HR moderates career development event

On Monday, June 12, several of Yale’s Human Resources professionals, in collaboration with the Working Women’s Network and Yale African American Affinity Group, held an interactive career development panel at the Sterling Memorial Library Lecture Hall & Memorabilia Room. This event entitled, “How to Sell Yourself,” was focused on creating an elevator pitch, informational interviewing, networking, and leveraging LinkedIn. There were 36 active participants that attended the event, which included employees from Yale University and Yale Hospital, students, friends, and members of the New Haven community.

Special recognition to Marinda Monfilston, Senior Diversity Coordinator, who moderated the conversation, and to the discussion experts:

• Alina Colossale, Early Career Development Specialist
• Nakisha Jones, Talent Acquisition Recruiter
• Earl McCoy, Jr., Diversity Program Coordinator
• Fallon Thomas, New Haven Hiring Initiative Community Liaison

The buzz from participants during and after the event were topics of interest such as: Does LinkedIn really matter, do employers check their social media pages, how to post on social media, how to track and maintain meaningful connections, personal testimonials, how to navigate a professional room, how to present oneself, and elevator pitches—defining what they are, followed by a pitch practice session and competition. The most important takeaway expressed by numerous individuals from this session was the feeling of confidence and readiness to elevate their careers.