preparation Archives | Career Advice & Interview Tips

How Long Does a Background Check Take? 2024 Guide with 20+ Tips

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How long does a background check take?

A background check can be completed in a few minutes and can also take a few days based on the data sources and the information requested. You will get all the details related to the background check process in this intuitive guide.

Background checks in a recruitment process make some applicants hesitate and some excited.

Numerous individuals across the globe have a common question in mind, ‘how long does a background check take?’

Here we have tried to answer the following questions regarding the background check process:

A job background check is one of the most underrated yet essential parts of your recruitment process. Let us dig a bit more about this process and the steps it follows.

Meanwhile, get your resume reviewed by professionals here at Hiration’s Online Resume Review.

What Is a Background Check?

As its name defines, the background check is a process of ensuring a clear professional and personal history of an applicant. In this process, the recruiter will analyze all of your details and connect with your previous employers and other sources if needed to get your detailed report.

It is one of the most important parts of a recruitment process that maintains a healthy and responsible workforce in the organization. For a smooth background check process, you are recommended to mention your detailed professional history during the application process.

What Do Background Checks Consist Of?

A background check can differ as per your targeted opportunity, however, there are 3 important factors that every employer considers before onboarding you:

Education History
Employment History
Credit History

The employer will verify all the educational degrees mentioned in your resume. Hence, it is very important, to be honest in terms of highlighting your education details to avoid discrepancies. Apart from this, your employer will ensure the accuracy and relevancy of all the professional experience points listed in the resume.

Make sure that every detail is accurate and validated with suitable proof if required at any point. Some companies also check the credit history of applicants to ensure their financial stability and credibility.

Background check procedures and policies change according to the territory in the United States. Hence, you need to ensure the job background check types of your targeted company to estimate your selection chances.

How Long Does a Background Check Take for a Job?

Numerous job applicants are struggling with a single question, “how long do background checks take?” Let us clear this out with a pinch of research.

Background checks for employment can be of many types and their turnaround time depends on the data source limitations, the type of requested information, and all the legal requirements. Here you can check out the average background check time:

TYPE OF BACKGROUND CHECK	AVERAGE TIME REQUIRED
Federal Background Checks	2 days
Fingerprint Background Checks	1 to 3 days
Employment Background Checks	1 to 5 days
Universal Background Checks	2 days
Criminal Background Checks	1 to 2 weeks

The time of your background check can differ as per the company location and number of applicants. Hence, you are advised not to stick with the timeline mentioned above and be patient to get the final results.

Why Is My Background Check Taking So Long?

There might be an issue if your background check takes more than two weeks. It is also possible that your recruiter has rejected your application after checking your background. In such a case, you can expect your recruiter to contact you and clarify some details.

The delay can also be caused by the background check company as the higher authorities have a lot of tasks to deal with. Hence, you need to keep patience for some days even after the estimated time.

Apart from this, there might be chances wherein the recruiters might have completed the background check but are unable to make the final decision. The number of applicants can be a reason for this issue, which needs time to get resolved.

Source

Reply from Your Recruiter

As you can see, background checks may take more time than anticipated, and for which, you might not get an immediate call. You can feel free to send a follow-up email if you do not get any update even after one week.

If you still do not get any response, it means your employer is still engaged in the background checks of other applicants. Hence, you must wait for at least a week to follow up next time for the required details.

Does Your Recruiter Have to Disclose the Reason for Your Failed Background Check?

Yes, it is your right to get a detailed report of your background checks to see what went wrong. According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), every employer has to pass two notices to the applicant while taking any action based on the information obtained in the background check report.

Generally, applicants get a detailed report of their background checks. However, if you do not get any copy of your background check report before your rejection, you have all the rights to take action against the employer as per the FCRA.

What If My Background Check Is Wrong?

Firstly, you need to get the report of your background check from your recruiter. After that, you can ask the background check service provider to re-investigate your outcomes. The company might ask you to provide additional information and verify the existing details.

The updated information will help them in rectifying the incorrect information present with verified proof. You will get a new background check report after this process that can be sent to your recruiter.

Are Background Check Delays Possible?

Yes, background checks can be delayed due to numerous reasons. Getting a job can take many days due to the huge number of applicants and lengthy processes. You might have to wait even after getting shortlisted in the interview round. A background check generally delays due to the following reasons:

Lack of paper trail
International experience
Name verification
Multiple checks
Multiple residences

An applicant can avoid delays by following these guidelines:

Sign release forms and authorizations
Provide accurate information

FAQs on Background Check Process

Here are some FAQs related to the background check process:

How can we check the status of our Background Check Process?
Initially, you can contact the authorized person in the company wherein you have applied for a job. If you get no response, you can also contact the company that is handling the background check process if you have their contact details.
Should I contact HR if I did not get my background check report but got selected?
No, if you are selected that means everything is fine. Your recruiter would have contacted you with rejection news if there were issues in your background check.
It has been 4 days since my recruiter checked my background. Should I follow up?
Have some patience as your recruiter will have to check the background of numerous individuals to pick the right fit for the company. You should contact your recruiter after one week to get precise information.
My background check report returned with a statement that I am not eligible to work at the daycare. Why?
There might be some reasons that popped up in the background check that made you unsuitable to work with children. You can ask for the background check report to get the issue from the company to which you are applying. If the company is unable to provide the same then you can pursue claims against your recruiter under the FCRA.
What should be the turnaround time for most common background checks in the United States?

The below-given table has the turnaround times for common background checks in America:

BACKGROUND CHECK TYPE	AVERAGE TURNAROUND TIME
Bankrupcy Reports	1 to 2 days
County Civil	3 to 5 days
Federal Civil	2 to 3 days
Federal Criminal	1 to 3 days
National Warrants	1 to 2 days
County Criminal	1 to 3 days
Statewide Criminal	Varies according to state

Other information collected during phone interviews like education, and employment details also require background checks.

Check out the below-given table to know the turnaround time for all other background checks in the country:

BACKGROUND CHECK TYPE	AVERAGE TURNAROUND TIME
Employment Verification	2 to 3 days
Professional License Verification	2 to 3 days
Education Verification	2 to 3 days
Reference Checks	2 to 3 days

Bottom Line

Reaching the background check round is great, however, you should not stop your job hunting until you get a job.

This content is proudly provided by our partners at Hiration.

FedEx Careers: Guide to Career Growth and Opportunities in 2024-25

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FedEx, known for its global shipping and logistics operations, stands as one of the most desirable companies for job seekers around the United States.

With a vast network consisting of around 520k employees that spans the globe, and a reputation for innovation, FedEx careers offer numerous opportunities across various fields and specializations.

This guide serves as a thorough resource for understanding the depth of career options at FedEx, the detailed application process, salary expectations, and growth opportunities within the company.

Various Job Options at FedEx Careers

FedEx is renowned for its diverse career paths, accommodating various professional expertise and levels.

Whether you’re starting your career or seeking to leverage your experience and skills, FedEx offers a realm of opportunities.

Below, we delve into the main departments, shedding light on the significant roles within these segments.

FedEx Ground, Warehouse, and Delivery Jobs

The operations division is the heartbeat of FedEx, ensuring that millions of packages reach their destinations reliably and on time. This sector offers roles like:

Package Handler: A FedEx package handler engages directly in loading, unloading, and sorting packages, to ensure smooth depot operations.
Delivery Driver/Courier: The face of FedEx on the road is a FedEx delivery driver who is responsible for the pick-up, transport, and delivery of packages to businesses and consumers.
Operations Manager: These professionals oversee the execution of operations strategies, managing personnel, facility performance, and system coordination.

FedEx logistics careers focus on the strategizing, planning, and management of the journey of packages globally. Critical roles include:

Logistics Analyst: These professionals work on improving supply chain efficiency, analyzing operational performance, and developing strategies for various logistics issues.
Supply Chain Coordinator: These professionals manage and monitor the stages of the supply chain, ensuring seamless operations from warehousing to delivery.

FedEx supply chain careers and analyst roles require strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, as they contribute significantly to FedEx’s reputation for punctual deliveries.

FedEx Freight Jobs

These positions specialize in the handling, transportation, and delivery of larger or heavier freight shipments. Roles include:

Freight Handler: These professionals are tasked with the loading and unloading of freight from delivery vehicles, ensuring efficient handling of goods.
Freight Driver: These are specialized drivers who are responsible for transporting heavier shipments between terminals and to their final destinations, requiring distinct qualifications compared to standard delivery drivers.
Dockworker: They are primarily involved in the movement of freight to and from docks within FedEx freight terminals, facilitating the transition of goods from storage to delivery vehicles.
Fleet Maintenance: Professionals in fleet maintenance are responsible for routine inspections, repairs, and preventative maintenance of trucks and other commercial vehicles to ensure the fleet’s safety, longevity, and compliance with governmental regulations and standards.

FedEx Office Jobs

FedEx office jobs encompass the corporate side of FedEx operations, including customer service roles. These include:

Retail Customer Service Associate: These professionals work in FedEx Office locations assisting customers with shipments and inquiries.
Customer Representative: They handle customer service inquiries, often working in call centers or corporate offices.
Corporate Roles: Positions in marketing, IT, finance, and HR fall under this umbrella, and employees under these roles provide the infrastructure necessary for all FedEx services.

Every department within FedEx plays a crucial role in the company’s overall success, contributing to its standing as a global leader in courier and logistics services.

With opportunities spanning various disciplines, FedEx careers accommodate a wide range of professional interests and expertise, highlighting a commitment to workforce diversity and growth.

FedEx Express Jobs: Transition Options for Veterans

FedEx Express employs sophisticated technology to make the job search experience more efficient and productive for veterans.

One of the key features of their hiring process is the ability for veterans to search for jobs using their Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) code. This feature allows for the translation of skills acquired in the military into civilian job requirements.

Understanding the leadership and responsibility taken on by service members, the company provides avenues for career progression and development that ensure veterans continue to grow and succeed within the FedEx Express system.

By leveraging advanced technology for veteran hiring, FedEx Express underscores its commitment to appreciating the service and skills of veterans, ensuring their capabilities are recognized and effectively utilized.

FedEx Application Process

Securing a role at FedEx involves a series of steps designed to ensure a mutual fit between the candidates’ skills and company requirements.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the recruitment stages:

Online Application: You must first visit the FedEx Careers website to browse available positions and submit applications for suitable roles after logging in or signing up.
Assessment: Some positions require candidates to undertake an assessment test to evaluate job-specific competencies.
Interview: Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews, which could be telephonic, virtual, or in-person, focusing on behavioral and situational judgment.
Job Offer: Successful candidates receive a job offer, outlining the terms of employment, compensation, and benefits.

Latest Statistics Around FedEx Careers

The female-to-male employee ratio in FedEx is 1:2, i.e., 34% women and 66% men.
35% of FedEx employees have a minimum of a high school diploma, and among them, 30% majored in business, making it the most common major.
Individuals who are 18 or above can apply to FedEx careers. 51% of FedEx employees fall within the 20 to 30 years age range, making it the most common age demographic within the company.
The majority of FedEx employees, precisely 70%, fall into the annual salary range of $25k to $40k, highlighting this bracket as the most prevalent income segment within the company.

Conclusion

Embarking on a career with FedEx careers signifies becoming part of a global community that values excellence, efficiency, and development.

FedEx careers span a wide array of professional fields, offering a unique blend of job security and growth potential.

With competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and a clear pathway for advancement, FedEx stands out as a premier employer for job seekers across the United States.

This content is proudly provided by our partners at Hiration.

What is a Technical Writer: Unveiling the Role and Beyond for 2024-25

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In today’s rapidly evolving job market, the term “technical writer” may seem mysterious to many. What exactly do they do, and is it limited to the realm of Information technology?

We will help you understand the multifaceted role of a technical writer, break through common misconceptions, and explore the journey to becoming one.

Whether you’re a job seeker looking for a career path or simply curious about this profession, we’ll delve into the essence of technical writing, qualifications, skills, and real-world examples that illustrate its profound impact across industries.

What is Technical Writing?

Technical writing is the art of conveying complex information clearly and concisely.

It involves the creation of various types of documents, such as user manuals, product guides, reports, and documentation for software and hardware systems.

The core purpose is to make technical information understandable to non-technical readers, facilitating comprehension and problem-solving. Here are some examples of technical documents:

User Manuals: These guides empower users to navigate and optimize the functionality of products, software, or equipment, ensuring a seamless experience.
Assembly Instructions: Step-by-step instructions that simplify the process of assembling complex products, from furniture to electronics.
Technical Reports: Comprehensive documents used to present research findings, project progress, or technical data analysis in a structured and accessible format.
API Documentation: Vital for software developers, API documentation elucidates the functions, endpoints, and data formats needed to interact with a particular application or system.
Scientific Research Papers: These papers communicate the methods, results, and significance of scientific experiments or studies, contributing to the knowledge base of various fields.

Is Technical Writing an IT Job?

Contrary to popular belief, technical writing is not exclusive to the IT sector.

While it is prevalent in the technology industry, technical writers find employment in diverse fields, including healthcare, engineering, manufacturing, and finance.

They play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between complex technical concepts and end-users, regardless of the industry. Following are the industries where technical writers are essential:

INDUSTRY	EXAMPLES OF TECHNICAL WRITING
Information Technology	Software User Guides, API Documentation
Healthcare	Medical Device Manuals, Research Papers
Engineering	Product Specifications, Maintenance Guides
Manufacturing	Process Documentation, Quality Reports
Finance	Financial Reports, Compliance Manuals

How to Become a Technical Writer?

Becoming a technical writer involves a structured path that combines education, practical experience, and the development of specific skills.

Here are the steps to embark on this fulfilling career journey:

Educational Background: Many technical writers hold bachelor’s degrees in fields such as English, communication, journalism, or a technical discipline related to the industry they wish to work in.
Gain Experience: Internships, freelance work, or volunteer opportunities can provide valuable hands-on experience. Building a portfolio of diverse projects is crucial to demonstrate your skills to potential employers.
Networking: Join professional organizations like the Society for Technical Communication (STC) to connect with industry experts and stay updated on trends.
Learn Technical Tools: Familiarize yourself with industry-standard software tools like Adobe FrameMaker, MadCap Flare, or Microsoft Word to efficiently create and format technical documents.
Continual Learning: Stay updated with evolving technologies and industry trends to remain relevant in your chosen field.
How to Become a Technical Writer with No Experience
Entering the field of technical writing without prior experience is not only possible, but also a viable option. Here’s a strategic roadmap to help you kickstart your career:
Self-Study: Invest time in self-study to familiarize yourself with technical writing principles, style guides (e.g., Chicago Manual of Style, Microsoft Manual of Style), and industry-specific terminology. Online resources, textbooks, and courses can be valuable allies.
Build a Portfolio: Even without professional experience, create a portfolio of technical writing samples. Write user manuals for common devices, document software installation procedures, or craft how-to guides for everyday tasks. This showcases your skills and dedication.
Volunteer and Freelance: Seek volunteer opportunities or freelance projects to gain practical experience. Non-profit organizations, open-source software projects, and local businesses often welcome help with documentation.
Join Communities: Engage with the technical writing community through forums, social media, and industry-specific groups as it can lead to opportunities and valuable insights.
Online Courses and Certifications: Consider enrolling in online courses or obtaining technical writing certifications to further boost your credentials and knowledge.

HIRATION PRO TIP:
Remember, becoming a technical writer is about your ability to convey complex information clearly and your dedication to learning and adapting to new challenges. With determination and perseverance, you can enter the field and build a successful career, even if you start with no prior experience.

Technical Writer Qualifications and Skills

To excel in the role of a technical writer, you must possess a combination of qualifications and skills that extend beyond the ability to write effectively. Here’s a breakdown of what’s required:

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field: While a bachelor’s degree in fields like English, communication, or journalism provides a strong foundation, technical writers often excel when they have degrees in relevant fields such as engineering, healthcare, or computer science. These degrees not only offer subject matter expertise but also make it easier to understand and communicate complex technical concepts.
Industry-specific knowledge: Technical writers benefit greatly from industry-specific knowledge. For instance, a technical writer in the healthcare sector should understand medical terminology and regulations, while one in software development should be familiar with coding languages and software development methodologies. This knowledge ensures accuracy and relevance in their documentation.
Project management skills: Beyond writing, technical writers often handle documentation projects. Project management skills, including task scheduling, resource allocation, and project tracking, are vital. They ensure that documentation projects are completed efficiently and meet deadlines.

Essential Skills

Communication Skills: Technical writers must excel in conveying intricate information clearly and succinctly. They must bridge the gap between technical experts and non-technical users, making complex concepts accessible to a wider audience.
Attention to Detail: Precision in writing and formatting is paramount. Errors or ambiguities in technical documents can lead to misunderstandings, product failures, or safety issues. Technical writers must meticulously proofread and edit their work.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with tools and software relevant to their industry is essential. For instance, a technical writer in the software industry should be proficient in documentation tools like MadCap Flare or Confluence. This proficiency streamlines the documentation process and ensures consistency.
Research Skills: Technical writers often work with subject matter experts to gather information. Strong research skills enable them to extract valuable data from experts, reference materials, and documentation sources, ensuring the accuracy of their work.
Collaboration: Collaboration is key, as technical writers frequently work alongside engineers, designers, and other experts. Effective collaboration ensures that the documentation aligns with the project’s goals and accurately represents the product or system being documented.

Conclusion

Technical writing is a multifaceted profession that transcends industry boundaries.

Aspiring technical writers can follow a structured path of education, experience, and skill development to thrive in this role.

With the ability to convey complex information clearly, technical writers are indispensable in making intricate concepts accessible to diverse audiences across various fields.

Embracing this career path offers both job seekers and industries the promise of enhanced communication and improved user experiences.

This content is proudly provided by our partners at Hiration.

How to Get Hired at Google in 5 Easy Steps? The Complete 2024 Guide

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Are you aspiring to get into Google?

There are over 2 million people who apply at Google to become a Noogler every year. Yep! That’s the term Google uses warmly for its new employees.

The competition is fierce, and it has to be as Google has topped the Fortune 100’s ranking of the finest companies to work for in the technology field for four consecutive years.

To land a job at Google, you need more than just an Ivy League degree. Only a selected few make it through the screening process. Despite the high odds, you can make things happen in your favor.

Read on to learn how to get hired at Google and make your dream come true.

What Does Google Look for in an Employee?

If you want to work at Google, you have to remember that it does not just look for someone with certificates and degrees. To land a job at Google, you must be skilled and bring what Google mentions as “distinct experiences and perspectives.”

If you are a person who is driven by passion, has a fresh perspective, and can come up with innovative ideas, Google will adore you.

In its Nooglers, Google also looks for Googlyness, a set of qualities that will allow you to thrive in the company culture. The values of self-discipline, intellectual fortitude, and collaboration run the company. If you think you have these values and will enjoy the work at Google, stay assured as the interviewers would love to have you on the team.

But how hard is it to get a job at Google?

Getting into Google can be a little overwhelming due to its complicated recruitment process and tough competition. Out of 130 candidates, only 1 gets the job offer. This one can be you if you have the skillset and the charm to be a part of the most innovative team.

What Does It Take to Get a Job at Google?

Getting hired at Google requires more than just the skillset and presence of mind. The competition at Google is tough, and many people might be more skilled and experienced than you. In such a case, how would you stand out?

You can work on one thing many people who aspire to be a Noogler miss out on. It is your resume!

You heard it right. Many people forward a resume that they use for all the companies. However, you should make a Google-only resume if you want to differentiate yourself from the rest. Feel free to turn your resume into a sales pamphlet but draft it accordingly so it looks like it was made for Google only.

Once you are shortlisted, your performance in the Google interview will largely determine your selection fate. Through your responses, you should convey that you think out of the box and brim with creativity to find a solution to the problem.

How to Get a Job With Google Recruiter?

You can increase your chances of shortlisting by connecting with Google recruiters. What does it mean to connect with Google recruiters?

There are employment websites like LinkedIn where you can create a profile that showcases your professional experience. Once you make an engaging LinkedIn profile, reach out to recruiters working at Google to get your foot in the door.

It will serve two purposes. Firstly, you will build your LinkedIn network, and secondly, you might schedule an interview if lady luck is by your side.

You can search “Google recruiter” in the LinkedIn search bar and draft a polite message suggesting you are looking for a job in their company.

What are Google Careers Available for You in 2024?

Google offers jobs for both advanced professionals and beginners. Gone are the days when Google would just shortlist candidates based on qualifications. Now they look beyond the GPAs. If you do not have prior professional experience, you can still become a Noogler by opting for an entry-level job.

The company offers both onsite and offsite job roles. Whether you want to apply for a technical position or a non-technical one, you can choose from a wide range of job options that Google provides.

Given below is a list of popular jobs at Google that you can consider in 2024:

TECHNICAL ROLES	NON TECHNICAL ROLES
Junior Software Engineer	Administrative Assistant
Data Scientist	Junior Business Analyst
UX Designer	SEO Specialist
Software Tester	Copywriter
Network Engineer	Account Manager

How to Get Hired at Google in 5 Easy Steps

This leads to the critical question of how to get hired at Google ‌when over 2 million applications are already lying at the desk of Google.

You should understand that data might intimidate you, but in the end, Google is also a company that is looking for the most talented and competent workforce. Some universal truths still apply to Google, and having an insight into Google’s work culture can make you stand out from the crowd.

Given below are five easy steps that you can follow to get hired at Google without losing sleep over it:

How to Get Hired at Google: Building the Resume

The resume is the most critical aspect of applying for any job. It helps in the preliminary assessment of your conformity with the open position. It is a tool in your hand that can either get you shortlisted for the initial screening or get you rejected.

So what can you do to make your resume represent the real you and get shortlisted?

Keep your resume length limited to a single page.
Use a readable font like Calibri, Arial, and Times New Roman, and keep the size 10-12 points.
Mention your contact details, email, and tailor-made resume objective at the top.
If you do not have any experience, put your education first. If you have experience, you can keep the education section after work experience.
List your experience in reverse chronological order and mention your duties and accomplishments.
Include keywords in your resume from the job description to show relevant skills for the job.

How to Get Hired at Google: A Refreshing Cover Letter

Cover letters are an essential component of the job application. Even though many applicants neglect it, you should always view it as an opportunity to tell your story.

Keep in mind that Googlers are looking for unique individuals rather than those who can just fit in. Use the cover letter to convey your uniqueness and passion for the job.

Diversity of experience, abilities, backgrounds, and viewpoints is desired in the IT industry more than ever. You can talk about your experience, special interests, and skills through your cover letter.

Keep your cover letter to 3-4 paragraphs, highlighting your motivation, relevant job experience, the talents and qualities you possess for the role, and other areas where you excel as a candidate.

How to Get Hired at Google: Tips for Interview

The interview is the most interesting step in getting a job at Google. You would receive a notification for the interview stage if your resume and cover letter effectively swayed the recruiters.

The first round of interviews will comprise a phone interview where interviewers will assess your communication skills and knowledge. They may ask you behavioral questions to check how you learned from your experiences.

If you have cleared the telephonic interview, the next call will be for an on-site interview. In this stage, interviewers will assess your cognitive abilities and skills like leadership, creativity, problem-solving ability, etc.

Given below are some tips that will help you in clearing the interview rounds at Google:

Search for the most common interview questions that are asked at Google. Prepare an answer and rehearse it in front of a mirror, friends, and family to boost confidence.
While framing answers, try to add relevant experience from a previous job. It will allow the interviewers to understand your skills in much more detail.
Read the job description carefully and incorporate the skills required in your responses.
Be thorough with your resume. At any point during the interview, you might be cross-questioned based on the information you have put on your resume.
To prepare for the interview, you can enrich your knowledge of the selected domain by enrolling in courses offered by Udemy and Coursera.
Contact your recruiter to get information about meeting details. It will help you decide what to wear on the interview day, even though Google does not have a dress code.

How to Get Hired at Google: Hone the Skills

There are specific skill sets that Googlers would look for if they are interviewing you. It would help if you convey that you have those within you. Ensure to enhance and widen your skillset by opting for courses offered online so that you become the one who bags the job offer.

Before applying for a job at Google, be ready with technical and non-technical abilities relevant to your industry.

Given below are some skills that you must hone which will keep you ahead of the crowd if you want to work at Google:


Googlyness	Creativity
Cognitive Ability	Adaptability
Innovativeness	Leadership
Analytical Thinking	Divergent Thinking
Humility	Collaboration
Action-Oriented	Management Ability
Ownership	Problem Solving Ability
Passionate	Persistence

How to Get Hired at Google: Earn the Experience

Google values the experiences of its employees. Therefore, you must gain some experience through an internship or a previous job.

If you wish to join Google’s marketing team, you may volunteer or take a part-time job with a marketing company. If you do not have previous work experience, consider any academic projects you may have done that are pertinent to the position you are looking for.

You should hone your coding abilities as much as you can if you’re seeking an engineering position. Googlers value your track record of finishing open-source projects and any other relevant work experience.

How Do I Get a Job at Google Without a Degree?

If you are wondering how to get hired at Google without a degree, you should know that Google doesn’t heavily rely upon degrees. It is no wonder why it is so. Google wants smart, creative, and enthusiastic people on its team.

Many people have graduated from the Ivy League, but not all of them are working at Google. If due any reason, you have not completed your degree, you still stand a chance of getting shortlisted.

It is your skill set that will help you land your dream job. You can always pursue some certifications that can enhance the skills Google values the most.

You will have to show Google that you are better than thousands of people who have applied for the same position. You can do this by showcasing your experience or accomplishments that make you a unique candidate.

Additionally, you can start working in a company, and with years of experience, your skills will be honed, putting you ahead in the race to be a Noogler. Remember, Google puts experience before any degree, and the more experience you have, the higher your chances of selection at Google.

What Should I Do if I Don’t Get a Job at Google?

Due to the cut-throat competition, they might not select you for the job. In such a scenario, you can still politely thank the hiring manager you have been coordinating with and seek feedback.

Take the feedback seriously and work on the areas that hold you back. Improve your interview skills, gain experience, and enhance your hard and soft skills required for the job.

You can also review your application process from start to finish to understand if you made any mistakes. Always try to double-check everything before the final submission.

Stay positive and apply for the next best opportunity you have. Rather than brooding over why you were rejected, you can flourish in the next by working on yourself. You can constantly reapply at Google after a few months once you have gained the required credentials.

Should I Apply for Other Jobs at Google Before Interviews?

Records have suggested that most Google aspirants have applied for other roles before appearing for the interviews. Most often, it might happen that things didn’t work out due to reasons that do not concern you. It could be just a matter of timing than your skills.

In such cases, you can always apply to other job roles that interest you. You can opt for similar job roles as well. However, keep in mind that quality matters over quantity. Hence, do not go on applying for every job that Google has advertised.

Make a wise decision to shortlist the ones where you could perform well. Getting the offer letter is just beginning, you have to excel in Google’s work culture through your extraordinary skills.

FAQs for ‘How to Get a Job in Google?’

Getting hired at Google requires more than just degrees and certifications. You need to stand out to the interviewers through your charismatic personality.

Q. How to get a job in Google?

A. To boost your chances, focus on developing relevant skills, gaining industry experience, networking, and showcasing your achievements through a well-crafted resume and cover letter.

Q. What qualifications does Google look for in job applicants?

A. Google seeks candidates with strong academic backgrounds, technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for innovation. Additionally, relevant work experience and demonstrated leadership skills are valued.

Q. Are there any specific interview tips for getting hired at Google?

A. Prepare thoroughly by researching Google’s products, culture, and interview process. Be ready to showcase your problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and ability to work well in a team during the interview.

Q. Do I need a computer science degree to get hired at Google?

A. While a computer science degree is valued, Google also considers candidates from diverse educational backgrounds who possess the required skills and experience for specific roles.

Q. Are there any alternative paths to getting a job at Google?

A. Yes, apart from traditional application processes, Google offers internships, apprenticeships, and programs like the Google Associate Product Manager (APM) to provide alternative routes to getting hired.

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Synonyms for ‘Provide’: Elevate Your Professional Documents in 2024

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If there’s one word that’s overused to the point of exhaustion in professional documents, it’s “provide.”

Whether in resumes, cover letters, or LinkedIn profiles, everyone seems to be ‘providing’ something.

But is that the best way to illustrate what you truly offer? This comprehensive guide will reveal 15 synonyms that can breathe new life into your professional story, each suited to different contexts and industries.

It’s not just about replacing a word; it’s about recapturing your unique contribution in the workplace.

Synonyms to Revitalize Your Narrative

Furnish

Context: Implies the act of supplying or equipping with furniture or necessary resources.
Industry: Interior Design, Hospitality, Real Estate
Example: “I furnished the newly opened hotel with a unique blend of modern and antique pieces, capturing the local cultural essence.”

Dispense

Context: Often used when referring to distributing items or services that are regulated.
Industry: Healthcare, Pharmacy, Legal
Example: “Responsibly dispensed medication to patients, following strict protocols to ensure safety and compliance.”

Allocate

Context: Refers to the distribution of resources or duties for a particular purpose.
Industry: Finance, Human Resources, Project Management
Example: “Allocated budget resources efficiently, leading to a 20% reduction in overall project costs.”

Contribute

Context: Suggests offering something, often money or goods, to help achieve or provide something.
Industry: Non-Profit, Community Service, Crowdfunding Initiatives
Example: “Contributed substantial funds to local underprivileged youth programs, aiding their educational advancement.”

Impart

Context: Implies giving information, wisdom, or knowledge.
Industry: Education, Consulting, Spiritual Guidance
Example: “Imparted complex technical knowledge to clients, enhancing their operational efficiency.”

Administer

Context: Involves managing and executing operations, often in the context of delivering services or justice.
Industry: Healthcare, Government Services, IT
Example: “Administered IT services to ensure optimal network performance across the department.”

Bestow

Context: Suggests giving something as a gift or honor.
Industry: Awards & Recognition, Diplomacy, Arts
Example: “Bestowed the ‘Employee of the Year’ award for exceptional performance and dedication.”

Render

Context: Implies providing a service, especially in artistic, legal, or professional contexts.
Industry: Legal, Artistic Freelance, Emergency Services
Example: “Rendered emergency services efficiently during crisis scenarios, saving numerous lives.”

Disseminate

Context: Refers to spreading information widely.
Industry: Communications, Public Relations, Journalism
Example: “Disseminated crucial information during the crisis, keeping the public informed and safe.”

Assign

Context: Involves allocating a particular task or responsibility to someone.
Industry: Corporate Management, Editorial, Education
Example: “Assigned projects strategically to staff, maximizing individual strengths and boosting overall productivity.”

Extend

Context: Suggests stretching out, offering more, or making available further resources or help.
Industry: Customer Service, Diplomacy, Finance
Example: “Extended support to clients facing financial difficulties, helping them navigate through challenging times.”

Bequeath

Context: Implies leaving personal or professional assets to someone, usually in a will or legacy context.
Industry: Legal, Historical Societies, Finance
Example: “Documented and bequeathed historic artifacts to local museums for future generations.”

Supply

Context: Refers to making essential goods available to customers or clients.
Industry: Retail, Manufacturing, Logistics
Example: “Consistently supplied products ahead of schedule, achieving a 98% customer satisfaction rate.”

Devote

Context: Suggests dedicating time, effort, or oneself to a task or purpose.
Industry: Any (especially where commitment is key)
Example: “Devoted countless hours to perfecting our approach, significantly enhancing client satisfaction.”

Distribute

Context: Involves giving out shares or parts of something.
Industry: Publishing, Supply Chain Management, Sales
Example: “Effectively distributed resources during the product launch, leading to record-breaking sales figures.”

Conclusion

Each of these synonyms for “provide” serves as a more descriptive verb, illuminating your activities and achievements in a specific light.

The trick lies in selecting the one that aligns perfectly with your experiences, responsibilities, and industries.

By carefully curating your word choice, you present a more engaging, detailed, and colorful picture of your professional journey.

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Top 10 Skills Employers Want in an Intern

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Internships provide invaluable professional experience and allow you to test the theories and concepts you’ve been introduced to throughout your college career — not to mention they increase your chances of being offered a full-time job later on.

No matter what your major or preferred industry, employers look for a core set of skills and traits when considering applicants for both internships and entry-level jobs. Your prospective supervisor is interested in more than just your GPA, so whether you’re hoping to be a summer intern, planning on honing your time-management skills as an intern during the academic year, or applying for your first job out of college, it’s worth your while to draw attention to the transferable skills you’ve picked up during your courses, community service and extracurricular activities.

Below are the top 10 skills employers want in an intern:

1. Communication

Communication occurs in a variety of ways, but future employers are primarily interested in your ability to write and speak professionally. You have the opportunity to demonstrate your written skills in your resume and cover letter, and your verbal skills as you supply thoughtful answers to the common interview questions you’ll likely be asked. During your interview, you might mention your experience giving oral presentations (which perhaps was required in some of your classes). The ability to communicate effectively — to translate ideas and convey information — is key in any field, whether it’s with your supervisor, coworkers, or clients, and employers are well aware that it is a valuable skill.

2. Interpersonal

The ability to communicate effectively is often related to one’s ability to relate well to others, or “people skills.” Depending on the industry, you may be interacting with clients and vendors as well as your co-workers and managers. It’s important to be able to build and maintain relationships and be the kind of person team members want in the office with them every day. Interpersonal skills are also important because employers seek individuals who can identify the wants and needs of others and who can recognize and acknowledge the value of differing perspectives.

3. Collaboration

As an intern, you’ll likely collaborate with other interns and company employees. Your ability to communicate and relate well to others is certainly important for collaboration, as is the capacity to work with others toward a common goal. As part of a team, you have to understand your own strengths and weaknesses so you know how you can best contribute, as well as be aware of how you can bring out the best in others.

4. Time Management

If you’ve managed to successfully take a full course load every semester and meet assignment deadlines, to some extent, you’ve already demonstrated time management skills. But as an intern, you’re not going to have a syllabus to tell you when your deadlines are. It’s up to you to organize your time and produce results. Employers want to know that you can prioritize responsibilities and recognize when it’s appropriate to multitask or focus on one particular project at a time.

5. Adaptability

Today’s work culture — whether you’re hoping to intern for a startup or well-established organization — often requires even the most senior level executives to wear multiple hats. As an intern, one day you might find yourself supporting the sales team and the next day performing customer service. While you may have an interest in a particular aspect of an industry, a willingness to become familiar with the different parts of an organization is definitely viewed as an asset (and also increases your exposure within the company).

6. Critical Thinking

Critical thinking refers to your ability to analyze and evaluate a situation or issue and form a judgment. The tendency to think critically can be demonstrated by a willingness to ask questions in order to understand an issue from all possible angles, and to pose creative solutions to challenges. It’s something many of your professors have likely emphasized and is highly valued by employers.

7. Research and Analysis

If you’ve completed any research papers or projects for your coursework (and you likely have), you already have experience with research and analysis. Don’t be shy during your interview for an internship; make it a point to bring up the empirical research you performed for your psychology class and the conclusions you came to about how your fellow students make purchasing decisions in the campus bookstore. As a new member of the organization, you’ll be hit with a lot of new information, and your ability to process that information is a testament to your ability to fulfill whatever role you’re assigned.

8. Initiative

You’ve applied for an internship to gain knowledge of an industry and professional experience, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have anything to offer. During your interview, highlight instances where you’ve taken it upon yourself to contribute or positively affect change. Your potential employer will appreciate the chance to bring someone on board who doesn’t have to wait to receive direction for every task, and who’s willing to assist others with their work.

9. Receptiveness

While taking initiative is important, so is the ability to receive feedback. For example, if you’re asked about a time you made a mistake, you can mention the feedback you received regarding the error and how you responded to it. Your interviewer will want to know that you’re willing and able to address any weaknesses.

10. Technical Proficiency

You certainly won’t be expected to be an expert in whatever platform the company you’re applying to uses, particularly if you’re hoping to intern for a company within a highly specialized industry. But you should know your way around a computer, and your ability to navigate basic productivity software will likely be presumed.

The above are commonly identified skills that employers seek in interns, as well as applicants for entry-level jobs. Be sure to research your particular industry and familiarize yourself with other skills or character traits that may be desirable in your field.

Next, get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Tips to Make Your Resume Stand Out and find answers to common interview questions such as How Do I Get an Internship?

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5 Tips for Getting an Entry-Level Job Unrelated to Your Major

It’s increasingly common for college seniors to realize that the major they selected years ago and have been working hard towards completing has no direct path into the workforce. For example, if you majored in History, Philosophy, Anthropology, or Art History, you probably don’t have many obvious career paths. Fortunately, there are plenty of recent grads who have gone on to become wildly successful in roles outside of anything their college major focused on.

Here are 5 actionable tips to help you break in to a role unrelated to your major:

1. Choose the Right Positions

There are quite a few positions out there for recent grads that don’t require specific college degrees. Choosing which ones are the right ones for you can be more of a burden than actually breaking into that field. If you’re not sure how to go about choosing the best positions for you, we have a guide to help you start your search.
Otherwise, figuring out what types of roles you’d excel at or want to excel at can make a world of a difference.

2. Get an Internship

This is the most surefire way to transition into an entry-level role. Internships, by definition, are supposed to provide you with real-world experience in a role. They shouldn’t ever require that you have any existing experience.

Sites like WayUp aren’t only there to help current students find internships. Even if you’ve already graduated, internships can be great opportunities for you. However, don’t make the mistake of thinking that just because you’ve already graduated that an internship will be easy to get. They’re becoming more competitive all of the time and you’ll want to look at doing some of the other tactics mentioned in these tips if you want to ensure you lock down that internship.

3. Start a Related Side Project

Side projects aren’t just for engineers and designers. If you’re looking to get into marketing, start a blog or some social media accounts that aren’t personal to practice representing a brand.

Another way to get some side project experience is to offer your skills for free. Find a small, local company near you and offer to help them run their social media campaigns for free. Want to learn more about sales? Find a local business with a sales team and ask if you can listen in on some of their calls.

4. Learn to Sell Yourself

Don’t focus solely on your skills. If employers are going to take a chance on a recent grad, they want to know that you’ll be passionate, driven, trustworthy, and respectful. Look back into your life experiences and figure out ways in which you can relate them to the position you’re applying for.

Don’t assume that your coursework is completely irrelevant. You may not immediately see how taking that ‘5th Century Greek Theater’ course could possibly help you excel at a ‘Volunteer Coordinator’, but it just might be your ticket. It’s possible that the morals of the plays were important life lessons to you and show that you can take away nuggets of helpful information from every context. Seek to make every experience an asset.

5. Discover a Mentor

The internet can be a great resource when researching career options or starting a side project. However, there’s another fantastic resource at your immediate disposal: people who are already in the career you’re looking at.

Search on Meetup for individuals or groups related to your career interests and get involved. Meeting people is a great way to learn more about a particular role and gain exposure to what the people in that role (the ones that will be hiring you) are looking for in candidates. If you can, try and get one of them to mentor you. The more you can use their connections to meet other individuals in the field, the better.

Next, get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as What is an Entry-Level Job? and find answers to common interview questions such as Tell me about yourself.

5 Technology Trends You Need to Know to Work in Any Industry

If you’ve been following the news on exciting tech trends like artificial intelligence, then you’re probably aware that emerging technologies are changing the way we work and interact with others. In fact, with things like machine learning and touch commerce becoming increasingly popular across every industry from banking to healthcare, technology is revolutionizing the way we do business and making high-tech approaches an integral part of our lives.

Here are the top five technology trends you need to know to work in any industry.

1. Internet of Things (IOT)

One of the biggest tech trends to emerge in recent years is the Internet of Things. Simply put, the Internet of Things (abbreviated IOT) is the idea that all technological devices can be connected to the internet and to each other in an attempt to create the perfect marriage between the physical and digital worlds. How will this impact you? It depends on your industry. For example, for those who work in marketing, advertising, media or business management, IOT could provide a wealth of information on how consumers engage with products by tracking their interactions with digital devices. In turn, this data could be used to optimize marketing campaigns and user experiences.

How it’s affecting industries: The really cool thing about IOT is that it’s not only changing the way we do business but also the business models we use to do it. For example, pay-per-use models are becoming increasingly popular across all industries as new customer data becomes available.

2. Machine learning

Another exciting emerging technology is machine learning, which is essentially a computer’s ability to learn on its own by analyzing data and tracking repeating patterns. For example, social media platforms use machine learning to get a better understanding of how you’re connected with those in your social network. They do this by analyzing your likes, shares and comments and then prioritizing content from your closest connections, serving you that content first.

How it’s affecting industries: In addition to shaping your day-to-day interactions with friends on social media, machine learning is also changing the way companies do business with customers. Companies like Google are using machine learning on mobile devices which can continue learning even when offline. The result? Machine learning is reshaping the way businesses interact with their customers in a big way by helping them anticipate and meet customer needs more easily.

3. Virtual reality (VR)

Remember watching movies about virtual reality and thinking how cool it would be if it was actually like that in real life? Well, it’s about to be. Although VR has been around since the 1950s, until recently the technology wasn’t able to deliver the fully immersive digital experience users have been craving. That’s about to change with recent improvements to both hardware and programming, and the effects are going to be felt across almost every industry from retail to education.

How it’s affecting industries: Virtual reality has been a popular component of video games for several years and this trend is continuing to expand. In addition to video games, VR is likely to affect companies across the board as they adopt the technology to help them engage customers more effectively and optimize their sales and marketing efforts. It’s also a potentially useful tool for learning and is increasingly being adopted by educational organizations.

4. Touch commerce

Being able to buy anything you want with the touch of a finger may have seemed like a fantasy a few years ago, but it’s now a reality. Merging touchscreen technology with one-click shopping, touch commerce allows consumers to buy products easily from their phones. After linking their payment information to a general account and enabling the feature, customers are able to buy everything from clothes to furniture with just a fingerprint.

How it’s affecting industries: This is one of the biggest things to hit eCommerce in recent years with purchases of this type expected to increase by 150% this year alone and retailers in almost every industry anticipating an increase in sales directly related to this new technology.

5. Cognitive Technology

Cognitive technology is in the same vein as machine learning and virtual reality except that it’s a broader concept. For example, the cognitive technology umbrella includes things like natural language processing (NLP) and speech recognition. Combined, these different technologies are able to automate and optimize a lot of tasks that were previously done by people, including certain aspects of accounting and analytics.

How it’s affecting industries: Although cognitive technologies have a broad range of applications, one of the industry sectors most affected by this trend initially will be the software sector. Automated analysis of user data and experiences will be particularly useful for software companies hoping to scale.

With emerging technologies changing professional industries including banking, eCommerce, healthcare and education, staying up to date on the latest trends will give you a better understanding of your chosen industry and make you a more competitive candidate. Best of all, this knowledge might open up new doors within your field and others.

Next, get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Top 10 Things You Should Look For in a Company and find answers to common interview questions such as How to Answer: What Are Your Strengths?

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College Study Hacks: How To Memorize Faster, Retain More, And Do Better On Exams

Studying is important. It’s how you got into college in the first place. But now that you’re here, things are a little different. High school tactics won’t do the job in a college class. Studying the night before or quickly looking over the key terms before a quiz won’t carry you to that “A” anymore. The classes are harder. They have fewer opportunities to get points. And the exams are longer and harder than ever before. Let’s face it: You need some college study hacks.

College study hacks are different than those entry-level methods used in high school. It’s the big leagues now, so you’re going to need to think differently. Some courses require mass memorization. Other professors will ask you to write an essay about any covered topic on the spot. Most exams will demand you do both. And there are three to four other classes demanding your attention.

We gathered all the best time-tested, gimmick-free study hacks to help improve your information access, retention, and exam performance. Here are the WayUp Guide’s five best college study hacks.

1. Form A Group ASAP

Studying with other people is a really powerful thing. Study groups combine the various strengths and different interests of multiple people. And, when done right, these groups can make each of their members fully prepared to get an A. There are a couple ways to do this.

You can study together in person. This way, you’re all forcing each other to be productive while you’re together. Plus, if any questions come up, you can talk to a real live person working on the exact same thing as you are. This is also a great social opportunity, too. You can make friends or connections you might’ve never met!

However, if you’re a lone wolf, like many people are, then there’s a way of group studying without meeting up. Just ask people in your class to put their emails into a shared Google Docs folder. After you’re all on the document, you can pool your knowledge, answer study guide questions, and have a solid understanding of what other people are studying.

It’s really important to do this ASAP, like during the first or second class. If you’re the person to pull out your laptop and say, “Everyone type their email in here and we’ll make a Google Doc,” then you’re in control. You can set up meetings, build a shared study doc, and benefit from everyone’s knowledge.

This can be especially important if you’re not so sure about the material. At the very least, you can organize the study group. That can be your contribution!

2. The Test Answers Are (Usually) Already Out There—Go Find Them!

This is one of the most surprisingly well-kept secrets of the college world. It’s true: Most of the time, test answers and questions are already available to you.

They usually take the form of practice tests, homework sets, practice problems, and other such student resources. If your school uses an online platform like Blackboard, you can usually find practice tests or problem sets on there. While the specific numbers might change (and that’s only a maybe), the stuff your professors and TAs have distributed was usually done so for a reason. They gave you practice problems because they thought it was important material. Don’t waste that opportunity to get a look behind the curtain!

Even if your teaching staff didn’t give you a practice test, your homework and problems that were done on the board during class are usually really important indicators of what’s going to be on the test. Tests are (usually) not deviously assembled to give you a hard time. The teachers are judged on your performance, too, and they want you to succeed.

3. Don’t Go To The Library If It Doesn’t Help You

This goes for any of the “classic” study tropes that might not apply to you. If sitting at a desk doesn’t work for you, then don’t do it! If writing stuff down doesn’t work, then don’t do it! You want to be comfortable, but alert, and definitely not anxious.

It’s hard to ensure that you’re going to be calm, cool, and collected because, you know, you can’t stop thinking about this looming exam. However, finding something that works for you emotionally, physically, and—of course—intellectually is the most important thing.

college study hacks — *Just slide on out of that library!*

If you live far away from the library and only plan on studying for 2 hours, don’t waste 30 minutes commuting there. Just go to your dorm’s lounge or a nearby Starbucks. Spending too much time thinking about the place is a waste of your own time. Just do what feels right and don’t feel any pressure to study the way someone else does—unless it actually works for you.

Same goes for methods of studying. Professors love to tell students how much research there is about the memory differences between typing out notes and handwriting them. But it’s just not the case for everyone. Many people excel with tools like Quizlet that don’t involve any handwriting.

Do what’s right for you!

4. Space Out Your Studying

There’s a well-observed phenomenon known as the “Curve of Forgetting.” Essentially, what the research concludes is that you’re much better at remembering stuff when you review it again later. This means leaving all your studying for one day (or even one session) is usually a bad idea in terms of mass memorization.

This also goes hand-in-hand with “chunking.” Also somewhat well-documented in the academic psychology world, the theory states that breaking up information into chunks of related ideas helps you remember it better in the medium-to-long term. For example, it might be easier to remember that Cookie Monster is blue if you also learn that he loves cookies and speaks like a caveman. The combined facts form a more cohesive story that is easier to remember. It’s not quite Sherlock Holmes’s famous “Mind Palace,” but it’ll do.

No matter what you believe, the point is that it’s best to study with a method.

5. Of All The College Study Hacks, The Best Is…Actually Study!

This one might sound snarky, but it’s true! It’s so easy to feel like you’ve spent a ton of time studying because you’ve been sitting in the library for hours or staring at your screen all day. But studying is the actual act of learning and memorization.

Be comfortable, don’t waste your own time, and study in bursts during which you can actually focus. Break it up with some light exercise to get the blood flowing and stimulate brain activity. And finally, don’t agree to any plans during your designated study time. However, on the flip side, don’t designate all your free time for a whole week or weekend to studying, because you’re just setting yourself up for failure.

College study hacks are great, but nothing beats the real thing! You can break it up however you like, just make sure you actually do it. If you’re someone who over-prepares for things, try not to. The stress of studying more than you need to can actually make you perform worse if you lose sleep or concentration.

Finally, when it comes to the critical moment of test-taking, just breathe, relax, and answer what you can.

For more back-to-school tips, tricks, and college hacks, be sure to check out the WayUp Guide!

Choosing College Classes 101: How To Pick The Right Schedule (Even If You Don’t Know Your Major)

The college experience is about a bunch of things. It’s about growing up, forging friendships, finding love, and charting a path for yourself. But more than anything it’s still school! Just because you’re not in high school anymore, doesn’t mean you don’t have to make academic decisions. So, choosing college classes is one of the most important things to get right while you’re there.

The right set of college classes can mean the difference between falling in love with a new subject or field or absolutely dreading (and failing) your 9 a.m. Organic Chemistry for Non-Majors class.

How do you go about choosing without knowing your major? Can you find out if a class is too hard? Can you really get good classes for your freshman year?

There are so many questions when it comes to choosing college classes. The WayUp Guide is here to answer them for you. If you put these five steps on your to-do list, you can walk away with the best possible schedule guaranteed.

1. Know What You Need

Choosing college classes is something that takes a method and a mission. You’ve got to know what you want and why you want it. It doesn’t mean having a 30-Year Plan or anything like that.

When You DON’T Know Your Major

You can even pick the right classes without knowing your major.

As long as you make a plan for your general education or school requirements ahead of time, you don’t need to know the fine points right away.

If you’re enrolled in the school of arts and sciences at your university—sometimes called “the college” or “general studies”—then you probably have a slate of required, across-the-board classes you have to take. However, it’s also likely that many Advanced Placement (AP) tests, SAT subject tests (sometimes called SAT IIs), or International Baccalaureate (IB) tests will get you out of those requirements.

For example, an AP test score of 5 on the AP Statistics exam will usually get you out of the math requirement. The same goes for a humanities requirement with the AP English exam.

When You DO Know Your Major

If you do know what you want your major to be, that’s when more careful planning becomes necessary. When it comes to choosing college classes for decided majors, the same rules apply for general education requirements: You need to plan ahead. But now that you know what your major requirements will be, too, you should plan those out as well.

This is especially true for double majors and people with minors. Now is the time to make the dreaded four-year plan. It can be intimidating thinking about planning that far ahead, but it will really pay off in a big way. And it absolutely does not mean that you can’t leave room for taking fun classes. Get everything required out of the way. That way, you’ll have time left over for fun classes like Creative Writing workshops or The Business of Space Travel.

2. Know What You Want

This part is a bit trickier, but a LOT more fun. Now’s the time to decide what it is you actually want to take.

Once you know that you need to take, for example, a history class, you can make a more specific decision. Like whether you want to take The History of Hip-Hop or Analyzing Wheat Output During The American Civil War. Both schools of thought are completely valid, but planning ahead of time lets you dive in to what you’re most interested in. Plus, when you take classes you like, you’re generally going to do better in them. Good grades mean a great GPA, which is always a plus for employers and grad schools!

You should also look into the teaching styles of your potential professors using sites like Rate My Professors or school-specific review systems like Boston College’s PEP system. Do they give a lot of homework? How are they with class participation? Are they supportive? Do they really challenge you? There’s so much to know (and find out) about a professor and a class beforehand.

Beyond knowing what you want in terms of actual subject matter and teaching styles, you have to know yourself and what you want. It’s awesome if you can wake up at 8 a.m. everyday and go to the earliest possible classes…but most people are not like that. Be realistic with your self based on your social schedule and habits about what class times and workloads actually work for you. There’s nothing wrong with having your day start at noon!

3. Weighing the Options

Now that you’ve found the classes you want and planned out the classes you need, you need to make some calls. Is it worth taking that 9 a.m. if you get that legendary professor? Is it too much of a hassle to put three general education classes in one semester?

Now that you’ve done your research, you should balance out your interests. Make sure you leave enough time for friends, fun, and perhaps even an internship during the semester. It’s never a bad idea to get more work experience. However, it’s a terrible idea to take on more than you can handle. Be ambitious, but not so much so that you end up disappointing yourself with absurd expectations.

4. Doing All This BEFORE Registration Opens

This is really the key to the castle.

Planning ahead gives you the ability to make backup plans. Knowing how badly you want something means knowing your first, second, and third choices. You won’t always get your #1, but you can usually get one of your top 3 classes.

Another pro tip: If you really, really want to take a class, then email the professor ahead of registration and let him/her/them know you plan on enrolling. If you share your enthusiasm, then they’re more likely to bump you up off the waitlist if you can’t get in.

If you’re only making last-minute decisions about registration, you’re going to end up having one option in your head and no backup plan, if that. That means you have a higher chance of getting into trouble.

5. Get Lucky With Registration Times

Even after all the prep work in the world, choosing college classes can be hard. You still have to get lucky with registration times. Colleges assign registration times somewhat randomly, although they usually consider seniority, athlete status, and a variety of other factors. If you go to a small college, then registration time can be particularly important.

It’s also important to do as much prep work as possible in terms of preparing for the actual act of registering. Many schools, like NYU, will let you pre-select your classes in their online system so you can just click “register” when your time comes. Those valuable few seconds lining the classes up could mean the difference between taking your dream class and your nightmare!

While this is luck-based, it’s also possible to game the system to your advantage. If you’re an athlete, a transfer student, or someone in a highly specialized major, then you can probably get a better registration time just by asking for it. Many schools also have accommodations for people with more difficult situations. If you’re one of those people, then make sure you get your due.

Choosing College Classes 201: In-Person Meetings

No matter how far away registration is, one of the best resources is your academic advisor. They can help answer questions like, “Does this AP test satisfy this requirement?” And many, many more like that.

You also might have a major advisor. They can help you understand which classes best align with your interests and which professors have the best reputations. Don’t sleep on these incredibly valuable resources.

If you do all that, then you’re more than ready to handle registration not just for now, but for the rest of college to come. Thirty minutes of work can make 4 years of school SO MUCH BETTER. For you, choosing college classes should be a cakewalk.

For more back-to-school hacks, tips, and tricks, be sure to visit the WayUp Guide!