How to Behave at a Professional Networking Event

Keep in mind:

Networking is a mutually beneficial interaction
Remember that mindset matters, remain positive
A network is a relationship

Do:

Be prepared, bring resumes, business cards, pen, and paper
Research the attendees and speakers beforehand
Set goals and create a schedule for presentations and panels
Anticipate rejection

Source 1 Source 2

Be genuine and be yourself
Be respectful and courteous
Be outgoing and sociable
Smile and be approachable, make eye contact and have open body language
Be present, show interest in who you are talking to
Dress well
Eat and drink moderately
Build trust with potential contacts before asking for favors
Be concise and direct when asking for favors
End conversations on a genuine and positive note, "it was great talking to you"
Ask for and give business cards
Send out emails to new contacts within a few days after

Do Not:

Say yes to everything, it is okay to say no
Do all the talking
Interrupt
Discuss religion or politics
Act like a know it all
Expect favors to be recriprocated immediately
Be on your phone instead of present with people
Drink too much or be sloppy

By: Laura Miller

Comments

DEI & The Workplace

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), is a broad term that covers the issues of equality in the United States. It existed throughout the years, trying to advocate for equality amongst individuals regardless of their race, sex, or religion. Thi helps foster respect and equality in every sector of the society, ensuring that as long as a person is a citizen of the United States, they are allowed to receive the same benefits as others. In the workplace, DEI is very essential as it ensures that people are hired based on the fact that they meet the qualifications of the position they applied for, and not discriminated against by not qualifying them for unknown reasons even if they reach all other qualifications. Below are a few important reasons for DEI in the workplace: 1. The Workplace Should Reflect Today’s Emerging Workforce: Social change has historically often led to backlash, but that isn’t necessarily a good reason to retreat or pivot away from one’s DEI mandate. Today’s emerg...

How to Network in College

College isnt just about classes, late night study sessions, and finding the best coffee on campus its also one of the best opportunities to build meaningful connections that can shape your career. Networking in college might sound intimidating or like something only business majors do, but the truth is, no matter your major or future goals, relationships are the secret to long term success . Whether its making friends with classmates, or connecting with alumni, networking opens doors to jobs that you didnt even know existed. Tips For Networking in College Attend Campus Events & Career Fairs: These are built in opportunities to meet employers, alumni, and other students. Make a habit of going to events even ones outside your major to expand your circle. Join Clubs, Organizations, and Student Groups: Shared interests naturally lead to strong connections. Leadership roles in clubs also give you visibility and demonstrate your initiative. Get to Know Your Professors: Professors often...

Career Roadmap

A career roadmap is a strategic plan and long-term approach to career planning that provides an outline for an individual's career goals, steps needed to achieve them, and ways to manage your achievement. Creating a career roadmap has a lot of benefits, as it shows an outline that helps you navigate your professional journey, including the necessary skills, experiences and milestones to progress. Below are a few benefits of creating a career map, both to the individual and to an organization. For individuals: 1. Clarity and Direction: A career roadmap provides a clear path forward, outlining your aspirations and the steps needed to achieve them. 2. Goal Setting and Motivation: It helps you set concrete, measurable goals, keeping you motivated and focused on your professional development. 3. Skill Development: By identifying skills and competencies needed for desired roles, it helps you focus your learning and development efforts, enhancing your marketability. 4...

Search This Blog