Maximizing your experience Danielle Epstein Graduate Advisor, Career Services

Today’s Topics: Developing your personal network Effective networking practices What to expect on Mustang Mentoring Day How to make the most of the opportunity

Developing your personal network

Phase 1: Self awareness “Knowing Why Phase 1: Self awareness “Knowing Why” Strengths, goals, needs, areas for improvement Key question: Why do I do what I do and how do I do it?

Your potential developers

Phase 2: Relational Savvy “Knowing How” Proactivity Managing interactions Building relationships Adept social skills Key question: To what extent do I enlist other people in my learning and development and how effectively do I nurture those relationships?

Phase 3: Your developmental network “Knowing Whom” Network structure unique to individual needs Should include senior, junior and peer contacts Consider strength of tie and diversity Key question: What is the nature of my current network and how might I enrich it?

Mustang Mentoring Day: What to expect Event Schedule 9:00 - 9:30 Breakfast 9: :30Welcome and Introduction 10: :00Large Group Discussion 11: :00Speed Mentoring Session 12: :45Lunch 12:45 - 1:451:1 Mentor Meetings 1:45 - 2:00Closing

Making the most of the opportunity: tips for success Be appreciative and polite Be confident and enthusiastic Never bad mouth others Use your “elevator pitch” Maintain eye contact and good non-verbal communication Turn off your cell phone Dress for success Use common sense and be self-aware, and you’ll do great!!

Make a Positive First (and Lasting) Impression

The Handshake Keep your right hand free Shake “web to web” The handshake should not last longer than the greeting Avoid hand over hand, touching, or patting Shows interest, respect and sets the tone for the conversation Shake firmly enough to display confidence without being a “bone crusher”

After the event… Take the initiative in following up with mentors with whom you would like to continue a relationship Find out how your developers like to be communicated with (phone, ) Respond to all s and phone calls from developers within 24 hours Make sure your address is appropriate Use the event LinkedIn group but think about it before you decide to “friend” your developers on Facebook

Want to talk more about how to prepare? Contact me at Career Services for 1:1 coaching!