A local consortium comprised of regional college and university career centers, along with the Iowa City Area Development Group and the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, are hosting a “mocktail reception” from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 13, at the Kirkwood Center. The “mocktail reception” is a private function and will include employers looking to hire in the near to immediate future as well as up to a hundred students.
“Networking is such a vital process of the career search,” said RJ Holmes-Leopold, chair of the Higher Education Connection and Director of the Career Engagement Center at Cornell College. “This event will help college seniors from throughout the Corridor practice their networking skills and learn about the exciting opportunities we have here.”
Many of the Higher Education Connection members will work with students ahead of time on etiquette, conversation topics, appearance, and networking dos and don’ts, including simple things like the importance of bringing business cards. According to Diana Patten, Director of Career Services and Internships at Coe College, this event may be the first time a student has interacted with a potential employer in an informal setting.
“Many of these students know what to do across a desk in an interview, but it’s different with a cup of coffee and a plate of food,” said Patten. “This certainly will be an educational experience, and we’re excited for our future graduates to meet with local companies.”
As part of ongoing workforce development strategies, the Iowa City Area Development Group and the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance partner with the Higher Education Connection to provide perspective from the local human resources community. “This partnership was created to keep educated youth here in the Corridor,” said DaLayne Williamson, ICAD Group Workforce Business Services Director. “Our employers appreciate the direct connection with career centers and hearing firsthand from college students and potential applicants.”
The Higher Education Connection is comprised of colleges, universities, and education centers including Coe College, Cornell College, Kirkwood Community College, Mt. Mercy University, University of Iowa, Kaplan University, and ITT Technical Institute. The organization hosts events throughout the year to connect employers, students and the community. Event topics have ranged from internships and career placement tips to hiring international students and brain drain.