Ninety-one UW-Whitewater students attended a Lightning Round speed-interviewing session and resume review event Feb. 22 to get insight on their interview skills and to get feedback on their resumes.

The Business Marketing Association hosted 138 students and more than 20 businesses at the event.

“With over 600 handshakes during the night, there were well over 20 companies represented,” junior Mara Pagel said. “The companies ranged from Manpower, Johnson Controls and other smaller marketing firms.”

At the event, students met with BMA members who gave them feedback and tips, and reviewed their resumes.

“[Students] interview with business professionals who do the hiring at their workplace,” said junior Alysondra Milano. “Then they give you a few points to improve on during your interview.”

The members of BMA also look over your resume and give you feedback on how to make it stand out. On top of all of this, the networking you do while you are there is a major benefit to students, Milano said.

Students were told that after the event they would be six steps ahead of the competition while job searching.

“I highly suggest this event to other students,” Pagel said. “Students should attend events like this because as you graduate college, you will run into competition.  If you are prepared and already have a network of professionals, they can assist you with recommendations and maybe offer you a job.”

According to Milano, knowledge of social media sites pays off in the public relations world.

LinkedIn, a social networking site where one can upload their resume and work experiences for potential employers, is one of the most important sites to have, Milano said.

Milano said Twitter is also an important site to be familiar with along with running a blog.

Pagel said getting your name out on the web increases your odds of catching employers’ attention.

“One marketing professional said to litter yourself on the Internet in a positive and intelligent way,” Pagel said.

According to Pagel, Professor Ann Knabe hopes to develop an event similar to the speed-interviewing event this fall to help students position themselves for success through networking.