Recently, I was back on campus to participate on a panel showcasing accounting careers across several industries. The goal of the discussion was to provide students with the opportunity to network with recent alums, learn how different industries impact your career path, and provide advice on entering the workforce. Given my experience at the event, I have the following advice on gleaning the most insight from such an event and how to be remembered as a crowd participant.
My first piece of advice is to treat any networking event as if it were an interview. You never know how far a conversation can take you and the opportunities it can provide. When you know who will be attending an event, it’s wise to take the time to research their background, industry, and the specialties their company works within. Networking events, career fairs, and panels do not allow for long conversations, so you need to make the most of the little time you have and ask insightful, prepared questions.
Networking events, panels, and career fairs are a great opportunity to learn more about the opportunities out there and to glean wisdom from other professionals. From my experience, the key to being memorable at any professional event is being proactive, passionate, and appreciative. As important as it is to prepare questions for a representative, it is just as imperative to have your own elevator speech planned. The conversation can easily shift towards you, and you want to use that time as effectively as possible.
As my final piece of advice, always send a thank you note. Sending a thank you not only provides you with the opportunity to show your gratitude for their insight and time, but it also gives you one last chance at leaving a lasting impression. You never know how far a simple “thank you” will take you.
