Christopher Stapleton is a Bachelor of Commerce student, majoring in marketing management. His interest in marketing began prior to university when he co-owned a skateboard company called Hoof Life. He has also worked in experiential marketing as a Brand Ambassador for Ram Trucks. Christopher completed his first co-op term as an Account Coordinator at Chester + Company last winter. To prepare for his second co-op in advance, he took the initiative in April to successfully secure his fall co-op position at the same company.

“I began my co-op search by researching all of the advertising agencies within Halifax to figure out which agencies would be the best fit. Once I knew which agencies I was interested in, I searched their websites, LinkedIn, social media, award submissions as well as my own network to find contact information for each agency.

I contacted Chester + Co. through my network. I explained I was a Dalhousie co-op student majoring in marketing and asked if they would meet to discuss more about their work and the potential of taking on a co-op student. I researched everything about Chester and Co., as well as the marketing industry in Halifax. At the time, they had never taken on a co-op student. However, thankfully the timing was right and they were interested in creating a co-op position.

Early into my first co-op with Chester + Co., I knew I was interested in returning as its culture was a great fit and I enjoyed the level of responsibly I was given. I involved myself as much as possible in order to prove the value of having a co-op student and help ensure that I would be asked back. Continuing with Chester + Co. enabled me to attain my second co-op position early.

My advice for anyone looking to find a co-op position would be to communicate face to face when possible. Submit your resumes in person instead of by email or ask for a Skype interview instead of a phone interview. Learn as much as possible not only about the company but also the industry it is in, the people you will most likely be working with, and any charities, awards or other areas of interest to the company.”

Christopher’s experience highlights the importance of doing research. Check out Management Career Services’ Directory of Online Resources to better prepare for your own job search process!