Next Gen Networking: Building Job Search Confidence and Connections

This fall, the Office of Career Success at the Isenberg School of Management and the Career & Professional Development course in the Business Communication Program hosted their second Next Gen Networking event. With over 60 alumni and employer representatives on hand in the Berthiaume Business Innovation Hub on October 24, students had the opportunity to practice introducing themselves and asking questions from a list of sample prompts to build confidence in a professional setting.

In today’s competitive job market, employers expect candidates to bring strong soft skills—such as professional networking etiquette—to the table, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). Bob Bowse, senior lecturer II and director of Isenberg’s Business Communication Program, underscored just how critical these skills are for landing a position.

Through this event, students gain firsthand experience in verbal and non-verbal communication, active listening, and professional etiquette—skills that help applicants perform well in interviews, internships, and beyond.

Not only does Next Gen Networking support students in developing soft skills, but it also helps to build relationships with mentors. It is increasingly important to help students build confidence in speaking about themselves and learning to have professional conversations, according to Holly Lawrence, assistant dean, Office of Career Success & senior lecturer II at Isenberg. She expressed gratitude for the school community and shared the importance of its support in building a network of mentors.

“We are thankful to have so many loyal Isenberg alumni who are willing to return to campus and help our sophomores develop the skills we know they need in the workplace,” Lawrence said. “We really couldn’t undertake this initiative without their support.”

Kamila Velez, a sophomore operations and information management major, appreciated hearing about the transition from Isenberg into the workforce from those who had previously been in her shoes.

“I found that the NextGen Networking event provided me with a great opportunity to connect with alumni in fields that interest me, as well as learning about new possibilities for me after graduation,” she said.

Sophomore finance major Devishi Jain agreed.

“I really appreciated the diverse range of professionals I had the opportunity to connect with, from alumni and faculty to employers,” said Jain. “The NextGen Networking event provided a welcoming environment where I could strengthen my networking skills, gain confidence in engaging with professionals, and learn from the valuable insights and advice they shared.”

Isenberg alumni interested in becoming a career ambassador for the Office of Career Success can apply by visiting this link.