Appendix – Solutions to Case Studies

CASE STUDY (Part B): Using transferable skills across different careers

Emma was successful in leveraging her transferable skills from construction project manager to product manager and obtaining a position. These are the steps that Emma took…

1. Assess and identify transferable skills.
2. Update resume – think of the skills you have that pertain to the job you are seeking.
3. Do a job search.
4. Learn industry-specific knowledge – once you have identified a position you should have learn about the industry and the responsibilities of a person in that position.
5. Interview – prepare for the interview.
6. Success in a new career – you have the skills, now do the job.

CASE STUDY (Part B): Networking for Employment

Greg had expanded his network and gained knowledge about the industry he wanted to go into. He also felt that some of his connections became less active and that the relationships would fizzle out. By organizing and creating a system to keep track of his network, Greg was able to stay on top of his connections without feeling overwhelmed. These are steps Greg took to maintain nurturing relationships with the people in his network.

1. Use an Excel spreadsheet or Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tool
   • Organize Connections
   • Set Reminders for Follow-Ups
2. Divide the people you have in your network or your connections into groups
   • Note key relationships and put them at the top of the list.
   • For the priority connections, set aside time to engage with them more often.
   • For those who you do not consider as important, schedule less frequent check-ins.
     • Also realize, some of these individuals may become part of the priority connection group.
3. Engagement and updates
   • Using social media tools can provide a greater way to reach more people in your network
   • Create email templates
4. Group interactions and networking events
   • Join or create groups: Instead of reaching out to people individually all the time, create or join groups (online or in-person).
   • Attend networking events, industry conferences, or meetups (online or in-person).
5. Be consistent in your engagement routine
   • Have a schedule to stay organized and ensure you are consistently engaging with your network.
6. Have something to offer to the network
   • Don’t always take but also give! Offering help or information to your connections with help build and keep the relationships going.

CASE STUDY (Part B): How to secure an internship

In an internship an individual can gain experience and knowledge. In addition, an internship may provide the opportunity of a permanent position.

Here are the steps that Li Wei Woo took to secure an internship:

1. Interests and Goals: Li Wei identified her interests and goals. She also researched the industry she wanted to go into and the role that she was interested in. She identified the skills that she was bringing to the table and what type of skills she would develop.
2. Resume and LinkedIn: Li Wei customize and updated her resume and LinkedIn account: Her resume highlighted the projects, coursework, volunteer work, her skills, and part-time work experience.
3. Start Search Early: Li Wei started her internship search early by using Handshake, LinkedIn, Indeed.com and searching company career pages.
4. Networking: She talked with her career advisors, professors, friends, and strategically connected with individuals in the field.
5. Practice for Interviews: Li Wei researched the company and the position that she was hired to fill. She found answers to common interview questions and was prepared to ask questions at the end of the interview.
6. Follow up: Li Wei sent a thank you email to the interviewer.

CASE STUDY (Part B): Achieving Success in the Workplace

1. Setting clear goals and expectations: Tomas aligned his goals with the company’s objectives and took time to understand his manager’s expectation.

2. Demonstrating initiative and proactivity: Tomas didn’t wait for instructions to get started but had a proactive attitude that allowed him to take ownership of important projects.

3. Building strong relationships with colleagues: He understood that success on the job was not just about personal achievements but also about being a team player.

4. Continuously improving skills and seeking feedback: Tomas’ committed himself to continuous learning and he was receptiveness to feedback. This allowed him to refine his skills and stay competitive in an ever-changing field.

5. Demonstrating results and measuring impact: Tomas focused on results-driven work, and it helped him gain recognition for his contributions.