Parents Know More than You Think

What have you learned from your parents? Good manners? How to ride a bike? The importance of good grades? Now, it’s time for another life-long lesson; this one’s about networking.

More than 100 parents have volunteered to be part of this first-ever event during Parents & Family Weekend:

Parents as Professionals: Informal Networking for Students
Friday, October 28, 3:30-4:30pm, Aidekman Arts Center

Most students say that “networking” intimidates them, and rightly so. It’s a skill you can’t learn in a classroom. So, think of this event as a laboratory of sorts where you can practice asking good questions (because that’s what networking is all about ~ asking questions and exchanging information). Whether you’re considering a career in the arts or engineering, finance or healthcare, you’ll ultimately get your most valuable information by talking to people who do the work that interests you.

Wouldn’t you prefer to practice in a casual, low-stakes environment?

Parents will gather in groups according to profession or industry. You may approach them to discuss their careers and ask for advice (Never, ever, ever ask for a job or internship; that’s considered poor manners and your networking will backfire). Instead, think about the jobs that parents have held, the organizations they’ve worked for, and the industries they know well. What a repository of career expertise!

Parents will gather in one of the following groups: Advertising, PR, Marketing; Arts, Media, Entertainment; Business Management/Administration; Information Technology; Engineering; Consulting; Finance; Healthcare; Law; Education/Government/Nonprofit; or Science/Research. If individuals don’t feel they match these categories, they’ll create their own.

Whether you already love networking or you’re mustering the courage to begin, this occasion offers an ideal opportunity. Dress is casual. No resumes needed. Please register by Tues, Oct. 25 at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/VV2KBNP

The Career Services team endorses, promotes, and teaches networking as the most effective tool to identify internships and jobs. We believe it’s a fundamental life skill that you’ll use to build professional relationships, learn about employment opportunities, and advance in your careers. Please take advantage of this valuable networking event.