For years, SHRM has been dedicated to attracting, cultivating, and empowering the next generation of HR leaders. Young and emerging professionals should be aware of both internal and external learning and development opportunities; how to leverage their network for career advancement; and how to build a personal brand to gain credibility.
Claire Stroh, senior talent acquisition business partner at Dallas-based ATI Materials and former member of SHRM’s Emerging Professional Advisory Council, will share ways to advance your career as an emerging HR professional on March 25 at SHRM Talent 2025. The session is open to both registered in-person attendees in Nashville and to registered remote attendees.
Stroh briefly discussed her upcoming session with SHRM.
SHRM: Why is networking so important for those just starting their careers?
Stroh: People have to know you, and you have to be findable and visible for them to be able to tell you about opportunities, other contacts they have, offer advice, etc. Opportunities rarely fall from the sky into our laps. Opportunities come from people!
Remember, you can network anywhere. Be positive, friendly, and optimistic. You could be making someone’s day by smiling and saying hello.
Volunteer for your local community organization? Take your kids to day care or dog to day care/boarding? Keep seeing the same person in your local grocery store? Say hello and introduce yourself.
People will remember that you made an effort to introduce yourself and get to know them. You never know who knows who. Plus, networking will then get easier and easier in more professional settings.
SHRM: What are some steps for building a personal brand?
Stroh: Similar to most major companies or celebrities, building a brand is one of the most important aspects of excelling in the workplace and advancing your career. First, think about the special skills and strengths you have. How would friends, family, or co-workers describe you? How would you describe yourself?
Then, you build your brand over time by showcasing those strengths through communication and behavior. Always communicate and behave in a way that feels authentic to you and that you’re proud of. Your brand makes you memorable and helps you attract opportunities because your network will know what you’re good at and interested in.
SHRM: What can attendees expect to take away from your session?
Stroh: This session is all about practical insights that attendees can put into practice immediately. This includes tips for breaking into the HR job market, making the most of your first role, setting yourself apart, and networking. Everything I share during my session I’ve tried and used myself for career success, so I know it works.
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