Do people really need college in America?
Beth Hendler-Grunt was interviewed by Tom Llamas of Top Story on NBC News Now on 11/29/22. Many Americans see college as a path to a good career, but the student debt crisis leaves millions of grads borrowing nearly $30,000. And with the tight labor market, some...
Pass the gravy…have you found a job or internship yet?
This is the first year both my kids are away at college and grad school, and I can’t wait to have them home for Thanksgiving. I know they want to relax, and catch up on all the comforts of home. I want to enjoy my time with them… but I also want them to start planning...
Should college grads fake it until they make it?
I spoke with a recent college grad, Greg, from a top school with a major in data analytics. He has gotten interviews and even made it to the 2nd round for multiple companies… but no offer. He is not sure what is missing. I asked him if he received feedback from any...
Transforming Worry into Trust: Support Your New Grad’s Job Search without Driving Them Crazy
“I’m so worried.” Many of the calls I take from parents begin with this sentiment. Every day, I hear from parents whose children are having difficulty securing that first job or internship. Parents are concerned and looking for answers because their children aren’t...
7 Years of Launching Grads
Seven years ago in April of 2015, I launched Next Great Step. As I reflect on this business and its trajectory, I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished during this time. I started at ZERO…. no outside funding, no business plan, (I probably should not admit...
Giselle Candiotti
16:14 03 May 23
Next Great Step helped me put my skills and experiences into paper and I received great coaching... lessons from Rachel. I would recommend them if you are having trouble putting together your resume, cover letter, or if you need helping polishing your interview skills.read more
Shelagh Wickey
16:14 11 Apr 23
I have recently completed the Fast Start Group Coaching program Next Great Step has. Going into... this program I was really struggling with navigating the job search process and figuring out the right way to use LinkedIn and my network. Since starting and completing the program have gained a better understanding of how to use LinkedIn and my network but I have also learned how to better market myself to organizations. Having the group sessions allowed me to get feedback from peers which intern I was able to use to improve answers for interviews or networking calls. I also learned new techniques of how to grow my network and navigating networking calls that lead to long term connections rather than one and done calls. At the end having an opportunity to have 2 private sessions with my coach helped me get into the specifics of how to leave an impact on different opportunities I had. Overall I had a great experience with Next Great Step and feel significantly more confident continuing the job search process with the tools I have gained!read more
Rebecca S
16:19 03 Dec 22
I was stuck and unsure how to start looking for a job and to start my career in what I’ve studied... years for, and Next Great Step really helped me feel confident and taught me so much about interview skills and starting the job search, and how to follow through with the job search. Thank you!read more
Jamie Shapiro
23:20 30 Nov 22
Before working with Next Great Step I felt overwhelmed and had low confidence when it came to the... job search process. I was unsure of my core skills and how my past experiences can benefit a future employer. While working with NGS I was able to gain confidence in my capabilities and clearly define my skills along with a story to back them up. They provided and taught an effective framework as to how to go about landing a job that fits my aspirations. I learned valuable insights and knowledge on all parts of the process like resume building, LinkedIn profile and searching techniques, and interview prep. I would 10/10 recommend Next Great Step for anyone feeling lost and unsure while beginning the job search process.read more
Jeffrey Carp
19:11 14 Nov 22
Next Great Step was a huge help in jump starting my career after college. I recommend to any... graduates who are confused about what they want to do or anyone who is struggling with the job search process. Achieving a job after obtaining an undergraduate degree can seem daunting and difficult and I was glad to have Next Great Steps help! They taught me the tools and appropriately trained me to win over hiring managers and attain a great job.read more
Alessandro Calame
00:55 09 Nov 22
I was unsure about how prepared I was for going into the professional world after graduating from... college. I didn’t know how well my resume looked, and I wanted to get more advice on how to build my LinkedIn profile. After working with Next Great Step, my self confidence has increased and I feel great with how much I have learned. Beth and Rachel did an amazing job guiding myself and my group to unlocking our true potential.read more
Noah S.
18:41 04 Sep 22
Before working with Next Great Step, I was having difficulty recognizing and conveying my skills to... employers. Working with Rachel helped me do a deep-dive into my experiences and derive examples of work-relevant skills and abilities I wasn’t even aware I possessed.As a result of working with Rachel and Next Great Step, I felt confident going into interviews, ready to market myself as a skilled worker and demonstrate that I was suited for the position. The interview prep as well as resume work really made a big difference for me, and I can’t thank them enough!read more
Andrew Mannis
17:14 09 Aug 22
Before NGS, I had no idea what I wanted to do for a career, where to start, r how to land the... starting position that got me to my dream job in the future. After the coaching and thorough curriculum, I felt so much more confident, self-aware, and ready for a professional life with a much more clear focus on what I can do, and what I want to do.read more
Rachel Wylie
17:21 30 Jun 22
I didn't even know where to start the job process post college and Next great step helped me gain... more confidence while searching for a new job.read more
Bennett Phan
17:45 30 Apr 22
I came into this program a little skeptical, thinking, "Why would I need a program like this? I can... handle the job search myself." However, this program provided me a level of structure to approach the processes I was weakest at, and provided constructive and supportive feedback on what I could do to improve. It's not a magic pill that will immediately get you a job, but it did give me more tools, skills, and confidence to stand out in the job market, which is arguably better in the long run. I recommend this program highly.read more
myahnicole
19:27 03 Mar 22
They were all so kind and helpful, I really appreciate all that I've learned within the span of six... weeks.read more
Willie Williams
14:57 03 Mar 22
This was a truly great and insightful experience! They teach very useful skills for the future!
Everett Libby
20:37 22 Feb 22
Great experience. Made great connections with people in my group. Was able to develop my interview... skills to a point where I am extremely confident when going into an interview. Most importantly developed skills that made the job search much easier and less stressful. I would highly recommend this program to recent college graduates and seniors in college.read more
Regan Anderson
06:18 19 Feb 22
I recently graduated college and lacked certain skills and this program allowed me to better... understand the job search process. My coaches were incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. I have since been able to network and better conduct my self in one-sided interviews and in person interviews. Highly recommend for college seniors and recent grads.read more
Jeff Rosenberg
00:39 19 Feb 22
A few things that I found myself really struggling with was networking and getting the most out of... Linkedin. I also felt I needed a lot of work with just being able to confidently talk about myself both written and orally. I found that the Next Great Step Course was very helpful in helping with those things and also I found it just really helped with building general confidence about the job process and how to feel good about applying to jobs, networking with people, how to best format resumes, cover letters and interview practice as well. I definitely think this course would be a good idea for anybody who is a young professional looking to get some great practice and advice to get started in their career.read more
Evan Glotzer
16:28 18 Feb 22
I am in the process of looking for summer internships, and I was struggling with how to make myself... stand out. The Next Great Step helped me understand what recruiters are looking for, and how to best position myself to land the internships I want. This program is essential for anyone looking to get a leg up on finding a job or internship!read more
Michele Cohen
03:47 08 Feb 22
The Next Great Step program was instrumental in teaching my son the skills necessary for a... successful job search. As a parent it was hard to see him breeze through the initial screening but not make it past the next round. Next Great Step’s lessons focused on a different aspect of the job search process each week, from enhancing a resume and LinkedIn profile to refining interview skills and more. I watched him transform into a more confident candidate skilled at communicating his value to potential employers. As soon as he completed the course, he landed his dream internship.read more
Ryan Ciavatta
15:03 29 Dec 21
Before coming to Mrs. Grunt for help, I had no idea what I wanted to do and more importantly what I... was even capable of. I was kind of pushing off the job search and everything else because I felt lost. I went to college for 4 years and almost felt as if it was a waste!After taking the course offered by Beth and Rachel at Next Great Step, I felt way more at ease. First of all they taught me the process of finding myself and then finding a job. They really helped me find what I was capable of and then we transformed that into job skills. They taught me to be confident and showed me what to expect when it comes to the job search. Ultimately I learned skills that will be useful for years to come! 4 months later, I have a job and couldn’t be more thankful to NGS. Amazing program 10/10 recommend for anyone recently out of college or struggling with their job search!read more
Steven Wehde
17:36 18 Nov 21
My experience at Next Great Step was extremely helpful. I had the skills that employers are looking... for. I just didn't know how to convey it on my resume, linked in profile, and cover letters. Their advise gave me more confidence in myself as well as prepared me for the stresses that came with interviewing. My advisors, Rachel and Beth, were always helpful and I couldn't thank them enough for the assistance they have given me. Thanks NGS!read more
Jon Fury
19:53 15 Nov 21
Extremely informative and helpful. Gave me a strategy for making professional connections and what... to discuss with them. Also helped me make a far better resume and cover letter.read more
Alison C
02:42 01 Nov 21
I went an entire year after graduating from college without any prospects, feeling lost and... incredibly frustrated because I couldn't even manage to get an interview. Within two months of completing the Next Great Step Group Coaching program I have received THREE full-time job offers from great companies as well as so much gained confidence and I owe it all to Beth, Lauren, and Rachel.If you are thinking about doing an NGS program, I strongly recommend that you do it. I believe this program would be beneficial to any college student or recent graduate and the tools you learn will not only help you succeed in your current job search, but will be useful for the rest of your professional life.Thank you for everything!read more
Matt Cohen
22:09 22 Oct 21
I chose to enter the Next Great Step program since I felt that I was having a hard time proving my... value to employers during job interviews. This program helped me in a lot of ways, including using "skills stories" to help me narrow down my core skills and communicate them effectively. The program also helped a lot with building my LinkedIn network and adjusting my resume to show the results of my work. Overall, Next Great Step was very thorough and responsive in giving feedback on my progress, and I now feel much more confident in my job search.read more
Julia Eisele
15:35 22 Oct 21
I recently decided to quit my job so that I could explore different career path options and figure... out if there were more fulfilling opportunities for me. I wanted to look at roles that were not directly correlated to my undergraduate degree, but I really had no idea where to begin. A friend suggested looking into job coaching, and that was when I discovered the Next Great Step. I hesitantly signed up for the group coaching class they offered, but can now say that I am so glad that I did. This course has taught me how to market myself, and how to tailor the description of my skill sets to the industries I am interested in. I went from being terrified of Linkedin to feeling confident in using the platform and creating many new connections through it. This course has ultimately given me much needed advice in the job hunting world, and has made me so much more comfortable with sending out my applications and approaching other professionals. I would definitely recommend this course to any soon to be or recent college graduate, regardless of if you think you're in need of help. The confidence I have gained alone will help me with applying to jobs at any point down the road, and I am grateful for the tools I was given and the skills I have now acquired.read more
Griffin Brooks
16:31 08 Jun 21
This was a really helpful program that provides helpful, up-to-date tips for finding a job. The... personal approach provided guidance and focus for my job search, and gave me the tools to effectively contact alumni, ace interviews, and anything else I need to find my next job.read more
Pavan Reddy
22:22 05 Jun 21
Overall, Next Great Step was a terrific experience. I was having trouble deciding what the next... step in my career should be. Additionally, I was unsure how to contact industry professionals and open a dialogue with them.Next Great Step showed me how to properly sell myself and introduce myself to others in the same or even a different industry. Moreover, they hammered in the importance of LinkedIn as the invaluable networking tool it is. Beth and Rachel were also very encouraging and the feedback they provided was useful and insightful.read more
Cameron Allen
21:41 27 Apr 21
Having the opportunity to learn from Next Great Step is what pushed me to become more comfortable... in the interview setting. From understanding your core skills and showcasing them to rehearsing mock interviews, NGS always delivered amazing feedback and provided me with communication skills I plan to use in the future. If you are determined and put your best energy into this program, good things will come!read more
Karla Lopez
01:27 14 Apr 21
Working with Rachel and Beth was an incredible experience. They enabled me to truly develop the... perfect elevator pitch about who I am and what my strengths are. This elevator pitch helped me in all the interviews I have had for internships, as it enabled me to walk into the meeting knowing that I had a strong introduction demonstrating to the employer who I am and what I have to offer their company. In addition, they helped me improve my resume to the point that I can mold my resume and cover letters to meet what those companies are looking for.read more
Jake Tessler
18:21 27 Mar 21
Both coaches were really great in response time and helping out in different ways. Sometimes in the... moment you may not realize how much you are learning until it is tested in an interview or networking. I was so much more prepared than I could have anticipated. For anyone else that is initially skeptical, I encourage you to give it a try.read more
Spence Scott
19:00 24 Mar 21
As a recent graduate, Next Great Step was an extremely valuable program for me. It helped me hone... in on my skills and learn how to confidently speak about them. I definitely feel like I am now well equipped to start networking and applying to jobs with success. Would absolutely recommend for any recent graduates looking for guidance!read more
Daniel Lambert
18:15 24 Feb 21
I recommend the next great step for anyone who is struggling with interview confidence and job... searching and networking in general. I personally had a lot of trouble figuring out what my story was, and the next great step really helped me get everything together and out in a very great way. Figuring out my skills and how I used them in a way that benefits me and my prospective employer is something that I benefited from the next great step.read more
Slater Sullivan
17:21 23 Feb 21
I was coming off losing my job due to covid and having to relocate. I didn't know where to look for... work or even what I wanted to do. Next Great Step provided me with direction and helped me regain confidence in my core skills. The weekly regimented course work paired with the live group sessions has shown me that I'm not alone in this daunting process, and that I have a lot to offer in whichever career I choose.read more
Nicole Biegel
21:13 01 Feb 21
10/10 recommend this program! As a college junior, the job search process can feel lonely and... isolating at times, but the small group coaching experience completely reshaped the way I view interviewing and growing my network! It was amazing to be able to receive constructive feedback on mock interviews, and collaborate on the strongest ways to answer tough interview questions. I will definitely be utilizing the resources provided by Beth and her team for the rest of my professional career.read more
KAITLYN GREENBERG
20:06 23 Nov 20
Next Great Step really helped me pinpoint my core skills and figure out how to convey them to... employers. Beth and Rachel are super nice and wonderful to work with! They offer great support and feedback on resume writing, LinkedIn use, and interview practice. I'd recommend Next Great Step to any student or recent grad who wants to stand out as a strong candidate!read more
Ryan Bluestone
23:11 11 Sep 20
I thought this was a great program for college students preparing for the recruiting season. Going... into this process there is a lot of uncertainty for students attempting to land their dream job. Working with the Next Great Step and their coaches allows students to have the tools and confidence in any type of interview. I would highly recommend this extremely professional team and all around great program.read more
Emily Borrello
18:39 23 Aug 20
Next Great Step helped me understand my strengths and how to talk about them in a competent manner.... I had the pleasure of working with Rachel and she gave me valuable knowledge to help me grow professionally and gain more confidence in myself and my abilities. Before I started Next Great Step, I was unsure about my career path and afraid to reach out for help. Now I am prepared to take the necessary steps to advance my career. I cannot thank Rachel and Next Great Step enough for all their guidance!read more
Olivia Sammak
14:20 18 Jul 20
Before starting with Next Great Steps I was at a stand still with my job search. I felt unprepared... for going on interviews. Since working with Next Great Steps, I now feel like I have the skills to confidently go out and interview for jobs. The team at Next Great Steps helped me to improve my resume, make connections on LinkedIn, and prepare me for interviews. They were great to work!read more
Matthew Dressler
16:05 17 Jul 20
I relied solely on internet sites for my job search. I found that my applications went unnoticed... and never heard back from most companies. Next Great Step taught me how to network with alumni from my university. I learned how to identify core skills and how to emphasize those skills during interviews. We also had practice sessions doing mock interviews. Moving forward I feel more confident and prepared for my job search and interviews. I highly recommend Next Great Step.read more
Jason Alexander
00:36 06 Mar 20
This is an engaging and immersive process that helps recent glads learn how to both navigate... looking for a job as well as making themselves appear more attractive to employers. It is taught by people who are very knowledgeable about what current employers are looking for in candidates as well as mistakes that young people often make.read more
George Karkazis
17:48 04 Mar 20
As a recent graduate I didn't know what to expect when starting this program, but Beth and Rachel... blew me away. Their knowledge about this kind of stuff is second to none, and the advice they are able to give is unparalleled. Not only are they great at what they do, but they are also super nice and friendly and it make the entire experience that much better. I would recommend this program/service to anyone!read more
Olivia Olmos
00:21 04 Mar 20
Beth and Rachel gave me the confidence to jumpstart the job application process during my senior... year of college. Their continuous support and encouragement provided me with lifelong tools. I learned valuable professional skills which I will carry with me through my future career.read more
Evan Mester
15:58 20 Dec 19
Before working with NGS, I was struggling with some of the interview related and organizational... aspects of the job search process. In such a competitive job market, young grads like myself must present themselves to potential employers in the best way possible while ALSO meeting an employer's requirements. Working with Beth and the NGS team allowed me to learn the skills and knowledge required in order to put my best foot forward to prospective employers. The advice you learn along the course of this experience is truly invaluable. Highly recommend!read more
Jason silberman
14:10 13 Dec 19
Beth and Rachel really have this down to a T. As a recent graduate, it's really stressful to know... what you want to do and Next Great Step helped with just that. They made me think deep and focus in on what my core skills are and where they can be applied. I recommend this for any recent grad, whether it be 1 year or even 5 years since college.read more
Lyle
08:06 28 Oct 19
I completed the Fast Start Group Coaching program. As a college student who was finding it... difficult to get responses from online job boards, this class was really helpful. Beth and Rachel were very helpful in identifying and helping me fix issues in my networking, resume, and interview skills. I feel like this class was very useful in identifying and fixing many of my issues during the job hunting process and would highly recommend to anyone else in a similar situation.read more
david Weiss
21:07 27 Oct 19
Was a great help in my internship and job search. Really helped me hone in on my skills that best... represented me. They provided lots of help with direct networking, including LinkedIn, as well as resume and cover letter help. I would definitely recommend this program to any college seniors, as well as recent graduates.read more
Gabriela Tanaka
18:30 26 Oct 19
With Next Great Step, I have learned how to communicate effectively about myself, which has given... me confidence in my job search. Beth and Rachel were fantastic to work with and helped me clarify my direction. Thank you so much!read more
Kitty
17:36 26 Oct 19
A nice experience. Beth and Rachel covered different topics, and were very responsive and thorough... after each class as well.read more
Jesse Ethan Levitt
19:26 17 Sep 19
Gives you direction and organized approach to a job search. You will be far more confident when... taking interviews. Overall a great program for starting the right career.read more
