Competition in the job market accelerated rapidly toward the end of the 1900s. The Twentieth Century can certainly lay claim as that period in history when education became available to mass society, not just the elite few. And with opportunities for advanced education available to mass society, the college degree has replaced its uniqueness as a ticket for a bright, rewarding future with a current role of being a necessary ingredient in the array of credentials one needs to poise oneself for the job market. Employers consistently say that job candidates possessing an array of credentials make them attractive as potential employees.

That array of credentials does, of course, include a degree as a necessary ingredient; however, employers favor applicants having a well-rounded resume including features such as experience, specialized computer expertise, and evidence of well-developed teamwork skills. While we often depend upon our colleges and employers to assist us in building our resume with respect to degrees, work experience, and specialized expertise, it is often more difficult to exhibit evidence of those ever-important teamwork skills. Numerous methods exist to evidence one's human interaction skills... but, yes, we will admit ethnocentricity here and simply ask what better way to build an attractive resume evidencing human interaction and leadership skills than through involvement with Phi Beta Lambda as an integral component of your college experience?

With the development of competent, aggressive business leadership as its number one goal, Phi Beta Lambda is positioned with a rich 60+-year foundation of providing almost limitless opportunities for business students seeking that pathway to career success. Your Illinois State Chapter of Phi Beta Lambda promises continued opportunities for you to position yourself by building on your own foundation for success!! As a collective group, our aim during this year is to communicate a simple, yet sound message of what we are about...

Illinois PBL—Where America's Business Finds its Leaders!!

As we build on our historic past and yet rise to the challenges of the future, WELCOME to another chapter in the life of the Illinois State Chapter of Phi Beta Lambda!! By now we hope that your new year is well on its way toward some quite special happenings that will, indeed, help you to grow your own future. While each year in the life of our state chapter yields a more solid footing, the 2007-2008 year already holds promise for each local chapter and member to gain those ingredients for success as we continue the tradition of investing in Illinois futures.