presentation skills

May 29
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3 Ways to Overcome the Communication Shortfall

By | Career Advice | No Comments

The newest entrants to the business world, the millennial generation, are most comfortable communicating through texts and social media channels. But in the business world, all professionals need to effectively communicate in person, beginning with interviewing and landing the job and on to managing the day-to-day grind.

Eighty-nine percent of employers say they want colleges to place more emphasis on oral and written communication to help address this gap, according to a study by the Association of American Colleges & Universities.

You can take steps now as a college student to use the opportunities available to you to ramp up your communication skills in preparation for your career. To overcome the communication shortfall, start by:

Learning proper etiquette

Communication isn’t only verbal. Employers look for candidates that actively listen and maintain eye contact through a conversation. Use your classes as a practice field for honing these important skills, and learn how to ask smart questions.

In our digital world, it’s crucial to craft professional emails and respond succinctly. You also need exposure to proper meeting etiquette. Shadow a business member in your local community and sit in on a group meeting. Watch how the participants engage with each other and respond to any issues that may arise.

Learning how to present

Proper presentation techniques can mean the difference between a worthwhile opportunity and a period of time that each member of the audience wishes they could get back. Intentionally prepare for each class presentation – know the material, speak slowly and focus on the audience – to set the foundation for future business presentations.

Take an intro class on how to develop PowerPoint or Prezi presentations for a corporate audience and also read up on tips for hosting online webinars and conference calls. New grads lack this type of business prowess, so you will differentiate yourself in the interviewing process and impress your new boss on day one.

Learning how to sell

One of the key ways to overcome the communication shortfall is to learn how to sell an idea, a project and most importantly, yourself. You bring skills and expertise to everything you do, and beginning with your interview, you need to learn how to showcase what you have to offer in order to succeed.

Engaging, dynamic professionals stand out in one-to-one conversations, as well as large industry events. Rehearse your elevator speech, learn something new every day and look to each interaction as an opportunity to clearly articulate the impact you can make. Selling takes confidence and beginning with your college experience, you can develop the selling skills that employers will notice.

May 30
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Dardis Academy: The Solid Foundation for Career Success

By | The Dardis difference | No Comments

As many college students turned in their final projects and exams to mark the end of the semester, another set of students hit the classroom once again even after their exams were complete. Nearly 175 students participated in the two Dardis Academy training sessions in May held in Chicago and Des Moines. Designed as an application-based, skills-drive training, this one-week intensive course prepares students for the upcoming Dardis Classroom to Career internship program and beyond.

Dardis1While thousands of young people enter the workforce every year, research shows that most college grads do not possess the skills that companies look for in candidates. A National Association of Colleges and Employers survey of more than 200 employers shows that the vast majority of employers look for candidates who are team players, problem solvers and can plan, organize and prioritize their work.  It’s the soft skills – not the textbook knowledge – that really sets candidates apart, which is what we focus on in the Academy.

We tailor the Academy based on these effective adult learning methods:

  • Interactive coaching from professional instructors
  • Strong role modeling
  • Individual practice against real-world challenges

“During the Academy, we had extensive training on presentation skills and selling techniques. I learned a lot about how I present myself, and this has already helped me outside of the internship when I’m making presentations for class, as well as talking to people in a business setting.”
– Jon S., 2012 Dardis Academy Graduate, University of Iowa

Students receive more than $6,000 worth of executive training from seasoned business professional focused on crucial topics such as:Dardis3

  • Presentation skills
  • Professional image skills
  • Selling techniques
  • Closing and negotiation skills
  • Business etiquette
  • Telephone/voicemail/email etiquette
  • Overcoming objections and handling questions
  • Product features and benefits
  • Time and territory management

Armed with these practical skills, students are prepared to succeed in our summer internship program and, most importantly, in their careers as they use their business and sales skills to first get the job and then excel in their future positions.

Feb 21
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Dardis Key to Success: Presentation Skills

By | The Dardis difference | No Comments

In part three of our Dardis keys to success series, we highlight the importance of presentation skills. This core component of the Dardis Academy training ensures that our interns feel educated and confident to present the Dardis product to prospective clients and then handle questions and overcome objections, if needed. Solid presentation skills strongly contribute to a successful career – knowing how to effectively communicate your key messages to your target audience, whether in a conference room or a large meeting room, earns you credibility and buy-in.

An effective presentation is more than a flashy PowerPoint. Oftentimes, crowded slides and over-the-top graphics actually distract your audience, so instead, focus on your content and your delivery, no matter what presentation format you follow.  As a presenter, you have to win over your audience and draw them into your message to really make an impact. When our interns present to business professionals in their community, they have the opportunity to practice their delivery and discover what works and what doesn’t. These firsthand experiences pave the way for quality, well-organized presentations in their future careers.

For practical ideas on how to nail a presentation in the first 60 seconds, check out this LinkedIn blog post that recommends you:

  • Plan your opening in advance: You should know exactly how you are going to open your speech. Look for ways to signal that you are a person with a valuable message to share.
  • Prepare the room in advance: If you like to move around, give yourself room to move, and you need an aid like a clicker, make sure it’s easy to access. The worst thing you can do is to step in front and start fumbling around.
  • Expect the unexpected: No matter what happens, your role is to remain calm and composed. If you do this, you will win over the room.
  • Be immediately interesting: Even if you have housekeeping notes or details to go over with the audience, don’t start with these. First, build a rapport and demonstrate that you are both in control and worth their attention.
  • Use terror to your advantage: As part of your planned opening, say something that either acknowledges your anxiety or makes it seem like good acting.

Equipped with executive-level training experience from Dardis Academy, Dardis interns have the tools to deliver the high-quality, captivating presentations that will move business – and their careers – forward.

Photo credit: World Travel & Tourism Council via Flickr

Jan 24
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Recruitment Manager Spotlight: Lisa DeMar

By | Someone you should know | No Comments

Recruitment Manager Lisa DeMar spreads the message about Dardis Academy in the state of Michigan, showing students that the Classroom to Career internship program provides the tools, training and real world experience to succeed in all areas of life. In our latest Recruitment Manager Spotlight, she explains why Dardis Academy is on the cutting edge:

Why should students spend time now focusing on their future careers?
It is so important for students to take full advantage of every opportunity they can during their college career to better themselves for their first steps into the real world. If they don’t take advantage of it, the student next to them will!

What is the greatest benefit of the Dardis Classroom to Career internship program?
The competitive advantage the student gains in multiple facets of life. They will walk away with excellent communication and presentation tools that will benefit them in many areas of their life, as well as the confidence of knowing that they have taken that extra step toward a successful future.

In one word, what’s Dardis all about?
Cutting edge. (Well, I guess that’s two!)

What is one piece of career advice you give to college students?
As you enter the workforce, know that there are hundreds of other equally qualified graduates vying for that same entry level job with the same tenacity. Knowing you have taken those extra steps to better yourself and your resume will give you the confidence in the interview process to stand out. The applicant who cannot articulate why they are the better candidate in the interview will not be getting the job offer!

What can interns expect to learn in the Dardis Academy?
In the Dardis Academy, the student will gain essential communication skills to succeed in life. Whether the student has modest or extravagant future goals, having the necessary skills in communication, presentation and professional image will give that student the confidence to succeed!

Why are you passionate about the Dardis mission?
Dardis has given students, at such a critical time in their lives, the opportunity to develop and attain high level communication skills and self-management tools. Obtaining these skills and having the ability to apply them in a real-world setting is crucial for overall success in life.

How can students contact you for more information?
Students in in the great state of Michigan can learn more about this exceptional opportunity by contacting me at Lisa@dardisinc.com or calling 269-330-3271.

Jan 17
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Your Dardis Academy Quick Reference Guide

By | The Dardis difference | No Comments

At Dardis Academy, we’ve seen our internship program grow because of our passionate Recruitment Managers, our social media presence and our biggest advocates – the interns themselves! The testimonials from students, parents and professionals prove that the skills and experience that make up this unique internship program are invaluable for any career path.

You can always learn about the Dardis mission via our website, but if you’re new to Dardis Academy or a longtime friend, here is a quick reference guide describing the Dardis difference.

What is the Classroom to Career program?
Our internship program includes a week-long executive-level training program followed by 12 weeks in the student’s hometown selling quality professional clothing from Dardis Clothiers. Students manage their own schedule, approach prospective customers and deliver presentations highlighting our products features and benefits before asking for the business and gaining referrals. This real world business experience gives students the competitive advantage in the job market.

Why clothes?
Image in the workplace is key to success. Through Dardis Communications training courses, the Dardis team identified the opportunity to help men that don’t like to shop but want and need to look good.

Do I get paid?
Yes! Students have the opportunity to directly impact the amount of money they earn based on the work they put forth during the summer working with clients. High-performing interns also have a chance to win a trip to Mexico!

Why is training a part of the program?
The Dardis Academy is designed to provide students with the skills they will need to be successful in life and business, as well as a platform in which to apply the skills they’ve learned.  For one week, students are trained in various courses by corporate executives and sales managers who have put into practice everything they teach.  Courses include presentation skills, professional image, sales training, product knowledge, success principles, time and territory management, business ethics, financial strategy and safety.

How do I apply? When is the deadline?
Students can complete the simple application online. The priority application deadline is May 1, but don’t delay, spots fill up fast!

For more frequently asked questions, visit www.dardisacademy.com/faq/.

Photo credit: shutterhacks via Flickr

Contact Dardis today to learn more. Contact Us