In what ways do schools help businesses connect with the community?
Participating in career fairs is one way to connect with the community. Potential employers are invited to come on campus and present their opportunities to students and alumni. Many times the names of companies in attendance are published in local media, serving as a great free advertising source. Networking with other participating businesses can lead to new business relationships. Students are known for bringing fresh ideas and being technologically savvy, so tapping into this resource can only help a business in its community relations effort.
How can a business find a school that’s a good fit, and then begin a relationship?
Begin by reviewing what type of position in your organization would benefit from using students or recent graduates. What students bring in terms of motivation and lower cost must many times be balanced by a lack of on-the-job experience. Will your job be project-based or do you seek someone that could move into a full-time position at your company? Once a job has been identified, list the colleges or universities that produce these majors and begin contacting them to discuss your opportunities. Do not underestimate the technical college system in the State of Georgia when contacting schools. Technical colleges are very specialized in their training and offer areas of study that make students quickly available for the work force. Technical colleges also offer services like quick start and other customized training programs for businesses.
What would you tell a business leader who doesn’t see the value in working with local schools?
I would tell them that their competition probably sees the value in this resource, and may already be utilizing it. A qualified, diverse talent pool is available and waiting to be tapped into. Businesses have the opportunity to mold the next generation of leaders, they just need to take advantage. You never know, you could just find a diamond in the rough for your company.
Melissa Hulsey is the president and CEO of Ashton. Reach her at (770) 419-1776 or [email protected].
