2007 Annual Meeting

Working Your Way Up to the Top of the Charts

Presenters: Sheryl Gray, Jason Seay, Vanessa Palmer

Led by President of TACRAO Sheryl Gray, Jason Seay of TSAC, and Vanessa Palmer of Tennessee Technological University, “Working Your Way Up to the Top of the Charts” provided an in-depth look at the skills and tactics young professionals can apply to stand out and distinguish themselves from their peers in the field of Higher Education. Over 30 conference attendees with experience ranging from a few short months to over ten years in higher education attended the Thursday afternoon session to share their personal experiences with promotion and discuss ways professionals can best position themselves for advancement. Utilizing a power-point presentation, Sheryl Gray covered the “Ten Skills Essential for Advancement.” These skills included Communication, Superior People Skills, Networking, Collaboration, Product Knowledge, Program Development, Supervision, Planning and Organization, Time and Task Management, and Budget Development and Administration. The workshop also facilitated discussion regarding skills every professional can hone from initiative and seeking regular evaluations to pursing an advanced degree. Attendees also discussed ways to best market themselves and their product in a competitive market. Lastly, the workshop encouraged all attendees to GET INVOLVED at the state, regional, or national level in professional development opportunities. Whether through attending conferences, chairing or presenting at a session, sharing your experiences in the field and learning from your colleagues will aid you in your quest to work your way up to the top of the charts! Overall, the session was very informative and facilitated great discussion among the attendees.

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