All posts by Jessica Weinberger

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

Feb 14
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Dardis Key to Success: Professional Image Skills

By | The Dardis difference | No Comments

In the Dardis Academy training course, we stress to our interns the importance of skills like business communication, selling techniques and effective presentations– all things they won’t learn from a textbook. But beyond these practical, career-focused components, we also teach our interns the importance of an often neglected “skill” – maintaining a professional image.

While a professional image won’t land you the job, it can definitely lose you the job. The difference between a professional image and a sloppy look can mean the difference between a promotion and a demotion. Professional image isn’t just about the clothes you wear –it’s a persona that effectively displays your confidence, your expertise and your passion for your work.

By arriving to work (or worse, an interview!) with a crumpled, untucked dress shirt, you portray to your colleagues that you do not value what you do or what you bring to the company.  Conversely, by dressing smartly with a careful attention to fit and detail, you send the message that you are prepared to take on challenges and thrive in an evolving environment. At Dardis, we sell professional apparel for a reason – it matters!

Beyond your physical appearance, you can enhance your professional image by maintaining a professional demeanor at the office and always treating every situation as a worthwhile learning experience.  Your supervisor and your colleagues take note about how you handle challenges with other teammates and how you deal with stress. Don’t let a heated moment or a difficult project break down your professionalism and threaten your career advancement opportunities.

Not sure how to hone your professional image? Start with these recommendations:

  • Be authentic: Potential employers see right through a false exterior. Be genuine in your words and actions.
  • Dress the part: You don’t need a fortune to invest in quality pieces that enhance your appearance and show you’re ready for the job.
  • Find a mentor: Identify a mentor that embodies the professional skills you hope to also portray and look for ways you can develop similar skills.

A professional image takes time and effort to maintain, but by entering the job market with this firm foundation, you will be ready to handle everything that comes your way.

Photo credit: Dell via Flickr

Feb 07
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Dardis Key to Success: Selling and Negotiation Skills

By | The Dardis difference | No Comments

Before our summer interns head to their local communities to begin selling the Dardis product, they complete a week-long, executive-level training program to prepare them for their internship experience and most importantly, their careers. Through this unique opportunity, students learn the real-world skills that they need to succeed with Dardis and beyond. These keys to success range from presentation skills to business etiquette and more.

This month on the Dardis Academy blog, we will feature these keys to success and showcase how these skills will give students the tools they need to succeed in the workplace.

Selling techniques

Sales skills sit at the heart of business. No matter what role you currently serve in or what your career aspirations may be, your work will focus on selling something – a product, an idea or even your skills and experience. At Dardis, our product happens to be professional clothing, and we train our interns thoroughly on our product so they know the detailed features and benefits, as well as the apparel industry and the fashion trends, so that they can serve as experts during the selling process.

This foundation allows them to engage in an effective sale by first listening to the client’s needs and then providing a solution to meet their needs. Effective selling is relational, and we challenge our interns to ask the right questions and work as a partner, not an overbearing sales person. We draw upon years of experience through Dardis Communications training high-level executives to educate our interns on effective selling techniques that will close the deal.

Closing and negotiation skills

To be successful, the right selling techniques must match the right closing and negotiation skills. Very few sales are simple and straightforward, so Dardis interns learn in the Dardis Academy to effectively close their presentation and if needed, navigate through the negotiation process. We train our interns to first recommend the right sale to close the deal, and we also train them to respond to challenges that will undoubtedly arise. Negotiation skills take years to develop, so we encourage interns to see each sale as a learning opportunity, even if they don’t complete the sale.

By giving students the tools they need to successfully sell our quality Dardis attire, they can experience, first-hand, the thrill and challenge of the sales process and prepare themselves for a future career armed with this key to success.

Photo credit: Brenda-Starr via Flickr

Jan 31
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Internship Myths Explained

By | Classroom to Career | No Comments

Internships, especially with Dardis Academy, can serve as a springboard for a successful career. Many celebrities trace their success to their internship experiences, including:

  • Steven Spielberg
    He began an unofficial internship with Universal Studios at age 17, quietly networking with directors. Universal later offered him a seven-year contract.
  • Jodie Foster
    Before she was an Academy Award-winning actress, she took on a summer internship at Esquire in 1982.
  • Tom Hanks
    As a college student in Cleveland, Ohio, he interned for the Great Lakes Theater Festival. The internship led to a three-year tenure that gave him the confidence and theater production experience to launch his acting career.
  • Oprah Winfrey
    Most people know that the popular TV host had humble beginnings at a CBS affiliate in Nashville. Her hard work and passion paid off when she became the first African-American female news anchor.
  • Steve Jobs
    The late computer genius started as an intern at Hewlett-Packard where he met Steve Wozniak and later built the Apple empire.

Each of these famous professionals started with the job title of “intern” and embraced the opportunity to work and learn, a key component of the Dardis mission. Despite these highly-visible internship success stories, many people still struggle to see the value of internships and fall for unproven myths, such as:

Myth: You don’t get paid.
While many internships require students to work unpaid, Dardis interns can achieve financial success through the Classroom to Career program and even win a trip to Mexico!

Myth: You’re just wasting your time.
If you’re making copies from 9 to 5, then yes, you’re wasting your time, but if you’re gaining real-world experience and honing important skills that you’ll use throughout your career, then you’re investing in a meaningful experience that will set you apart after graduation. Dardis’ program is specifically structured to make the most out of your time and give you the skills and experience to succeed.

Myth: I’ll learn what I need to know in college.
The book work, group projects and other skills that you gain during your four years of undergraduate education will always be important, but to jumpstart your career, you need more than a college diploma. Dardis interns learn valuable work and life lessons because they have hands-on experience in the business world, and that’s something no college class can teach you.

Still not convinced of the importance of internships? Read through powerful testimonials from former interns, parents and business professionals and then apply for the 2014 Classroom to Career internship program to disprove the myths yourself. You won’t regret it.

Photo credit:  M.Ryan Photography 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

Jan 10
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Recruitment Manager Spotlight: Bryan Feilen

By | Someone you should know | No Comments

In our first Recruitment Manager Spotlight for 2014, Bryan Feilen describes how the Classroom to Career internship program sets the path to a successful future for students in his territory of Indiana and beyond.

Why should students spend time now focusing on their future careers?
Students should always look to gain a competitive edge, which is pertinent to gaining individual success in the future. You shouldn’t be the student that isn’t participating in anything while your peers are gaining experience.

What is the greatest benefit of the Dardis Classroom to Career internship program?
Students can use the fundamentals we provide through training in every professional avenue. Putting the fundamentals to work through the internship will display their new level of professionalism while networking with executives that they may want to work for after they graduate.  There isn’t a better way to build your professional network than through an internship that puts you in front of the people that will interview you after graduation.

In one word, what’s Dardis all about?
Development.

What is one piece of career advice you give to college students?
Don’t fall victim to complacency. Change in routine, striving for a promotion, trying something new or seeking a new job is exactly what creates success. Lastly, change is constant. Monitor the things around you and make sure they are things, people or groups that will help you move forward. Always strive to move in the direction of success.

What can interns expect to learn in the Dardis Academy?
Students can expect a rigorous week of training. Training isn’t solely focused on our great product, but mostly focused on the fundamentals of being an effective communicator. This is the key to being an outstanding leader and professional.

Why are you passionate about the Dardis mission?
The key components of our mission are the components that create successful individuals. We provide the opportunity to gain independence, confidence, goal setting and self-motivation. These are the attributes of successful individuals. These are the same components I tried to instill in students and student athletes at the high school level as a high school teacher. It’s a blessing to be a part of a company that is striving to instill these same attributes through an internship program.

How can students contact you for more information?
Please don’t hesitate to contact me directly. I’m very passionate about development and look forward to assisting students during this professional journey. My email is bryan@dardisinc.com and phone is 317-306-0524.

Jan 03
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5 New Year’s Resolutions for College Students

By | Career Advice | No Comments

The start of a new year represents an opportunity to begin with a clean slate – both personally and professionally. As we move from one year from the next, we can look back at all we have accomplished and look forward with clear direction, motivation and likely, resolutions.

New Year’s resolutions don’t have to revolve around personal goals like weight loss or repairing broken relationships. As a college student, you have the unique opportunity to start a new year with strategic goals that will greatly enhance your future career. So get out a pen and paper and physically write down three to five resolutions for the upcoming year. By putting your goals onto paper and posting them in a prominent location in your dorm or apartment, you will be more likely to achieve your goals and jumpstart your career.

Not sure where to begin? Here are some suggestions:

Apply for a summer internship
This should be the #1 resolution on your list. Quality internships like Dardis’ Classroom to Career program combine real world experience with executive-level training to give you the skills that employers look for.  Summer is only a few months away, so before you start a new semester, complete our online application.

Enhance your resume
Your resume needs to best reflect your skills and experience as it relates to the specific job you’re applying for. Try reformatting your resume or updating the verbiage to include more active, project-driven information and then have a professional in your school’s career center offer additional feedback.

Improve your online presence
No, your Facebook profile doesn’t count. Create a LinkedIn profile or improve your current profile by adding a recent photo, past work experience and volunteer work. You should also commit to reviewing your privacy settings on other social networking sites to ensure that employers only see the best version of you.

Focus on development
Employers look for well-rounded candidates, so make a resolution to regularly attend career events on and off campus to hone your business communication and networking skills. You could also choose a specific skill like public speaking to work on this year. Don’t forget to also volunteer at worthy organizations to help others while enhancing your resume.

Dream big
It’s a new year. Anything is possible and the only limitations that exist are the ones you place on yourself!

Remember, you don’t have to wait for the ball to drop in Times Square to make goals for your personal life or your career. Reevaluate your progress each month and add resolutions to your list throughout the year to propel yourself toward a successful career.

 

Photo credit: Anthony Quintano via Flickr

Dec 27
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What You Really Need To Know Post-College

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As a college student, there will come a time when you have to close the textbooks, pack up your off-campus apartment and set up shop at a job where your boss will expect you to work hard for your paycheck – everyday. The real world transcends the security of any college campus, challenging you to think differently and apply the skills and concepts you studied for four years. A graduation date will no longer loom in the distance. This is real life, and you have to be ready.

Thousands of young people enter the workforce every year, but research shows that most new college grads do not possess the skills that companies look for in candidates. One survey by the Workforce Solutions Group at St. Louis Community College finds that more than 60 percent of employers say applicants lack “communication and interpersonal skills” — an increase of 10 percentage points in just two years. Many of those managers also say today’s applicants can’t think critically and creatively, solve problems or write well.

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 set you apart from the rest, not only in the interview process but into your career.

While students inherently learn some soft skills as they work through group projects and power through assignments, they need real world experience to complement their diplomas. Valuable internship programs like the Dardis Classroom to Career program teach college students how to succeed in the business world through structured training programs focused on soft skills like communication and presentation skills.  They then give students the opportunity to hone their skills in a true work environment.

Wondering if an internship makes a difference post-college? According to a survey of more than 2,000 college students and 1,000 hiring manages, more than 80 percent of employers want new grads they hire to have completed a formal internship.  Those employers know that internships provide students with the skills they need to succeed and reward those students with career opportunities.

If you’re a current student, continue to study hard but remember that in addition to your book smarts, you’ll need real world skills and experience to succeed. That’s where we come in. Apply today.

Photo credit: mer chau via Flickr

Dec 20
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Executive-level Training Provides the Competitive Edge

By | Someone you should know | No Comments

Professional, skills-driven training through Dardis Academy represents one of the greatest assets of Dardis’ Classroom to Career internship program. This week-long training goes beyond lectures to include customized sessions that involve instructor briefings, student practice, instructor coaching, group feedback and individualized videotape review. We know that students and adults learn best through interactive coaching and individual practice, so our training methodology provides students with instant feedback and the opportunity to observe and measure their progress throughout the training experience.

To create the best learning environment, we ensure our training is:

  • Practical and applicable
  • Interactive and participative
  • 100% linked to the student’s goals and objectives

Students emerge from this valuable experience with the skills they need to succeed in our exciting internship program and in their careers.

But how important is professional training? Just ask Nebraska Recruiting Manager Nick McEvoy. He cites Dardis’ training program as the top benefit for Dardis interns. Read more in our latest Recruitment Manager Spotlight:

What is the greatest benefit of the Dardis Classroom to Career internship program?
Truly the greatest benefit is one week of executive level training. The Dardis Academy is much more than just providing a job – they are providing students with real world skills and experience.

What sets the Dardis internship apart from other internship opportunities?
Our executive level training program. Thousands of executives every year go through our training and development program. Student participants will come out with a competitive edge from their peers after one summer with the Dardis Academy.

Why do you think it’s important for students to gain real life career experience while in college?
Receiving real world experience is massive. It takes real hard work to get ahead in your career, but you can accomplish this while having a lot of fun. It’s crucial to first understand and grasp the importance of real world experience while in college.

What Dardis intern success stories do you share with prospective interns?
We spoke with one of the top sellers this past year at our Great Recruiters Meeting. He loved his Dardis experience. He spoke about his freedom to set his own schedule during the summer as long as he got his work done. He challenged himself while learning to work smart.

In one word, what’s Dardis all about?
Communication.

How can students contact you for more information?
You can contact me by email at nicholas@dardisinc.com or by phone at 402-995-1167.

Contact Dardis today to learn more. Contact Us