The following are career-related events that have been successful for Duke Clubs around the world.  To discuss the possibility of coordinating or hosting a career/networking event, please contact your local club president.  Please keep in mind that all clubs are unique and certain events may or may not work in your area.

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This page is a work-in-progress.  If your club has hosted a successful career event, please let us know so that we may market your success!

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Key points to keep in mind for any club event:

• Always provide nametags and encourage attendees to wear them.
• Make sure event space is clearly designated, especially when at a bar or other public space (try to reserve a section or private room).  This will foster a feeling of inclusiveness and allay any concerns attendees may have about mingling with strangers (it will be clear that everyone there has something in common).
• Make sure volunteers are on-hand to make introductions, encourage and foster mingling, and greet all attendees.
  

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Networking Events - Networking events can range from formal to informal depending on the location and amenities provided. Clubs also have the option of charging a registration fee, which may increase commitment to and attendance at the event.  Types of networking events can include, but are not limited to:

• Speed networking - a more structured networking event where each attendee spends a short amount of time with every attendee at the event.  Speed networking must be moderated by a group leader to ensure the event flows smoothly.
• Informal networking - an informal networking event has minimal structure and encourages attendees to mingle freely amongst one another.  Informal networking events can be held in boardrooms or bars, depending on the desired level of formality.  It is recommended that a group leader begin the event with a few words of welcome or advice.  Most club events are informal networking events, and it is up to the club leadership to set the tone and encourage mingling amongst guests.
• Formal networking - formal networking events are typically oriented toward a particular career field or area of interest.  We recommend requiring pre-registration and distributing the list of attendees to all registrants in advance.  Color-coded nametags (or another clear indicator) are recommended so that attendees may easily tell a person's interests/career field.   
  

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Informational Events - Informational events can be held on a variety of topics, from horizontal (resume, networking, or interviewing tips) to vertical (advice on a particular career field; the current state of an industry).  Below are commonly held informational events.

• Panels - panels often consist of 3-6 speakers who share advice about a common theme.  These speakers do not need to be in the same field, as it is sometimes beneficial to demonstrate the different facets of a topic with a variety of panelists.  Panels should be moderated by someone comfortable with fielding questions and directing a conversation.  Effective panels allow time for question-and-answer from the audience, and can be held in conjunction with a networking event.  
• Presentations - presentations can be held on any topic, and typically involve 1-2 presenters who share very detailed advice or tips on that topic.  PowerPoints or other multimedia are often used, and these events are best held in boardrooms or classrooms. 
  
• Resume Reviews - one way to hold a resume review is to enlist the help of someone who sees hundreds of resumes, such as an HR professional or career coach, and who can give tips on what makes a resume stand out.  We highly recommend that a schedule is set up allowing alumni to sign up for a specific time slot with the professional.  

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Other Events - Be creative!  The events listed here are simply suggestions; the DAA highly encourages clubs to think outside of the box and plan events that appeal to them.  Other types of career events include:

• Focus Meals - focus meals can take place during breakfast, lunch, or dinner, depending on the availability of participants.  Focus meals typically center on one topic or career field, usually showcasing a particular alum who has found success in that field.  A focus meal allows a small group of alumni (5-10) to really get to know and network with a fellow alum successful in their field of interest.
• Career Fairs - career fairs consist of a group of potential employers gathered together to advertise open positions or recruit for their companies.  Career fairs are fairly work-intensive events.