Sometimes we participate in formal informational meetings. Other times we meet in larger settings like at association meetings, entrepreneur meetings, etc. Tonight I went to a BYU student and alumni networking meeting with 100 attendees to get more LinkedIn contacts, meet new friends and possibly introduce our transitioning professional group. I've sent LinkedIn invitations to the 3 speakers and it was fortunate for me that I sat at the same table. The meeting was entitled "Connecting the Dots". About 60% of those in attendance were students in the Business, Organizational Development and HR departments.
Each of the speakers presented the same theme on presonal branding and leveraging relationships. Scott Vest from Nexeo spoke about the importance for students to be on LinkedIn. Clark Merkley, Esq talked about the importance of personal branding. He was doing this even before the term was in vogue. He called it his personal mission statement that has guided his life in search of continued learning, mentoring/caring for others and personal integrity. His career started out in law, took a detour to school teaching and now he's in management.
The final speaker, Juan Ribold, author of the 'Path of Ascent" has an organizational development background but told his story about interning with IBM and ending up starting two consulting companies. These three motivational speakers made the night worthwhile. I did connect with several students, who indicated that when they accept my linkedin invite, they'll extend to others the opportunity to participate in our professional transitioning group. They likewise are transitioning from being students to finding employment and have to do their own branding and networking. The discussion and insight they will bring to our group will be interesting.
You might want to comment on some networking group or meeting you are participating in.
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