Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Placement services are more effective when offered to a student toward the beginning of his/her program as opposed to near the end of coursework. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

The Impact of Placement Services

How does the Placement Department specifically and positively impact other departments in your school? What are ways that Placement Services can impact enrollments?

Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Initiating student projects...

HI Wendy, You point out some interesting challenges. Maybe the course needs an overhaul or perhaps there are a few loud students who are complaining. Bottom line is that this points to the need for constant evaluation of everything you do. You might want to create a paper or in person survey form and ask what students liked about the course and what they would prefer to be done differently. It is possible that some parts can be offered as workshops. Or maybe some parts can be integrated into other classes. If students are creating ineffective resumes perhaps there needs… >>>

Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Employer presentations...

Interesting use of agencies. Perhaps you can also offer some of the skills training at your school. Then you won't have to rely on agencies and students might feel more comfortable staying on campus. Thanks, Susan

Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Initiating student projects...

More about hobbies. We suggest that hobbies and interests that demonstrate skills and knowledge are a good thing to include in a resume. Relaxing, hanging around, mowing the lawn are probably not good things. But Big Brother Volunteer, or Creative Landscaping could be good and the applicant can talk about the skills needed and it is a way for the employer to learn more about the person. Thanks, Susan

Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Surveys...

HI Claudia - Always essential to measure all outcomes. Surveys are one way to do that. Really important is to ask students how things are going for them each time you meet. Ask what additional assistance they need. Hold an exit interview and find out the grad's thoughts on every aspect of your school. Then make changes based on this valuable feedback. Thanks, Susan

Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Assess your placement services...

This is so great, Wendy. What you are doing is so in line with our philosophy. The career school staff has to be out and about and know the strengths and weaknesses of every student. It's the ultimate in customer service. No one can be shy with your approach. You show you really care. It works. You give students confidence so when they are graduates they are prepared to be successful in the job search. Keep it going. Thanks, Susan

Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Employer presentations...

Hi Theresa, Suggest you bring people in as often as possible. The more people the more talent you get to review. Put some measurements in place. See what gets results. Ask questions. You will discover many innovative ways to use employers to develop the best grads and make the most effective placements. Good luck, Susan

Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Assess your placement services...

Hi Theresa, Thanks for sharing all that you did. Sounds like whatever you are doing is working. Also you have a unique perspective of knowing the industry and being new to the career school sector. So you can bring new things to a career services department and not the tried and true. A real advantage. Interesting question re associations. None specific to career services and the career school sector. There are publications such as Career College Central and Workforce Review. And also CCA conferences and probably conferences sponsored by your state association. And lots of MaxKnowledge courses!! Best wishes, Susan

Dr. Susan Schulz

Discussion Comment

Dealing with organizational issues...

You have identified a major problem in all schools - even when there is sufficient staff. Here's an exercise that can be worked on in staff meetings. Ask everyone to draw an organization chart as they believe the school is structured. Then ask them to write in the names of everyone on staff along with job titles. They of course have to include themselves. It is amazing. If there are 10 people you'll discover there are 10 different organization charts. Well, it's kind of scary. But you can use this opportunity to develop a really great org chart so everyone… >>>