Could you pitch yourself in sixty seconds?
At our recent “Career Conversations: Get Your Network On!” workshop, our RNY alumni learned the finer points of this skill and many more. The workshop, designed by our Director of Academics Darise JeanBaptiste and Alumni Network Coordinator Charlotte Rendon, provided our alums networking tips that they will carry into their college careers and beyond.
Charlotte and Row New York YEB member Jenn Terry led twelve eager alums through activities focused on improving their comfort and presentation in interviews and networking situations:
The Elevator Pitch–Career and networking opportunities are everywhere, but can often occur with too little time to thoroughly cover skill sets and successes. Our alumnae learned how to convey their most important attributes, tailored to their audience, in sixty seconds or less. By having their “pitch” ready, they will be more prepared to put forth a lasting impression in time-crunched moments. Jenn even suggested carrying a business card/contact info for an extra reminder.
The Slow-talker–In conversation, especially when nervous, we often speak too quickly – and lose our audience in the process. This activity had the group pair up; while one partner spoke, the other mimicked their conversation pacing and flow. Speaking more slowly allows for greater clarity and thoughtful conversation; this activity taught our alums to slow down, and to be confident in doing so.
The Handshake–A handshake begins and ends an interaction between two people; an appropriate handshake can create a good connection and leave a lasting impression. Our alumnae learned how to strike the perfect balance of a firm handshake to affirm their presence, and to avoid the over-bearing grip or a limp, ineffectual grasp.
Body Language–More often than not, our body language can inform others of our mood and willingness to engage before we even speak. “This surprised many of the alumnae; they didn’t realize how these cues can make a difference in a conversation,” says Charlotte. The group learned what movements and actions are beneficial for making a good impression during a conversation, and which to avoid.
Equal parts engaging and informative, the workshop gave our alumnae an approachable, candid opportunity to cultivate these networking skills: “My goal was to give our alums tools for successful networking and help them to gain confidence in learning new way to approach people they don’t know,” says Charlotte. In as little as sixty seconds, our alums can definitely do that now – and more.
If you are a Row New York alumnus interested our opportunities, check out the RNY Alumni Facebook page here for updates on events and activities!
