Linda Schenk and Future Business Leaders Discuss Social Media and Entrepreneurship
I was very excited and a bit nervous for this event! While my favorite part of every speaking engagement is the Q&A, the students were very well prepared with a variety of questions on social media, entrepreneurship and business networking.
Linda Schenk speaks at Morgan State University
The questions were extremely thoughtful, and I wish I had the complete list. Some of the ones I remember include:
Do I think potential employers have a right to look at a person’s profiles on Facebook and other social media sites before hiring?
Yes, I do. An individual makes a CHOICE as to what information they choose to make public. Once they make that choice, they lose control over who sees it and for what purpose. There is certainly a lot of information in the news about Facebook and privacy, but it can be simplified into the 3 P Rule: Professional, Personal and Private. PRIVATE should not be posted online.
The Millennial Generation has grown up online, so the “line” might not be as clear, so particular caution should be made not to create a permanent record that will negatively impact their lives years down the road.
My question for the students: “Would you be willing to pay for Facebook?”
The answer was an overwhelming NO. I replied that whether you realize it or not, you ARE PAYING for Facebook. The cost for using social media is either money or information, but nothing is free. As long as you realize this, you can better protect your own interests.
What was my biggest learning experience in business?
In 2001, I was laid off as a dot-commer in Silicon Valley. I moved home to Baltimore in 2002, and was getting my freelance business going. It was a slow process, so I took a part-time job at the mall to get out of the house and just make sure my basic expenses were covered while I pursued my dream (again). It was humbling to put on an apron and take a 90% pay cut. However, I looked at this as an opportunity. I met a lot of people, and I carried my own business cards in my apron pocket. I learned great selling techniques about “features and benefits” of products. I regularly quote these with my clients today. I also know how to sell an expensive light up nose and ear hair trimmert to anyone. Without the light it is easy to cut yourself and boy does that hurt! It makes a great Father’s Day gift, so shop now!
You never know what experience you have that will be very important in your career AND you never know who you are going to meet. Be ready to learn and ready to exchange your contact info!
Reception after the seminar at Morgan State University
Earl G. Graves School of Business and Management (GSBM) Honors Program
The mission of the program is to produce a steady stream of exceptionally talented graduates who are eager to make significant contributions as members of leading companies and organizations around the world.
The Honors Seminars in Professional Development courses engage students in a series of skill-building activities designed to strengthen the “soft” skills necessary for success in the business world. The series includes workshops on delivering speeches and presentations, researching companies, interacting at social events, understanding individual contributions to team efforts, and a range of activities that complement the technical material being taught in the classroom. The Seminar sessions meet weekly for two hours, and students enroll in introductory, intermediate, advanced and Senior Seminars throughout their academic careers in the GSBM.
For more information, visit www.graveshonors.org.
About Virtuallinda (Linda Schenk)
