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Career Wisdom*

Whether you are interested in moving up into a higher grade or staying in your current position while continuing to grow, many staff ask this question: how do I manage and cultivate my career at such a large, decentralized organization?

This page will provide “Career Wisdom” in the form of advice, resources, and best practices and let you learn from Harvard staff members who are successfully managing their careers. The page will be populated with new ideas monthly, so plan to check in regularly.

Elevator Pitch? (July 2018)

Career Wisdom Elevator PitchNo matter where you are on your career journey, it is important to have an elevator pitch prepared so that when someone you meet says “tell me about yourself” or asks, “what is it that you do?” you can respond with a well thought out answer. This short video explains what an elevator pitch is and shows an example.

Your Career Questions!

Who sees my resume and cover letter first when I apply for a job at Harvard? What is the initial screening process?

This first review depends on the hiring process the individual school or unit follows, but Harvard does not use keyword or other automated screening. In some cases, a dedicated HR recruiter is the first step for applications, reviewing resumes for evidence that an applicant meets the basic qualifications and preferred additional qualifications. In other areas, all applications may go to a designated person with hiring privileges (such as a hiring manager or department/lab administrator) for review.  Regardless of who reads your application first, resumes are screened for specific evidence of the basic qualifications and preferred additional qualifications. Cover letters are read to understand more fully the candidate’s skills and interests for the specific job.

Do you have a career question? Email mycareerquestion@harvard.edu!

*Career Wisdom is a collection of tips, suggestions, experiences and knowledge from Harvard staff, who share what they’ve learned during their career journeys.