This summer, CCE’s Employer & Alumni Relations Team is hitting the road again to explore careers, industries, and employers across the country! We’re heading to cities from coast to coast to show you what opportunities are available in each of these exciting places.
First on our itinerary, Bianca Bryson (Assistant Director, Employer & Alumni Relations) headed down south to Atlanta, Georgia, to meet with employers in the creative, tech, and consumer packaged goods industries.
To truly capture Atlanta’s job market in full, Bianca scheduled meetings with representatives from eight different organizations and toured incredible office spaces.
Bianca met with representatives at:
In these conversations, she learned that Atlanta is the hub for many growing industries, and that many of these organizations offer non-traditional pathways for entry. While these processes can be a bit challenging to navigate, Bianca collected key advice to prepare you to apply for positions in Atlanta and in the industries represented.
Networking: Who do you know?
Some people think simply applying for a job and submitting your resume is enough to land an interview. But for companies in the creative industries (or those with non-traditional pathways), networking is crucial!
Networking is more than just introducing yourself to someone; it’s about maintaining that relationship into the future.
Colleen McKie, Human Resources Partner for the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream, says that anyone looking for a career in sports should take initiative. If you speak to a representative at a career fair, don’t let the conversation end there; email them with your interest. Continue the relationship. “Don’t make her (Human Resources) do your job, make an effort to get into the organization.” For advice on networking and maintaining these important relationships, check out CCE’s resource Make the Most of a Networking Event.
Andrew Kennan, Executive Director at Callanwolde Fine Arts Center, also emphasized the importance of networking. Callanwolde Fine Arts Center is a historical arts non-profit in Atlanta that not only hosts special performances, art exhibitions, and community outreach events but also offers classes and workshops for children, adults, veterans, and more in visual, literary, and performing arts. When asked how an undergraduate can get their foot in the door of an arts organization, Kennan stated, “they should reach out!” Andrew expressed that people are happy to engage and offer advice to students and those passionate about the arts. One of the best ways to connect is to contact someone directly on LinkedIn who works at the organization you hope to join. Before reaching out, research the organization and read the website. Show and take that initiative!
Transferable Skills & Interests: qualities recruiters look for
As an undergraduate student, applying for internships and entry-level positions can be daunting. Sometimes, it feels like you don’t have enough experience or skills required for an application. This is where your transferable skills and passion for a particular industry or company come into play.
Even a large tech company like Calendly does not require you to have an Engineering degree to be considered a viable candidate. As Jaquez Hodo, On-Boarding Specialist for Calendly, said, “We can teach you the hard stuff.” He looks for an applicant with people skills and good written communication who has studied the company’s culture and values and is a problem solver. You should be able to show that you have these attributes during the interview process. He also added that when starting your career at Calendly, you’ll likely be in a support role. When thinking about those first three months of work, consider how you can translate your experience with customer service jobs, clubs, and projects to add value to this job.
Like Hodo, Lawrence Bennett, Director of Production at Alliance Theatre, Atlanta’s National Theater, named people skills and enthusiasm as essential qualities in a candidate. When asked what skills he looks for in an application, he replied, “You can’t teach empathy. Are you good at working with people? Can you work with the organization’s culture?” He shared his advice: “Don’t feel like you have to check all the boxes to apply if it peaks your interest. Are you excited about working here?”
Resumes and Cover Letters: make the most out of your materials
Your resume and cover letter are an employer’s first impression of you, and this impression matters!
Orlagh O’Rourke, Social Marketing Manager at Cartoon Network, says that although she is not a fan of cover letters, you should be sure to write one and customize it to the organization and position you are applying to. One key piece of advice: “Your resume is just for qualifications. Personality is in the cover letter, and the interview confirms it!” In your cover letter and interview, can you show that you are passionate about cartoons and animation, and that you are flexible and eager to work? Lastly, if you are looking to work for an animation company, including a portfolio, personal website, and writing samples is strongly encouraged.
Rachel Leach, Senior Recruiter for Cox Media Group, an American media conglomerate, echoed this advice. Rachel mentioned that internships, part-time opportunities, hands-on experiences, and self-produced projects should all be included on your resume. More importantly, Rachel wants to know in the interview process, “What’s your why? Can you articulate your why? Do you have a passion for the industry, and have you done your research?”
Kirby Miles, Senior Manager for Early Career Programs at Newell Brands, says a cover letter is not necessary in their application process. Kirby also believes your resume should only include highlights. One page is ideal, and high school information should be removed. Lastly, be sure to add involvement with clubs and any internships you’ve had in your college career.
With its southern hospitality, sunny weather, and rich culture, Atlanta is truly a place that welcomes all who desire to find a community and environment to thrive in. The city is a hub for emerging industries, offering numerous opportunities across the creative, tech, and consumer packaged goods sectors. Employers emphasized the importance of intentional networking, leveraging transferable skills, and having strong application materials tailored to each organization and job you are applying to. Whether you aspire to have a career in the arts, sports, or entertainment, embrace non-traditional pathways. Being able to express your passion for the industry and your enthusiasm for the work ahead are major steps in fulfilling your career aspirations.
