March 2020 lockdowns happened? [19:33] - This is the moment when Devin realized everything surrounding COVID-19 was not in her control. [20:53] - George Mason University's response to COVID-19, from Devin's perspective as a student. [23:09] - Did Devin live on campus or off campus when she had to adapt to remote learning, and how did this new remote environment impact her social life? [25:51] - The last few months of school, according to Devin. [28:26] - This is why reading the news obsessively ultimately felt like a horror movie. [30:39] - Devin was crushed she wasn't able to walk at her graduation. [33:16] - Not being able to start right away with ROCS felt like getting a second dose of reality. [35:38] - After a few months past her original hiring date at ROCS, Devin's family started to ask if she was applying to other places. Here's what was going to Devin's mind when Fall 2020 started. [37:25] - Devin's first day at ROCS finally came and she was overjoyed. [38:41] - What were Devin's quarantine hobbies? [41:16] - This is what happened to Devin's college network and social circles in lockdown. [44:13] - Kathleen reveals that the team at ROCS was also very supportive of getting Devin hired as soon as possible. [45:07] - Devin shares what it was like working remotely when starting out her career post-college. [47:40] - Going to the office for the first time was nerve-wracking at first, but the routine experience of getting ready for work and driving in was very refreshing. [50:35] - We learn what Devin is up to today at ROCS. [53:57] - Devin's favorite memory at ROCS. [56:20] - How to connect with Devin. Connect with the ROCS Grad Staffing Team: Visit our Website: ROCS Grad Staffing Current Job Openings Give us a call at: 703-579-6677 Send us an email: info@rocsjobs.com Check us out on social: ROCS Facebook Page ROCS on Instagram ROCS Grad Staffing LinkedIn Company Page Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 703-579-6677 Connect with Devin: devin@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 703-579-6677

What did you want to be when you grew up? An astronaut? An archeologist? A teacher? Many of us started out believing we'd do one thing then changed our minds shortly thereafter. This isn't the case for today's guest—she knew she would be teaching people since preschool. The only thing that has changed has been who and what she teaches. Hey there, listeners! Welcome back to another episode of Leaving the Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world. Today, I'm joined by an old friend of mine. Her name is Amanda Sierzega and we went to high school together in Pennsylvania. (Go Phantoms!) We recently reconnected when she reached out to me on LinkedIn. She saw what I was up to with ROCS and with our podcast, Leaving the Nest, and felt there was a lot of good overlap with what she had been up to. Amanda recently founded her own company with her business partner called Devicore. They provide all kinds of career services like resume writing, cover letters, LinkedIn profiles, career development, coaching, and more. I'm really excited that she's here today to share her input and advice for our job-seekers listening. And her story is really cool, as well! She actually wasn't always in this career coaching world. Amanda made a career change pretty early on which I know our listeners will be eager to hear about. So let's go ahead and welcome her on Leaving the Nest! Enjoy! In This Episode:[01:33] - An introduction to our guest for today's episode, Amanda Sierzega. [02:57] - Amanda and Kathleen reminisce about their time on the swim team. [05:06] - We hear about Amanda's college experience. [07:02] - Amanda's interest in becoming a teacher started in preschool, and we learn what was going through Amanda's mind as she came closer to college graduation. [09:14] - Being a high school English teacher felt like a dream come true. [12:10] - Technology has changed so much since Amanda was in high school. Here is how that change impacted Amanda's time as a new teacher. [13:03] - What changed Amanda's mind from originally wanting to be a Spanish teacher? [14:59] - The emotional attachment to Amanda's degree changed after graduation. [16:41] - The COVID-19 pandemic was a pivotal point for Amanda and ultimately led to her wanting to make a career shift. [18:45] - We learn how doing resume work on the side paved the way to where she is today. [21:59] - How did people who needed help with their resumes connect with Amanda early on? [23:52] - The origins of Devicore, according to Amanda. [26:45] - Devicore seems to have grown so fast, but it took a lot of hard work for the team. [28:38] - Amanda gives advice for those looking to take a chance on starting their own business. [31:07] - These are the common mistakes Amanda sees with wording on resumes. [33:50] - On The Pivot Podcast, Kathleen was a guest and Amanda reveals this was one of the most-streamed episodes. [36:37] - How to connect with Amanda. Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Devicore The Pivot Podcast The Pivot Podcast - Episode 17 - Kathleen Pellegrino, Recruiting, Recent Graduates, & Knowing Yourself Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 703-579-6677 Connect with Amanda: LinkedIn Instagram

No office experience? No problem! Hey there, listeners! Welcome back to another episode of Leaving the Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world. I am joined today by a colleague and a friend. Her name is Darcy Grogan and she's been a member of our team since 2019. She has worked her way up from Associate Recruiter all the way up to an Account Manager. This is so awesome to see because I love seeing longevity in someone's career, and I love seeing others develop and grow and create their own story here at ROCS. And that's why I invited Darcy to join me on the podcast today. I wanted her to share her story with all of you because I believe it's a really important one. Before she started with us, Darcy didn't have any office experience. She graduated from Longwood University and then worked as a Restaurant Manager for a few years, so you can imagine some of the challenges she must have faced during her job search. And so if you're a job seeker that's in the same boat as Darcy, I'm sure you'll find her advice and experience very insightful and eye-opening. But if you're an employer listening to this podcast, I believe it's important to remember that sometimes when you're working with entry-level candidates, you should give them a shot based on just their potential alone. You might find that is how you can find some of the best people. Enjoy! In This Episode:[01:49] - An introduction to today's guest, Darcy Grogan. [03:03] - What brought Darcy to Longwood University? [05:15] - Darcy changed her career path halfway through college. [06:55] - How Darcy was able to balance her work life, social life, and collegiate life while at Longwood. [09:10] - Darcy explains her hiring and orientation at Cooper's Hawk after graduation. [11:53] - We hear about the orientation and training process Darcy went through for Cooper's Hawk. [13:55] - The path from server to floor supervisor to restaurant manager. [16:38] - What motivated Darcy to work her way up? [18:08] - Who gave Darcy a hard time for working in the foodservice industry after she graduated college? [19:52] - The greatest lessons Darcy learned from working at Cooper's Hawk. [21:45] - Darcy reveals how she felt leaving her work family. [24:06] - Does Darcy still keep in touch with her old team? [26:03] - We learn how Darcy's job search went and what she was looking for in her next career. [28:02] - The biggest setback for Darcy was knowing where to start. [29:05] - What Darcy remembers about her interview with Kathleen at ROCS Grad Staffing. [29:51] - Moving from the restaurant industry into an office workplace was a culture shock for Darcy. [32:32] - Here's what Darcy missed when leaving Cooper's Hawk? [34:04] - How did Darcy handle the transition to working from home because of the 2020 COVID-19 lockdowns? [35:49] - Darcy's growth at ROCS Grad Staffing. [38:39] - Retrospectively, Darcy isn't sure she would have known her career path would lead her to where she is today. [39:52] - We find out Darcy's favorite memories working at ROCS so far. [41:19] - Kathleen shares her favorite memories working at ROCS also. [42:05] - Darcy gives her biggest piece of advice for people following in her footsteps. [44:26] - This is how Darcy believes candidates without office experience can stand out in their next job interview. [46:38] - How we can contact Darcy. Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 703-579-6677 Connect with Darcy: darcy@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn

What is career coaching and how can it help job applicants and early-career people get and crush their next interview? Hey there, listeners! Welcome back to another episode of Leaving the Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world. I'm joined today by Chris Ricci who has over 35 years of senior management experience from AOL, Accenture, and Verisign. Currently, he works as a career coach at his company NVA Career Coaching where he helps his clients achieve their career objectives by sharing his advice on networking, job searching, resume building, interview prep, leadership development, and competence in the workplace. In today's episode, Chris will share his process for career coaching, his best practices for communication and networking, and what he looks for in a successful interview. And much more! Obviously, he and I have a lot in common and we certainly see eye-to-eye on these topics. I'm super grateful he's reached out to me to join the podcast to share his advice with all of you. Enjoy! In This Episode: [01:17] - An introduction to today's guest, Chris Ricci. [03:03] - What did it look like when Chris “left the nest”? [05:44] - Chris reveals how he stumbled into a strategy that got him connected with big companies. [08:19] - We learn Chris' view on networking and communicating and how he has been able to move up in his professional career. [10:15] - This is how Chris addresses younger professionals on an elevator. [12:34] - How can you make the recruiter and the hiring manager want to know more about you? Chris shares his perspective. [14:25] - Chris' thoughts on early-career people and ghosting recruiters. [17:14] - We hear Chris explain how a career coach helps early-career people. [19:03] - Chris shares a story about a job applicant that lived in his neighborhood. [20:45] - The process Chris uses for career coaching is access, branding, networking, and interview. [23:11] - The branding phase features the creation of a resume and a LinkedIn profile that each use thought-provoking keywords. [25:15] - The different approaches for connections that are segmented into high, medium, and low categories. [27:23] - Mock screening and mock interviews can often yield disappointing results. Chris explains why and how he addresses them. [29:20] - What does Chris look for in a mock interview? [31:23] - The importance of a value statement on a resume and in an interview, according to Chris. [33:10] - Coaching agreements ensure Chris can give early-career people his full attention. [36:01] - How have recruiters helped Chris in his career? [37:40] - This is the biggest piece of advice Chris would give someone who's looking for a job or is early in their career. [39:49] - Make “finding a job” your daily job. [42:00] - Chris views career coaching as a game to win. [44:02] - Even if Chris is busy, he shares how he makes time to work with his clients even on short notice. [46:55] - How we can connect with Chris. Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing NVA Career Coaching Free Resume Review Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 703-579-6677 Connect with Chris: LinkedIn Call: 703-606-8125

Ever wonder what you could accomplish during college besides earning a degree? Today we learn and hear from two special people, the Co-founders of ROCS Grad Staffing, who started this business while still earning their college degrees.  Welcome back to another episode of Leaving the Nest.  I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing.  Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world. In this episode, I am interviewing Tom Moore and Brandon Labman, the Co-founders of ROCS. Not only will we dive into the history behind the company but also the history behind Brandon and Tom's friendship. They'll take us on a journey from when they were young kids, to the hustle and drive it took to work through college and finally to the success they have years later. Tom and Brandon also share advice for those who strive to start their own business and some guidelines for what it takes. We hope this episode provides you insight into our beginning and also gives you the motivation to either start your own business or find a career path that's right for you. Enjoy! In This Episode: [00:40] - Kathleen introduces us to the topic of today's episode: a special interview with ROCS Co-founders. [02:35] - Brandon Labman introduces himself. [03:36] - Tom Moore introduces himself. [04:40] - Tom and Brandon share the history of how they originally met. [05:40] - Kathleen asks Tom and Brandon to describe each other in high school. [08:40] - How they decided which college to attend, and how they ended up at the same school. [10:30] - Some stories about roommates in college. [12:57] - Brandon and Tom kept their friendship when they first started college. [14:05] - History on how Tom and Brandon started at the internship that influenced the start of ROCS. [18:30] - Type of hours Brandon and Tom worked during the internship and how they recruited other interns. [22:11] - Time Tom and Brandon spent working at the internship. [26:00] - Kathleen asks about motivation and doubts. [29:00] - When Brandon and Tom came up with the name ROCS. [31:40] - The building and legal aspects behind starting ROCS. [36:30] - Finances behind starting a business. [38:27] - Advice on starting a business, and types of finance. [42:35] - What happened after graduating from Mason? [47:44] - Touched a little on the first client and job. [49:30] - Bonus questions from the team to ask Tom and Brandon. [49:55] - Has there been any disagreements or a time when you might have gone your separate ways? [52:24] - How your relationship may have changed or grown, and how do you balance between business and personal? [56:20] - Before you got married, what was your dating life like? [59:58] - Story about purchasing a vehicle with a custom license plate. [01:01:29] - Where do you think you would be if not with ROCS? [01:03:45] - What does it feel like to be your own boss? [01:05:40] - Kathleen shares her appreciation of the work ethic within ROCS. [01:08:45] - A two-part question: any advice to a new entrepreneur or a recent graduate? [01:16:51] - Kathleen thanks Tom and Brandon and wraps up the episode. Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing PalmPilot, Computer History Museum Mason Enterprise Center Connect with Kathleen:kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 703-579-6677 Connect with Tom:tom@rocsjobs.com Connect with Brandon:brandon@rocsjobs.com

We've finally made it! After many unique challenges and personal milestones, we've made it to the end of 2021. At ROCS Grad Staffing, our team certainly had its fair share of changes. We saw an increase in the job market for our job seekers, we got to meet many of our new employees in person for the first time, and a couple of us even got married (although not to each other)! For our team, our clients, and our job applicants, there was a lot to celebrate. Welcome back to Leaving the Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. I'm excited to have Matt Herb as my guest for today's episode. Like me, Matt is also a Senior Account Manager for ROCS and has been helping new college grads find jobs in the DC Metro area for the past 7 years. In today's episode, Matt and I will reflect on each quarter in 2021, chat about our personal and professional milestones at ROCS, and give our thoughts about what made the graduating class of 2021 special. We'll also share our New Year's Resolutions for 2022 and you won't believe how different our goals can be! If you've wanted to get to know our team a little better, I really believe this episode is the one for you. Be sure to share this podcast with those who have recently graduated and are looking to start their professional careers off right. Thanks again for not keeping us a secret and I hope you enjoy our last episode for 2021! In This Episode:[01:36] - Kathleen reflects on the 2021 highlights at ROCS Grad Staffing with Senior Account Manager Matt Herb. [03:53] - The Quarter Kickoffs at ROCS Grad Staffing can either be stressful or exciting. Here's how Matt sees it. [05:38] - Kathleen and Matt share how they felt when 2020 was finally over. [07:34] - Matt reveals what it was like adapting to video interviews. [09:15] - What was Kathleen's biggest highlight in the first quarter of 2021? [10:52] - ROCS Grad Staffing made quite a few strategic changes and filled a lot of jobs in the second quarter. [12:06] - What made the second quarter so successful at ROCS Grad Staffing? [14:02] - Matt reflects on what he believes made the graduating class of 2021 special. [16:00] - Do recent college grads prefer working in the office, at home, or in a hybrid model? [17:52] - How did the cancelling of the March Madness Bracket Challenge affect the team? [20:08] - Kathleen and Matt reminisce on meeting some of their employees in person for the first time. [21:40] - Matt and Kathleen both hit major milestones in 2021: buying homes and getting married (although not to each other). [24:30] - Matt talks about what it was like working with his clients in the third quarter when the job market started really going up. [26:39] - The first day back in the office, according to Matt. [28:56] - Kathleen ponders on how the hybrid work model has given her a different experience than Matt. [30:16] - Matt explains why his wedding was truly perfect. [31:55] - Kathleen surprises us by revealing how everything in her wedding planning went wrong, but we're relieved to hear that her wedding day was flawless. [33:45] - The Leaving the Nest podcast makes its debut. [35:16] - What is tricky about the fourth quarter? Matt shares his thoughts. [37:20] - Some of the best memories for the team at ROCS come from giving gifts to kids during the holidays. [39:27] - What is Matt looking forward to in 2022? [40:45] - Kathleen and Matt have wildly different New Year's resolutions for 2022. Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters Find a career with ROCS Grad Staffing Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 703-579-6677 Connect with Matt: matt@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Connect with Tom Moore:tom@rocsjobs.com  

Before we begin, I'd like to take a moment to say thank you. Thank you for tuning in, for listening, for learning, and for reaching out to us with your questions. Saying thank you is a powerful tool, and people love to be thanked. It shows appreciation and affirmation, and it can make people feel happier. So how do thank you notes apply in the interview process? We recently chatted about interviewing over the phone, in person, and over a video chat. After each one of those stages, you should always be sending and following up with a thank you note to the contact(s) that you met. And you should be doing that after each one of those stages. It may seem repetitive to send a thank you note after each one of those stages, but it really is not. It really goes a long way. Not only are these employers taking time out of their busy schedules to meet with you and consider you for a role, but from your perspective, it is going to help make you stand out tremendously. Welcome back to another episode of Leaving the Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world. In this episode, we'll address some of the biggest questions around sending thank you notes, including when to send them, how to show you were listening during the interview, and how to have your thank you note stand out from the rest. I'll even share a few ideas and templates you can use to get your next thank you note looking and sounding amazing. Thanks again for listening, and I hope you enjoy it! In This Episode:[00:39] - Kathleen introduces us to today's topic: thank you notes. [01:33] - This is how many job applicants aren't sending thank you notes, according to Career Builder. [04:22] - Kathleen explains how job seekers can put together and send a thank you note.[05:40] - What's the best way to send a thank you note?[06:45] - This is the main objective of the message in a thank you note. [08:50] - Kathleen shares how interviewees can use a thank you note to show they were listening during an interview.[11:09] - Using a template can help give a job seeker a great place to start when drafting a thank you note.[11:51] - The biggest thing to remember about sending thank you notes, in Kathleen's opinion. [13:34] - What should applicants do if they meet with more than one person? [14:59] - Sending thank you notes in the mail can be powerful if done correctly. Here's what to know. Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Career Builder - These 5 Simple Mistakes Could Be Costing You A Job Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 703-579-6677

How does someone “dress for success” for an interview? We've all heard the cliché and we're all told we should do it. The trouble is there aren't a lot of helpful tips out there that explain how job applicants should dress for success. That's where we come in! Welcome back to another episode of Leaving the Nest. I'm your host, Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world. Today, I'm joined by Connor Davis, and we'll be covering everything you need to know from top to bottom about what to wear for an interview. From hair styles to socks, from blouses to pants, and from belts to shoes, we'll give our best recommendations for what recruiters are really looking for when it comes to interview dress codes for men and women. And this is the biggest thing to remember. This is your first impression. You want to make sure you're giving off the right message by being professional, well polished, and clean cut. I hope you find this episode leaves you looking your best! Enjoy! In This Episode:[00:30] - Kathleen introduces us to the topic of today's episode: dressing to impress for an interview. [02:29] - Kathleen starts the conversation by addressing the ladies and referencing her own experience. [03:32] - This is what women seeking a job need to know about their hair for an interview. [05:42] - What should women do when they want to wear their hair up? [08:20] - Kathleen reminds us why women shouldn't bring too much attention to their hair. [08:53] - Kathleen shares advice about ears and jewelry we should all hear. [10:26] - It's time for women to face the facts about facial coverings and makeup. [12:09] - When it comes to makeup and perfume, if it's worth doing, it's definitely not worth overdoing. Kathleen explains why. [13:58] - Kathleen moves the attention down to the shoulders and tattoos. [16:13] - Here are a few things to watch out for when wearing a watch. [16:55] - These are the top tips when it comes to blouses, according to Kathleen. [19:30] - Dresses, skirts, and tights can help some women be more confident during the interview. [22:00] - For those that don't want to mess with tights, skirts, or dresses, Kathleen gives some suggestions about pants. [22:56] - What is the biggest mistake when it comes to the overall outfit? [24:03] - Kathleen gives some advice about which shoes are the best shoes to wear. [25:33] - Purses are a wonderful fashion statement, but which ones are best for interviews? [27:35] - Kathleen introduces us to her guest, Connor Davis. [29:13] - Connor shares some best practices for men's hair styles and head coverings. [30:52] - Should men wear earrings during an interview? Connor shares his thoughts. [31:46] - This is what men need to know about facial hair and facial coverings. [33:42] - Connor reflects on his experience with shirts and jackets during his interviews, and he answers the question whether or not we can overdress for an interview. [36:19] - How important is it to know how to tie and tie? [39:05] - What are the rules when it comes to shirt buttons and suit jackets? [40:59] - Connor wastes no time and reveals the one thing men should know about belts. [42:39] - Tailoring pants and a jacket can help boost confidence in men during an interview. [44:42] - We hop into socks as Connor discusses sharing personality with fun dress socks. [45:56] - These are the shoes men should completely avoid during an interview, according to Connor. [47:50] - Connor elaborates on accessories, watches, and items men should bring to an interview. [50:20] - Kathleen recommends where women can shop for business-professional attire at reasonable prices. [51:30] - Connor recommends where he's gotten his business-professional attire and being on the lookout for deals. [52:30] - We hear some final reminders about how important dressing to impress can be. [54:55] - Connor shares a story about the worst-dressed person he saw during an interview. [56:05] - Kathleen reminisces about a man that came to an interview sharply dressed but with something off about his shoes. Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Connect with Kathleen:kathleen@rocsjobs.comLinkedIn Call: 703-579-6677 Connect with Connor: connor@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn  

In the age of technology and video calls, I'm sure the burning question on every job applicant's mind is “do in-person interviews matter anymore?” In short, yes! Even though in-person interviews have been less prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic, I'm confident they will come back stronger than ever. Truthfully, I believe most employers want to meet with job applicants in person. As a job seeker, it's important to get out there and meet the people you will be interviewing with. That's not to say technology and video interviews don't have their place. Video interviews can still help develop a valuable skill set and can give some great alternatives to the face-to-face interview, but there's nothing quite like the original in-person interview. Today, we will be wrapping up our discussion on interviewing. So far, we've touched on phone interviews, video interviews, and in this episode, we will be covering the good old fashioned in-person interview. In this episode, we'll be covering some of the tips and tricks every job applicant should know in order to make a great lasting impression for their next in-person interview. This is Leaving the Nest and my name is Kathleen Pellegrino from ROCS Grad Staffing. Our mission is to help you find a job out of college and thrive in the real world. Enjoy! In This Episode:[00:40] - Kathleen introduces the topic of today's episode: in-person interviews. [02:08] - Before we start with in-person interviews, Kathleen answers a question about generic voicemails versus custom voicemails. [03:31] - We're reminded why getting an in-person interview is a win in and of itself. [03:55] - How do we prepare for an in-person interview? [06:07] - We learn why LinkedIn can be a valuable source of information when preparing for an interview. [07:50] - Besides researching the company's online presence, Kathleen shares what questions about travel and parking we need to know when preparing. [09:35] - Kathleen reveals the best time when arriving for an in-person interview. [10:55] - The ROCS One Minute Rule, according to Kathleen. [13:40] - Kathleen reminds us that interviewers are still people and understand the troubles of travel in the DC Metro area. [14:50] - Kathleen shares a story about an appointment she was worried about because of a nail in her car's tire. [15:51] - The most important thing we need to know about interviews is punctuality. Kathleen explains why. [16:40] - What should we wear for an in-person interview? [18:00] - What accessories should we bring to an interview, and what should we leave in the car? [20:19] - We learn why bringing water into an interview can be hit or miss. [22:17] - Once we arrive in the reception area for our interview, Kathleen gives recommendations for how we should introduce ourselves to the receptionist and what information we need to know before the interview begins. [23:11] - Kathleen lists out each of the items job seekers should bring to an interview and touches on best practices for cell phones. [25:39] - Kathleen gives a few reminders when interviewees are waiting for an interview to begin. [27:15] - These are the best practices we should follow when the interviewer finally walks into the room. [28:42] - The importance of the question “Tell me about yourself,” according to Kathleen. [30:20] - What is the best way to take notes during an in-person interview? [31:20] - Kathleen recaps all of the skills she expects from every job applicant. [32:44] - Kathleen gives a few pointers for when the interview wraps up. Resources: ROCS Grad Staffing Connect with Kathleen: kathleen@rocsjobs.com LinkedIn Call: 703-579-6677