SU organizations host ‘all about the business’ seminar

An assortment of Southern University’s student organizations hosted “All About the Business” seminar to provide educational information to the Southern University National Pan Hellenic Counsel Greek life and non-Greek students about the proper planning and protocol of obtaining a career.
The discussion included information about careers in business and dressing-the-part suitable for a business.
Director of Career Services Tamara Montgomery explained the importance of preparing students for careers.
“We don’t allow our students to go out, and not have the tools they need,” said Montgomery.
Montgomery said there are mock interviews to develop helpful interview skills held on Fridays.
“It is our job to make sure that you’re successful,” said Montgomery.
Ebony West senior business major and president of Phi Beta Lambda business organization gave advice to students also.
She said to focus mainly on dressing the part and to be a well-dressed businessman or woman.
She gave fashion tips and educated students on the difference between business casual and business professional attire.
“You want to present yourself in the best image as possible to the company or whoever you are trying to impress,” said West.
She advised students to lean towards dark colors that do not draw too much physical attention and make employers remember words and not clothes.
 “Your first impression is a lasting one, so make sure you’re remembered for the right things.”
Carlton Jones president of the Black Executive Exchange Program discussed résumés and cover letters and how to properly fill them out when applying for a job.
“It’s important that you write and efficient cover letter and résumé,” said Jones. “When you graduate, you are not competing for jobs on a local level. You’re competing on a global level.”
Jones also said that there are no absolute guidelines to writing a resume and instructed students on how to accurately draft and write an effective resume and cover letter.
Jonathan Irving president of Pi Sigma Epsilon explained the importance of business skills and what to do after receiving a chance to be interviewed. 
He also talked about body language and how to stay calm when asked difficult questions about a previous job.
“Body language is everything,” said Irving.  “When you walk in to a room greet whomever you are speaking with, stand until you’ve been asked to be seated and make sure your body posture is positive.