So How’d It Go: Networking Night Debrief

OBJECTIVE:

  • To debrief Networking night and to provide support to students developing skills in follow-up and summer planning.

MATERIALS:

Opening Huddle - 15 mins

Goal: Conduct the cohort ritual and mood check.

Feel free to play music to generate energy and set the vibe!

  1. Opening Ritual: Conduct your opening ritual!
  2. Mood Check: Gather the students into a circle (standing or sitting – keep comfort in mind)!

Activity 1 - Debrief - 25 mins

Goal: Students share their experiences about Networking Night.

Facilitate a debrief on Networking Night

Discussion Guide:

  1. How did Networking Night go for you?
  2. Was it a success? What made it a success?
  3. How did our previous sessions help you prepare for it?
  4. Did you secure any connections? 

Share group shoutouts! If you identified a student who was exemplary in networking, share what you saw and recognize them with affirming words and a prize.

Activity 2 - New Connections, Now What? - 10 mins

Goal: Students should email their new connections!

Lead discussion. 

  1. You made a connection, now let’s secure it!
    • Pick a way to follow up: email, send a direct message on social media, phone call, handwritten thank you note, etc.
    • When you see them in person again remain memorable on exposure trips, bring up how you met them during Networking Night
  2. Use the following template to help craft a message: 

It was great to meet you at [name of event]. I had a great time chatting with you about [something you talked about]. I’m really interested in learning more about [insert your college or career interest]—and would love to possibly intern, shadow, or work with your team over the summer. Are there any possible opportunities that I can be considered for?

  1. If your connection(s) doesn’t lead to an opportunity what do you do?
    • Remember them and reconnect on an upcoming exposure trip! 
    • Continue to explore opportunities elsewhere including asking your new contacts if they have any leads in your areas of interest

Remember to celebrate the students for networking

Closing

Ritual:  Feel free to play light background music to generate energy!