TECHworking (on Thursday, November 7, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.) is an opportunity for co-op students to network in person with some of Ottawa’s top tech employers. Taking place in Kanata’s tech park, this event is open to all current co-op students who are completing, or have completed the COOP1000 course and are interested in working in the local tech sector. Below, learn from Katie LeBlanc, Manager of Co-operative Education, to learn more about what is in store for students at this event.
What are some of the highlights of TECHworking Night?
You’ll have the exclusive opportunity to engage directly with recruiting representatives from Carleton Co-op’s dedicated corporate partners, including Ciena, Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), Kinaxis, Knak, Magnet Forensics, Marvell, Ross, Solace and Synopsys. While these employers traditionally seek talent from the computer science, engineering and business information technology programs, some employers may be hiring for areas such as communications, human resources, marketing and finance.
What sets this event apart is the ability to personally showcase your qualifications and let your personality shine as you network throughout the event. If you attend, you can also opt-in to the digital resume book, which will be shared with all participating employers. Make a memorable impression by using your name and program when introducing yourself to the employers. This way, it will be simpler for them to locate your resume in the resume book.
For anyone who has never attended an in-person networking evening, what should they expect?
This event will be dynamic, engaging and informative with a touch of healthy competition. Given the higher number of students compared to employer representatives, you might find it challenging to jump directly into conversations. In such instances, don’t hesitate to observe and listen in, as you could pick up valuable insights to address your own questions. However, it’s crucial to be patient and maintain a professional demeanor while waiting for the right moment to introduce yourself to an employer of interest.
Furthermore, it’s advisable to come well-prepared with your elevator pitch, a concise self-introduction that highlights your skills and aspirations. To create an elevator pitch, use this guide from Carleton (PDF, 89 KB). Worried about running out of things to say? You can pre-empt this by conducting thorough research in advance, equipping yourself with knowledge about the participating employers, including any recent news, updates or intriguing developments in their industries. This way, you’ll be ready to engage in meaningful conversations and leave a lasting impression.
How should students prepare for this event?
Networking can be nerve-wracking and slightly uncomfortable, but it’s essential to recognize that these feelings are entirely normal. Embracing your genuine self is crucial, even if initiating conversations with strangers may seem a bit unnatural. We’ve all been in that situation before, which is precisely why practicing and preparing in advance is so valuable. If you have a friend attending the event with you, consider rehearsing your elevator pitch with each other before the event to boost your confidence. Co-op staff will also be there to help you warm up!
Equally important is your choice of attire. Leave the jeans, sneakers and hoodies behind, as your first impression can leave a lasting impression. Strive for a professional yet comfortable look, especially considering that you may be on your feet for extended periods.
If you have specific companies in mind that you’d genuinely like to work for, invest time in researching their background and operations. Gain insights into their corporate culture to determine if it aligns with your expectations.
Lastly, prepare some insightful questions to ask. Employers place a high value on curiosity. Are you curious about their remote work policies or work-life balance? Eager to understand the projects you might undertake as a co-op student? Interested in transforming your co-op position into full-time employment after graduation? This is the perfect opportunity to seek answers to these burning questions.
For more information about TECHworking, and to register, visit the mySuccess Co-op and Careers Workshops and Events Calendar (log in to Carleton360 from the Current Students website).
Thursday, October 24, 2024 in Employability, News
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