Susan Webb-Curtis
The third presentation in the 2016 “Your Personal Brand” Women’s Council programs for the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce will focus on how people portray themselves in their online communications. Susan Webb-Curtis, dean of Business and Technology at Cleveland State Community College, will present “Your Online Brand” on Monday, Aug. 22, at noon at the Chamber of Commerce.
“Susan will talk to us about why developing a professional brand image is essential and how to create a cohesive online identity through use of social media tools,” said Ann Marie Brewer, Women’s Council chairman.
According to Ms. Webb-Curtis, a professional image is as critical in today’s highly technical and connected job market as a resume.
“Whether an individual is actively seeking employment or preparing for future career growth, developing a professional brand image is essential,” she says. In this luncheon presentation, she will offer the basics on building a cohesive online identity through creating a public profile and professional brand image; use of LinkedIn, Facebook, websites, blogs, hyperlinks and Google; reputation development/management; and what people can do personally and when to consider contracting with a professional.
The August speaker has taught job search strategies, including resume development, proactive interviewing, networking and skill set development tactics, for more than 25 years. She spent 14 years as a student services administrator and taught for 13 years serving as associate professor/director of Cooperative Education and Service Learning.
Ms. Webb-Curtis started the college’s service-learning program in 2008, recruiting and training faculty, developing community partnerships, and writing numerous grants to build a strong infrastructure. Along with her colleague, Sherry Holloway, she has presented at numerous national conferences and served as a consultant for other Tennessee Campus Compact colleges.
Ms. Webb-Curtis was the recipient of the Cleveland State 2009 Distinguished Faculty and 2003 and 2010 Faculty Star Service Awards. She was awarded the 2010 National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development Excellence Award, 2010 Tennessee Campus Compact Treasure Award, 2013 Roueche League of Innovation Excellence Award and 2015 CSCC Service-Learning Visionary Award.
She is a 2003 graduate of Leadership Cleveland and 2006 graduate of Leadership Monroe. She holds a master’s degree in education from Stetson University.
“Our goal is to help Women’s Council attendees develop their personal brand and improve their professional image,” Ms. Brewer said. “This session will offer a cost-effective learning opportunity and capable speaker to enhance professional development.”
Cost for the “Your Online Brand” session is $15 for Chamber members and $25 for nonmembers and includes a buffet luncheon. To register, call 472-6587 by noon on Thursday, Aug. 18. Chamber members also may register online at the community calendar at www.clevelandchamber.com.