Contributed by Sumer Roberts | North Dakota State College of Science, ND
While navigating today’s competitive professional landscape, the ability to cultivate meaningful relationships and establish a network of industry contacts is invaluable. For students passionate about business, marketing, finance and entrepreneurship, DECA provides a powerful platform for building a professional network. Through my experience with DECA, I have gained the tools, skills and connections to help me thrive in my future career!
Below are a few tips on building a meaningful, long-lasting professional network.
1. Networking with Industry Professionals
A key benefit of DECA is connecting with business leaders and professionals. You can build these connections through DECA conferences and events that feature industry experts who provide workshops, presentations and networking sessions. These events allow students to engage with professionals in fields they are interested in. By attending these events, students can gain first-hand knowledge of the industry and establish relationships that will last a lifetime.
2. Building Relationships with Like-Minded Peers
Networking through DECA isn’t just about connecting with professionals but also about befriending other ambitious students with similar career interests. By competing in DECA competitions, students collaborate on projects that enhance their leadership, communication and problem-solving skills. These interactions create a sense of unity and trust among students who could become valuable colleagues in their future careers.
3. Mentorship Opportunities
DECA provides numerous mentorship opportunities to students. These can be pivotal for students looking to grow their professional network. DECA advisors, mentors and alumni serve as a valuable resource for career guidance, advice and insight. Another benefit of DECA mentorships is the personalized feedback and direction given to students, which helps them make more informed decisions about their career paths.
4. Access to Job Opportunities
DECA is an amazing resource for students seeking internships and full-time positions. Many companies partner with DECA to recruit top talent for internships and job openings. Along with this, DECA members have exclusive access to career fairs and recruitment events which gives students the opportunity to meet with professionals from top organizations. Networking with these companies can is extremely important because it might lead to internship offers and job placements.
5. Showcasing Your Skills and Building Your Personal Brand
By participating in DECA competitions, students must present business ideas, solve real-world problems and showcase their entrepreneurial projects. This is an excellent opportunity to build and showcase your ideas and personal brand to a broader audience. Industry professionals and potential employers often attend these events. Students can position themselves as confident, skilled professionals ready to enter the workforce by excelling in DECA competitions and engaging with others in the community.
