Career Prep 2009 Summer Blog

Regina Larkin of Spelman College advises: Research! Know the people that will be speaking at the event. Know the company and industry. Know what's going on in the news. It will make conversations more natural and comfortable, if you know what you are talking about. Adrew Diaz of New York University writes: Try to get the biography of the senior person and know some things about him/her before the event, or if it is a panel read all of the panelists bios. Maybe come up with a few questions that show you did your research. Also if it is a networking reception at a specific firm, then do some research on that firm so you can be knowledgeable when you converse with them.

Dustin Douglas of Georgetown University adds: Do your homework. You should never go into any meeting without knowing who is going to to be there and their interests. In addition to Google-ing them, reach out to HR for their BIOs. Moyosola Olaseinde of University of Georgia states: Going to networking events are nerve-racking and sometimes awkward, but all your stress can be lessened if you do some research before you attend. Find out who will be there and research their role with the company and other background information. When you know more information about the people at the event, you can target who you want to speak to and ask informed questions. Any piece of information you find out ahead of time can be valuable; you do not know what interest you may share with some that can create an instant bond with that person. Start your research on the company website and Google. For more personal information, you can try Facebook, LinkedIn, or ask people that are familiar with them.