The future is now at Networking Night

By Katie Williams
Collegian Editor
January 31, 2007

With the end of the school year rapidly approaching, it’s a good idea to get a head start on trying to find a summer job or internship. One of the best ways to do this is by networking, and lucky for La Salle students, there will be an opportunity to do so Wednesday, Feb. 7. From 5:30-7:30 p.m. in the Dunleavy Room, there will be a Business Networking Night, which is aimed at students of all majors. Spotlight caught up with Kathryn S. Benner, the manager of events and public relations for the School of Business, to get more information.

Spotlight: Is this event open to students in every year?

Kathryn Benner: Yes.

SP: Is this event open to all majors? Or are there a few majors for which this would be most helpful?

KB: This event is most helpful for marketing, management and MIS majors/minors.  Undecided business and communication majors would also find this event helpful. 

SP: What do you feel are the benefits of networking?

KB: Networking helps a person build contacts, friends and colleagues who in turn will help with problem solving, information gathering, job leads, gaining access to role models and general support. 

SP: Who will be attending this event for the students to network with?

KB: Representatives from Vanguard, Aflac, Merrill Lynch, 610 WIP, Wachovia Corporation, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Synapse, Inc., Walgreens, Aetna, DaimlerCrysler Financial Services, Sherwin-Williams Company, Disc Makers, Liberty Mutual Insurance Company, Greater Media Sports Talk 950, Zielanski Insurance Agency, The United States Army, Campus Philly, Ameriprise Financial Advisors, New York Life Insurance Company and Point Roll will all be attending.

SP: How would you recommend students dress, and should they bring a résumé?

KB: Students should dress in business professional attire, such as suits. Students can bring their résumé and ask for a résumé critique. Although, they should not ask the person to circulate their résumé for them, unless that person offers. 

SP: Do you have any other advice for students?

KB: Do research so that you can talk intelligently to your contact. You should always give a quick summary of who referred you, who you are and what you want when you meet someone. Focus on what you have in common, and have a goal in mind. State your purpose, and be flexible. Ask for information and advice, not a job. Be prepared with a short list of questions to ask or topics to discuss. At the meeting, ask for referrals, and listen attentively. Make sure to respond and react with intelligent questions or comments. Don’t be afraid to ask for a résumé critique. Also, be courteous. Write a thank you note to anyone who helps you.

williamsk1@lasalle.edu