Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Hi Laurie Great that you are connecting with employers and they are willing to provide their expertise. YOu might want to create a series of workshops and presentations, develop topics, and ask for employers to discuss these topics. Or ask them to suggest topics of their one. You will have a very unique and interesting program. Best wishes Susan

Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Surveys...

Hi Laurie Aren't surveys great? You can find out so much information. And you've discovered that it is important to use the information by getting feedback from everyone and making changes. Are you able to keep track of students every 90 days? So many move and don't leave addresses. You're on track. Susan

Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Initiating student projects...

Hi Laurie Having a contest always makes things exciting and puts some motivation into the activity. Another contest might be for students to interview people on the job and ask them what they like and don't like about the work. Then have the students report the information in class in order to get a raffle prize. Great ideas. Susan

Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Assess your placement services...

Hi Laurie Sounds like you are a branch campus? Perhaps your coprorate offices have career services strategies in place that you can customize to your area. You might check. Meeting with employers in the area is great. Actually it's important to keep in contact with both employers and prospective employers. They can be great resources for you and can provide assistance for your job fairs, metnoring, practice interviews, and as speakers. Students need a lot of employment skills training. They learn more by hearing people talk about how to be successful getting a job and on the job, and by… >>>

Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Surveys...

HI Freda It would be great if there were books and reference materials but there really aren't. The best thing is to brainstorm with your staff to think about what you want to happen in an exit interview. Talk with students about career plans, how to finish on time, personal and professional concerns. Also, what information do you want to know? Typically it is up dated contact information, job search plans, taking an exam if needed, etc. Then put a "script" in place and work it. And measure measure. Then you will have a great exit interview designed for your… >>>

Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Initiating student projects...

Hi Nancy This is a great idea. Students should feel very comfortable going on a real interview after this experience. Maybe next time add a mock interview at the facility if you can get a brave student to participate. Another thought is to make the visits a reward for completing certain course work. Really great idea that can be implemented in most schools. Best wishes Susan

Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Assess your placement services...

Nancy Great usable ideas. Web sites can be very effective way to get employers to post jobs. You are right - first you have to make a personal introduction via phone, meeting, or fax or email. Then the process usually flows. Best wishes Susan

Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Assess your placement services...

Hi Nancy Great idea to hold mock interviews. But working with 200 students will get challenging. Why not have alumni help, or employers, and people to act as mentors. Train them in the skills you think work. Then set appointments so all 200 students do get the interviewing skills and practice they need. Best wishes Susan

Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Initiating student projects...

Hi Mathew It's great that your grads like your school so much they stay on to work for you. You might require that they also get a job in their fields for experience. It is a way for them to stay current and be able to talk about the world of work to your students. Best wishes Susan

Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Employer presentations...

Hi Mathew What a great marketing strategy. Give counselors something of value and also let them see first hand what your school does. Getting something useful for nothing certainly gets people's attention. They will better understand how your offerings can benefit their clients. And yes, surveys are essential. You want to know what is working and where improvement is needed. Great idea, Susan