Preparing for the Conference Season: The Deeper Side of Networking Brett Bruner Director of Persistence & Retention Fort Hays State University (KS) Re’Shanda Grace-Bridges Director of New Student Programs University of Dayton (OH) NODA Graduate Student Network | Online Network Meeting

Overview of Session Learning Outcomes What is Networking? Why do we Network at Conferences? Brett & Re’Shanda’s Story Turning your Conference Connections into a Network of Colleagues Developing a Network Your Charge in Networking! Closing – Q&A

Learning Outcomes Participants attending this session will: 1.Differentiate between the differences of casual conference connections & the deeper meaning of networking. 2.Identify the benefits of having a network of colleagues in the field of Orientation, Transition, & Retention. 3.Engage in conversation with others looking to build a network of Orientation, Transition, & Retention professional & graduate colleagues.

What is Networking?

Let’s Take it to the Chat Room Take 15 seconds to type down in the chat window, what you think Networking is? Networking (net – work – ing): noun

Why do we Network at Conferences? Politically-correct thing to do Self-serving interests Looking to make professional connections Leadership development Desiring a mentor Common experiences

Brett & Re’Shanda’s Story NODAC 2007 | Dallas, TX

Brett & Re’Shanda’s Story Region IV NODA Board FHSU UD 2015 Annual Conference

Turning your Conference Connections into a Network Be genuine! Say what you’ll do – do what you say! We all want to be polite & welcoming, BUT… 6 degrees of separation 2-way street Pay it forward

Social Media & Networking More than just a Follow or a Like o Read online content o Skype conversations o Conference meet-ups Write down details in-person/follow-up through social media CardMunch app – turns business cards into contacts Again – it’s a 2-way street

Developing a Network 1. Think about these questions: o Are you looking for a network? o If so, what type of a network are you looking for? o Are you ready to start the process of developing your network? If not, no big deal 2. If so, share in chat box & online with #NODAnetworking 3. Meet up with Brett & Re’Shanda at the 2013 Annual Conference in San Antonio on Sunday, Nov. 9:15 p.m. outside the Exhibit Hall

Your Networking Charge! Look at your current Network o Who’s in your circle of people? Those from your grad program? Alumni of program? Those from your Region? Those from the NODA Internship Program? Those from Social Media? o Are you ready to expand your circle of people within your network? If so, how are you going to do so? What actions will you take in San Antonio or elsewhere to expand your Network? Don’t make your circle an exclusive clique o Who is your “go-to” person within your existing network? When was the last time you thanked this person? Recognize & appreciate your network members

Preparing for the Conference Season: The Deeper Side of Networking Brett Bruner Director of Persistence & Retention Fort Hays State University (KS) Re’Shanda Grace-Bridges Director of New Student Programs University of Dayton (OH) NODA Graduate Student Network | Online Network Meeting