Good morning guys!
As promised in my last post, today I am
going to talk about something pretty exciting in regards to getting your feet
wet in the industry. Every year, Sheridan College holds an event that allows students from all advertising programs (2nd, 3rd years and postgrads) the opportunity
to meet with advertising agencies in the Toronto area. Yes, also known as a
networking event! This was held a few nights ago at the Marquee Pub (great food
by the way) at Sheridan College.
Throughout
the year so far and after several career workshops, we have learned that
networking is highly recommended for chances of having a high success rate in
job searching. You’ve all heard the saying “It’s all about who you know”. And
that couldn’t be more true. You may have experiences where you are lucky enough
to have a family friend/acquaintance in the industry of your choice, however if
not, how do you think people build business relationships from nothing? Events like
a “net night” (as Sheridan called it through social media) is the answer. This
experience is an amazing way to get your name out there and make a positive impression
on potential employers. Not only that, but it brings you out of your comfort
zone and gives you the opportunity to meet smart, influential people. It is
these individuals that may end up helping you out in the long run.
For me,
networking night brought out a new kind of confidence that I never knew I had.
I was a little nervous at the beginning, seeing as this was the first
experience I had with networking. I wasn’t sure what to expect or how it was
going to work. How would I know who works for what agency? Would people be nice
and open to talk? Am I going to freeze when conversing with an employer? My
mind was swirling with questions until I had my first conversation. I should
have known that Sheridan College would connect with such amazing, open and
knowledgeable people to attend this event and talk with us. All of the tables
at the event were labeled according to what agency they represented, so we were
free to choose who we wanted to connect with. I just want to point out that
every table had a huge jug of water with cups available to all. This may seem
pretty unimportant but we’ve all experienced that dry, thirsty feeling you get
when you’re in the middle of a presentation. Picture that feeling lasting for
two hours while talking to some pretty important people. SO, I loved that there
was an unlimited supply of water.
MORE
IMPORTANTLY, to summarize, I know that this may seem a little bit scary and I
won’t be the one to tell you that you won’t be nervous (unless you’ve done this
kind of thing before!). What I can tell you, is to be yourself. There is
nothing more impressive than knowing exactly who you are, and being confident
about it. Sell yourself in a way that you, and only you, know how in regards
to your own unique personality. We all have something special to offer. If you
do that, you’ll be surprised at the positive reactions you will get. First
impressions are everything, so be genuine, be polite, and show your enthusiasm!
Lastly, always remember to FOLLOW UP with the people you have talked to at a
networking event. The simplest “thank you” can go a long way.
Without Sheridan College’s workshops leading
to the event, I am not sure that I would have been as prepared as I was. Having
that opportunity was amazing, and I’m excited for you all to experience the
same. I hope this helps guys!
Thank YOU for reading.
Sincerely,
Ashleigh
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