Giving Thanks for Connection and Continuous Learning
I recently had an opportunity to hold a “Lunch and Learn” training at Walsh College in Troy, Michigan. It was great to go back to a city near my hometown of Detroit to meet the wonderful folks at the Career Services Division of this college and be a part of their student training. I was truly impressed by how this school goes above and beyond to assist its students with career opportunities in the New Work World. It was also terrific to be able to visit with my family and friends and drive around so many places that have contributed to making my life so special.
Since my return, I have been reflecting on how important connection and continuous learning are and am sharing some special thoughts you might find helpful in these changing times. With Thanksgiving right around the corner, let's ponder how we can be thankful and also give back during uncertain times:
1. The Power of Human Connection
Even if this Lunch and Learn had been an online event, it would have been satisfying. But appearing in person and hearing the questions specific to the students' situation and giving them answers from my side of the desk proved to be a rewarding experience. It allowed me to meet the great folks in the Career Center, walk around the school and meet the heads of this great college. It was also a trip down memory lane from my college days, and I saw how much
has changed. Although technology has become an enhanced mainstay, there is a growing demand that builds on human skills. We did talk about the importance of the résumé to maximize word search and algorithms so that candidates are selected for interviews, but once that candidate is doing the actual interview, they need to be positive, prepared and able to make that good first impression.
2. Ongoing Training
With so much of the digital world front and center in the workplace, we discussed how a candidate who demonstrates ongoing training to master new, in-demand software skills can gain an advantage over candidates who don't. It's important these days that candidates stay ahead of the game with any type of technology that might interest the company. Even if their current skillset is not exactly what the employer is seeking, taking tutorials and online classes before the interview provides an advantage over a person who just presents, not having the experience or skills required. I mentioned that in my experience, "attitude, not always aptitude, determines altitude!"
3. Creating Community
I was especially impressed with how Walsh goes above and beyond to create community. The services it provides during and after the student attends the school were quite unique to me. Officials I met talked about upcoming events they are planning with very reputable, famous professionals to give their students quite the advantage in the New Work World. Learning has expanded so much beyond what you can learn from a book; to take the time to plan, arrange events and allow the students to ask questions specific to their career journey was a refreshing experience.
The future of the New Work World can be filled with much positive momentum but only if we embrace positive change. As the philosopher Henry David Thoreau said: "Things do not change; we change."
In this great month of Thanksgiving and beyond, let's all "go back to school" — let's commit to changing our mindsets to make our careers and lives even more enjoyable, not only to get that great new job or promotion but to do something to give back to our community. If you do that you will have grown as a professional and human being. Be thankful for the connection and continuous learning!
