By Mary Barrett '14
It was picture day at Siena College, but instead of posing for a yearbook portrait, some Siena students got dressed up and smiled for their professional headshots, pictures they’ll use on Linkedin and in their job searches.
“Many students need assistance in getting a professional shot,” said Career Center Associate Director Suzanne O’Connor. “It adds a level of professionalism to have a backdrop and a professional photographer.”
The Siena College Career Center hosted the Linkedin Photo Booth and Profile Review to help students bolster their professional online profiles. Along with getting their pictures taken, experts were on hand to critique their Linkedin content and resumes. “It helps with preparedness and to get ahead of the competition,” said guest recruiter Kelly Conroy. She found a mistake in a student’s resume and helped the student fix it on the spot.
With just a few months to go before graduation, management major Martha Tessitore ’14 appreciated having an extra set of eyes critique her online image. “With technology, everyone checks your social profile, so I wanted to work on improving mine,” said Tessitore.
Career Counselor Jennifer Heptig said Linkedin is quick, easy and efficient, a few reasons why she is noticing a trend in employers using Linkedin to screen potential new hires. “Whether you like social media or not, it’s happening,” said Heptig.
English major Sarah Sesterhenn ’14 is ready to capitalize on that hiring trend during her job search. “Linkedin profiles are being looked at by employers, it’s a good way to network and find jobs,” said Sesterhenn.
With fresh headshots and error-free Linkedin profiles, Siena students are prepared to search for their first jobs, or, as they may see it, the first profile update of their professional lives.
