Looking for great statistics on workplace flexibility and the legalities of flexible workplace? Check out the following site: http://www.worklifelaw.org/Reports.html.

Gender and Pay Equity

Recently, I spoke to the Women in Natural Resources group about pay inequities. I was glad to learn that these women were enlightened and realistic about how gender issues play out in the workplace. We discussed the following article that addresses the persistent pay gap, with women earning less than men even after controlling variables like education level and type, job type, and experience: Behind the Pay Gap, published by the American Association of University Women.

If you haven't checked out this article yet, do so! Gender inequities are unfair to everyone, and we all have an obligation to be aware they exist and advocate when possible for equality.

Are you "resume-ready?"

CAFNR Career Day is just around the corner--Wednesday, September 26th. Be sure your resume is ready to impress employers!

Eighty-four students attended the Resumes 101 program last Wednesday sponsored by Bartlett & Co. and Alpha Gamma Rho; that leaves just over 1,900 of you who may still have questions.

What can you do between now and Career Day to make sure your resume gets the interviews?

• Request an online resume critique from one of over 20 professionals through CAFNR Career Services. Simply send your resume to ChipmanS@missouri.edu with "Request online review" in the subject line.
• Schedule an appointment for a review in CAFNR Career Services by calling 573-882-0088.
• Walk-in to the MU Career Center (lower level of MU Success Center) for advice and a review.
• Review the CAFNR web on resumes. Also check out the following article on CareerBuilder.com: Why Your Resume Annoys Employers.

Salary Savvy: Here are some resources!

Many students are already coming in to my office, asking questions about entry level salaries. In this market, a number of seniors already have offers, primarily from their internship employers. A couple of good places to gather information on entry level salaries include the following:

• Mizzou's Desination Survey--See what former MU graduates earned as entry-level salaries by major.


• A number of colleague in agricultural colleges provide the following data for their May 2007 graduates: http://www.cafnr.missouri.edu/career-services/salary-results.xls

Once you know what an average salary for your major and job function are, you can more accurately determine your market value based on your experience (related internships and other jobs), relevant coursework and other qualifications.

In addition to knowing what your market value is, negotiation strategy is also important. For good tips on this process check out the following link: http://business.missouri.edu/336/default.aspx.

If you are in a position to negotiate and need some help, don't hesitate making an appointment with CAFNR Career Services. Good luck!

Stephanie

By: Katie Allen

Starting a job search early helps a student land his or her ideal position after graduation. Want proof?

As part of a National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) survey earlier this year, 71 percent of graduating college students surveyed either planned to or already had begun looking for a job after graduation. Of those students, 79 percent had already submitted a job application and 51.2 percent had accepted a job offer.

For those graduating next spring, nine months may seem like a long time from now. As a senior that is graduating then, I can’t even believe how fast three years as an undergrad have gone by. Graduation will be here before I know it. And December grads have even less time.
CAFNR Career Services is a great resource to use as a student and alum. The CAFNR Career Fair on Wednesday, September 26 at the MU Student Recreation Center is a great opportunity to meet employers and find a position that fits you. Over 60 employers have registered for the CAFNR Career Fair, and even more are signing up to attend every day. Many recruiters are even interviewing for full-time and internship positions on campus the following day, September 27.

I encourage all CAFNR students to take advantage of the opportunity and visit the CAFNR Career Fair. If you need help getting your resume ready or tips on interviewing, feel free to stop by the CAFNR Career Services Office at 2-64 Ag Building to use the resources available or call 573-882-0088 to make an appointment to have your resume reviewed in the office. Starting early gives you time to find a position that really fits YOU!

Hey, Seniors, things are looking good! Those of you who haven't yet made it to the senior year, the market for internships is also good! NACE's Job Outlook 2008 Fall Preview Survey shows that again this year employers are planning to hire more new college grads--in fact, this early survey shows a hiring increase of 16% over last year.

What does this mean? You need to take advantage of the market by starting early and working steadily on your job search.

Anyone with specific examples of the strong market for graduates from CAFNR? How about advice on how to take advantage of the expected increase in new graduate hiring?

Turn up the HEAT!

Ok, I know some of you who find yourselves engulfed in the heat wave are saying, "What?!" But seriously, this is an exciting time to be in the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources. CAFNR Careers are hot!

I challenge anyone to pick up a current newspaper or news magazine and NOT find at least one article related to the majors in CAFNR. From biofuels to the safety of our food to medical research to the environment, career opportunities abound. I just returned from a conference last week where employers discussed how to attract the best and brightest to their open positions.

I want to emphasize how badly we need not just employees, but true leaders in our industries. I want MU CAFNR to set the standards.

Watch the following video to get my message:
http://www.simpletruths.com/a.aspx?mo=ttwd&t=2&af=132

As we prepare for CAFNR Career Day on September 26th and a very active fall recruiting season, we need to turn up the heat.

This will be fun! Welcome back to the students, we missed you! - Jane

This is going to be fun. WHat a great way to communicate with students and hopefully get them involved.