Advice to Prep for PRSSA’s Networking Event

By Kate Templeton

Do you need to practice networking? Or perhaps want to meet the students and teachers involved in the PR program? University of Oregon PRSSA is hosting a Speed Networking Event next Thursday, Feb. 15, at 6:00 p.m. in Allen 141 for a night of low-stake networking and refreshments. Local professionals, SOJC professors and students are all welcome to come. Below are a few tips to prepare you for this night of networking!

It’s All About Relationship Building

  • One of the most important parts of a networking event is to build connections. Make sure your exchanges are both fun and informative, and you are acting professionally. You want to make yourself memorable without talking too much about yourself. To build solid relationships at a networking event get to know whom you are talking to create a successful lasting impression.

Ask Thoughtful Questions

  • Come prepared with questions to start the conversation off. Make sure these questions are both interesting and helpful. At networking events you have a short time to talk to each professional, so it is crucial to pick questions wisely. Also listen to the replies of the people you meet and ask questions that build from what they are saying. This will help keep the conversation flowing naturally. Here are some sample questions you could ask: How did you get into this occupation? What skills have you found essential for success in this field? What do you do in a typical day at your job?

Follow-Up After

  • Ask the people you meet what the best way to contact them is. It is important to reach out within 48 hours after the event. This will show your interest and that you care about the conversations you had. Also, when reaching out try to reference something you talked about to remind them who you are and that you valued the discussion.

If you are interested in attending our Speed Networking Event, please RSVP with the link below. Hope to see you there! RSVP: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdE6CMDLpwaUYRJvfbMBOupt3nO1xo0RDzTK0bj-TkR2pR_bw/viewform

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