In response to a rapidly shifting labor landscape, the Far Eastern University Career and Placement Office (FEU CAPO)’s Pre-Employment Preparation (PEP) Talk launched webinar on job applications in June 2020.
PEP Talk is a virtual series designed to prepare FEU graduating students for employment by equipping them with necessary knowledge on various topics from talks delivered by industry professionals and experts, according to CAPO Director Ma. Carmencita Suva-Alfonso.
For its premiere webinar, CAPO invited Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles and Ernst & Young Location Lead for Talent Development Dennis Supetran to discuss the New Normal: Adapting to the New Work Set-up.
Supetran shared how a multinational company adjusted to the new realities and provided tips on how to thrive in the new work set-up such as preparing one’s own workspace at home.
Meanwhile, Secretary Nograles gave insights on the policies implemented by the government in response to the major changes caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. While he acknowledged that certain industries like tourism are badly affected, he believes there are still many new opportunities opening for fresh graduates.
Sec. Nograles said, “The new realities brought upon by the pandemic are pushing the government and private sectors to adapt. Therefore, new jobseekers must adapt as well.”
Dean Bulaon, Program Coordinator for Strategic Partnerships in Kalibrr, expressed the same sentiments in his talk Career Prep 101 & Successfully finding a Career in the Digital Landscape. While the unexpected new realities may be harsh especially for fresh graduates, employment opportunities are still available.
He explained that technological advancement leads to the creation of new jobs that will require new sets of skills. These new positions require technology-savvy people, so it is necessary to retool and develop skills fit for the new demands of work.
To secure these new work opportunities, giving a good first impression in a job interview is still very important, said JobStream Chief Executive Maridel Mampusti. During her webinar about Professional Appearance & Grooming for the Workplace, and How to Prepare and Ace the Important Job Interview, she said that key elements are good grooming, having a properly laid-out resume, being prepared mentally, and knowing all about the company you are applying in to.
She also advised aspiring professionals and even students to stay updated with with the current industry trends.
Johnson and Johnson’s Anne Marie Nicolle Fevidal imparted some valuable tips on Career Essentials: Writing a Winning Resume.
As the University Recruitment Lead of her company, Fevidal emphasized that it only takes 60-seconds for a recruiter to know whether he/she will pursue the applicant after scanning the resume. The document must be honest, highlight your strong suits, and include only information that is relevant to the job position.
CAPO has lined up more activities for the rest of the year. It will conduct an Online Mock Interview with Coaching this July and Online Exclusive Recruitment in August. Next webinars will tackle adapting to the new normal of social media skills and ethics and how to develop empathy skills in the new normal work set-up.
“Today’s uncertain times have brought fear and uncertainty to job seekers. Through FEU CAPO’s PEP Talk series, we aim to help our FEU graduates prepare for, adapt to, and excel in the new work environment. We also remind them of the value of Fortitude and to be brave in the midst of the challenges of the pandemic,” said Suva-Alfonso.