According to the Accenture 2013 College Graduate Employment Survey, within a month of their commencement, only 16 percent of American graduates had employment opportunities lined up. The business field is competitive, and in today’s job market, a degree is not enough.

 These days a person needs an elevator pitch — what sets them apart from everyone else, according to College of Business Assistant Dean Jody Lindberg.

Forbes magazine stated in a 2013 article, “If you’re looking for a job, one of the first tasks on your to-do list should be crafting an ideal ‘elevator pitch.’ It’s the 30-second speech that summarizes who you are, what you do and why you’d be a perfect candidate.”

NMU is hosting an event that, according to Lindberg, is designed to help students design their elevator pitches. It is an opportunity to not only learn what can be brought to the table, and how to do so, but to meet professionals in the business field.

Students are encouraged to attend this College of Business Speed Interviewing Event at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25.

This event is new to campus this year and will take place in Peter White Lounge in the University Center.

 “It is a great way to connect — to hone your interviewing and communication skills with professionals,” Lindberg said.

According to Lindberg, as students work their way around the room, pitching their elevator statement to business professionals, they already start to get their name out into the field. Speaking with professionals in their field is an opportunity to network and leave an impression.

Lindberg advised that students attending this event should dress for success. Not over the top, but business casual. They should also have several copies of their resume ready for any professional who asks to see more of their experience. But above all, they should consider what skills they have in order to not only be noticed, but be desired. Lindberg also said many business professionals attending this event have hired students and given internships in the past.

“Learning how to interview is very important. First impressions are critical in a job search,” NMU professor Charles Rayhorn said.

The business students on campus have their own expectations when it comes to this event, according to sophomore business major Alison Weber..

“I would like to connect with professionals currently working in the business field. I’m hoping to establish a foundation now that will set me up for success in the business field in the future,” Weber said

There are many opportunities that can be taken advantage of at an event like this, according to Lindberg. Not only is one learning how to create the perfect elevator pitch and deliver it, they are being given the opportunity to do so at the same time.

“The purpose of this event is to help students hone their interviewing skills and be able to convey to an employer why they are uniquely qualified over other applicants,” Lindberg said.

Pizza and beverages will be served. This event is free to students, but must be RSVP’d to by Monday, Sept. 22.  For more information, or to reserve a spot, email [email protected].