Making a Lasting Impression

How does one go about making a lasting good impression on professionals?

Contacting (see samples at bottom)
1. Email
  1. Often the most frequently checked
  2. Easiest for keeping tabs on meeting times and meeting topics
2. Format (this is negotiable and can vary)
  1. A google search on proper format can yield good results
3. What to do when no one responds (after a week or two)
  1. Email again
  2. Find out if the person has a secretary you can call/email and schedule with
  3. Go to office hours (if they aren’t being used for other students) (for WUSTL faculty)
Meeting
1. Be prepared
  1. Know exactly what you want to ask and what information you want
  2. Know the individual’s background and where exactly it applies to your project and needs
  3. Arrive at least 10 minutes early
    1. Give yourself plenty of time to locate the correct meeting place
    2. Also allows time for any last-minute changes to your info and meeting.
2. Be informed
  1. Do your best to understand the background knowledge supporting your question
3. Good etiquette
  1. In all things, be respectful and humble
    1. Short, to the point
  2. Be courteous of their time
  3. Again, never show up late
Enduring
1. Key to good relationships is good communication
  1. They need to understand you, your project, your goals, and your limitations
2. Follow up with all emails within 24 hours
3. Be accommodating of their schedules
4. Send a thank-you email or note

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

WashU Chapter