In the News - How Beyoncé Can Help Our Generation Get Jobs in 2013

By Adrienne Sheares

I’m one of those people who doesn’t watch the Super Bowl for the game itself. Give me some chips and dip, a good commercial featuring a baby and a good half time show and I’m a happy camper. Last night, I was overjoyed to see King Bey, aka Beyoncé, in New Orleans workin’ it. The evolution of Beyoncé from a 15-year-old member of Destiny’s Child to one of THE premier performers in the world had me thinking, we all could learn something from her journey.

Whether you’re interested in being an entertainer or are simply looking for a decent job, Beyoncé’s drive for success can empower us too.

{{Information |Description=Beyonce performing on 4 Intimate Nights with Beyoncé |Source=[http://www.flickr.com/photos/claudiomariotto/6060005584/ Beyonce (New York)] |Date=2010-08-17 22:59 |Author=[http://www.flickr.com/people/35805347@N07 CLAUDIO MARIOT

Millennial unemployment jumped 1.5 percentage points in January to 13.1%. This spring, Young Invincibles is launching a Get The Facts Campaign to highlight the huge challenges that this generation faces in finding secure jobs. But until we launch, you can learn more about job training and education information here and learn a bit from Bey!

Practice Makes Perfect: Get Some Training

Beyoncé didn’t get crowned “King Bey” overnight. She and her first group, Girl’s Tyme, lost Star Search (the singing show before American Idol) and were even dropped from Elektra records. She practiced even harder, taking more voice and dance lessons until she got what she wanted: a record deal.

You can train too.

Check out programs such as YouthBuild. By working and attending classes full-time, you can earn your High School Diploma or GED and get some training so you can have more skills to offer a future employer.

Or Job Corps, which provides supports to low-income participants 7 days a week. While you’re getting on your feet, program participants receive social and job training, plus a chance to explore various career options.

Confidence is Key, So Don’t be Afraid to Develop an Alter Ego

Don’t let Beyoncé’s sultry moves and blaring vocals fool you, this star is notoriously shy. To become the performer she is today, Bey developed the alter ego, Sasha Fierce. She later ditched the alter ego and became comfortable with herself.

When you get a job interview (you probably should leave the sequins at home), be confident, look the interviewer in the eye and don’t be afraid to share your accomplishments.

What are some other things Beyoncé could teach us for navigating the job market?