Talking to strangers can be intimidating, especially in an event filled with industry professionals you wouldn’t normally have access to. The prospect of networking and perhaps even setting up a follow-up coffee can be exciting, but there is one problem—where to begin.

The School of Business and Economics Kickstart Speaker Series is an ideal venue for networking and connecting with some of the most inspirational business leaders of today.

“Relationships are the key to business transactions and networking is the first step in meeting others and developing those relationships,” said Michael Henry, Dean of the School of Business and Economics.

With an impressive line-up of speakers this semester, up-coming presenters Marty Dohm and Kevin Jardine weigh in on how to make the most of these opportunities.

Get out of your comfort zone

Get comfortable with the uncomfortable and be willing to put yourself out there.

“Networking when you are first starting out is always the hardest,” said Marty Dohm, President of Coal Harbour Realty Advisors Inc. “It gets easier the longer you have been in your field. When starting out, be genuine in your approach to networking. When approaching people you would like to network with, be as prepared as possible and try to bring something to the conversation, like a good question.”

Be confident

Less is more

Don’t try to connect with everyone in the room. Target a few key contacts, do your research and make it meaningful.

“A few well chosen, meaningful connections will deliver much more impact than just trying to fill up your contacts file,” said Jardine.

Come prepared

“The better the questions you ask—that show you have prepared beforehand—the better an impression you will leave,” said Dohm. “When a student is prepared, they always come across as more confident, which leaves a lasting impression.”

Earn respect

When networking with potential mentors, ask good questions, highlight your own unique skill sets and expect nothing in return.

“Over time, try and earn the right to network with the people you would like to connect with,” said Dohm. “This can be done by developing a reputation as someone that is prepared, can be counted on, works hard and is helpful without looking for credit or remuneration.”

Have a business card handy

It’s integral when networking with professionals to have a tangible point of contact. Don’t underestimate the value of having a business card.

The first 50 students to RSVP to the Business Kickstart event on January 20, 2016 will receive a free set of personalized business cards. RSVP to tfedotova@tru.ca or call 778.471.8390. 

The Business Kickstart Speaker Series brings distinguished executives, leaders in business and economics, to campus for interesting, entertaining and informative talks. The goal is to educate students on the vast array of career possibilities and provide an opportunity to network with the local business community.