Preparing for a College Networking Event
Attending college networking events is a great way to make connections with potential employers and learn about job and internship opportunities. If you're planning to attend a networking event, it's important to be prepared so you can make the most of the experience.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for a college networking event:
Research the companies and organizations that will be attending the event. This will help you understand what they do, what they are looking for in candidates, and what questions you can ask them. Visit their company website and sift through their Glassdoor/Indeed reviews, and skim through news articles to understand what they have been up to. You can even watch day-in-the-life videos on YouTube if they exist!
Prepare your elevator pitch. This is a brief introduction that highlights your skills, experiences, and career goals. You should be able to explain who you are and what you want to do in a matter of seconds.
Dress appropriately. Unless otherwise specified, business casual is usually a safe bet for these types of events.
Bring plenty of copies of your resume. These will be helpful for making connections and following up after the event. Employers expect this less and less at networking events, but it’s good to bring some just in case.
Practice your networking skills. It can be intimidating to approach strangers and start a conversation, so it's a good idea to practice beforehand. Think about conversation starters you would like to use or questions you would like to ask. Doing the a little preparation can also go a long way for reducing nerves!
By following these tips, you can feel confident and prepared as you navigate college networking events and make valuable connections with potential employers. If you’re looking for more guidance on how to navigate the events when you are there, check out this blog post. Good luck!
