March 02, 2007
Capturing The Attention of A Prospective Employer
Today we welcome John D. Lewis, guest facilitator.
After reading some of the entries under this Week's Lesson 4, "ePortfolio Contents," within our eLearning course, "Online Networking as a Job Search Tool," I was quite impressed with the professional manner in which these outstanding candidates will be presenting their special skill sets and experiences. Everyone seems to know themselves quite well and the path they wish to travel. These are intelligent, well-structured outlines for developing ePortfolios and a good plan for how their personal blogs can bring these unique ePortfolios into the limelight.
For instance, Alicia writes, in her plan for developing content for her ePortfolio, she would like to include:
"...A reflection on my work regarding the intersections of disability and technology. I am considering using an article which I just wrote on how my blog reflects the academic research and professional experiences that I have accumulated over the past few years, since I think this would not only reflect my change and growth over time but would also highlight how blogging itself can be used professionally as a communication and research tool."
In his statement on how blogging will complement his diverse ePortfolio, Vladimir writes:
"I agree that a personal blog and ePortfolio would be a good combination. I believe that an electronic portfolio should be included in my personal blog. In this way, I can present much more detailed information about myself and my services. I can use different languages. This is especially helpful in my situation. Since I am currently seeking employment, I can appeal to potential employers and/or clients in Ukraine, Russia, and the U.S."
According to Dr. Helen C. Barrett at UAA, a national expert on ePortfolios, "Electronic portfolios are much more than innovative resumes or scrapbooks." She says ePortfolios show "reflection, evolution of thought, and professional development."
I have learned from my readings that most ePortfolios by job seekers should contain a combination of the following key elements:
- Resume.
- Demonstratable skills and competencies in areas related to their field of work or expertise.
- Reflective tools to demonstrate professional growth.
- Materials which allow easy assessment of communication, organizational, creative skills and initiative.
As eLearners, we have successfully mapped out a preliminary outline for our ePortfolios. For most of us, there are usually one or two prominent elements within those ePortfolios that give us an edge over the competition.
What key element in your cover letter, resume, ePortfolio or personal blog has the potential to demonstrate your talent and, as a result, capture the attention of a prospective employer?
Posted by John Lewis at 02:23 PM | Comments (8)