Elon students learned a variety of tips to help them succeed in graduate school or the business world during Professional Discovery Week 2007, hosted by the Elon Career Center Feb. 12-15.
Topics during the week included effective networking skills, preparing for graduate school and the real world, personal marketing plans and creativity in making career choices. Additional programs offered specific career information for students majoring in communications, English, psychology and human services, and those interested in legal careers.
One of the week’s featured events was a professional etiquette dinner Wednesday, Feb. 14. Ellen Baker, founder of Culture2Culture and a business networking expert, led the event, teaching students about professional contact during a business meal and meeting and greeting etiquette at social events and professional functions. Baker told the 125 students who participated that first impressions are important.
“On average, it takes a person about 10 seconds to make their first impression of you,” Baker said. She listed key tips for making a favorable first impression, including:
• Make your first 10 words count
• Tune in to others
• Walk with a purpose
• Stand up straight
• Sit up straight
• Make direct eye contact
• Be impeccably groomed