Making the Most of a Networking Event
We’ve all heard the phrase that “someone found a job because they knew someone.” This is the essence of one of the most effective job search strategies: NETWORKING. Connecting with people in a career area of interest allows you to gain valuable information about a particular career, company, and/or industry while letting that person learn more about you. In a networking conversation, you are able to discuss your strengths and interests in perhaps, a more informal way.
Networking also helps you prepare for the interview process and prepares you to answer crucial questions asked during an interview. If the person with whom you are networking is an employee of the company you are interested in, they might “put in a good word” for you. The more you talk to professionals in your career area of interest, the easier it’s going to be when you actually have a formal job interview.
The Career Center is hosting several upcoming events designed to help you practice your networking skills and increase your confidence:
- Preparing for the Career Fair - November 4, 2009 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the Career Center Conference Room (220 Hendricks Hall).
- So You Want My Job? - November 5, 2009 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the Knight Library Browsing Room.
- The Art of Conversation - November 11, 2009 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in Gerlinger Alumni Lounge. Hors d’oeuvres will be provided. Register online.
- Fall Career Fair - November 12, 2009 from noon - 5 p.m. in the EMU Ballroom.
Currently, there are over 60 company representatives who are interested in hiring UO students!!!
You are ALWAYS welcome to meet individually with a career counselor to discuss your questions, brainstorm ideas and prepare for any career related activity. To make an appointment call 541-346-3235 or e-mail career@uoregon.edu. Please contact us anytime Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Photo from Flickr by Joe Shlabotnik
