Inspired Solutions to help YOU! October 19, 2009
Posted by angionette in PSE Corporate Partners.Tags: Pi Sigma Epsilon, PSE, Sales & Marketing, Sales and Marketing
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Michael Cheatham is president of Inspired Solutions and Associates, Professional Vice President of Pi Sigma Epsilon, Co-Founder of RippleCard™ and past National Board Member of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America. As an avid supporter of PSE, he has not only participated in regional and national conferences, he has coached several past and present PSE members. ISA offers discounted career counseling and resume writing services for PSE members. For more information, visit http://www.inspiredbyISA.com.
Dear PSE Members & Alumni:
Unless you have spent the last couple of years sailing around the world or hiking the Himalayan Mountains you realize in the current economy the job market is tough. During my career, I have seen the impact on those preparing to enter the workforce as well as those already trying to navigate the tough job market. As such, I wanted to provide five quick tips for fellow PSE members who may be already or preparing to enter the job market.
ATTITUDE:
“Don’t focus on if your glass is ½ full or ½ empty … a glass filled with vinegar is just that. What you should focus on is what you are placing in your glass!”
- Michael Cheatham
First and foremost, remember that your attitude speaks volumes about you and your personality. If you allow the situation to get you down, that is how you will be perceived. So what if there is a 10% unemployment rate – that leaves 90% employment! Make sure your attitude is in check and prepare yourself accordingly.
CREATIVITY:
“Creativity requires the courage to let go of certainties”
- Erich Fromm
The expression, “Thinking outside of the box” may be an over-used cliché, but its message is a good one. The trick is in operationalizing this expression. My suggestion is the following: When confronted with any task, ask yourself, “How is this task typically done?” Then ask, “How can it be done differently to greater effect?” Or put another way, “How can I deviate from the expected?”
Think about your audience and how you approach your quest for an answer or interview. In today’s world, the internet may be the fastest way to get your resume to a prospective employer but it will sit among hundreds if not thousands of other applicants. In addition to applying online, think of ways you can “send” your resume that will grab someone’s attention. Your personal network of contacts now and always may just hold the key to open the door to your next opportunity.
NETWORKING:
“Surround yourself with peopl who believe in you.”
- Brian Koslow
What exactly is networking? Time nor space allows for a detailed explanation of networking; however, let me start first with what it is not. Networking is not cold-calling, nor is it best to overthink what it is you are trying to achieve. Networking does require effective two-way communication and should be practiced always and not just when you are looking for a job, referral or other assistance. Networking is best when you realize that to be effective you must be prepared to give as much as you receive in your network relationships. That said, there are a world of ways to network and again space does not allow to list them all but following is one example:
Social and professional networking is rapidly changing the way we communicate. Look into utilizing the networks you already have in place (i.e. Social sites like Facebook and MySpace) and expanding or developing professional ones (i.e. LinkedIn and Pulse). There is an old sales adage that states that “friends do business with friends” and you should look to those you know that might be able to assist you in getting your foot in the door or making an introduction. Just last week, a friend of mine who is seeking to relocate back to her home state Georgia found a job posting she is interested in persuing. After doing her research on the internet, she turned to her professional network on LinkedIn and found that the person in charge of vetting candidates is connected to me. Now I don’t know that person, but I am linked to her via two close associates. I was able to ask for an introduction via my contact and now my friend’s resume is en route directly to the desk of the person in charge of interviews.
COMMON SENSE – EMBRACING DISSONANCE
“The unreflective opinions of ordinary people.”
- Webster’s
In other words, common sense is non-specialized knowledge. Although professional training can serve to advance our knowledge in a particular field, it may also have the tendency of lessening our ability to render sound, practical judgment that result from good common sense.
While some are said to possess innate common sense, it can be learned or acquired. A first step to acquiring more common sense is to take an information inventory. Where and how do you receive information? What types of information do you receive? We naturally are drawn to what comforts us and this reinforces what we already know or believe. Many people experience “cognitive dissonance” when they encounter views that differ from their strongly held beliefs (Festinger, 1957).
In order to enhance common sense, you should embrace this dissonance. Seek out credible sources of information that are at odds with your own views. If you tend to have conservative political and social viewpoints, pick up a copy of the Utne Reader once in a while. If you tend to lean to the left, subscribe to Forbes Magazine’s daily email briefing. Also, follow developments in sports even if you think March Madness is one of the best times of the year for department store sales. Or attend the latest opera in town even if you think Pavoratti is a pasta dish. These strategies should broaden your understanding of the world and provide you with a greater ability to connect with people.
SET YOURSELF APART
“Ask first, what am I doing differently that sets me apart from the competition?”
- Michael J. Cheatham
Competition is fierce and having the best marketing department or the newest product is not good enough … neither is having the best looking resume when trying to land an interview or wearing an expensive designer suit when trying to close a deal.
It is important to realize that when you are in the job market you are doing something that many of you must become the consummate Salesperson. Everyone is a salesperson – yes everyone. It doesn’t matter if by profession your title is Accountant, Consultant or Teacher you sell everyday. When you apply for a job, request a raise or ask someone for their hand in marriage, you are selling the one “product” that no one knows better … that product is YOU!
In this competitive job market you need to apply a sales approach to your efforts. Remember, packaging is an integral part of the sell but one should never lose sight of other aspects of the sales process. For example, an old adage states that “friends do business with friends” and one established relationship could open a door that leads to an opportunity to not only sell your idea, thought or product. Most importantly, it is an opportunity to sell YOU!
info@inspiredbyISA.com
http://www.inspiredbyISA.com
For job seekers and career minded individuals, we provide the essential tools; guidance and one-on-one coaching that will enable you to effectively compete in today’s marketplace.
INSPIRED CAREER BUILDING SOLUTIONS
In today’s competitive job market, having a degree from a top-notch university is not enough to land your dream job. Furthermore, tenure guarantees neither promotions nor continued employment.
As former recruiters and HR executives, our Career Building team knows first hand what employers are looking for and what it takes to climb the corporate ladder. Whether you are fresh out of college or a seasoned professional, we will help you develop the skills and acquire the knowledge that will enable you to set yourself from and ahead of the competition.
INSPIRED RESUME SOLUTIONS
For those seeking employment, first impressions are everything. Although the most compelling resume will not guarantee your future, it will be the foundation and most critical opportunity to differentiate yourself from the hundreds and often times thousands of applicants to be screened by potential employers.
At ISA, our Career Building team is comprised of more than just writers, we are industry experts. Customizing the style and content of every client’s resume, we utilize a personal approach to meet your objectives and ultimately garner the attention of your target audience – your future employer.
Take it up a notch by allowing us to craft a professional biography to complement your resume or portfolio – it could be the difference between a TBNT letter and an offer.
PSE members receive a 20% discount on the aforementioned solutions.
Pi Sigma Epsilon Scholarships October 6, 2009
Posted by Tracy McCarthy in PSE National Convention.Tags: Pi Sigma Epsilon, PSE, PSE National Convention, PSE NEF National Convention, PSE Scholarships, Sales & Marketing, Sales and Marketing
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PSE National Scholarship Program
Need some extra cash to help pay for that quality education you are receiving? PSE can help!
Through the generous support of our alums and corporate sponsors, thousands of dollars in scholarships will be available once again at the upcoming 2010 PSE National Convention in Milwaukee, WI. Previous scholarship recipients have told us that it’s an amazing moment to be awarded one of these scholarships at the National Convention…and we want you to have that opportunity as well! During these tough economic times, every little bit can help. We encourage you to apply for one of the many scholarships that will be available this year. Application info is available on the PSE website – http://www.pse.org.
Be a part of the growing number of PSE National Scholarship recipients! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Jon Salvani (jsalvani@niu.edu) or Brandon Kelly (brandon.l.kelly@gmail.com).
PSE Future Leaders Team
Are you a freshman or sophomore level collegiate member looking to attend the 2010 PSE National Convention in Milwaukee, WI? How would you like a FREE convention package to ensure your attendance at the convention? Become a member of the PSE Future Leaders Team and the PSE National Education Foundation will pay for your National Convention Package so you can attend!
This program recognizes Freshman and Sophomore members of Pi Sigma Epsilon who display the potential to become great Future Leaders of their chapters and of PSE. Each chapter may nominate one member for this recognition.
The selected recipients of this honor will be awarded:
- A complimentary registration package to the PSE Annual National Sales and Marketing Convention in Milwaukee, WI, April 7th through 11th, 2010.
- Guaranteed participation in the Certified Chapter Officer (CCO) Program.
- A personalized Certificate of Recognition.
- An invitation to a private Leadership/Networking Reception with corporate representatives and Fraternity leaders held each year at the convention.
- Recognition at the Scholarship Presentations during the convention.
To be eligible, you must:
- Be a PSE Member in good standing.
- Be a Freshman or Sophomore status at your educational institution.
- Be nominated by your chapter.
- Not be a past Future Leader Team recipient.
Application info is available on the PSE website (http://www.pse.org) and only a select few are chosen every year as a Future Leader. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Jon Salvani (jsalvani@niu.edu) or Brandon Kelly (brandon.l.kelly@gmail.com).
Are you our next Future Leader of PSE?
PSE Headquarters Update October 5, 2009
Posted by Tracy McCarthy in Headquarters Update.Tags: business, Pi Sigma Epsilon, PSE, PSE Pro-Am Sell-a-Thon, PSE Regional Conferences, Sales & Marketing, Sales and Marketing
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Pro-Am Clarification
Pro-Am Sell-a-Thon Clarification for Regional Conferences
Although the PSE Pro-Am has gone to a year-long competition, this only affects the final winner at the National Convention. Point accumulations during the school year apply to the finalists at the National Convention competition. The Regional Conference Pro-Am will work exactly as it did in prior years. Everyone who registers will spend Saturday at the regional with their coach and then doing a 12 minute sales call in the afternoon. The top two winners at each regional will receive convention registration packets and the top winner at each regional will receive transportation costs to get to the convention.
There is only one additional item that competitors need to do. That is to call the toll free number and make an appointment with the buyer. Everyone who registered received these instructions.
I hope this clarifies any misunderstanding. If you still have questions, please call or email Ann.Devine@pse.org, 414-328-1952.
Change of National Convention Hotel
The 2010 National Convention hotel has changed. We will now be staying at the Pfister Hotel, which is rich in Milwaukee history! Check it out at http://www.pse.org/pse-nationalconference-hotel.asp!
Mentorship Opportunity
Being a college student can be overwhelming at times. Especially as you head toward graduation, and have to start thinking about getting a job. Do you need help writing a resume, have questions about what to look for when you are looking at jobs, or need help preparing for interviews? PSE has very talented alumni who would like to help you! Contact Kristin at Kristin.schwabe@pse.org for more details or to express your interest!
Important Deadlines
Here are the important deadlines that are approaching:
The deadline for renewal member dues to be turned in to HQ is October 15th (November 15th for quarter schools).
Deadlines to sign up for the Pro-Am are available on the web site here – http://www.pse.org/pse-proam-train.asp
Please visit http://www.pse.org/pse-proam-home.asp to learn more about the new Pro-Am.
New member dues are due 3 weeks prior to initiation, or by the latest December 1st.
Please see the regionals section to find out when your deadlines for hotel booking and registration are!
Regional Conferences
The 2009 Fall Regional Conferences are right around the corner! Now is the time to begin booking your hotels and registering! Please visit http://www.pse.org/pse-regional.asp for more details. Below are a few important deadlines and dates:
October 23-25:
Midwest: University of Northern Iowa; Cedar Falls, IA
Hotel reservations deadline has passed. Conference registration deadline 10/9/2009.
November 6-8:
Southern: University of Louisiana Monroe; Monroe, LA
Hotel reservations deadline 10/15/2009. Conference registration deadline 10/23/2009.
North Central: Ohio State University; Columbus, OH
Hotel reservations deadline 10/7/2009. Conference registration deadline 10/23/2009.
November 13-15:
Atlantic: Appalachian State University; Boone, NC
Hotel reservations deadline 10/31/2009. Conference registration deadline 10/23/2009.
Western: Arizona State University; Phoenix, AZ
Hotel reservations deadline 10/23/2009 at 6 am Central Time. Conference registration deadline
10/30/2009.
November 20-22:
Northeast: University at Buffalo; Buffalo, NY
Hotel reservations deadline 11/6/2009. Conference registration deadline 11/6/2009.
U Edun Live Project Opportunity
Designed and marketed by students across the world, “U” by Edun Live will establish a socially conscious and fashion forward apparel line built around University/College life.
Elevating the importance of Design and Involvement, “U” helps bring together students, administration and alumni to help build sustainable communities around the world. “U” by Edun Live was formed in 2009, and is a joint venture of Edun Apparel Ltd. and Fanattik, LLC to further Edun’s overall mission in the university market.
PARTNERSHIP FOR CHANGE
“U” has developed a partnership with Children’s Safe Drinking Water (CSDW.org) and P&G’s PuR brand, to help bring awareness and provide resources to improve safe drinking water. For every “U” apparel item purchased, we donate and deliver a safe drinking water PuR packet directly to the communities that are manufacturing our apparel. A true definition of trade to improve developing areas of the world.
Everyday, more than 4,000 children die from lack of safe drinking water. Totaled at over 1.8 million every year, this is more than HIV and AIDS combined. Powered by Dr. Greg Allgood, CSDW is on site in Africa and implementing safe drinking water programs, including Playpumps and the PuR program.
African Made, from “Grow to Sew”
Every step of the t-shirt supply chain occurs in sub-Saharan Africa. This leads to jobs, skill transfer and trade on the ground that helps create a base for a stability in developing economies.
UGANDA, MADAGASCAR, ZAMBIA
EDUN LIVE is working with the Wildlife Conservation Society and Invisible Children to help teach farmers organic cotton growing through its Conservation Cotton Initiative (CCI).
TANZANIA
Spinning, knitting and doing the cut & sew on some of our 100 percent organic tees.
SOUTH AFRICA
Some EDUN LIVE tees were made in a great facility north of Durban. This factory has amazing training programs for its workers as well as on-sight health officials who help workers receive treatment for HIV/AIDS.
ABOUT EDUN – TRADE vs. AID
Launched in Spring 2005 by Ali Hewson and Bono (U2), EDUN is a socially conscious clothing company who creates beautiful clothing while fostering sustainable employment in developing areas of the world, particularly Africa. To further EDUN’s mission, EDUN LIVE was created to manufacture blank apparel in Africa, thereby helping to bring the continent out of extreme poverty. In 2006, Edun Live on Campus, a student created organization, was founded to help bring Edun’s message to college campuses. Currently, there are 8 college teams with goals to expand.
DESIGN STRATEGY
A unique collaboration of Premium Design and Student Involvement in a socially conscious way.
OUR BRAND IS SOCIAL + FUN
By involving college students into our creative process, our design strategy incorporates the aesthetic and overall brand attributes of brands students invest in. While being socially conscious, design is an important characteristic of our brand. Our brand is not granola. It is a new approach that capture college lifestyle in a meaningful way.
KEY THEMES:
• Involvement on Campuses
• University logos and mascots
• Custom washes, organics and unique placements
• Mission and sustainable themes
• Global connections
CAMPUS TEAMS
Involvement in Operations, Design and Marketing
Since 2006, “U” by Edun Live (previously under the name “Edun Live on Campus”) has been establishing college chapters to help spread the mission of the company and provide experiential learning in social entrepreneurship for students. These teams continue to grow under an aggressive expansion effort, championed by Miami University’s professor of Social Entrepreneurship, Brett Smith.
Simply put, “U” is about involvement for change.
We hope to establish relationship with schools, students and administration to include them in the design and marketing process.
MULTI-CHANNEL DISTRIBUTION
A mix of retail, online and in person
A core asset to the “U” brand is various channels for distribution. We will be working with mass retailers and independent bookstores to place our brand in prestigious spots within a campus environment. While retail is our focus, we will also develop a website that showcases student involvement, in addition to sales.
KEY TACTICS:
• Mass and Independent Retail
• Custom touch screen kiosks
• Unique t-shirt vending
• Student led pop up stores and special events
UNIQUE + INVOLVED MARKETING
Built around lifestyle and meaning
Built on the expertise of our key leadership and professional network, “U” has developed marketing into our brand from Day 1. Focused on how to “involve” students, our brand will be promoted through traditional measures (online, print, outdoor), but also in new and unique ways. Due to the local college chapter teams, “U” plan includes pop-up stores, special events, concerts, design contents, trips to Africa and more.
KEY TACTICS:
• University-wide design competition
• Contest winners and select student trips to Africa
• Student led pop up stores and special events
• Celebrity collaborations
• Corporate sponsorships
• Fashion Week
U by EDUN LIVE
1401 Central Parkway, Suite 100
Cincinnati, OH 45214
513.721.2900
INTERESTED IN “U”?
CHAD REYNOLDS
Chief Creative Officer
chad.reynolds@fanattik.com
CHAD SIMS
Director, Product Development
chad.sims2@gmail.com
PSE Pride
Don’t forget to check out the PSE Pride section of the website! There you can find PSE hoodies, glasses, car clings and more! Show off your PSE Pride! http://www.pse.org/shop-browse.asp
PSE Recruitment Challenge
This year PSE HQ challenges YOU to personally recruit new members for your chapter. The recruitment challenge will run from the time your chapter starts recruiting in the fall 2009 semester though December 1, 2009. One lucky recruiter and their new recruit will EACH receive a 2010 PSE National Convention packet for FREE! A value of $230.00. The more members you recruit the more chances you will have to win the 2010 PSE National Convention packet.
Here is how it will work:
- All PSE general members are encouraged to personally recruit new members into their chapter during fall 2009.
- Each time a general member recruits a new member into their chapter they will send an e-mail to recruit@pse.org. The subject of the e-mail should be the chapter’s name. The content of the email should read like this:
“John Smith recruited Jane Doe to Eta Omega.”
- Once the chapter sends in their New Member Processing Sheet to PSE HQ, Angionette and Kristin will make sure that the new member actually ended up joining the chapter. If they did not end up joining the chapter the recruiter and the new member will not be entered into the drawing.
- After December 1, all names will be entered into a drawing.
- On Monday, December 7th one voucher will be drawn and one recruiter and their new member will each win their FREE 2010 PSE National Convention packet.
Criteria:
- General members can recruit more than one new member. It will not be necessary to send multiple e-mails. One e-mail can be sent to recruit@pse.org that includes all the new members recruited by one individual general member.
- Two general members cannot claim to have each individually recruited the same new member. If two members claim to have recruited the same member, those entries will be disqualified.
All chapters, including new chapters, are eligible to participate.
PSE Video Challenge
Ready to practice showing off your chapter’s PR skills?! PSE is presenting a fun new challenge for this year that will help you do just that. The PSE Video Challenge will begin this fall, at the Regional Conferences, and continue to the National Convention in the spring.
Chapters wishing to compete in the Video Challenge will need to create a 3 minute video that has a local focus. This would be about something to do with the chapter; something that the chapter could use as a recruitment tool if they want. They will then present this video at their corresponding Regional Conference (must be present to compete), and chapters will vote on which one they like best. Each chapter is allowed one vote which MAY NOT be used towards their own chapter video. The winning chapter from each Regional Conference will advance to the National Convention.
The finalists will then create a new video that is a maximum of 5 minutes long and has a national focus, or advertises PSE as a whole. These videos will be judged by the student voting delegates at the National Convention during the Annual Meeting. Each chapter is allowed one vote which MAY NOT be used towards their own chapter video. Chapters must be present to compete. The winning chapter will receive $500!!
Criteria:
- Both regional and national participation/attendance is required
- Regional video time limit is 3 minutes
- National video time limit is 5 minutes
- Any chapter can participate, but must participate at regionals to compete at all
- Each chapter is allowed one vote which may not be used towards their own chapter video
- Videos cannot contain any inappropriate material such as foul language, nudity, drug reference, etc. If you are in doubt whether your material is appropriate or not, please contact Headquarters
- Both videos must be uploaded on YouTube. Link to video must be sent to Angionette or Kristin one week prior to Regionals and Nationals
Angionette.splan@pse.org Kristin.schwabe@pse.org
mtvU Entrepreneur Challenge-you could win $25,000!
Movers and Changers
Do you have a business idea that you think will make a difference AND make money?
mtvU and NYSE Euronext are teaming up to create a one of a kind, nationwide search for creative capitalists with promising, original business plans, called Movers and Changers.
The challenge: Submit a business plan that will do something positive for a community, the country, or the world, that will also be profitable and sustainable.
Three finalists will be flown to New York City to attend Global Entrepreneurship Week and present their plans to a panel of industry executives. The winner will receive 25 thousand dollars in cash to help his or her company start off on the right foot, and ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange.
If you think you have what it takes to make money AND a difference, visit www.moversandchangers.com to learn more and submit your idea!
Valpak/USEF Sales Video Competition
What: The University Sales Education Foundation and Valpak have teamed up to offer a prize for the club/program that produces the best “Sales Students – EVERYONE Wants Us!’
Time frame: Must be submitted by 11/15/09
Format: YouTube Ready (see below)
Time: No more than 3 minutes.
Eligibility: Any USEF program school, USCA member school, Pi Sigma Epsilon member school, Delta Epsilon Chi member school, or NCSM member school, or other organization with approval of the USEF Board and Valpak.
You can use any information in the video as long as factual information is backed with facts/sources (sources don’t need to be cited in the actual video).
Goal: To promote the profession of sales and gain higher visibility to collegiate sales programs.
Sample: You Tube “Sales Leaders 2009”. This was one done by sales students at William Paterson University’s Russ Berrie Institute: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=293I7vjiAXQ
Judges: Senior Sales Executives at Valpak along with USEF Board Members -
Entries will be judged on the following criteria:
20% NUMBER OF HITS
20% ABILITY TO COMMUNICATE THE POSITIVE IMAGE OF SALES – Include facts, omit stereotypes, communicates benefits of a sales career, demonstrates consultative/relationship orientation to selling
20% APPROPRIATEDNESS FOR TARGET AUDIENCE - Targets college students, appropriate content for a professional sales context, adherence to the goal/theme
20% PRODUCTION QUALITY – Editing, acting
20% CREATIVITY – Originality, theme, use of humor
First Prize: $500
Also awards for Most Views, Best Use of Humor, Best Faculty Member in a Supporting Role, Most Original, Best Character, & Best Call to Action to Take a Sales Course.
Note: Once submitted the video becomes the property of Valpak and the University Sales Education Foundation
Tips for Producing More Effective YouTube Videos
Get the Size Right: YouTube’s default video size is 320 pixels wide by 240 pixels tall; some videos are available in the slightly larger 480-pixel x 360-pixel size.
Shoot at 640×480 with a standard 4:3 aspect ratio
Don’t bother shooting in high definition (1280×720 or 1920×1080) because, again, the extra resolution is lost to YouTube viewers. (do we want them on USEF web site?)
Shoot for the Smaller Screen: Get up close and frame the subject so that he or it fills most of the screen.
Recommended – starting your video with a blank title screen with the URL overlaid
What’s happening at chapters around the country?
Send us your chapter news and newsletters to be included in the next PSE Update. Send it to tracy.mccarthy@pse.org.
University of Northern Iowa – Epsilon Theta
What is PSE HQ up to?
Kristin and Angionette are both working hard at PSE HQ!
Have a terrific week!
Kristin Schwabe and Angionette Splan
Chapter Consultants
Pi Sigma Epsilon National Headquarters
800-761-9350
kristin.schwabe@pse.org and angionette.splan@pse.org
www.pse.org
Pro-Am Clarification October 5, 2009
Posted by kristinschwabe in Headquarters Update.Tags: Pi Sigma Epsilon, PSE, PSE Pro-Am Sell-a-Thon, PSE Regional Conferences, Sales & Marketing, Sales and Marketing
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Pro-AM Sell-a-Thon Clarification for Regional Conferences
Although the PSE Pro-Am has gone to a year-long competition, this only affects the final winner at the National Convention. Point accumulations during the school year apply to the finalists at the National Convention competition. The Regional Conference Pro-Am will work exactly as it did in prior years. Everyone who registers will spend Saturday at the regional with their coach and then doing a 12 minute sales call in the afternoon. The top two winners at each regional will receive convention registration packets and the top winner at each regional will receive transportation costs to get to the convention.
There was only one additional item that competitors needed to do. That is to call the toll free number and make an appointment with the buyer. Everyone who registered received these instructions.
I hope this clarifies any misunderstanding. If you still have questions, please call or email Ann.Devine@pse.org, 414-328-1952.
PSE Chapter in the Media! October 1, 2009
Posted by kristinschwabe in PSE in the news.add a comment
The Gamma Gamma Chapter of PSE to host dance marathon! Check it out!
PSE Headquarters Update September 22, 2009
Posted by Tracy McCarthy in Headquarters Update.Tags: business, Pi Sigma Epsilon, PSE, PSE Pro-Am Sell-a-Thon, PSE Regional Conferences, Sales & Marketing, Sales and Marketing
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Important Deadlines
Here are the important deadlines that are approaching:
The deadline for renewal member dues to be turned in to HQ is October 15th (November 15th for quarter schools).
Deadlines to sign up for the Pro-Am are available on the web site here – http://www.pse.org/pse-proam-train.asp
Please visit http://www.pse.org/pse-proam-home.asp to learn more about the new Pro-Am.
New member dues are due 3 weeks prior to initiation, or by the latest December 1st.
Please see the regionals section to find out when your deadlines for hotel booking and registration are!
Regional Conferences
The 2009 Fall Regional Conferences are right around the corner! Now is the time to begin booking your hotels and registering! Please visit http://www.pse.org/pse-regional.asp for more details. Below are a few important deadlines and dates:
October 23-25:
Midwest: University of Northern Iowa; Cedar Falls, IA
Hotel reservations deadline 9/25/2009. Conference registration deadline 10/9/2009.
November 6-8:
Southern: University of Louisiana Monroe; Monroe, LA
Hotel reservations deadline 10/15/2009. Conference registration deadline 10/23/2009.
North Central: Ohio State University; Columbus, OH
Hotel reservations deadline 10/7/2009. Conference registration deadline 10/23/2009.
November 13-15:
Atlantic: Appalachian State University; Boone, NC
Hotel reservations deadline 10/31/2009. Conference registration deadline 10/23/2009.
Western: Arizona State University; Phoenix, AZ
Hotel reservations deadline 10/23/2009 at 6 am Central Time. Conference registration deadline
10/30/2009.
November 20-22:
Northeast: University at Buffalo; Buffalo, NY
Hotel reservations deadline 11/6/2009. Conference registration deadline 11/6/2009.
U Edun Live Project Opportunity
Designed and marketed by students across the world, “U” by Edun Live will establish a socially conscious and fashion forward apparel line built around University/College life.
Elevating the importance of Design and Involvement, “U” helps bring together students, administration and alumni to help build sustainable communities around the world. “U” by Edun Live was formed in 2009, and is a joint venture of Edun Apparel Ltd. and Fanattik, LLC to further Edun’s overall mission in the university market.
PARTNERSHIP FOR CHANGE
“U” has developed a partnership with Children’s Safe Drinking Water (CSDW.org) and P&G’s PuR brand, to help bring awareness and provide resources to improve safe drinking water. For every “U” apparel item purchased, we donate and deliver a safe drinking water PuR packet directly to the communities that are manufacturing our apparel. A true definition of trade to improve developing areas of the world.
Everyday, more than 4,000 children die from lack of safe drinking water. Totaled at over 1.8 million every year, this is more than HIV and AIDS combined. Powered by Dr. Greg Allgood, CSDW is on site in Africa and implementing safe drinking water programs, including Playpumps and the PuR program.
African Made, from “Grow to Sew”
Every step of the t-shirt supply chain occurs in sub-Saharan Africa. This leads to jobs, skill transfer and trade on the ground that helps create a base for a stability in developing economies.
UGANDA, MADAGASCAR, ZAMBIA
EDUN LIVE is working with the Wildlife Conservation Society and Invisible Children to help teach farmers organic cotton growing through its Conservation Cotton Initiative (CCI).
TANZANIA
Spinning, knitting and doing the cut & sew on some of our 100 percent organic tees.
SOUTH AFRICA
Some EDUN LIVE tees were made in a great facility north of Durban. This factory has amazing training programs for its workers as well as on-sight health officials who help workers receive treatment for HIV/AIDS.
ABOUT EDUN – TRADE vs. AID
Launched in Spring 2005 by Ali Hewson and Bono (U2), EDUN is a socially conscious clothing company who creates beautiful clothing while fostering sustainable employment in developing areas of the world, particularly Africa. To further EDUN’s mission, EDUN LIVE was created to manufacture blank apparel in Africa, thereby helping to bring the continent out of extreme poverty. In 2006, Edun Live on Campus, a student created organization, was founded to help bring Edun’s message to college campuses. Currently, there are 8 college teams with goals to expand.
DESIGN STRATEGY
A unique collaboration of Premium Design and Student Involvement in a socially conscious way.
OUR BRAND IS SOCIAL + FUN
By involving college students into our creative process, our design strategy incorporates the aesthetic and overall brand attributes of brands students invest in. While being socially conscious, design is an important characteristic of our brand. Our brand is not granola. It is a new approach that capture college lifestyle in a meaningful way.
KEY THEMES:
• Involvement on Campuses
• University logos and mascots
• Custom washes, organics and unique placements
• Mission and sustainable themes
• Global connections
CAMPUS TEAMS
Involvement in Operations, Design and Marketing
Since 2006, “U” by Edun Live (previously under the name “Edun Live on Campus”) has been establishing college chapters to help spread the mission of the company and provide experiential learning in social entrepreneurship for students. These teams continue to grow under an aggressive expansion effort, championed by Miami University’s professor of Social Entrepreneurship, Brett Smith.
Simply put, “U” is about involvement for change.
We hope to establish relationship with schools, students and administration to include them in the design and marketing process.
MULTI-CHANNEL DISTRIBUTION
A mix of retail, online and in person
A core asset to the “U” brand is various channels for distribution. We will be working with mass retailers and independent bookstores to place our brand in prestigious spots within a campus environment. While retail is our focus, we will also develop a website that showcases student involvement, in addition to sales.
KEY TACTICS:
• Mass and Independent Retail
• Custom touch screen kiosks
• Unique t-shirt vending
• Student led pop up stores and special events
UNIQUE + INVOLVED MARKETING
Built around lifestyle and meaning
Built on the expertise of our key leadership and professional network, “U” has developed marketing into our brand from Day 1. Focused on how to “involve” students, our brand will be promoted through traditional measures (online, print, outdoor), but also in new and unique ways. Due to the local college chapter teams, “U” plan includes pop-up stores, special events, concerts, design contents, trips to Africa and more.
KEY TACTICS:
• University-wide design competition
• Contest winners and select student trips to Africa
• Student led pop up stores and special events
• Celebrity collaborations
• Corporate sponsorships
• Fashion Week
U by EDUN LIVE
1401 Central Parkway, Suite 100
Cincinnati, OH 45214
513.721.2900
INTERESTED IN “U”?
CHAD REYNOLDS
Chief Creative Officer
chad.reynolds@fanattik.com
CHAD SIMS
Director, Product Development
chad.sims2@gmail.com
PSE Pride
Don’t forget to check out the PSE Pride section of the website! There you can find PSE hoodies, glasses, car clings and more! Show off your PSE Pride! http://www.pse.org/shop-browse.asp
PSE Recruitment Challenge
This year PSE HQ challenges YOU to personally recruit new members for your chapter. The recruitment challenge will run from the time your chapter starts recruiting in the fall 2009 semester though December 1, 2009. One lucky recruiter and their new recruit will EACH receive a 2010 PSE National Convention packet for FREE! A value of $230.00. The more members you recruit the more chances you will have to win the 2010 PSE National Convention packet.
Here is how it will work:
- All PSE general members are encouraged to personally recruit new members into their chapter during fall 2009.
- Each time a general member recruits a new member into their chapter they will send an e-mail to recruit@pse.org. The subject of the e-mail should be the chapter’s name. The content of the email should read like this:
“John Smith recruited Jane Doe to Eta Omega.”
- Once the chapter sends in their New Member Processing Sheet to PSE HQ, Angionette and Kristin will make sure that the new member actually ended up joining the chapter. If they did not end up joining the chapter the recruiter and the new member will not be entered into the drawing.
- After December 1, all names will be entered into a drawing.
- On Monday, December 7th one voucher will be drawn and one recruiter and their new member will each win their FREE 2010 PSE National Convention packet.
Criteria:
- General members can recruit more than one new member. It will not be necessary to send multiple e-mails. One e-mail can be sent to recruit@pse.org that includes all the new members recruited by one individual general member.
- Two general members cannot claim to have each individually recruited the same new member. If two members claim to have recruited the same member, those entries will be disqualified.
All chapters, including new chapters, are eligible to participate.
PSE Video Challenge
Ready to practice showing off your chapter’s PR skills?! PSE is presenting a fun new challenge for this year that will help you do just that. The PSE Video Challenge will begin this fall, at the Regional Conferences, and continue to the National Convention in the spring.
Chapters wishing to compete in the Video Challenge will need to create a 3 minute video that has a local focus. This would be about something to do with the chapter; something that the chapter could use as a recruitment tool if they want. They will then present this video at their corresponding Regional Conference (must be present to compete), and chapters will vote on which one they like best. Each chapter is allowed one vote which MAY NOT be used towards their own chapter video. The winning chapter from each Regional Conference will advance to the National Convention.
The finalists will then create a new video that is a maximum of 5 minutes long and has a national focus, or advertises PSE as a whole. These videos will be judged by the student voting delegates at the National Convention during the Annual Meeting. Each chapter is allowed one vote which MAY NOT be used towards their own chapter video. Chapters must be present to compete. The winning chapter will receive $500!!
Criteria:
- Both regional and national participation/attendance is required
- Regional video time limit is 3 minutes
- National video time limit is 5 minutes
- Any chapter can participate, but must participate at regionals to compete at all
- Each chapter is allowed one vote which may not be used towards their own chapter video
- Videos cannot contain any inappropriate material such as foul language, nudity, drug reference, etc. If you are in doubt whether your material is appropriate or not, please contact Headquarters
- Both videos must be uploaded on YouTube. Link to video must be sent to Angionette or Kristin one week prior to Regionals and Nationals
Angionette.splan@pse.org Kristin.schwabe@pse.org
mtvU Entrepreneur Challenge-you could win $25,000!
Movers and Changers
Do you have a business idea that you think will make a difference AND make money?
mtvU and NYSE Euronext are teaming up to create a one of a kind, nationwide search for creative capitalists with promising, original business plans, called Movers and Changers.
The challenge: Submit a business plan that will do something positive for a community, the country, or the world, that will also be profitable and sustainable.
Three finalists will be flown to New York City to attend Global Entrepreneurship Week and present their plans to a panel of industry executives. The winner will receive 25 thousand dollars in cash to help his or her company start off on the right foot, and ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange.
If you think you have what it takes to make money AND a difference, visit www.moversandchangers.com to learn more and submit your idea!
Valpak/USEF Sales Video Competition
What: The University Sales Education Foundation and Valpak have teamed up to offer a prize for the club/program that produces the best “Sales Students – EVERYONE Wants Us!’
Time frame: Must be submitted by 11/15/09
Format: YouTube Ready (see below)
Time: No more than 3 minutes.
Eligibility: Any USEF program school, USCA member school, Pi Sigma Epsilon member school, Delta Epsilon Chi member school, or NCSM member school, or other organization with approval of the USEF Board and Valpak.
You can use any information in the video as long as factual information is backed with facts/sources (sources don’t need to be cited in the actual video).
Goal: To promote the profession of sales and gain higher visibility to collegiate sales programs.
Sample: You Tube “Sales Leaders 2009”. This was one done by sales students at William Paterson University’s Russ Berrie Institute: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=293I7vjiAXQ
Judges: Senior Sales Executives at Valpak along with USEF Board Members -
Entries will be judged on the following criteria:
20% NUMBER OF HITS
20% ABILITY TO COMMUNICATE THE POSITIVE IMAGE OF SALES – Include facts, omit stereotypes, communicates benefits of a sales career, demonstrates consultative/relationship orientation to selling
20% APPROPRIATEDNESS FOR TARGET AUDIENCE - Targets college students, appropriate content for a professional sales context, adherence to the goal/theme
20% PRODUCTION QUALITY – Editing, acting
20% CREATIVITY – Originality, theme, use of humor
First Prize: $500
Also awards for Most Views, Best Use of Humor, Best Faculty Member in a Supporting Role, Most Original, Best Character, & Best Call to Action to Take a Sales Course.
Note: Once submitted the video becomes the property of Valpak and the University Sales Education Foundation
Tips for Producing More Effective YouTube Videos
Get the Size Right: YouTube’s default video size is 320 pixels wide by 240 pixels tall; some videos are available in the slightly larger 480-pixel x 360-pixel size.
Shoot at 640×480 with a standard 4:3 aspect ratio
Don’t bother shooting in high definition (1280×720 or 1920×1080) because, again, the extra resolution is lost to YouTube viewers. (do we want them on USEF web site?)
Shoot for the Smaller Screen: Get up close and frame the subject so that he or it fills most of the screen.
Recommended – starting your video with a blank title screen with the URL overlaid
What’s happening at chapters around the country?
Send us your chapter news and newsletters to be included in the next PSE Update. Send it to tracy.mccarthy@pse.org.
Louisiana State University – Beta Xi
What is PSE HQ up to?
Kristin and Angionette are both working hard at PSE HQ!
Have a terrific week!
Kristin Schwabe and Angionette Splan
Chapter Consultants
Pi Sigma Epsilon National Headquarters
800-761-9350
kristin.schwabe@pse.org and angionette.splan@pse.org
www.pse.org
An opportunity for all PSE members and friends August 27, 2009
Posted by asgraunke in Uncategorized.add a comment
TO: PSE Chapter Officers
PSE Alumn
PSE Friends
Greetings! My name is Michael Cheatham & I’m a Professional VP, PSE Natl Board, President, Inspired Solutions & Associates & co-founder of RippleCard™. I’m writing to introduce RippleCard™ & discuss how collaboratively we can work together & assist with your community service endeavors.
First – a bit more about RippleCard™. A RippleCard™ is a token of goodwill & an actual card. The purpose is to pass the card along while doing something nice for another. In turn, the next person will do the same & create a ripple effect. From an organizational aspect, a sponsor (i.e. corporate, individual, church) is matched with a non-profit/charitable organization to assist in communicating their message. Customized RippleCards™ are created identifying both the sponsor & non-profit & through various ways the cards are distributed into the community utilizing a grass-roots approach.
One example of how it works:
- A sponsor & non-profit are identified & customized cards are created.
- The non-profit or sponsor hosts an event & a representative of RippleCard™ gives a presentation explaining the purpose & Inspires everyone to help the non-profit by going out & making ripples within the community.
- Each recipient then goes to the website ( http://www.RippleCard.org ) register the card & a copy is placed in their RippleWallet™. From this point, the original RippleMaker™ as well as the sponsor & non-profit can track the subsequent ripples made – the RippleMaker™ via their wallet – the sponsor & non-profit have a counter affixed to their logo displaying ripples made.
The sponsor enables us to underwrite the administrative costs that include card production. In return, they are engaged in this grass-roots effort that supports their community service or philanthropic endeavors. Additionally, their logo is prominently displayed along with the non-profit & based upon the level of support; we provide them with demographic information on our RippleMakers™, varying levels of exposure on http://www.RippleCard.org & much more.
In the few months since we launched this initiative, we continue to receive positive comments, feedback & requests for additional information on how people, companies & organizations alike can be involved. We now have over 1500 cards in circulation globally & are ecstatic that we have cards in Australia & Taiwan & have sent cards to President & Mrs. Obama as well as Vice President & Dr. Biden! Additionally, we have seen a steady increase of fans of our Facebook page ( http://www.facebook.com/pages/RippleCardorg/71566451131?ref=mf ) including fans in Canada, the Czech Republic, Indonesia & the United Kingdom. Taking into consideration that we have not yet begun advertising, we are thrilled at how quickly a ripple can travel. This reinforcement tells us that we are on the right track helping to make positive change in the world.
We conducted a beta launch at Purdue University this past April & were blown away by the response. Since then we have been tweaking the website & preparing for our re-launch this October at an event in Cincinnati. The event is called the Reggae Run ( http://www.ReggaeRun.com ) & we anticipate distribution of 10,000 RippleCards™! Proceeds raised at the event & via RippleCard™ will be donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation ( http://www.wish.org ).
As you begin to look at your events for the upcoming year, I would love to talk with you to see how RippleCard™ can be an enhancement to your efforts. With the growing popularity of RippleCard™ I have several ideas that will not only help promote your Chapter but can assist you in raising funds for your non-profit or charitable recipient. Please take a look at our website ( http://www.RippleCard.org ) & either send me an email at mike@RippleCard.org or ring me at 513.533.9744. I look forward to hearing back from you & seeing you at a Reg Conf or at National!
Michael Cheatham
Co-Founder
RippleCard™
New Collegiate Challenges This Fall-WIN BIG! August 26, 2009
Posted by angionette in Uncategorized.add a comment
Welcome back to school fellow PSE’ers! This year PSE HQ would like to offer you a few opportunities to compete nationally and WIN! We’ve come up with two challenges, one individual challege and one chapter challenge. Read below for details and start today!
Pi Sigma Epsilon Video Challenge
Ready to practice showing off your chapter’s PR skills?! PSE is presenting a fun new challenge for this year that will help you do just that. The PSE Video Challenge will begin this fall, at the Regional Conferences, and continue to the National Convention in the spring.
Chapters wishing to compete in the Video Challenge will need to create a 3 minute video that has a local focus. This would be about something to do with the chapter; something that the chapter could use as a recruitment tool if they want. They will then present this video at their corresponding Regional Conference (must be present to compete), and chapters will vote on which one they like best. Each chapter is allowed one vote which MAY NOT be used towards their own chapter video. The winning chapter from each Regional Conference will advance to the National Convention.
The finalists will then create a new video that is a maximum of 5 minutes long and has a national focus, or advertises PSE as a whole. These videos will be judged by the student voting delegates at the National Convention during the Annual Meeting. Each chapter is allowed one vote which MAY NOT be used towards their own chapter video. Chapters must be present to compete. The winning chapter will receive $500!!
Criteria:
- Both regional and national participation/attendance is required
- Regional video time limit is 3 minutes
- National video time limit is 5 minutes
- Any chapter can participate, but must participate at regionals to compete at all
- Each chapter is allowed one vote which may not be used towards their own chapter video
- Videos cannot contain any inappropriate material such as foul language, nudity, drug reference, etc. If you are in doubt whether your material is appropriate or not, please contact Headquarters
- Both videos must be uploaded on YouTube. Link to video must be sent to Angionette or Kristin one week prior to Regionals and Nationals
Angionette.splan@pse.org Kristin.schwabe@pse.org
PSE Recruitment Challenge
This year PSE HQ challenges YOU to personally recruit new members for your chapter. The recruitment challenge will run from the time your chapter starts recruiting in the fall 2009 semester though December 1, 2009. One lucky recruiter and their new recruit will EACH receive a 2010 PSE National Convention packet for FREE! A value of $230.00. The more members you recruit the more chances you will have to win the 2010 PSE National Convention packet.
Here is how it will work:
- All PSE general members are encouraged to personally recruit new members into their chapter during fall 2009.
- Each time a general member recruits a new member into their chapter they will send an e-mail to recruit@pse.org. The subject of the e-mail should be the chapter’s name. The content of the email should read like this:
“John Smith recruited Jane Doe to Eta Omega.”
- Once the chapter sends in their New Member Processing Sheet to PSE HQ, Angionette and Kristin will make sure that the new member actually ended up joining the chapter. If they did not end up joining the chapter the recruiter and the new member will not be entered into the drawing.
- After December 1, all names will be entered into a drawing.
- On Monday, December 7th one voucher will be drawn and one recruiter and their new member will each win their FREE 2010 PSE National Convention packet.
Criteria:
- General members can recruit more than one new member. It will not be necessary to send multiple e-mails. One e-mail can be sent to recruit@pse.org that includes all the new members recruited by one individual general member.
- Two general members cannot claim to have each individually recruited the same new member. If two members claim to have recruited the same member, those entries will be disqualified.
- All chapters, including new chapters, are eligible to participate.
PSE Member in the News August 21, 2009
Posted by Tracy McCarthy in PSE in the news.Tags: business, Pi Sigma Epsilon, PSE, Sales & Marketing, Sales and Marketing
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Ani Grigorian of Carthage College interns at Washington immigration studies center
PSE Corporate Partner in the Media Again July 20, 2009
Posted by Tracy McCarthy in PSE Corporate Partners.Tags: Pi Sigma Epsilon, PSE, PSE Corporate Partner in the Media, Sales & Marketing, Sales and Marketing
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Northwestern Mutual Financial Network is Ranked 23 in the “Training Top 125” of 2009!
In February 2009, Training magazine recognized employer-sponsored training and development. Northwestern Mutual Financial Network was ranked 23 overall and first in its industry! The Top 125 organizations continue to invest time, dedication, commitment, and resources in learning and development excellence! Factors included in determining the list were: Training tied to business objectives • Number of trainers • Employee turnover and retention • Leadership development • Tuition assistance • Corporate university • Certification • Training budget and percentage of payroll.
Northwestern Mutual Financial Network launched a net-work wide technology coaching program to help financial representative and staff in their field offices use information technology to more effectively manage their practices. During the pilot for the program, more than 1,400 financial representatives and assistants were trained, and 1,200-plus individual coaching sessions were conducted.
The “Training Top 125” honor covers a number of Northwestern Mutual field training and leadership development programs, including:
• Fastrack training system
• Succession planning program
• LEAD Program
• Professional designation prepayment/reimbursement
• Leadership University
• Learning Network
Congratulations to Northwestern Mutual Financial Network!
