Building confidence through connection

At Central Michigan University, professional growth doesn’t just happen in the classroom. This fall, students put their networking skills to the test at the Mocktail Mixer and Etiquette Dinner, hosted by the Career Development Center.

The evening gave students the chance to practice real-world business etiquette—learning how to confidently introduce themselves, start conversations, and connect with employers in a professional setting.

Anna Flanders, Assistant Director of Career Development and Liaison for the Colleges of Health Professions, Science and Engineering, said the event was designed to help students strengthen a skill set that many are eager to build.

“Students reached out with difficulty navigating happy hours after COVID and connecting with employers outside of the office,” Flanders said. “It’s nice to hear from someone involved within the industry in a professional setting—to hear about their experience and learn professionalism and etiquette.”

From mocktails to multi-course dining, students gained practical insight into how to carry themselves at professional events and company meals.

“Events like this help students understand how to interact and network in a professional setting,” Flanders said. “Those skills matter—whether it’s at a job interview, a company luncheon, or a networking event.”

Employer guests, including Bill Stec, Manager of Recruitment and Campus Relations for Yeo & Yeo, offered advice on how to make strong first impressions.

“Students need to focus on building their brand and those professional connections—no matter their major,” Stec said. “In the companies they’ll be working for, there’s going to be breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Learning business etiquette is extremely important.”

The Mocktail Mixer and Etiquette Dinner is one of several programs offered through the Career Development Center that help CMU students prepare for success after graduation.

“Networking can feel intimidating,” Flanders said. “But with practice, students learn that these moments are opportunities—to connect, to listen, and to represent themselves well.”

 At CMU, students are not only learning how to build their careers—they’re learning how to carry themselves with confidence, wherever their future takes them.