Show me the levels!

In my work, I think a lot about how we can get better at engaging…students, employers, alumni, etc.

And as I find myself brainstorming solutions, I almost always think about levels.

You know, the bet between Jerry and Kramer, in the classic Seinfeld scene.

Kramer says, “I’m completely changing the configuration of the apartment. You’re not going to believe it when you see it. A whole new lifestyle...”

Which, pretty much sums up most of the trends, fads, tips, and tricks we see all over the internet. It's a total reboot.

Naturally, Jerry responds, “What are you doing?” The question we find ourselves asking others all of the time as we hunt for life hacks.

Kramer leans in and answers with total confidence, “Levels!”

Could it be that simple? Could I too limit distractions, simplify my work life, and completely change the configuration of my approach to engaging others…?

Always the critic, I ask myself the same questions Jerry asks Kramer.

“You drew up plans for this?” (“No…it’s all in my head.”)

“When do you intend to do this?” (Oh…should be done by the end of the month.”)

“You’re going to do this yourself?” (It’s a simple job...)

Maybe we can relate to the fact that our assumptions distort reality. When the hard truth is that sometimes the idea of the thing is must easier to create than the actual thing itself.

A seed of self-doubt is planted. Trying to figure out whether or not Jerry believes him, Kramer asks, “What…you don’t think I can, huh?”

And then we hear possibly the greatest line ever uttered by an overconfident realist conversing with an unprepared dreamer.

“Oh, no, it’s not that I don’t think you can. I know that you can’t, and I’m positive that you won’t.”

Thanks Jerry.

On that note, and in the spirit of Thanksgiving, here are a few short lists of “levels” that I use when considering various ways to engage employers and alumni with my students.

Maybe these lists will inspire hope, challenge learning, and encourage action. What say you?

Employer Engagement Levels (how they can partner with us)

1. Send jobs to post
2. Come to career fair
3. Host meet & greet
4. Co-present at a workshop (80-90% content, 10-20% recruitment)
5. Host a career trek at their company

Veteran Alumni Engagement Levels (how they can help us)

1. Share quotes related to life lessons and transition stories
2. Be a 1-on-1 resource (informational interview, mock interview, resume review, etc.)
3. Assist with a workshop (present expertise, sit on a panel, attend a networking night, etc.)
4. Become a mentor in an alumni mentorship program
5. Host a career trek at their company

Young Alumni Engagement Levels (how we can help them)

1. Schedule a check-in phone call to hear their story and understand their needs
2. Invite them to participate in workshops focused on life transitions
3. Provide them with 1-on-1 coaching opportunities
4. Recruit them to become a mentee in an alumni mentorship program
5. Offer them extended professional development experiences

Give it a try. Like Kramer says, “It could be done…”

That is what I tell myself every time I consult these lists and try to get creative to develop new opportunities for engagement.

It could be done…that gives me hope.

These lists are just a starting point to help me, and the person I'm engaging with, know what level we are on.

But then, I have to challenge myself to remember Jerry’s words,

“Anything could be done…but it only is done…if it’s done. SHOW ME THE LEVELS!”

Which means, it's time for action. It's time to get to work.

That said, I’m confident, if acted on, a variation of the lists above will help you, and I, “level up” our engagement.

That’s the bet.

AP