Transitioning from Student to Professional

Dena Stevenson, MA, SPHRTierOne University Manager,

TierOne Bank

Career

• Comes from French work carriere

• Originally meant “a racing course”

• Verb means “to move at full speed”

In today’s world, careering comes down to a race against change… a personal contest to see if we can grow as fast as the challenges we face in our work.

“Fast Growth,” Price Pritchett

New Employment Contract

• A new definition for career progress and success.

• Development means “learning a living.”

• Career development is personal development.

• The individual “owns” his or her career.

Critical Career Skills

• Professionalism• Know-How• Customer Relations

Professionalism

• Attitude• Appearance• Accountability• Adaptability

Attitude is everything

“Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude. “

Zig Ziglar

Appearance

Just Thirty Seconds

Social psychologistsstudying the impact of image have determined that’s how long it takes

for someone meeting you toform a whole laundry list of impressions about your character and abilities.

Dress for Success

• Dress appropriately for the role.

• Remember the age, viewpoints and values of your customers.

• When in doubt – don’t!

• Body jewelry and body art are optional.

Which is not like the others?

Accountability/Adaptability

• Work ethic.• Willingness to

learn.• Responsibility.• Reflection.

Know-How

• Communication Skills• Emotional Intelligence• Critical Thinking Skills

Communication Skills

• Personalize the interaction.

• Be articulate.• Avoid negative

language. • Exercise old-

fashioned manners.

Telephone Skills

• Identify yourself and the company or department.

• Maintain a normal and smooth voice tone.

• Speak numbers slowly and clearly.

• Listen closely.

Written Communication

• Use proper grammar.• Avoid slang.• NTM.• Use complete

sentences.• Visual presentation

creates impact.• Correct spelling.

Emotional Intelligence

• Self-awareness.• Self-management.• Social awareness.• Relationship

management.

Critical Thinking

• Applying previous experience to a current situation.

• Recognizing cues and taking appropriate action.

• Thinking through actions and potential outcomes.

Customer Relations

• It’s About the Experience!

• Create powerful impressions.

• Be a Brand Ambassador.