Phillip G. Clampitt Ph.D.
"Changing Neural Pathways Every Class Period"
"Anyone can talk, but few do so strategically"
So You Want Me to Write You a
Recommendation Letter ...
I'm happy to do so. In order to write the most effective letter I would like you to provide me the following documents:
- An up-to-date resume (including your email address)
- A list of classes you've taken with me and your grades
I will also need the following information in "bullet" list form:
- The name(s) and address(es) of the person(s) to receive the letter.
- The type of position you are applying for and skills required.
- A list of your strengths (highlight those related to the job you are applying for).
- Evidence of your strengths that "proves it".
- One weakness you are working on and how you are working on it.
- Other suggestions for areas you wish me to comment on.
What you can expect of me:
- A copy of the letter via email.
- A letter approximately 1-page long (employers rarely read more than that).
- A letter mentioning at least one weakness (it "frames" the positive messages in an even more favorable light.)
Finally, I'd appreciate you keeping me updated on your progress. Good luck!
Listed below is some advice from former communications students who have successfully trained their neural pathways.
"Taking a Phil class will definitely raise your stress levels. However, once the class is over, you will realize that it was all worth it." -Jerome Allen
"Do not concern yourself with what you believe Phil is "looking for" as the "right answer," rather construct a unique solution to the problem and develop a strong line of rationale and you will succeed beyond measure" -Marcus Reitz
"GO TO CLASS!!! No matter how many notes you print off the website, you will never get all the information! Also...read, read, read! If you don't read, the multiple choice questions in the exams are going to kick your butt!" -Angela Stangel
Communication
Students...
should be striving for excellence by: 1) continuously improving personal communication skills such as listening, public speaking, writing and managing conflict, 2) developing effective group communication skills by knowing how to effectively and efficiently solve problems, 3) becoming critical thinkers by understanding how to analytically and strategically address communication problems and 4) developing communication expertise by learning fundamental communication principles, practices and theories. Concentrating on these four critical areas puts every student in the best possible position to become a thoughtful, strategic, and professional communicator. Such individuals glisten like rare gems – coveted by friends, colleagues and organizations.
7 Questions to guide your thinking...
Can you prove it?
So what?
What are your assumptions?
What is effectiveness?
What is the pattern?
What can you do about it?
Is it ethical?
"If I had six hours to chop down a tree, I'd spend the first four hours sharpening the ax." - Abraham Lincoln