Scott Brown - Candidate for Division Cabinet Chair-Elect - Question #2: What advice would you give someone in their 20s just entering the profession about how to find and keep a fabulous job as a special librarian or information professional?

Be flexible. Think flexibly about how your valuable skills can apply in a variety of positions – not just in traditional “library” positions. Consider volunteering at an organization that appeals to you, both to get a sense of the organization, and to showcase and build your experience.

Say “yes”. Are you being given challenges that you’re not sure you can do? Say “yes”, and give it a try. You are likely to do an excellent job. No matter what, you’ll come away with valuable experience.

Stay interested. It can be easy to master your defined roles – and quickly become bored. It’s your responsibility to keep yourself learning and growing. Come up with goals and visions for yourself. Use your colleagues and your manager as resources to help you take that next step.

Be creative. Got a great idea? Share it – and be ready to suggest how you can take that idea and run with it. Discovering and implementing great ideas helps build your personal portfolio.

Build your brand. Start thinking now about ALL of your skills and passions. What is your unique combination of skills? Your brand will go with you, no matter where your career leads you.