Advising Students on

Online ProfessionalismErin Keenan

Stefano VerdesotoCareer Services

University at Buffalo259 Capen Hall(716) 645-2231

ub-careers.buffalo.edu

Today’s GoalsUnderstand:• 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 OnlineLinkedIn• Professional profile• Virtual resume• Networking/learning

How to:• Connect with others• Contact mentors

Networking OnlineConnecting 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 OnlineContacting mentors on UB Mentor Program1. Research the mentor2. Research his/her field of work3. Compile information and questions4. Contact the mentor5. Schedule meeting

Networking Online1. Research the mentor– Education– Past jobs– Current company/position–Mutual connections

Networking Online2. Research his/her field of work– Required education–Median pay– Job outlookOccupational Outlook Handbookhttp://www.bls.gov/ooh/

Networking Online3. Compile information and questions–What did you learn?–What did you find interesting? –What additional information do you

need?

Networking Online4. 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

youhttp://ub-careers.buffalo.edu/14mentorsamplep.pdf

Networking Online5. 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 email,

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 InterviewingWhat 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’ ExpectationsAdvance 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’ Expectations9/11 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 email 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 1A 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 2A 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

guidover@buffalo.edu • Erin Keenan erinkeen@buffalo.edu

Advising Students on

Online ProfessionalismErin Keenan

Stefano VerdesotoCareer Services

University at Buffalo259 Capen Hall(716) 645-2231

ub-careers.buffalo.edu