Event Details

Title: Unlocking Networking Skills for Career Success

Date: Wednesday 6th November 2024

Location: Building 100, Room 1001 & 3023

Registration link: Sign up here

Description:

At CEPAR’s (Careers, Employability, Placements and Alumni Relations) launch event, students expressed a strong desire to develop communication and interpersonal skills, especially in the context of networking. In response, we’ve created this workshop to help you understand and start to develop these crucial abilities, preparing you for the world of work.

This two-hour session will feature a keynote presentation from Dr. Alistair Beecher, reflecting on his 40 years of experience at PwC, EY and Oxford University. Alistair will explore the power of networking and offer actionable advice on how to connect meaningfully with industry professionals. Following this, you’ll have the chance to practice networking with experts during breakout sessions focusing on career development, industry trends, and essential employability skills.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll not only have gained valuable insights but will also have practiced your networking skills in a supportive environment, leaving you with greater confidence and new connections to start your career journey.

Agenda

Start	End	Description	Location
17:45	18:00	Arrive for registration	100/1001
18:00	18:10	Welcome Introduction from the CEPAR team Overview of the session’s goals and objectives	100/1001
18:10	18:25	Keynote: The Power of Networking: Personal Reflections Speaker: Dr. Alistair Beecher Chartered accountant and academic with 40 years of experience at PwC, EY and Oxford University. Topics covered: Importance of networking, effective strategies for building professional relationships, and tips for making a lasting impression in business settings.	100/1001
18:25	18:40	Facilitated discussion with Alistair Beecher Students have the opportunity to ask questions based on the keynote session. Industry professionals invited to give their views.	100/1001
18:40	19:20	Breakout Sessions with Industry Professionals Students will rotate through breakout tables hosted by industry professionals. Each table will focus on: Career Development: What employers look for and how to build a standout CV. Industry Trends: Insights into evolving job markets and future career opportunities. Skill-Building: Practical exercises to improve communication, interpersonal skills, and networking strategies. Each table will include short discussions or scenario-based networking exercises, allowing students to put networking tips into practice.	100/3023
19:20	19:25	Refreshments available	100/3023
19:25	19:50	Open Networking Session Students are encouraged to network freely with professionals and peers. This informal session allows students to build connections, ask more questions, and practice newly learned networking techniques.	100/3023
19:50	20:00	Wrap-Up Closing Remarks by CEPAR team, key takeaways, and upcoming career development events.	100/3023

Table Host Bios

Please read more about the industry professionals who will be hosting tables at the event here.

If you have any questions, please contact SBSEmployability@soton.ac.uk