Greetings from the new Professional Enrichment Movement at IUAA!

It’s been an exciting time for me since I started my new role in September. I’ve been meeting with colleagues throughout the state and connecting with alumni around the globe who are thrilled that IUAA will be offering expanded career & professional enhancement services for members.

While I am new to this role, I have been in career development for 13+ years and it is an honor and a privilege for me to be serving my alma mater in this new capacity. Our focus on career enhancement came after a year of research by a team of experts who determined that IU alumni are hungry for career resources.

We are now operating from a Lifetime Engagement model – meeting alumni where you are in your unique life and career journey. From new graduates on their first job quest, to career changers, or soon-to-be retired alumni planning an encore career – we’ve got your back! My goal is to help you showcase the value of your IU degree so you can use this to your advantage in a competitive marketplace. I aspire to create a culture of IU alumni helping each other to succeed throughout their professional lives.

The new menu of services and resources will be unveiled incrementally throughout this next year. Some services will be free with your membership and others will be fee-based so we can serve you in ways that meet your expanded career needs by tapping experts in your field around the globe. Here is a sneak peek at some of what will be coming in 2014.

Evisors

an online platform for mentor pairing and the ultimate networking tool. Whether you want to pay-it-forward to offer your wisdom to a fellow alum seeking advice, or perhaps you are in need of assistance – this resource has you covered. It puts the warm network of IU alumni at your fingertips and gives you access to professionals who want to lookout for their fellow Hoosiers!

Online Programs

stay tuned for a myriad of career related resources to be showcased on the IUAA website including webinars facilitated by national experts and distinguished thought leaders. A digital library of professional development offerings will give you access to cutting edge tools around the clock.

On-location Career Events

great things happen when fellow Hoosiers come together to share their wisdom and learn from each other. Career events in targeted locations will feature national guest speakers, panel discussions, networking opportunities, and more.

Career & Professional Development Coaching

athletes have been using coaches to improve their technique and gain a competitive edge since the first Olympics in ancient Greece. Modern day professionals are capitalizing on coaches to achieve their career goals and IUAA wants to be your preferred provider. By tapping the proven success of established coaches around the globe, we will connect you with the resources you need to succeed. Here are some coaching scenarios you might consider:

• Job Search: whether you are a newly minted graduate or a seasoned professional looking for a new opportunity, the job search process can be daunting. A career coach helps you navigate this journey to ensure that you have the best professional tools, interview and networking confidence, and most importantly, the self-assessment guidance you need to put your strengths and values to work in a career where you can thrive.
• Career Management: perhaps you are struggling with work/life integration, interested in a promotion but not sure how to distinguish yourself in a competitive field, or maybe you need help negotiating a new salary. A coach can help you deal with the realities of managing a successful career so you can gain control.
• Executive Coaching: from emerging leaders to C-Suite executives, leadership skills must be continually honed. Learn how to sharpen your strengths and navigate your blind spots to be the most effective in your career with a coach at your side to help you succeed.

Stay tuned for more news about the Professional Enrichment Movement at IUAA and know that we are eager to help you succeed throughout your career lifetime!

Cheers,

Caroline Dowd-Higgins, Director of Professional Enrichment, BM ’89; MM ’95