Networking and Interviewing: An Art in Effective Communication

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It was not too many years ago that attainment of a bachelor's degree almost guaranteed employment upon graduation. However, an increasingly complex and rapidly changing labor market has created a very competitive environment for today's college graduate. Employers are looking for individuals with a high probability of success. Both CEOs and human resource directors alike speak about listening skills, team playing, communication skills, work and travel experiences, the ability to network, people skills, and a global perspective as important elements of success. Students who have had the opportunity to develop these skills will have a clear competitive advantage in the job market. To help students develop these skills, apply business communication theories and strategies, and to provide practical experience, I have expanded on employment projects typically taught in the field of business communication. This expanded employment project has been an avenue to assist students in receiving internships and part-time or full-time positions. It has also helped enhance students' networking, writing, listening, interviewing, and …