InCommon Blog

The value of networking

Tomorrow is the culmination of our COM WEEK activities--the Student/Alumni Networking Luncheon.

There is still time to register, through 5:00pm today.  You may do so in Craig 375 or email communication@missouristate.edu.

Preparing for a networking opportunity is important, not hard work per se, but important nonetheless.  You want to put your best foot forward, make a good impression, and open the door to possibilities of internships or that first job. 

So, consider these tips in preparing for any opportunity you have to meet someone who can help you find a job, help put you in contact with someone who does have job, or remember you later when a job becomes available:

1. Dress appropriately. This means that for any professional gathering, that you dress as those who will also be attending. All of the alums will be coming from work in their business attire. If you want to make an impression that you can handle a job and represent an organization well, you should dress in business clothing.  If you have to come to the luncheon right after class, then wear your business attire to class. If you have to go somewhere after the luncheon, bring a change of clothes. Don't arrive in your normal street clothes. You can never anticipate who you'll meet and what opportunities will present themselves for you...so always be prepared.  Dress pants and a collar shirt for men is appropriate, dress pants/shirt and full coverage top is appropriate for women (no plunging necklines). Shoes should be low and well maintained. 
2. Always have something to give. If you have them, bring resumes or business cards to hand out. If you do not have a resume you are ready to show, print out small business cards on hard stock paper and hand them out.  Put your name, major, address, phone, and school email address on it.  Don't use your personal email on this card, however, stick with the university address.
3. Be the first to offer a firm hand to shake and clearly pronounce your name (spell it if you have to).  Repeat the name of the person you are meeting back and say, "Nice to meet you." or "thank you for coming."  For our event tomorrow, you might ask what the person's major was in school and where they currently work.
4. This is not the time to be shy.  You may feel shy inside, and that's okay, but if you speak clearly and loudly and give a firm handshake, you've done wonders for your first impression!  Never apologize for anything either.
5. Ask for a business card. Ask what is the best way to contact the person.  Then, be sure to follow up in a brief email or thank you letter to the person.  If you really want to be in touch with that person again for a job, a lead, or informational interview, you make the first contact after the event.

There are other strategies, but these will get you started for tomorrow.  You will also receive more tips and excellent strategies in networking tomorrow at the luncheon.

Final Suggestion: If you can only attend one hour of the  luncheon, that is fine. Either way, you will be able to get something to eat (the food will be on a buffet lline) and hear from alums or meet them. The first hour 11-12 will be lunch and introductions. 12-1 speed networking activity and follow up.

For those of you who cannot attend, you can still buy a commemorative COM WEEK t-shirt in Craig 375 for $10!  And, next week I'll post some tips, strategies, and comments on this blog that were shared by the alums at all the events this week.

 Good networking,

Kelly