Career Lab

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The WLA 2018 Conference will include a new feature this year: the Career Advancement Lab. The Career Lab will offer a range of services over several days of the conference. Whether you are seeking a library job, looking for career advice to make the most of your current job, or just need an updated headshot, the Career Lab has something for conference attendees at every stage of their career.

Schedule

The Career Advancement Lab will be held in the Main Stage on the following days and times:

Friday, October 19, from 2:00 to 5:00 pm, with a break from 3:15 to 3:45 pm
Saturday, October 20, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

Career Lab Activities

Sign ups for the Career Lab are now available! Click here to sign up for a time slot. Can't commit to a time slot? Remember that the last half hour of each day is reserved for drop-ins, though we cannot guarantee that you will be able to work with a volunteer during that time.

Resume reviews: Spend up to 30 minutes having your resume or CV reviewed by a resume expert! Participants will be asked to submit a resume before the conference to allow the reviewer time to prepare remarks and suggestions. The final 30 minutes of each day’s Career Lab will be open on a first-come, first-served basis for resume reviews, but there is no guarantee that every interested participant will be seen during this time. 

Interview practice: Want to practice or brush up on your interview skills? You can spend up to half an hour rehearsing an interview and receiving feedback. Participants will be able to submit a resume and job scenario when signing up to be asked tailored questions. The final 30 minutes of each day’s Career Lab will be open on a first-come, first-served basis for interview practice, but there is no guarantee that every interested participant will be seen during this time. 

Career counseling: Not sure what kind of library you want to work in? Considering changing jobs or pursuing a promotion but aren’t sure how to proceed? Need advice on leading from the middle? Experienced librarians are available to answer your questions and provide advice for up to half an hour per participant. The final 30 minutes of each day’s Career Lab will be open on a first-come, first-served basis for career counseling, but there is no guarantee that every interested participant will be seen during this time.

Complimentary headshots: Need an updated professional headshot? Sign up to have your photo taken by experienced photographers! Drop-ins will be accepted depending on availability.

Seeking Volunteers

Do you provide resume review or interview practice programming at your library? Are you a hiring manager or HR professional? Are you an experienced librarian interested in mentoring newer librarians? Put your skills to use by volunteering at the Career Advancement Lab! Email [email protected] if you are interested in volunteering.

Questions?

If you have questions or comments, you can email [email protected] to get in contact with the Career Lab Coordinators.