Dr. Susan Schulz

Sergio, It sounds like what you are doing is trying different marketing strategies and then evaluating results. That's important in order tp figure out what is working and what is not. The best marketing people we have met are those who are not afraid to make changes for results. Thanks, Susan Dr. Susan Schulz

Sergio, It's the best way to get the word out and relatively inexpensive. You can also get feedback and questions. You can discover what people don't know, what is not clear, and how to promote more effectively. Sometimes you think you have the best flyer. Then when you take the time, you might discover that people just don't get what you are doing. Handing out flyers in person is a way to find that out. Thanks, Susan Dr. Susan Schulz

ARIELYS, Exactly. And sadly the students usually don't come with questions about the coursework! Dr. Susan Schulz

Gabriel, Yes, we agree. In addition, we think a good job description shows the new hires how they can grow in the job and create new solutions and opportunities for themselves and the school. It shows if you value creativity and working as a Team. It points to who the Team is! Employees are a great resource for any organization. They just have to know what is expected and what is valued. They need to know you welcome their ideas. Thanks, Susan Dr. Susan Schulz

Gabriel, It is interesting what a well thought-out plan accomplishes. As you indicate, it helps to point out the opportunities one never considered. It also points to obstacles and challenges. All these can be more easily addressed during the planning stage compared to being in the midst of deadlines. Plans also help to get a buy-in from everyone involved. Thanks, Susan Dr. Susan Schulz

ARIELYS, We agree that employment skills training needs to be happening every day and in class and through workshops. We also think that if there is an externship then students have to be specially prepared for that. Externs must think of their experience as an extended job interview! They need work ethic training plus all the skills and knowledge. The must know the importance of being professional and doing their best. We once worked with a school that has 100% placement from its externship sites. Isn't that great? It does take a lot of work. Thanks, Susan Dr. Susan Schulz

ARIELYS, Very good. We agree that most prospective students want to know about how training will help them get jobs. They want to know what assistance they will get in the job search. Instructors are also extremely important in this role. They help students understand what it is really like on the job. What are the responsibilities and expectations. What is a typical day at work like? Everyone on staff has the responsibility of helping students gain skills and confidence for a successful job search. Thanks, Susan Dr. Susan Schulz

Dorothy, Now that we think about it, maybe career services needs to start at the time of enrollment. Prospective students need to know that they will get a lot of skill training in the job search. They need to know that the goal of training is to get a job and use their skills and knowledge. That is why we often suggest that career services and admissions staff sit together. It's an interesting concept. Thanks, Susan Dr. Susan Schulz

Dorothy, Interesting assignment about networking. Where does that fit within your list of employment skills assignments? We think that students have to be prepared to reach out and talk to people. They certainly need a high level of confidence, which takes time to build. Perhaps they also need a "script" or talking points to connect with the people at the locations and explain what they want to do. This is a great idea. It is amazing how much preparation is needed to make it work. thanks, Susan Dr. Susan Schulz

Dorothy, We agree that Career Services impacts students and grads. If you have comprehensive services and grads get jobs that is very inspirational to students. Students get motivated to complete and on time because they know they are likely to get employed. This says a lot about your school. Your school does get known as THE place for training and THE place as a source for great employees! Thanks, Susan Dr. Susan Schulz