After hearing each representative make their case about needs of their candidate, a few classmates pulled out of debate because they felt their student did not need money as much as others. One classmate stated that his student came from a financially stable household and that lack of funds would not keep him from going to college. Another classmate mentioned that her student had time to get a part-time job and would be okay without scholarship money. With strategic thinking among committee members, we were able to figure out how everyone would benefit from situation. Our committee’s final consensus left two students without scholarship money, but benefited three recipients with a part of scholarship money, based on their needs and accomplishments.

Strategic thinking involved a group effort of brainstorming ideas, initiating change, and finding solutions to our dilemma. With our strategic thinking process, we were able to effectively factor in highest priorities of our candidates.

If you would like to learn more about CMOE’s Applied Strategic Thinking Workshop, contact one of their Regional Managers at (801) 569-3444.

Newbie located a high-level music executive on one of well-known online social networking sites. He then emailed an inquiry soliciting advice about how to break into business.

Mr. Top Dog graciously responded. Unfortunately, instead of asking a few well researched and targeted questions, Newbie wore out his welcome by relentlessly hounding executive. He lost his golden opportunity to make a favorable impression with incessant requests for more and more information without offering anything in reciprocity. Mr. Top Dog, whose executive schedule did not permit this kind of self-centered babysitting, finally demanded to be left alone. Game over.

Relational spamming is a complete turn-off to others. “Don’t bombard any contacts or business relationships you forge on online social networks with continued requests for insider info or high-pressure sales tactics. No one likes to be “forward-sold,” Connell cautions. It’s far better to give than receive.

Here are nine cool career tips to ensure you’re more than just a pretty interface while conducting online social networking:

• Google and find best and most user-friendly online social networks

• Create a Profile that self-markets your premium talents and knowledge

• Don’t copy and paste your resume as a replacement for a OSN profile

• When building your OSN Profile, be careful in giving personal information

• Don’t relationally spam others; respect their time and privacy

• Become “go-to person” by providing useful assistance to members

• Maintain professionalism throughout OSN communications

• If you have a personal website, “link back” for search engine optimization

• Make sure your boss or co-workers aren’t on same OSN if you’re in a job search

Social networking gives your contact development efforts more velocity and vitality because it removes traditional hierarchies. Those who join them are those who want to be connected to others, including decision makers. And, as with viral marketing, more you’re known in these networks as a consummate, solutions-oriented professional, greater likelihood people of influence will swarm to you like moths to a light bulb.