Elizabeth KemlerCHEP

Tequilla, You are so right about one success leading to the confidence that results in future successes. I also like the idea of employer spotlights as an opportunity for students to practice their interviewing skills. Elizabeth Kemler

Yolanda, This is very true..many interview skills translate into everyday communication skills which are so important in the workplace. Elizabeth Kemler

Yolanda, I love this idea. As you know, the job search can get so discouraging; encouraging the students to work together and support one another while doing something enjoyable must go a long way toward keeping them motivated. Elizabeth Kemler

Yolanda, It's great that you're offering students both these things--it really makes a difference when you see firsthand what the people and work environment are like. Elizabeth Kemler

Yolanda, This sounds like a great idea both both the reasons you mention here. I wonder, do you ever have some of these professionals and business owners come to your school to speak directly to the students? Elizabeth Kemler

Tequilla, It sounds like you are offering your students some real advantages with all this support-they are indeed fortunate to have you. Social media is definitely a great boon for culinary students who have something tangible to share..and the fact that they can receive positive feedback even when a job does not follow is certainly a help. Elizabeth Kemler

Tequilla, Thanks very much..and I agree, the importance of in-person communication cannot be overstated, and unfortunately, as you say, is sorely lacking in the modern day job search. Elizabeth Kemler

Tequilla, This makes so much sense! You are serving multiple purposes here--getting the students inspired, focused on the job search, giving them interview practice, and as you point out, making the prospect of getting a job in their field 'real'. If you don't mind, I'd love to share some of your ideas with other students. Elizabeth Kemler

Tequilla, You have a lot of great ideas--I especially like the idea of creating a webpage to showcase their work; in this way the students are demonstrating not only their culinary talent but their initiative and creative thinking. Elizabeth Kemler

Amanda, I have also seen this a lot which is why I included in my program, exercises to help them identify the job-relevant qualities and skills they already possess and have developed through the work they've done over the years-even if it doesn't relate directly to the job they are applying for. It really helps to go over all the qualities and skills required for a particular job the student is interested in, and match it to a list of those qualities and skills they already possess. Elizabeth Kemler