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Why is it so important for students to NETWORK?
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“Jobs and internships are usually found through networking and word of mouth. The bigger your network is, the better your chances of hearing about opportunities. It also gives you practice meeting and talking with professionals, which will make you a better reporter and interviewer.” -Rebecca Burns
n days when guest speakers come to class, there is a common thought that goes through students’ heads. They think it is a break from the ever yday lessons and a chance to relax. Many, however, do not realize the opportunity they have to move further in their future careers. It is a chance to network and talk to a professional. Rebecca Burns, one such guest speaker, is the Deputy Editor and Digital Strategist of “Atlanta Magazine,” as well as an established author. She also teaches at Emor y University and the University of Georgia. Burns came to Kennesaw State University in September as a guest lecturer in the electronic magazine communication class. So rather than falling into that comfortable haze, pay attention and use the tips she offered to make the most out of a classroom visit.
5 34 DON’T BE OVERLY CHATTY & FAMILIAR.
SEND A THANK YOU.
Don’t, for instance, address Another good thing is to send a someone by a nickname or thank-you email to the speaker even a first name the first time after the class. Students have done this when I speak, and I am you speak to them. Don’t text. Don’t send copies of school always impressed and pleased. assignments and ask the person I also teach (at UGA and Emory) to look them over for you. Don’t and I know that some of my students have done this, and the try to friend the speaker on speakers were really happy to get Facebook unless the speaker specifically gives a Facebook the emails. You can also follow address or has a professional the speaker on Twitter after the Facebook page. I, for instance, class, and maybe send a tweet have an author Facebook page referencing the speaker. (For example: “I was inspired hearing @ for my books and book events.
BE OPEN.
Most people love their work and love to talk about it. If a guest lecturer comes to visit your class then it’s likely they will be open to talking with you about what they do. This is a great opportunity to take advantage of. Be sure to make connections with people, especially guest speakers, in order to learn even more.
SpeakerName talk about the importance of reporting when she visited our class today. #journalism”).
$10 for nice ones or $30 - $50 for the ones that are leather bound. “When I was hiring people for PR I liked it when people would leave something (portfolios) nice and professional behind that gave me time to analyze their work,” said Dr. Heflin.
Online
Online portfolios have taken off in the digital age as a quick-and-easy way for companies to glance at your experience. Websites such as Adobe Behance, Weebly.com, Squarespace. com, and Carbonmade.com offer a free or inexpensive personal website so that you can easily plug in your resume, portfolios, and other materials without writing code for hours. Most sites offer
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the URL to be (yourname).com to add a little SEO (Search Engine Optimization for all you non-PR majors) to your personal brand as well.
What goes in my portfolio?
Heflin and Koonce both agreed that students need to hang on to all the materials they turn in to their professors, especially the classes you are taking in your junior and senior years. Pieces students design in class are almost identical to what will be expected at work. “Students need to realize that papers and projects that showcase your relative skills are the best way to start a portfolio,” said Koonce. “That is what I had to use when applying for my first couple of internships.”
Youtube, the video sharing site is launched, to later become a leading video communication outlet for entertainment and news
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Raise Your Elevator Speech
Your ‘elevator speech’ is considered the quick interview that may happen when you least expect it; in an elevator, in the parking lot, etc. A great way to improve your elevator speech is to leave the potential contact a business card. It should be simple and professional and include as much contact information you feel comfortable providing. This would be a great time to add your new online portfolio website as well! For more information on how to prepare yourself for the career field, feel free to visit the KSU Career Services website: www.careerctr.kennesaw.edu
Citizen journalists record events on cellular cameras and technology
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