MASTER’S CORNER
A new section of The Insider highlighting the Higher Education and Student Affairs Master’s program. For more information about the Higher Education and Student Affairs program, visit http://www.shu.edu/academics/education/ma-college-administration/index.cfm.
HOW TO BE A NATURAL AT NETWORKING EVENTS
Higher Education is a multi-faceted and ever-growing arena that incorporates many sectors of business and industry. Spring is the perfect time to socialize with colleagues, classmates, and new connections. If you are interested in meeting employers, alumni, and important people in our field, make sure you attend as many networking events as possible during your time in the program. Make the most of networking experiences by following these five tips!
Set Goals
Make a plan for your target audience at the event so you can better conceptualize how to organize your time and complete your research. It is important to think about what you expect to accomplish while at the event. Do you want to meet specific employers, connect with three new employers, or get a better sense of a company’s culture? Know what you are looking for before you walk in the door.
Prepare your NEWS
Market yourself to each new person you meet by putting together your elevator pitch beforehand: Name, Education, Work, and Skills (NEWS). Practicing your pitch ahead of time will easily allow you to engage in conversation, especially as you combine your NEWS with research about the company or organization.
Prepare Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask at the networking event. Ask the professional questions like “How did you get your current job?” “What do you like most about your company?” or “What skills do you look for in your employees?” to engage them in conversation and pick up some tips.
Rock the Professional Look
Look and act the part of the professional that you are. Not only will this help you look confident, but more importantly, to feel confident. Wearing your best business attire, along with good eye contact, a firm handshake, a smile, authentic energy, and eagerness to get to know someone are all great ways to impress an employer, and yourself.
Stand Out from the Crowd by Following-Up
Ask for the networker’s business card, which will come in handy when you follow-up with an email or a hand-written note. Make a note of something they said on the back of the card to include when you follow up. If you have your own business card, be sure to produce it with confidence.
Upcoming Networking Event:
Big East Career Networking Event & Employer Site Visits | Friday, March 13, 9-11 am | Madison Square Garden, NYC