It was a personal phone call with Dardis Academy owner Greg Dardis that convinced University of Northern Iowa student Bennet Klostermann, 21, to join the Dardis Classroom to Career internship program. As they discussed the vision for the program and Bennet’s personal aspirations, Bennet knew the Dardis could provide the “story” he needed for his resume and his eventual career in the medical sales field.
Read on to learn more about this Dyersville, Iowa native’s internship experience so far:
What are your long-term career goals?
I look to be very successful this summer, but I really want to take everything out of these next 10 weeks I can and use them to better myself now and for my future. Dardis is giving us a great opportunity, so I would like to use this to my advantage to ensure I can be successful in the upcoming years.
What was the most valuable information you learned in the Dardis Sales Academy?
The Dardis Sales Academy was a tremendous way of being introduced to the company. We went through 40-plus hours of training on communication and image skills. I found this to be very helpful because this is what Greg and the rest of Dardis team does with huge executives and different companies from all around the world. And for me, the communication aspect of the training was very helpful and knowledgeable. It gave us the tools to be successful when approaching a potential client, giving a speech in front of a group or even during an interview with a potential employer.
What are you looking forward to the most with this summer experience?
I’m looking forward to the chance of growing and expanding my network. This is a great opportunity for us as students to really show who we are and what a hard work ethic can do for you.
How has the transition gone from the Academy to selling the Dardis product?
At the Academy, we talked a lot about goals. I set personal goals for myself, because it challenges you to keep going and to keep pushing yourself even when you’re not having the best days. The best thing that has happened to me so far this summer was when I walked into a business doing a complete cold call, and they already knew who I was and wanted to sit down with me and learn more about what Dardis has to offer. It’s a nice feeling because you know that somewhere along the line, I did my job and made a positive impact on someone and they recommended me around town, which is huge in sales.
Do you have a favorite Dardis product?
All of our products here at Dardis are great. Personally however, I really like our jackets/blazers. It’s a great product, and they go with basically everything. If I had one more choice, I would definitely say our neckwear. The ties are second to none and give everything a great look.
What fashion/menswear advice do you plan to share with all of your clients?
Dress for the job you want, not the job you currently have. A first impression is made within the first seven seconds after meeting someone. It’s necessary that a man chooses models, fabrics and colors that compliment his shape and minimize its faults. If you look good, you’re going to feel good.
How do you think your role with Dardis Clothiers will benefit you in the future as you begin your post-college career?
Not only does it give me a story and makes me stand out, but Dardis also gives me the chance to use my past experiences and learn from them. It is teaching me how to be reliable, how to manage my time and giving me the chance to show that I can work hard and work smarter too. The opportunity I have at Dardis is something that will benefit me for a long time to come, which I am truly appreciative for.