Often times, attending job networking events can be very intimidating for those individuals that have newly graduated college and are just stepping into the workforce. One thing to remember is that job seekers use these events to meet all types of prospective employers and show them what they could do for the company.
It is important to show confidence at networking events, and to know exactly what to say to the attending company representatives.
The following are a few networking tips for recent grads –
1~ Do Research. Before attending the networking event, be sure to do some research on the industry and different companies that will be attending. Try to remember the top three companies in the industry, as well as their strengths and weaknesses. This will make you feel more confident, coming in knowing information that others might not have.
2~ Show Interest. Company representatives respect sincerity and enjoy talking when job seekers ask questions. Be sure to listen attentively, give eye contact, give a firm handshake, and ask follow up questions, showing that you are giving your full undivided attention, and are interested in everything being said.
3~ Show Passion. Because recent grads don’t have very much work experience, they should instead try to impress business representatives by showing their passion for the industry.
4~ Brand Yourself. Try to create a quick speech to project a personal brand that will set you apart from the other recent graduates that are also searching for the same jobs. Try to focus on your skills and recent experience.
5~ Tell How You Can Help. It is not wrong to talk to perspective employers on how you can help their company improve. Without bragging, be sure to offer suggestions that you may have on how you could help the company improve in the future.
6~ Tell Them Your Goals. It’s important for entry level job seekers to know the field that they want to get into. A good way to express that to company representatives is by telling them your career goals, your skills and the qualities you look for in a company, as well as what you would like to be doing down the road.
7~ Don’t Ask for a Job. The ultimate goal of attending a networking event is to find a job, but you should never just ask for one. Instead, ask questions to the employer, showing interest in the company, talking about your personal qualifications and skills. Doing this may cause company reps to offer you a referral, or possibly a position somewhere within their office.
Everyone has to start somewhere. Take these tips and go with confidence to networking event, ensuring your future will be a success one.
