One wo-man Placement/Career Service Department
I am the one wo-man show of the Placement Department. I work for a small medical training school. We are very short staffed and just finished a month of lay offs. So now, even more short staffed.
I have a good amount of experience in Admissions, but not in Career Services. 2 months ago I was asked to take over the Career Services Department. I am learning day by day.
We have about 350-400 students at any one time.
Question-With it just being me with little experience, little time, and lots of students needing help, how can I effectively help students with their resumes and job searches?
Basically, what should I concentrate my time on? Outreach to companies who may hire our students, helping students with their resumes, cover letters, job searches...?
Thanks so much for your input.
- Corey Allaway
Corey ,
Hi Corey, interesting and challenging situation. Your question is great - where to prioritize. Certainly got us thinking. What we would do is engage as many "helpers" as possible. Start with grads - your Alumni. Ask them to assist in a variety of ways. This can include reviewing resumes, holding mock interviews, coaching students and grads about the job search process, and maybe taking a grad to work. Also job shadowing and most of all - telling you where the jobs are and who to talk with about job openings. Teach your admissions reps how to integrate placement and job awareness in the interview process. Teach your instructors how to integrate job skills training into their classrooms. Then as you get a free moment - spend time in the community talking with employers to find out how well your programs are preparing students for the workplace, where the jobs are, and more. Good luck, Susan
Dr. Susan Schulz
