Lynne,
It sounds like you are approaching this from a number of angles-which is a great idea.
Elizabeth Kemler
I first try to define networking in the students eyes. Then I go one to explain why I would look for volunteer opportunities at a particular employer, and that some employers see that as a working interview. All good employers are always on the look out for good employees that will fit into their teams.
I also cover job fairs, talking to other students, instructors etc.
I use a variety of networks to search out job leads for my students and massage Therapist. I also provide them with many online website opportunities as well.
I also take feedback from my coworkers when they hear of a job opening somewhere. I then in turn share it with my students and graduates. It is a win win for the applicant as well as for me for my stats.
Nancy,
It sounds like you are very detailed in your feedback with the mock interviews which I really think is key. Its great that you're addressing things like the strength of the handshake and voice level. That undoubtedly makes a huge difference not only for these interviews and networking but for all future professional communication.
Elizabeth Kemler
I've found that practicing their basic introduction "Hello, my name is (fill in the blank)" with a handshake allows my students to feel more confident about meeting others. This sort of role playing allows me to see their eye contact or lack of, hear their voice level (too soft or too loud) and feel how soft or strong their handshakes are. I always get the same initial response, that they feel quite silly practicing these little details but in the end, when they notice how comfortable they feel networking with professional contacts it opens the door to obtaining their networking goals. Needless to say, when my students communicate with personal contacts they are more at ease but none the less have had people take notice of their confidence and professionalism. That to me is the rewarding part; hearing their positive feedback from something they initially thought was so pointless.
Yes, we I do help them to understand who this may be.
I always encourage students to meet and make connections with people, both employers and employees they come in contact with from thier extern experience. This begins thier "professional" network
I think using networks allows the students to meet potential employers or people that might help tthem meet those potential employers
I remind them that their desire to work close to home or within certain hours may not be common in their field of interest. When a person knows you or is connected to someone you know, the chances can be better for negotiating certain "wish list" job preferences.
Alainna,
What a great idea-I love it!
Elizabeth Kemler
We offer a professional development course that each student must complete in order to graduate from our program. During that course, they must keep something that we refer to as a 'Sales Log'. This log requires them to begin to speak to a certain amount of people about the validity and benefits of their profession and in turn begin to recruit clientele, as well as garner networking skills. They do not realize that's what they're doing until we sit down and talk about potential employers and I ask them to pull the log out. Their faces light up when they see the work they have already put into making sure that they can work and sustain themselves financially.
Kathy,
Yes, it really does help for the student to have a clear idea of what they want in a job before putting the word out to their network.
Elizabeth Kemler
Have a clear understanding of what kind of job and or work environment you would like to have. Then consider all of your personal and professional associates in regards to how they could assist you with finding that job. Be able to explain to them what you are looking for, why and how you feel this is a good fit for you. Try honestly asking for their help. The more your network contacts know what you're looking for and what you want them to do, the more likely they are to think of potential opportunities or recognize opportunities they can refer to you.
professional networks have a lot of information on job opening in their companies
I have found that promoting the idea of them using their personal and professional contacts eases the anxiety of looking for a job. Since they are more comfortable with people they know versus strangers it helps them feel that they are valued and important because you are promoting the use of people that know them.
Thru friend, family member, and computer.
Mary,
Your idea about joining local organizations is a great one!
Elizabeth Kemler
As a student they should network with fellow students in their same program. I have seen a many student get employed because of someone they knew, who new someone who had an employment opportunity. I also highly encourage them joining their local organizations such as, our HR students joining our local SHRM chapter. I encourage all of my grads to join the local Chamber of Commerce and Young Professionals groups as well as groups related directly to their fields of study. These organizations provide lots of opportunities to meet and mingle with the people who could be beneficial in the careers for years to come.
Sharon,
Definitely true-you never know who might be able to connect you with the right job.
Elizabeth Kemler
I will explain to them how friends, and family member can be an help to them with there network, by letting them know when you have finish your schooling and the kind of jobs you are looking to get into.
