Networking can be very intimidating, especially if you
haven’t done it very often. I’m guilty of avoiding networking myself - I can’t
tell you how many career fairs I’ve skipped, claiming false excuses of “I’m not
looking for a job yet,” or “I don’t have a perfect resume.” Well, making
excuses on why you shouldn’t go isn’t
going to get you that internship or job. Instead, be proactive. Practice your
elevator speech, both by yourself and with your friends. Also prepare your
resume and business card in time for our Career Expo on February 28th.
Get yourself ready to network, no matter where you are. Here are some tips on
how to easily network without the stress.
Start
with “Hello”
Walk up to that Career Booth or even just a new contact
and start by saying “Hello” with a smile. Smiling will give you confidence and put
the professional at ease. Even if you’re nervous, a genuine smile will help
calm you down so you can focus on winning that job or internship.
Try
a New Elevator Pitch
Preparing an elevator pitch is a great way to practice
perfecting what information you want the recruiter to remember about you.
However, I propose that we throw out the elevator pitch and go back to
conversations. It’s like giving a speech extemporaneously. Know the main points
you want to get across, but loosen up – your story won’t be exactly the same
every time you tell it. This is what I’m getting ready to say “Hello (SMILE)
I’m Katy Claucherty. I’m artistic, faithful, and detailed, and this is why I
want to work for your company (insert reason).” Afterwards, we’ll probably talk
about my 3 descriptive words that describe my personal brand, more about the
company, and about our passions – at least, that’s what I’m planning on. It’ll
probably change from recruiter to recruiter. But instead of giving them a
normal 30 second elevator pitch about who I am, what year I am in school, etc.
etc., I’ll stand out in their minds because I started a conversation.
Be
Memorable
Professionals meet a ton of new people every day,
whether it’s through business, friends, or at career fairs. If you don’t stand
out, there’s a good chance they won’t remember you. Start by smiling,
introducing yourself, and let them introduce themselves. Ask them questions
they might not hear very much – why do they love working for their company,
what sort of activities they like to do in their spare time, even how they got
connected to their company.
Keep your personal brand at the forefront of their
minds with a unique business card and resume. Brand yourself the same way you
do your cards – (if I know about an opportunity ahead of time) I always wear a
purple shirt and paint my nails purple because my personal brand includes the
color purple in my business card. When I hand them a purple card with my
purple-painted nails while wearing my purple shirt, it automatically clicks in
their minds that I’m working overtime to make an impression. I kid you not,
this works. Brand yourself and live your brand.
Ask
for an Introduction
Did your friend intern at an awesome company? Does your
professor have connections with former students who are doing great? Ask them
to introduce you! Having someone that knows you personally and professionally
is a great in-person reference that’s sure to get the conversation started.
After that, it’s up to you to wow them.
Network
Everywhere
Everyone you meet is a potential connection. If you’re
having a lot of trouble getting the courage to network in a more professional
setting, go somewhere else. Find new connections through volunteering, hanging
out at the local favorite spot, or even pick up a new hobby. No matter where
you are, stay professional and genuine. Face-to-face networking is the best way
to find a new opportunity.
End
with “Thank You”
Always remember to say thank you at the end of your
conversation! If you’re interested in a job or internship with them, ask for
their contact information so you can follow up later. If you really want to
impress them, send a handwritten thank you card, expressing how much you
enjoyed your talk (includes specific details!) and that you’d like to stay in
touch regarding any opening positions. If you make plans to follow up, do it in
a timely fashion so they’ll be sure to remember the conversation you had.
Bottom
line: See you at our free Career Expo on February 28th
from 11-3 in the PMU North Ballroom. If you’re having trouble networking, find
a LACD intern. We’ll introduce you and help you find the right words to get
your personal brand across - and that job or internship secured! The only way
to get better at networking is to practice. So whether you’re an underclassman
or about to graduate, come to our Career Expo to find opportunities and to
polish your networking skills.
Check
out the full list of companies coming to our Career Expo here: http://www.cla.purdue.edu/careers/lacd_events/career_week/Career%20Expo.html
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