The popularity of online work applications is growing, meaning a loss of face to face interaction with employers.

The Career Services put on a mixer last Thursday to help students learn how to network with employers when they have in-person interviews.

The event started with a brief discussion on the importance of networking, tips on how to create lasting connections with employers and other business professionals.

John Hernandez, executive director of the Central California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, gave the presentation.

“Networking is about helping people make connections with others,” Hernandez said. “The first thing you should do is look at yourself in a mirror and see how you come across when you introduce yourself, so then you can see how others see you.”

Hernandez said it’s important to network, because it’s an effective way to get hired.

“If you build a strong relationship with others, they can help you develop personal referrals,” Hernandez said. “That way you are not afraid to ask them for letters of recommendation for a job.”

Another helpful tip Hernandez shared was that a networking opportunity could arise anywhere: events, career fairs and the classroom. Job seekers should always be ready to always meet people and develop interpersonal relationships.

He also recommends talking to the “little guy” at events because even if they are not the head of the company, they can still be a useful connection and help you break the ice when talking to the employer.

Hernandez suggested that people create a 30-second commercial about themselves, their skills and interests. This provides people with an introduction that incorporates what they have to offer to contacts and possible employers.

“The most beneficial tip is to show genuine interest in others, because that is what networking is all about,” Hernandez said. “It is about building relationships, because they can help you reach success in your own career.”

Career Development Counselor Adrian Ramirez helped to create the mixer and to bring Hernandez and other employers to the event.

“The idea for the mixer came from a brainstorm session the office has every year,” Ramirez said. “This event was a way for students to learn, interact and engage with employers in a safe environment so that they can come out of their shell.”

After the speech, students were sent out in the lobby to mingle with representatives from companies such as Farm Credit West and Enterprise Rent-A-Car.

Accounting major Larry Rosas had a favorite tip from the presentation that he got to put to use during the mixer.

“You have to be out there and let yourself be known,” Rosas said. “You have to be able to conference with people.”

Art major Kelly Rouska, attended the event to prepare for her upcoming graduation.

“I graduate this semester, and I need to know how to interact better with people. This event was informative and had a lot of information,” Rouska said.

“The best tip was to respect the person’s time, because talking too long to someone could create an awkward conversation.”