Speed Networking Experience

As many of you already know, today (Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2008) there will be a Speed Networking Experience in the Sangamon Auditorium Lobby at 6:00 p.m. We had great success last year with this event, and judging by the interest shown by students, alumni, and community professionals, this year should have a great turnout as well! Here are some networking tips to help you get the most out of this event.


Before the Event:

1. Prepare an introductory "elevator pitch" about yourself.
2. Wear appropriate clothing/shoes- it will help give you confidence in yourself, and you'll look more professional as well.
3. Turn off your cell phone!
4. Check out our Networking Etiquette page!

During the Event:

1. Stand up to greet people, especially if you haven't met them before.
2. Remember to smile, and offer a firm handshake.
3. Let others know your name and what you do, to facilitate conversation.
4. Feel free to ask for business cards and offer your own.
5. Keep a positive attitude about yourself and others.
6. Listen to what the other person is saying.

After the Event:

1. Call or email them to keep in touch - a good timeline is three to five days afterward.
2. Return phone calls promptly.
3. Arrange to meet again sometime soon.
4. Follow up on any potential leads- whether you get a job lead, or just the name of someone who works in the field you're looking to enter.

Interview Follow-Up

Hey Everyone!

Thanks for reading the first official post of the UIS Career Development Center Blog!

As many of you already know, State Farm Insurance came to campus today to hold interviews for their Computer Science related Internship and Entry Level opportunities. We had a great turnout, and everyone looked sharp and came on time! Great job, everyone!

We want to wish you good luck, and give you a few tips to help you leave a good impression with your interviewers. Sure, the interview is over, but there's still a lot that you can do to improve your chances of getting hired! Here's a quick list of tips and tricks for what to do after an important interview:

1. Send a thank you note as soon as possible.
2. Personalize the note for each person on your interview panel.
3. If you feel the need to clarify anything you said, write a longer thank you letter to explain.
4. Call to reiterate your interest (or to clarify your thoughts on a tough question.)
5. Make sure your application file is completed, and call to check.


For more interview advice, check out the Interview Tips Page in the Active Decision Making Section of our GOALS Program.