After reading the article on AT&T and their negative social media posts, I have to say I am a little impressed by their strategy in dealing with it. I hate AT&T. I have had so many problems with them I am probably one of those people who would have posted negatively on their wall. However, I think that actually responding to each particular message is a great idea. Personally though, I am not sure that it will change those people's perceptions of AT&T. Without actually fixing their problems or offering them something in return, they are still going to be upset. A simple facebook apology or friendly response doesn't fix much. But it is more honest to keep them up and respond than to just remove them. Because I am sure that some would see the comments before they were able to be deleted, and then AT&T just looks bad for removing it.
If I don't let my own personal experience with AT&T get in the way, I would say I like their strategy and think its a great idea. If they are actually trying to help these people figure out their problems with AT&T, (which they have not done with me) it might raise customer's opinions.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Instructor Post #10
Now respond to any of the issues in this debate. What’s your stance? What factors in this debate (the internet, the elderly, the USPS as a business trying to survive) are most important in the debate, and which are the most persuasive points in the stance you’ve reached. Feel free to relate this to business and the way traditional businesses have had to change to stay relevant in a technological world.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Prompt #9
Facebook might not be the best medium through which to voice complaints as a customer, but it can work if the company takes those complaints seriously. The problem with facebook could be that people are used to saying whatever they’re feeling to their friends, and maybe even exploding in rage at something that’s not important or all that relevant. That spills over into areas that aren’t just for close friends, and not all of them should be taken completely seriously.
Representatives of the company should be cautious in responses because shutting down valid complaints, like with BP, is only going to anger legitimate consumers with real complaints. If they aren’t being taken seriously, they might decide to take their business elsewhere. However, facebook is a place that’s easy to convey messages that aren’t completely serious. Obviously a drunken 3 a.m. post from someone that may or may not have had AT&T service five years ago doesn’t need to be taken seriously, but it can be hard to tell the difference between someone that’s doing that and someone that just types like that.
Responding personally to all complaints like AT&T is definitely the way to go, just because customers with valid complaints (and praise) are heard and taken seriously. Although some time will inevitably be wasted on joking complaints from noncustomers, it is important to make the real customers feel valued. If spending a little time with invalid complaints will ensure that every real customer feels valued, I think it’s a small price to pay.
If companies aren’t planning on taking facebook complaints seriously, they shouldn’t have a facebook page or on that page, they should inform customers about how to voice their concerns through a different medium. Companies can have pages that aren’t maintained or checked regularly by a seasoned employee, but they should definitely let customers know what they can do if they’re having a problem.
For the companies that have the time and the resources to read and respond to all complaints, valid or not, on facebook, they should take advantage of that medium. It’s intensive, but I think it’s worth it. If they don’t have that kind of time though, they should make customers aware that they aren’t going to respond to complaints on facebook and offer a different way to communicate. It needs to be one or the other, not a little bit of maybe they’ll read the comments and take you seriously but probably not if you can’t articulate your complaint exactly the way they want to see it.
Representatives of the company should be cautious in responses because shutting down valid complaints, like with BP, is only going to anger legitimate consumers with real complaints. If they aren’t being taken seriously, they might decide to take their business elsewhere. However, facebook is a place that’s easy to convey messages that aren’t completely serious. Obviously a drunken 3 a.m. post from someone that may or may not have had AT&T service five years ago doesn’t need to be taken seriously, but it can be hard to tell the difference between someone that’s doing that and someone that just types like that.
Responding personally to all complaints like AT&T is definitely the way to go, just because customers with valid complaints (and praise) are heard and taken seriously. Although some time will inevitably be wasted on joking complaints from noncustomers, it is important to make the real customers feel valued. If spending a little time with invalid complaints will ensure that every real customer feels valued, I think it’s a small price to pay.
If companies aren’t planning on taking facebook complaints seriously, they shouldn’t have a facebook page or on that page, they should inform customers about how to voice their concerns through a different medium. Companies can have pages that aren’t maintained or checked regularly by a seasoned employee, but they should definitely let customers know what they can do if they’re having a problem.
For the companies that have the time and the resources to read and respond to all complaints, valid or not, on facebook, they should take advantage of that medium. It’s intensive, but I think it’s worth it. If they don’t have that kind of time though, they should make customers aware that they aren’t going to respond to complaints on facebook and offer a different way to communicate. It needs to be one or the other, not a little bit of maybe they’ll read the comments and take you seriously but probably not if you can’t articulate your complaint exactly the way they want to see it.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
POST #9
Companies who decide to be involved with social media are just asking for all the negativity. I agree with Bruce Turkel when he mentions that people will comment anyway, whether you have a literal wall, or a facebook "wall." What really matters is the reason for putting your company name up on a social network. Social networks are for networking and communicating, period. How could companies not realize that by getting themselves involved with such media that comments, either positive or negative, would be present and ongoing? If the main objective was to get the company's name out there, then why not only use a company website? Why did they have to take it one step further and use social media? Sure, they may be reaching a larger audience, however, they seem to be paying the price of receiving negative feedback just for some portion of advertisement.
I also agree with AT&T's tactic of intervening instead of interrupting. They seem to realize that receiving negative comments would be inevitable, yet they respond to them, literally. I think that in and of itself is pretty remarkable, and not only that, but staying up till 4 in the morning? Not only do they respond to customer's comments, but whether good or bad, they respond positively, and that reflects on their name. In my opinion, AT&T is doing the exact right thing. They made the decision to get involved in social media, and were prepared to deal with the downsides that came with that decision. What I have taken from it, is that AT&T cares about their customers, and not only their happy ones. Even though I am not even an AT&T customer, I see how well they are treating consumers, and it makes me want to be a part of their company.
I also agree with AT&T's tactic of intervening instead of interrupting. They seem to realize that receiving negative comments would be inevitable, yet they respond to them, literally. I think that in and of itself is pretty remarkable, and not only that, but staying up till 4 in the morning? Not only do they respond to customer's comments, but whether good or bad, they respond positively, and that reflects on their name. In my opinion, AT&T is doing the exact right thing. They made the decision to get involved in social media, and were prepared to deal with the downsides that came with that decision. What I have taken from it, is that AT&T cares about their customers, and not only their happy ones. Even though I am not even an AT&T customer, I see how well they are treating consumers, and it makes me want to be a part of their company.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Blog 9 Facebook
I think that when a business decides they want to go on a social network such as facebook that they already know that they are going to get some negative comments. If a company went on facebook and expected only positive comments that is stupid because not everyone can be happy all at the same time. Also they are the ones putting their company out there to be judged by the customers. I personally don't like that businesses get on facebook. To me it is a social network that first started off as a way for friends to stay in touch and talk here and there. Now it is all about advertising and who can get their company out there the most.
AT&T should handle their problems before doing all these upgrades. I had a bad experience with AT&T back home in Kansas City. We had plan to switch our phone, TV and internet over to them. A worker came out on a Friday to start setting it up, he was there for about 45 minutes when he said we weren't getting service very well and he was going to the main office and he would be back. Sure enough he never came back. I called AT&T to complain and they said we would be put on a red list which meant someone would be out ASAP on monday morning between 9am-11am. I took off work and sat around waiting for AT&T. Yet again no one showed up. So i had called AT&T and they said sorry for the mistake someone had taken you off the list and said you had already been helped. We had to reschedule yet another appointment to which they never showed again. After that I was pretty frustrated and when I called AT&T they were a little confused on what had been going on due to all the notes that had been posted on our account. Finally our 4th appointment someone finally showed up and started working. He got it all set up in about 4 hours. Even though there was so much confusing with AT&T they weren't going to do anything to make up for it. I was not a happy campering and complained to them and said things that I probably shouldn't of said. But that is what got their butts in gear and I ended up not having to pay my first two bills because off all the discounts they gave me.
The main point of that story is that it shouldn't take 4 times to get something solved. They should of tried to solve our problem before doing other things. Or at least handled our situation a little better. I know I posted a couple status on facebook complaining about how angry and annoyed I was about AT&T. So regardless of if the company has facebook or not they can still get negative reviews because of unhappy customers. They need to handle the problems and unhappy customers they have now instead of making all these upgrades and trying to change things.
AT&T should handle their problems before doing all these upgrades. I had a bad experience with AT&T back home in Kansas City. We had plan to switch our phone, TV and internet over to them. A worker came out on a Friday to start setting it up, he was there for about 45 minutes when he said we weren't getting service very well and he was going to the main office and he would be back. Sure enough he never came back. I called AT&T to complain and they said we would be put on a red list which meant someone would be out ASAP on monday morning between 9am-11am. I took off work and sat around waiting for AT&T. Yet again no one showed up. So i had called AT&T and they said sorry for the mistake someone had taken you off the list and said you had already been helped. We had to reschedule yet another appointment to which they never showed again. After that I was pretty frustrated and when I called AT&T they were a little confused on what had been going on due to all the notes that had been posted on our account. Finally our 4th appointment someone finally showed up and started working. He got it all set up in about 4 hours. Even though there was so much confusing with AT&T they weren't going to do anything to make up for it. I was not a happy campering and complained to them and said things that I probably shouldn't of said. But that is what got their butts in gear and I ended up not having to pay my first two bills because off all the discounts they gave me.
The main point of that story is that it shouldn't take 4 times to get something solved. They should of tried to solve our problem before doing other things. Or at least handled our situation a little better. I know I posted a couple status on facebook complaining about how angry and annoyed I was about AT&T. So regardless of if the company has facebook or not they can still get negative reviews because of unhappy customers. They need to handle the problems and unhappy customers they have now instead of making all these upgrades and trying to change things.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Instructor Post #9
In a recent radio segment for Marketplace, Kenny Malone discusses different ways companies deal with negative comments on their facebook pages. After either reading or listening to the story, how do you feel about the different ways to regulate company pages? Do you think the tactics of companies like BP who interrupt their customers are preferable to companies who intervene? What benefits and downfalls can you see to each practice? You may also discuss examples of this type of negative posting you've noticed and what was/should have been done about it.
Friday, November 19, 2010
post 8
I believe that this is not being properly portrayed. PowerPoint is a very useful program an is meant to simplify life like almost every other invention. I believe that it is actually better that we are going to this format in the military. I would rather they make it easy to understand than hard to get through and hard to understand, lets face it we want them to know where to go. Do we really care format we got the information on how to do there job? Many company's use PowerPoint to pitch idea's and interviews. Just coming to this school we were forced to watch a PowerPoint on the school. I cant see why this is a big problem. We shouldn't belittle the subject of war and there is a fear that they may make mistakes. I don't see how this cant happen verbally or on any other document. So were using a program that's publicly used in war. the man who made dynamite originally had made it in mind for mining.
This article I believe is practically smear campaigning PowerPoint. They say no actually studies have been done then why just blame this program. They say the generals did not know what to do in battle and someone went back to the PowerPoint presentation and couldn't help. All this says to me is wow these guys just shouldn't be leading, I mean what would the report do it just seems that they got unlucky with who was leading. The article doesn't even provide an answer or any stats on how PowerPoint is compared to other programs in the military. I believe that this program is still useful and that in this case its just personnel at fault not the program.
This article I believe is practically smear campaigning PowerPoint. They say no actually studies have been done then why just blame this program. They say the generals did not know what to do in battle and someone went back to the PowerPoint presentation and couldn't help. All this says to me is wow these guys just shouldn't be leading, I mean what would the report do it just seems that they got unlucky with who was leading. The article doesn't even provide an answer or any stats on how PowerPoint is compared to other programs in the military. I believe that this program is still useful and that in this case its just personnel at fault not the program.
Post #8 Reply
I don't really see power point as being a problem. I've been in the military, and have been through numerous power points. What some people probably don't know about the military is that you are constantly training. This is true especially in theater. Our enemy is always coming up with new ways of attempting to disrupt our mission.
The military's need to convey information in an effective way is really no different from a company's need to convey information. They need to get the information across in an effective manner in the least amount of time possible. Like businesses and universities, they use power point to convey that message in a timely and effective manner.
The other thing a lot of people take for granted when thinking about our military is that they come from the same place you and I do. For all but a select few, they've gone to the same schools as civilians. When you join the military, there is no class on how to prepare a power point presentation. You either got the training in school, or you learned it by trial and error on your own.
Just like a presentation made in class, they are not required to use power point. If they would like to give a briefing using just a written outline, nobody cares as long as the message is conveyed in an effective manner. Leaders generally give their information using power point because it is simply more effective. Also, the article greatly exaggerates how often power point is used in briefings.
I believe it may be more effective to offer a short one or two day school on how to use power point effectively. This class could also be integrated into some of our leadership courses. In the enlisted community, the current leadership training does not talk about power point at all.
The military's need to convey information in an effective way is really no different from a company's need to convey information. They need to get the information across in an effective manner in the least amount of time possible. Like businesses and universities, they use power point to convey that message in a timely and effective manner.
The other thing a lot of people take for granted when thinking about our military is that they come from the same place you and I do. For all but a select few, they've gone to the same schools as civilians. When you join the military, there is no class on how to prepare a power point presentation. You either got the training in school, or you learned it by trial and error on your own.
Just like a presentation made in class, they are not required to use power point. If they would like to give a briefing using just a written outline, nobody cares as long as the message is conveyed in an effective manner. Leaders generally give their information using power point because it is simply more effective. Also, the article greatly exaggerates how often power point is used in briefings.
I believe it may be more effective to offer a short one or two day school on how to use power point effectively. This class could also be integrated into some of our leadership courses. In the enlisted community, the current leadership training does not talk about power point at all.
Monday, November 15, 2010
powerpoints
The application of powerpoint technology is a great one that is used in everyday life. The article was biased in the use of a powerpoint presentation to try and explain a extremely complex war issue. The choice of a powerpoint presentation may have not been the best choice so they exploited it into a bad example by saying that powerpoints have made us stupider. That is a weak arguement that has trouble with standing(a legal term).
Powerpoints have made many business presentations run more smooth that any other option in a presentation. Powerpoints are very useful and can be used in many different applications and presentations. I am suspecting that the war presentation may have not been the best use or choice to use powerpoint but that does not mean that it is bad. that is like saying that your friend used his Honda Civic to move from one house to another. There is probably nothing wrong with the Honda Civic, but rather something wrong with your friend for not using a UHaul or a pickup.
Powerpoints have made many business presentations run more smooth that any other option in a presentation. Powerpoints are very useful and can be used in many different applications and presentations. I am suspecting that the war presentation may have not been the best use or choice to use powerpoint but that does not mean that it is bad. that is like saying that your friend used his Honda Civic to move from one house to another. There is probably nothing wrong with the Honda Civic, but rather something wrong with your friend for not using a UHaul or a pickup.
Blog 8 PowerPoint
I have to say that I don't really use power-point, but I have a lot of college friends whose teacher require them to do projects and use power point. I think in a way it makes things easier and to me its kind of like a digital note card. If you think about it you put little notes and quotes on it about what subject you are talking about or the picture you have on the slide. So in a way it has taken the form of a digital note card.
It really depends on who uses power-point because somethings they are very boring and pointless, but than other times its interesting. If you are creative and can make a boring subject interesting to everyone than yes power-point is useful. But if you are trying to teach something no one cares about then no matter how to teach it, it will be boring. I don't really understand why so many people rely on power-point, we have been speaking in front of people without power-point and do just fine. I guess its a little bit of a safety net to some people and even some think it makes you seem smarter.
I had a teacher who used power-points and it was just notes after notes, so boring didn't make class interesting and the power-points just sucked. The teacher never went out of their way to make the presentation interesting or engaging. It was just bullet point after another. Where as my Criminal Justice teacher used power-points but had pictures describing things or changing the look of power-point. She even switched it up and didn't use it everyday so i didn't mind her slides and actually found some quiet interesting.
Its one of those things that as technically advances then people are going to continue to use it and try to make their life's more simple. But in reality we got along just fine without power-point so I don't see it being that big of help, rather it makes people lazy. Overall I have mixed feelings about it. It can be helpful but also hurtful it just really depends on the person using it.
It really depends on who uses power-point because somethings they are very boring and pointless, but than other times its interesting. If you are creative and can make a boring subject interesting to everyone than yes power-point is useful. But if you are trying to teach something no one cares about then no matter how to teach it, it will be boring. I don't really understand why so many people rely on power-point, we have been speaking in front of people without power-point and do just fine. I guess its a little bit of a safety net to some people and even some think it makes you seem smarter.
I had a teacher who used power-points and it was just notes after notes, so boring didn't make class interesting and the power-points just sucked. The teacher never went out of their way to make the presentation interesting or engaging. It was just bullet point after another. Where as my Criminal Justice teacher used power-points but had pictures describing things or changing the look of power-point. She even switched it up and didn't use it everyday so i didn't mind her slides and actually found some quiet interesting.
Its one of those things that as technically advances then people are going to continue to use it and try to make their life's more simple. But in reality we got along just fine without power-point so I don't see it being that big of help, rather it makes people lazy. Overall I have mixed feelings about it. It can be helpful but also hurtful it just really depends on the person using it.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Post 7
My job search was geared toward a position similar to my current position in a company with potential for growth. I am open to moving anywhere in the country for the right position so I did not narrow my search to only Wichita, Kansas. The best site to look for a job nationwide, in my opinion, is CareerBuilder.com. This is where I found the position I would apply for.
I am at an executive level in my current company and it is important to me to stay at or above this level with a new position. I have experience in many different industries but the last two years have been in Property Management. The position I chose to apply for is the Regional Vice President of Property Management at Beacon Communities.
My research of the company showed me that many of my daily tasks and responsibilities at my current position would be the same or similar to that of the new position. I meet almost all of the job requirements. The only requirements I do not meet are the computer programs that are required. I am a very quick learner of new computer programs and I don’t feel that this would be an issue to hold me back from getting the position.
If I were truly looking for a new position and willing to move anywhere in the country, I would conduct this same type of search in other areas as well.
I am at an executive level in my current company and it is important to me to stay at or above this level with a new position. I have experience in many different industries but the last two years have been in Property Management. The position I chose to apply for is the Regional Vice President of Property Management at Beacon Communities.
My research of the company showed me that many of my daily tasks and responsibilities at my current position would be the same or similar to that of the new position. I meet almost all of the job requirements. The only requirements I do not meet are the computer programs that are required. I am a very quick learner of new computer programs and I don’t feel that this would be an issue to hold me back from getting the position.
If I were truly looking for a new position and willing to move anywhere in the country, I would conduct this same type of search in other areas as well.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Reply Post 7
When looking for a job in the classified ads I choose to look for a job that was close to home. My family has moved roughly 18 times in the 12 years that my wife and I have been married. The economy is may be in bad shape but with my diverse background in construction, freight, and many different management positions I figured I could still find a job in Wichita. I am currently in an accounting position and have found that I enjoy it.
The job I found was a managerial position in accounting. I enjoy managing people and dealing with their various personalities. I have always exceeded in my roles as a manager and been able to meet or exceed the goals set forth by the company. I truly enjoy the competition and the ability to make the decisions that make the difference between excelling or failing.
I found this job on Monster.com. I searched many different job sites as I usually do when searching for a job. I find that the web is the most effective way of finding the jobs that I am suited for. I believe that if a company is not posting their help wanted ads on the web then they are too behind the times.
However, I believe networking is the most effective way of finding a solid job lead. During my time searching for jobs, I have found that networking has landed me a job 100% of the time. Nine out the ten jobs I have had I was referred to the job by someone else. I did not find it on a website or in the news paper. I found it because I knew someone who was currently working there or somehow there was a connection with someone I knew.
I found that early on in my careers people did not take me seriously because of my age. They always believed I was too young and inexperienced to make a difference with the company. I found that through hard work and long hours that I was able to prove to all of my employers that I was a valuable part of their team. The best advice I can give is do not ever think any job is beneath you or that just because it was not in your job description that it is not part of your job. I would also recommend letting your employers know what you have in mind for your future. If you are wanting to move up in the company then do not be afraid to let them know and then put in the extra hours and effort to show them you would be a valuable part of their team.
The job I found was a managerial position in accounting. I enjoy managing people and dealing with their various personalities. I have always exceeded in my roles as a manager and been able to meet or exceed the goals set forth by the company. I truly enjoy the competition and the ability to make the decisions that make the difference between excelling or failing.
I found this job on Monster.com. I searched many different job sites as I usually do when searching for a job. I find that the web is the most effective way of finding the jobs that I am suited for. I believe that if a company is not posting their help wanted ads on the web then they are too behind the times.
However, I believe networking is the most effective way of finding a solid job lead. During my time searching for jobs, I have found that networking has landed me a job 100% of the time. Nine out the ten jobs I have had I was referred to the job by someone else. I did not find it on a website or in the news paper. I found it because I knew someone who was currently working there or somehow there was a connection with someone I knew.
I found that early on in my careers people did not take me seriously because of my age. They always believed I was too young and inexperienced to make a difference with the company. I found that through hard work and long hours that I was able to prove to all of my employers that I was a valuable part of their team. The best advice I can give is do not ever think any job is beneath you or that just because it was not in your job description that it is not part of your job. I would also recommend letting your employers know what you have in mind for your future. If you are wanting to move up in the company then do not be afraid to let them know and then put in the extra hours and effort to show them you would be a valuable part of their team.
Post 8
With more and more people using PowerPoint to deliver presentations, we are seeing it used poorly so many times that a new phrase has been coined to describe the poor use of visuals during a presentation, "Death by PowerPoint". This is because of different problem we see with presentations today. People tend to focus more on the visuals than the content, so the audience may leave the presentastion thinking that the pictures were nice but they dont seem to remember anything else. Another problem that seems to accure with PowerPoint presentations in my opinion is that the slides cant be seen clearly. Its important to use larg fonts so that people in the back can see the slide but not too big to where it takes 10 slides to present one idea.
Most of the presentations I have presented in the past have been PowerPoints. I am a big fan but I could live without it. I would just go back to the old poster board and flash cards.
Most of the presentations I have presented in the past have been PowerPoints. I am a big fan but I could live without it. I would just go back to the old poster board and flash cards.
Post #7 Resume
I chose the part-time teller position at Meritrust for the resume/cover letter assignment because that is a position I am seeking right now. I want a part-time because I go to school full-time, then after graduation I would hope to become full time and eventually move up in the branch. I chose Meritrust because they had an opening that fits my schedule.
I want to one day work in the accounting department at a bank or even a credit union. I would like to get a job now as a teller to start out that way I have a start on my career and can just work my way up.
I actually found an opening on CareerBuilder, then I went to the Meritrust careers website to see if they had any other openings that better matched my schedule. I would advise others to use CareerBuilder because that's where I find a lot of job openings that I am looking for and you could just upload your resume there to make it more convenient.
Resume
The job that I choose for this assignment is a ball motion manager for Brunswick Bowling Company. The reason why I choose this job is because I have been around bowling since I was twelve years old. Bowling has brought me to Wichita State to get my degree in Sports Management. I have been on using Brunswick Bowling Balls for the last four years.
The job that I have now is at Northrock Lanes here in Wichita, Kansas on rock road. I have been working there for three years in December 2010. I am a manager during the night shift and also I put on siminars on the second Saturday of every month on Ball motion to help young bowlers. These siminars help young children with which bowling balls to use and help them with spares. I believe that it would be easy for me to get a job with Brunswick because of all my experience and all my bowling accomplishments.
The job that I have now is at Northrock Lanes here in Wichita, Kansas on rock road. I have been working there for three years in December 2010. I am a manager during the night shift and also I put on siminars on the second Saturday of every month on Ball motion to help young bowlers. These siminars help young children with which bowling balls to use and help them with spares. I believe that it would be easy for me to get a job with Brunswick because of all my experience and all my bowling accomplishments.
I feel that to some extent, PowerPoint is getting a little overused. I have had similar and different experiences when using PowerPoint or when someone else has presented using PowerPoint. The similarities I have seen come along with the PowerPoint looking messy and pointless, not to mention a little boring. Others that have had the same problems are hard to watch or pay attention too. In that manner, it makes the PowerPoint hard to learn or understand which makes the presentation as a whole a failure or waste of time. The differences are when someone has done something special and gone out of their way to make the PowerPoint interesting. Anybody can do bullets and definitions of words, but going above and beyond that can make the world of difference. I have seen some PowerPoint's with pictures, videos, jokes and the list goes on of ways to liven up a presentation.
An audience based PowerPoint could actually help out while preparing. Instead of using random facts, quotes, definitions and so on, you will be able to target what you need to put in the PowerPoint. It will be much easier to put information in a presentation that is guided toward a certain audience opposed to a general audience. You can put in the information they want to see, need to know, want to know or anything like that and it will be a more powerful PowerPoint then complete randomness.
It also helps having a presenter that enjoys the subject that they are talking about.
Erik Gulbrandson
An audience based PowerPoint could actually help out while preparing. Instead of using random facts, quotes, definitions and so on, you will be able to target what you need to put in the PowerPoint. It will be much easier to put information in a presentation that is guided toward a certain audience opposed to a general audience. You can put in the information they want to see, need to know, want to know or anything like that and it will be a more powerful PowerPoint then complete randomness.
It also helps having a presenter that enjoys the subject that they are talking about.
Erik Gulbrandson
Prompt #8
In the context behind the article, the things the Bumiller is saying make sense. It’s a little scary to think about people making tactical security decisions in very simple, bulleted points. Certain things, especially those of great importance or things that require a high level of explanation or examples to convey the desired point shouldn’t be presented to any kind of audience using a PowerPoint. It’s possible that some of the main points can be delivered in an organized PowerPoint, but another type of document or information portal should be provided to the audience to expand on the points and cover all of the necessary information.
However, there are certain ways that these presentations can in fact effectively aid a presentation. When a speaker wants to emphasize a few certain points, he or she can easily type up a Power Point to show the audience the most important aspects of the presentation then verbally expand on the points and add any needed detail or explanation. PowerPoints aren’t really designed to incorporate vast amounts of detail and long-winded explanations and careful planning and strategizing.
The program is called PowerPoint for a reason. It is highly effective in conveying a certain type of cut and dry data or a few specific things that a presenter wants to convey to the audience. Powerful images and strong visual parallels are easily communicated through this program, and the design is such that data can be broken down into individual, easily discernible points. The messages that PowerPoint can effectively deliver are ones that can be broken down into very simple, precise points and possibly expanded on in another medium of communication. Legal briefs and documents or important military strategies should not be chopped up into pieces so that a nice little PowerPoint can be made. There is no way to possibly incorporate all of the necessary information on an easy-to-read PowerPoint and still hold the attention of the audience and receive the desired reaction.
In the situations mentioned in the article, the presenter could still make use of PowerPoint but not to the extent demonstrated in the example. The military officers in the audience should be made aware that any PowerPoint is only a brief overview of all the necessary information, if all of the information is going to be presented verbally at one time. If certain points can be easily broken down and summarized for organization, a PowerPoint could be used to lay it out in a nice format, but more extensive documents outlining all of the important details should also be available. The audience should be given every piece of necessary detail in either a presentation or a more formal document, and the information should be presented in a way that every target can analyze and understand.
The people that spend most of their time making PowerPoints are wasting their time because it’s impossible to cover the amount of material necessary for important operations in a PowerPoint presentation alone. Their efforts would be better spent elsewhere, like compiling the actual extensive documents, and if they can spare a few minutes to make a quick summary outline PowerPoint, that would still be an effective use of time.
However, there are certain ways that these presentations can in fact effectively aid a presentation. When a speaker wants to emphasize a few certain points, he or she can easily type up a Power Point to show the audience the most important aspects of the presentation then verbally expand on the points and add any needed detail or explanation. PowerPoints aren’t really designed to incorporate vast amounts of detail and long-winded explanations and careful planning and strategizing.
The program is called PowerPoint for a reason. It is highly effective in conveying a certain type of cut and dry data or a few specific things that a presenter wants to convey to the audience. Powerful images and strong visual parallels are easily communicated through this program, and the design is such that data can be broken down into individual, easily discernible points. The messages that PowerPoint can effectively deliver are ones that can be broken down into very simple, precise points and possibly expanded on in another medium of communication. Legal briefs and documents or important military strategies should not be chopped up into pieces so that a nice little PowerPoint can be made. There is no way to possibly incorporate all of the necessary information on an easy-to-read PowerPoint and still hold the attention of the audience and receive the desired reaction.
In the situations mentioned in the article, the presenter could still make use of PowerPoint but not to the extent demonstrated in the example. The military officers in the audience should be made aware that any PowerPoint is only a brief overview of all the necessary information, if all of the information is going to be presented verbally at one time. If certain points can be easily broken down and summarized for organization, a PowerPoint could be used to lay it out in a nice format, but more extensive documents outlining all of the important details should also be available. The audience should be given every piece of necessary detail in either a presentation or a more formal document, and the information should be presented in a way that every target can analyze and understand.
The people that spend most of their time making PowerPoints are wasting their time because it’s impossible to cover the amount of material necessary for important operations in a PowerPoint presentation alone. Their efforts would be better spent elsewhere, like compiling the actual extensive documents, and if they can spare a few minutes to make a quick summary outline PowerPoint, that would still be an effective use of time.
Instructor Post # 8
The Perks and Perils of Powerpoint
In her recent New York Times article, Elisabeth Bumiller reports on the possible perils of powerpoint in the armed services and defense planning. After reviewing this article, how do you feel about Bumiller's assertions? Have you had similar or different experiences using powerpoint? Based on this article, your experiences, and our in class discussions, how might an audience-centered approach and other concepts from the course help to fix some of the issues Bumiller highlights? Please use concrete examples to back up your point.
Prompt courtesy of Andrea McCaffree-Wallace
post 7
I have chosen to be a manager at a Wendy's. mostly do to what I currently have the qualified skills for. My ambition is to become an accountant in the future however. I chose that career because it would require managing money and numbers for a restaurant, with the idea it may be a good start to beginning a job in accounting. This career choice is most likely not were I see myself ending up however.
I have not decided just yet on whether I want to be a public or business accountant just yet. I'm hoping to learn more about both before i make up my mind and choose. As for any obstacle's in my way all I really have is classes and shortages on my time do to work and school and that I have yet to have a job with any real accounting skills required. I'm hoping to improve my skills and find a job as an accountant in the future but for now I need more experience.
I have not decided just yet on whether I want to be a public or business accountant just yet. I'm hoping to learn more about both before i make up my mind and choose. As for any obstacle's in my way all I really have is classes and shortages on my time do to work and school and that I have yet to have a job with any real accounting skills required. I'm hoping to improve my skills and find a job as an accountant in the future but for now I need more experience.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Resume
For this assignment, I chose a job within The United States Bowling Congress (USBC.) It really has nothing to do with my major at the current time, because with my lack of work experience in the field of criminal justice would have made it hard to make a resume. Who knows though, make by the time I graduate I will be able to find a job in USBC that deals with criminal justice, or actually be able fill out a resume for a job in the field of criminal justice.
I would really enjoy having at job at USBC after I graduate. I have been bowling pretty much all of my life and it would make sense to continue a career in it after school is over with. It doesn't mean that I wouldn't also enjoy pursuing a career dealing with my major, but we will see where time takes us. To look for a job I would go to their website which is bowl.com. Again the only problem I would have is a lack of job experience, but I feel with all my experience as a bowler and all of my accomplishments, that it shouldn't be to much of a problem.
Erik Gulbrandson
I would really enjoy having at job at USBC after I graduate. I have been bowling pretty much all of my life and it would make sense to continue a career in it after school is over with. It doesn't mean that I wouldn't also enjoy pursuing a career dealing with my major, but we will see where time takes us. To look for a job I would go to their website which is bowl.com. Again the only problem I would have is a lack of job experience, but I feel with all my experience as a bowler and all of my accomplishments, that it shouldn't be to much of a problem.
Erik Gulbrandson
Thursday, November 4, 2010
POST #7
For this assignment, I chose an entry level position as a bank teller. With a major in accounting, I found this to be an excellent position to start out with in order to work my way up in the business world. I'm one of those students who has no clue as to what I want to do with my major after I graduate. Holding a position as a bank teller would not only get my foot in the door, but also would provide excellent experience and would create great opportunities for me. I'm not saying I am applying for this job in the real world just yet, but it's great to think of it as an open option.
Something interesting that I found while doing a small job search of sorts was that I started out not having a specific job in mind. Sure, I knew the realm of where and how to search, for example, I wanted to use my education to my advantage and find something relevant accounting, and if not that, then something related to business in general. Through my searching, I began to find job postings for things I had no idea about, meaning, i would have never thought of them myself. Just because I hadn't thought of them doesn't mean they aren't out there, obviously, but you can't rule out possibilities just because you haven't thought about them. Through just a simple search, I began to see more and more options of what I could use my major for, which also encouraged me.
One of the biggest let downs, especially in the economy we are in, is the fact that most jobs require some level of experience. Ugh. What if you don't have any? It's harder to find entry-level jobs because most employers are only willing to hire the most qualified candidates, thus executing better employment efficiency. Therefore, I've concluded that I should grab as many oppurtunities as possible, anything that can boost my experience. The flip side of that, more and more people are telling me to apply for any relevant position, within reason, because I'll never know what opportunity will present itself. Even if you're not completely qualified for a job, another position may be offered through an interview. You just never know, so take some chances, and don't limit yourself.
Something interesting that I found while doing a small job search of sorts was that I started out not having a specific job in mind. Sure, I knew the realm of where and how to search, for example, I wanted to use my education to my advantage and find something relevant accounting, and if not that, then something related to business in general. Through my searching, I began to find job postings for things I had no idea about, meaning, i would have never thought of them myself. Just because I hadn't thought of them doesn't mean they aren't out there, obviously, but you can't rule out possibilities just because you haven't thought about them. Through just a simple search, I began to see more and more options of what I could use my major for, which also encouraged me.
One of the biggest let downs, especially in the economy we are in, is the fact that most jobs require some level of experience. Ugh. What if you don't have any? It's harder to find entry-level jobs because most employers are only willing to hire the most qualified candidates, thus executing better employment efficiency. Therefore, I've concluded that I should grab as many oppurtunities as possible, anything that can boost my experience. The flip side of that, more and more people are telling me to apply for any relevant position, within reason, because I'll never know what opportunity will present itself. Even if you're not completely qualified for a job, another position may be offered through an interview. You just never know, so take some chances, and don't limit yourself.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Post 7 Letter/Resume
I didn't really like this assignment due to the fact that the jobs I'm looking after I graduate aren't really going to be advertised on Monster or Yahoo's Hot Jobs. I'm a criminal justice major and I would really like to join the FBI, DEA, or along those lines. To do that its more than sending a cover letter and resume. You have to take test, go through training, and even more school (but their school).
For this assignment I selected a job as a police recruit. I found it on the Wichita.gov website. Even though I don't really care to be a police recruit it was the closest job to my field of interest. I understand though as I may want certain jobs I may have to start out as a Police recruit and work myself up from the ladder.
When giving advice to someone searching jobs online I would tell them to be careful. Because now-a-days a lot of jobs posted online are fake ones. It's hard to tell sometimes, so when in doubt just call a company and ask if they are hiring and if the job they are hiring for is posted on Monster.com. If a job sounds too good to be true it may be. There is nothing wrong with double checking. Many companies would prefer you to have a high school diploma and college degree. You can't really blame them because they are just trying to get the best employee possible. Now I'm not saying someone without a degree isn't a good candidate, they may have more experience in a certain field because they have spent more time in the job field. Statistics now say that the average income for someone without a degree is $31,071, whereas someone with a degree was making $56,788. That is quiet a difference if you ask me.
I'd tell people to never settle for a job they didn't want. Now you may have to take a lower job on the ladder to achieve the job you actually want; which there is nothing wrong with that. For example, most detectives started off as police officers. It just gives you more experience before stepping up the ladder.To become a CEO you normally don’t just walk in and apply. It goes to someone who owns the business or has been at the business awhile and knows the company inside and out. Nothing comes easy in life, so if at first you don't succeed try for another job!
For this assignment I selected a job as a police recruit. I found it on the Wichita.gov website. Even though I don't really care to be a police recruit it was the closest job to my field of interest. I understand though as I may want certain jobs I may have to start out as a Police recruit and work myself up from the ladder.
When giving advice to someone searching jobs online I would tell them to be careful. Because now-a-days a lot of jobs posted online are fake ones. It's hard to tell sometimes, so when in doubt just call a company and ask if they are hiring and if the job they are hiring for is posted on Monster.com. If a job sounds too good to be true it may be. There is nothing wrong with double checking. Many companies would prefer you to have a high school diploma and college degree. You can't really blame them because they are just trying to get the best employee possible. Now I'm not saying someone without a degree isn't a good candidate, they may have more experience in a certain field because they have spent more time in the job field. Statistics now say that the average income for someone without a degree is $31,071, whereas someone with a degree was making $56,788. That is quiet a difference if you ask me.
I'd tell people to never settle for a job they didn't want. Now you may have to take a lower job on the ladder to achieve the job you actually want; which there is nothing wrong with that. For example, most detectives started off as police officers. It just gives you more experience before stepping up the ladder.To become a CEO you normally don’t just walk in and apply. It goes to someone who owns the business or has been at the business awhile and knows the company inside and out. Nothing comes easy in life, so if at first you don't succeed try for another job!
Prompt #7
I chose a job as a desk clerk and cashier for a dry cleaning business. I’m not at all interested in dry cleaning, but I liked the things I read about the practices of the company itself in relation to the community. The company is active in the Dress for Success project to supply underprivileged women with professional clothing to make them competitors in the workforce.
This job would be just for the immediate future while I’m still in college. Although it would be mainly to make some money, it would also incorporate the ideals that I want to explore in the future. Advancement of underprivileged women is an amazing cause, and I’d be honored to be a part of it. In the future, I hope to become employed long-term in humanitarianism and human rights activism.
I scanned the classifieds in the Wichita Eagle, but I’m unqualified for almost all of the positions because of a lack of experience. It was a decent place to start, but I found that the amount and variety of jobs was very limited. I’m sure a lot of people could find jobs in this manner, but the internet is a more useful tool if someone wants to expand their options and look for a wider variety. The classifieds online were mostly the same as the ones in the newspaper, but there were also job postings through employment websites that are only available online. These are great starting points, and it’s easy to find jobs this way.
I was looking for a local position, so I used Wichita-centered websites when I didn’t see anything in the classifieds. The Wichita 360 website is a great site for all things Wichita, including job postings. I like their organization a lot more than that of the physical classified ad and the classifieds online through the Eagle.
My biggest hurdles at this point are my lack of experience and the fact that I’m still a full time student. By getting a part-time job that specifically caters towards students, I can hopefully gain the needed experience to find better employment in the future. Also when I’m able to expand my job search into times that people still in school cannot work, my employment prospects should be more expansive. Right now, so much of my time is eaten up by school; it’s extremely difficult to find a position with employers willing to work around it.
This job would be just for the immediate future while I’m still in college. Although it would be mainly to make some money, it would also incorporate the ideals that I want to explore in the future. Advancement of underprivileged women is an amazing cause, and I’d be honored to be a part of it. In the future, I hope to become employed long-term in humanitarianism and human rights activism.
I scanned the classifieds in the Wichita Eagle, but I’m unqualified for almost all of the positions because of a lack of experience. It was a decent place to start, but I found that the amount and variety of jobs was very limited. I’m sure a lot of people could find jobs in this manner, but the internet is a more useful tool if someone wants to expand their options and look for a wider variety. The classifieds online were mostly the same as the ones in the newspaper, but there were also job postings through employment websites that are only available online. These are great starting points, and it’s easy to find jobs this way.
I was looking for a local position, so I used Wichita-centered websites when I didn’t see anything in the classifieds. The Wichita 360 website is a great site for all things Wichita, including job postings. I like their organization a lot more than that of the physical classified ad and the classifieds online through the Eagle.
My biggest hurdles at this point are my lack of experience and the fact that I’m still a full time student. By getting a part-time job that specifically caters towards students, I can hopefully gain the needed experience to find better employment in the future. Also when I’m able to expand my job search into times that people still in school cannot work, my employment prospects should be more expansive. Right now, so much of my time is eaten up by school; it’s extremely difficult to find a position with employers willing to work around it.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Instructor Post 7
For this blog, I want you to talk about yourselves. Everyone has to gear their cover letter/resume toward a specific job, so discuss why you chose the specific job you did. Is this the type of job you'd like after graduation? Where did you find it, and what advice about job searching (in regards to methods like classified ads, internet sites, networking, etc.) could you give to someone starting out? What obstacles did you find when applying (lack of experience, etc.) and what steps can you take to overcome them? Feel free to comment on anything else pertinent to the discussion of learning the job market or your own career ambitions.
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