Advising Students on Online Professionalism Erin Keenan Stefano Verdesoto Career Services University at Buffalo 259 Capen Hall (716) ub-careers.buffalo.edu

Today’s Goals Understand: Definition of professionalism Difference between online and in-person Proper online networking techniques Employers’ expectations Review case studies

What is professionalism? Combination of different things! Not just wearing a suit – Conducting self with responsibility, integrity, accountability, and competency – Communicating effectively – Finding ways to be respectful and productive with others despite differences and even through conflict Especially important in today’s competitive job market - students must find ways to stand out!

What is professionalism? In-person vs. online What’s the difference? Not much!

What is professionalism? In-Person Commit to doing quality work Work until a task is completed competently Accept and take feedback into account Exercise punctuality and regular attendance Display an appropriate appearance Value honesty and civility Maintain their focus and attention

What is professionalism? Online All of the above Utilize social media to network with and learn from professionals Share content that is professional, relevant, informative, and engaging

What is professionalism? General Online Tips Keep it business casual Avoid inappropriate content and/or language Avoid negative comments about others Avoid half-truths and online personas Avoid bad grammar and slang Avoid sensitive issues (e.g. politics, rants) Avoid over-sharing (e.g. location, multiple posts) Avoid connecting LinkedIn and Facebook Use careful privacy settings - don’t rely on them

Networking Online LinkedIn Professional profile Virtual resume Networking/learning How to: Connect with others Contact mentors

Networking Online Connecting with others Connect with people you know personally Personalize your message to them – “I would like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn.” – “Hi Stefano! It was great seeing you at the networking reception last week. Let’s connect!”

Networking Online Contacting mentors on UB Mentor Program 1.Research the mentor 2.Research his/her field of work 3.Compile information and questions 4.Contact the mentor 5.Schedule meeting

Networking Online 1.Research the mentor – Education – Past jobs – Current company/position – Mutual connections

Networking Online 2.Research his/her field of work – Required education – Median pay – Job outlook Occupational Outlook Handbook

Networking Online 3.Compile information and questions – What did you learn? – What did you find interesting? – What additional information do you need?

Networking Online 4.Contact the mentor – Click “Send message” on search results – Utilize a formal communication style – Explain how you obtained their contact info – Describe your current affiliation – Explain what interested you about him/her – Ask if he/she would be willing to speak with you careers.buffalo.edu/14mentorsamplep.pdf

Networking Online 5.Schedule meeting – Wait for a response (allow 1-2 weeks) – Be flexible Mentor might provide you with best possible times or ask for your schedule Conversations may take place over , phone, video chat, and/or in-person!

Online to In-Person

Informational Interviewing Do – Present yourself on time – Wear professional attire – Show up prepared and with questions – Respect your mentor’s time and other commitments – Offer to pay for his/her food – Take notes on your discussion – Ask for a business card – Ask if he/she know someone else who might be willing to speak with you – Ask if he/she would like to connect on LinkedIn

Informational Interviewing What do I say/ask? Depends on type of meeting – Career exploration “What do you like most about working in this field?” – Job/internship searching “What are some important ‘key words’ to include in a resume or cover letter when applying to positions?” See sample questions on handout Follow-up and send a personal thank you note!

Employers’ Expectations Panel discussions with employers at Career Services Online professionalism important to employers!

Employers’ Expectations Advance 2000 representative: Students should treat their online presence as an extension of their resume Don’t be caught with anything but their best foot forward They should avoid Facebook

Employers’ Expectations 9/11 Memorial HR representative: Think of LinkedIn as your online presence – you want it to be the first thing to come up when you google yourself Make sure there are no drinking pictures of you on Facebook When writing an thank you after an interview make sure you proofread

Case Studies Let’s practice! 2 case studies Discuss with person next to you Share your approach

Case 1 A student you are advising, Andrew, shares with you that he started to network with Alumni in the UB Mentor Program group on LinkedIn. He has messaged them stating his name and major and asking to meet to discuss any jobs they may have for him. How would you approach this?

Case 2 A student you are advising, Maya, is a TA for a history class. She shares with you that one of her students asked her for her number and asked her out on a date, but she declined. She returned home from class and found that student had found her on Facebook and sent her a friend request. What would you tell Maya to do?

Questions? Stefano Verdesoto Erin Keenan

Advising Students on Online Professionalism Erin Keenan Stefano Verdesoto Career Services University at Buffalo 259 Capen Hall (716) ub-careers.buffalo.edu