Advisory Notes

"In a tight job market, we won't even consider mediocre people." ~Dave Brock

We Want

People who communicate effectively
Can you make a presentation?
Do you have exceptional grammar, spelling, and writing skills.
Can you talk to a client and understand what they want?
Can you write a business letter?
Do you read well?

People with a professional attitude
Do you like to learn and try new things?
Do you meet deadlines?
Do you always present your best work?
Do you challenge yourself every day?
Do you work with other people effectively?

People with technical knowledge
Do you have a range of skills?
Do you pay attention to detail?
Are you a quick study with new technology?
What related skills do you bring to the table?

Are you enthusiastic about your job?

The fastest way into the job market today is to have mastered basic skills, have a range of technical skills, and have a wide variety of related skills.

That may sound like a tall order but nine members of the Media Arts Advisory Committee were unanimous about what they look for in potential employees.

Rich Houchin, a photographer for the Hastings Tribune, says he's not just a photographer anymore. "I take the shots, design the page, write the captions, and write the story. The media isn't one dimensional anymore. Everyone has to do a lot of things."

Duane Norris, with Idea Bank, says you have to fit into a business setting. "That means working with clients, getting along with co-workers, meeting deadlines and doing an exceptional job every time."

George Ayoub, with the Grand Island Independent, says it's all about attitude. "You can teach skills but I want someone with a professional attitude and a solid work ethic."

Annette Schwartz, with Morris Cookbooks, adds that self-motivation is a key. "We want people who want to continually improve and continually challenge themselves."