There are two metrics that stand head and shoulders above the rest, they are Completion and Employment outcomes. I would like to share my Best Practices for Career Services that will impact both of these metrics. Many of you may be practicing these solutions already. But just in case…
Get to Know Your Students Before Externship-Getting to know your student’s is the single most important thing that you can do to help your students. Too many schools wait until externship to begin working with students at this point it could be too late. Why? Because most of the students leave the facility to work at outside externships and they may not return until time to receive clearance for graduation. By getting to know people in the Career Services Department the students are constantly reminded of their goal and encouraged to graduate.
Hold Employment Prep Workshops-Employment Preparatory Workshops are highly effective and can be held on a bimonthly/monthly basis. When offering these workshops it is important to ensure that you offer them at various times to allow day and evening students to attend. These workshops should consist of a minimum of the following topics:
- Resume Writing-Types of resumes, previous transferable skills, portfolios, etc.
- Interviewing Skills-includes mock interviews, professional greetings, etc.
- Dress for Success-Appropriate dress for their career path, affordability, etc.
- Internet Searches-Monster, Indeed, Career Builders, etc.
- Networking-Importance, Associations, City and State events, etc.
Explore Extern Sites that Offer Opportunities-Many extern sites will use the students as inexpensive labor. These sites may never result in an opportunity for the students. If this is the case then start to branch out and secure additional sites. A great way to find these sites is by perusing the ‘Help Wanted Ads” on the internet and contacting these entities.
Visit Extern Sites Regularly-Another important factor is visiting the Extern Sites on a regular basis. This helps you build a repoire with the student and the site. You will also be able to observe how the student manages the professional environment.
Hold Extern Meetings Weekly-Bring extern students in once a week to report their hours and discuss their greatest accomplishments and challenges. Not only does this allow you to get to know the students better but you also have a better understanding of what they are facing on extern. You may even decide that the extern site is not a good fit for your students or your school.
Provide Computer Access-By providing access, especially in your department, you are enticing students to come back to the department often allowing you another touch point with the students. Something this simple can have a great impact on your relationship.
At the end of the day your job is to assist your students in achieving their dream. It requires dedication and hard work on both of your parts but it is worth it.
A Happy Grad is an Employed Grad!
What are your best practices that you could share with the group?
