Blog Post: Recruiter’s Notebook: Billie Henning

Name: Billie Henning
Job Title/Employer: Director, Kaplan Test Prep and Admissions
Year of Graduation: 2002
Degree/Major: B.A./Broadcast Journalism

What kind of recruiting do you do for your company?

The majority of the positions I recruit for are in sales, operations, management, and academics. These positions range from entry level to experienced professionals.

Who is your company’s ideal recruiting candidate?

The Kaplan environment is highly entrepreneurial and fast-paced. People who excel here are independent, smart, and action-oriented. We value a competitive mindset, coupled with the ability to work as part of a team. Our staff tends to be altruistic and business minded. Candidates who are most successful at Kaplan connect with our mission statement of helping students achieve their educational and career goals.

What strengths do Arizona State University graduates bring to the hiring table as job candidates?

ASU graduates are motivated and determined to succeed. Many utilize the school’s internship and assistantship programs, fostering good work ethics and transferable skills for future employment. 

What can current students or alumni do to improve their chances of finding work with (or though) your company?

Research the company. Visit the centers and learn about our products. It’s surprising how many candidates don’t take the time to do this. It’s always impressive when speaking to candidates who have done their homework.

Be smart with your job search; ask yourself, “What do I want to do?” “What kind of people do I want to work with?” “What can I offer?” Make sure you are able to articulate not only where you believe you can contribute, but where you can make a difference. Being too vague and noncommittal is a surefire way to be eliminated from consideration.

Any other job-hunting secrets you’d like to share?

Network, network, network! Tell friends and acquaintances that you are job hunting and it may land you the perfect opportunity that you never would have known existed by merely searching the job boards. Remember to stay positive! Finding the perfect job may take some time. Just hang in there… job hunting is a job in itself!