I also just came into a "Placement" position at the School I work for. It seems that surveys have been used in the past to obtain graduates' placement info, however, it wasn't well organized and most of it is now outdated by more than a year.
I've put together a new "Placement Survey" that I've sent to all of our alumni via email. It is short and simple and only asks for the information that we really need. I've received about 70 surveys back and have sent it to about 500 emails. Not so good.
My next plan of attack is going to be to send it via physical mail along with a nice letter, letting them know that we really need their information. The other thing I'm doing is giving the surveys to the directors of other departments to give to graduates that they might meet with. That has actually generated quite a few returned surveys as well.
At this point, it's just too daunting of a task to try and call every graduate with out-dated information. I'll keep up with my plan and see what happens. Anyone have any other suggestions?
Thanks,
Josh
Great ideas, Michele. Really points to the need to constantly evaluate how things are going. Surveys work, interviews, casual "how are things going" are all great ways to get information. Then let others know what you find and make improvements and changes based on your discoveries. Thanks, Susan
Hi Deana-
I also came into a situation from scratch. The follow up appointments and letters to express interest and concern is a great start. In doing so, you can perhaps share a recent "Testimonial" from a HAPPY and placed grad which might make them feel...it's possible for them too!!I even went so far as to go to the graduates place of work. When I got there, the grad & I talked briefly. He laughed that I would go to such extents to find him. Since then, I have placed him and he is one of our most prized successes. He advanced so quickly he virtually runs the place..and that includes vast wage increases.
Additionally, once I identified a disatisfaction, I attempted to take action to rectify the scenario. I learned that one persons disatisfaction may be another. With that information, I have been attempting to implement activities with students prior to graduation, so this disatisfaction should NOT develop for future grads. Essentially: learn from the problem. Good Luck, Michele
Very good, Lani. Building relationships and getting to know grads, and students too, does a lot. You get a better idea of each of their needs in terms of employment skills training. You learn more about each of them and their qualifications so you can facilitate a good match. And, it's great PR for the school. Just think about all the great things students and grads will say about you and the career services offered. Our guess is that it will bring a lot of potential new students to the school. Thanks, Susan
When I first started the position I called all the graduates who needed to be placed and asked them to set up a time where they would come in to talk with me. When they came in together we reviewed their resume, talked about what they wanted in a job, how far they were willing to travel, etc. It then gave me a good idea as to their personality, drive, ambition, skills, etc. I think it also made them feel that I cared and wanted to get to know them. Building that relationship is the key so that they will stay in touch with you down the road.
Hi Deana
Interesting situation. The good news is that you can build the career department with a solid foundation and not worry about what the previous coordinator did right or not so right! I'm wondering why grads are unhappy. Seems to say that the school is not delivering education or student services effectively. You have the opportunity to find out so that grads are happy and want to refer students to your school and return themselves for additional training. Perhaps you can construct a different kind of questionnaire or phone script to find out their suggestions for improvement. When you are chatting find out their placement information. And be sure to put plans in place to offer great placement services andreach grads early on to get information. Best wishes, Susan
