Speed Networking=Quick Conversations Packed With Meaningful Advice

Speed Networking was in full effect this month with students in Sociology: Interpersonal and Group Dynamics, Business, and Hospitality classes meeting with employers and career advisors. They had seven minutes at each employer’s table and the conversations were packed with tips about good points to hit during a “real” job interview, career competencies (critical thinking, teamwork, and professionalism) that employers are looking for, and ways to effectively communicate those skills. Students answered questions about why they chose their major, what they want to do in the future, and how they have already grown as a result of their classes and internships.

Kevin Doherty, Executive Director, Safe Inc. of Schenectady, with Sociology students. 

Then, Dawn Jones, Director of Career and Transfer Services, “rang the bell” and each group moved on to the next table to meet with a different employer or career advisor.

“The great thing about Speed Networking is that no matter how much experience you have in the field or anywhere else, there’s always more to learn,” said Madison Tribley, who is in the Direct Support Professional Microcredential program. “In this group setting, hearing other people’s answers to things offers a different perspective too. I might not have thought of that question that way. When you go to individual interviews, you’re already prepared.”

Alyssa Picard, Nontraditional Career Advisor (pictured above), and Kristen Rossler, Nontraditional Career Assistant, lead students through a group exercise during Speed Networking.

“I was talking with four people who are already super successful in the business industry and they taught me a lot in just the five-minute time slot,” said Gideon Boyko, Business student. “That was probably the best part about it.”

Kristen Rossler, Nontraditional Career Assistant, with Sociology students.

Chris Wessell, Managing Partner of PeopleWise, an executive search firm, graduated from SUNY Schenectady in 2000 with his degree in Business Administration. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree and his MBA from the University at Albany School of Business. He returns each semester for Speed Networking to share his insight with students.

“Networking skills are paramount to success,” Wessell said. “They’ve been a huge part of my life and the things I’ve been able to do. There are some basic skills that help you navigate life easier and Speed Networking is a great example of one of the things SUNY Schenectady does to help their students get ahead and be successful.”

Thank you to employers/career advisors:

Kevin Doherty, Executive Director, Safe Inc. of Schenectady

Laura Mann, Vice President, Business Resources, Capital Region Chamber

Keven Mathes, Owner, Precision Executed Cleaning Company and G & G Vending

Alyssa Picard, Nontraditional Career Advisor, SUNY Schenectady

Kristen Rossler, Nontraditional Career Assistant, SUNY Schenectady

Chris Wessell ’00, Managing Partner, PeopleWise