This workshop was somewhat bittersweet because it marked the end of semester and the last time many of us would see each other until next semester. The guest speakers for this session were there to give us advice about moving into the professional world, from how to conduct ourselves professionally to how to find a job.
I found the advice about networking particularly helpful. While a part of me has always been opposed to networking, I am now becoming aware of just how valuable it is. I used to see networking as an underhanded tool to get jobs and advance your career. Now I see networking as a legitimate business practice, kind of like an art-form that is accepted and used by everyone to make contacts. I think networking is a skill that I need to practice and develop. I find it intimidating to introduce myself to people who I have something to gain from knowing. This also lends to an idea which has permeated through this course and which was reiterated in the workshop, which is to keep up with the LIS industry and know about the recent developments in the field.
One highlight of the guest speakers was the discussion around ethics and legal responsibility. The guest speaker, Fiona Doyle, worked in a medical library so she face a number of ethical and legal implications. At the end of the day I think it comes down to plain common sense - and this was a theme through out the speakers on the night. Using common sense to handle an ethical situation, using common sense when speaking with potential employers, and using common sense when writing a CV.
I like that the last workshop focused on moving out into the profession. It made the semester seem ‘real’ and made me feel like I am becoming a real Information Professional.
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