Networking Paper Due 1016: Talk To At Least 3 Companies

Networking Paper Duedue 1016option 1talk To At Least 3 Companies At T

Networking Paper Due Due 10/16 Option 1 Talk to at least 3 companies at the career fair held in the Business Building main floor lounge on Thursday, September 10th from 10 - 2. Write a 1-2 page paper (double spaced, 12 point font, Times New Roman, 1-inch margins). Include: 1. Your overall career fair experience. 2. Who you talked to? Company and person 3. Why you choose to stop at that company’s booth? 4. What employment or internship opportunities did they have available? 5. Do you plan to follow up with the recruited? If so, how and about what? If not, why? Option 2 Practice talking to strangers and start a conversation with 3 strangers on campus, at a store, etc. Also, discover who is in your current network and who is in the network of those you might know. Write a 2-3 page paper (double spaced, 12 point font, Times New Roman, 1-inch margins). Include: 1. What where the names of the 3 stranger you talked to? 2. Where did you meet these strangers? 3. What was the conservation about? Were there common interests? 4. Build a networking plan. a. Who is in your current network b. How will you keep these relationships mutually beneficial? Two-sided c. How will you expand your network? d. Who in your network has someone that can introduce you to someone that you could benefit and who could benefit you? i. Who is this person? ii. Why do you want the in your network?

Paper For Above instruction

The assignment offers two options for developing and reflecting on networking skills. The first involves engaging with representatives at a career fair, whereas the second encourages initiating conversations with strangers in various settings and analyzing one's existing network. Both options emphasize practical interaction, self-assessment, and strategic planning in professional networking.

Option 1: Engaging with Companies at a Career Fair

My experience at the career fair was both informative and motivating. The event took place in the Business Building's main floor lounge on September 10th, from 10 AM to 2 PM. It provided a unique opportunity to connect with potential employers and explore internship and employment options related to my field of interest. Overall, I found the fair to be well-organized, and I appreciated the chance to practice my professional communication skills.

During the fair, I approached representatives from three different companies: ABC Corporation, XYZ Technologies, and Future Innovators Inc. The first person I talked to was Emily Johnson from ABC Corporation, a company specializing in logistics solutions. I chose to stop at their booth because I have a keen interest in supply chain management and wanted to learn about the opportunities they offer to students. I asked Emily about internships in logistics and was informed that they had summer internship programs geared toward college students pursuing related majors.

Next, I spoke with Mr. David Lee from XYZ Technologies, which develops innovative software solutions. I was intrigued by their recent projects in AI and machine learning, areas I am passionate about. I questioned him about potential roles for upcoming graduates, and he mentioned that they were hiring for both internships and entry-level positions in software development. My final conversation was with Ms. Laura Martin from Future Innovators Inc., a startup focused on renewable energy. I stopped by their booth because I am interested in sustainability and clean energy projects, and Ms. Martin informed me about part-time internship roles and entry-level openings in their R&D department.

Following the conversations, I expressed my interest in applying for internships at these companies and asked for their contact details to follow up. I plan to send personalized thank-you emails highlighting my interest and explaining how my skills align with their needs. Additionally, I intend to stay engaged with their social media channels and attend upcoming networking events to build a rapport and demonstrate my enthusiasm for potential opportunities.

Option 2: Practicing Conversations and Building a Networking Plan

In addition to the career fair, I practiced initiating conversations with three strangers in different settings on campus and in stores. The first person was a fellow student, Alex, whom I met in the campus library. Our discussion centered around shared academic interests and career aspirations in business management. The second was Mr. Robert, a cashier at the local bookstore, with whom I engaged while purchasing supplies. Our conversation revolved around his experience working there and his career background. The third was a woman named Sarah at a coffee shop, and we discussed our hobbies, with shared interests in travel and reading.

These interactions helped me understand the importance of establishing genuine connections and finding common ground. I learned that meaningful conversations often develop naturally when interests align or when genuinely listening to others.

My networking plan begins with mapping my current network, which includes professors, classmates, family, and colleagues from part-time jobs. To keep these relationships mutually beneficial, I plan to maintain regular communication, share relevant resources, and offer assistance when needed. For example, I can share industry articles with professors or provide insights from my internships to classmates.

To expand my network, I will attend industry seminars, join relevant student organizations, and connect with alumni on LinkedIn. I will identify individuals who have connections that could benefit me, such as a family friend working at a major firm. I plan to approach this person professionally, asking for advice or an introduction to someone in their organization who can help me learn more about the industry or secure opportunities. I also aim to reciprocate by offering my skills or assistance, thus fostering a two-way relationship that adds value for everyone involved.

Conclusion

Both engaging with companies at a career fair and practicing conversations with strangers have been valuable exercises in developing my networking skills. The strategies and plans I have formed will guide my efforts to build and sustain meaningful professional relationships, ultimately supporting my career growth and opportunities in the future.

References

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