Soft Skills III: Networking for Professional Success

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There is more to networking than meeting people at events, exchanging business cards and getting connected via LinkedIn. Networking is about building relationships that last and create value for both parties. There is a myth that only extroverts are good at networking. While that may seem like the case, one thing is clear – people with a strong network have better professional and personal lives. More than 70% of the jobs are filled through networks – only 15% through job boards. A great network is essential for your career progression. “You are only as good as your network” is the calling of our times. There are numerous studies supporting the assertion that strategic networking leads to significant success in many facets of life.

This interactive workshop will guide you on how to:

• Increase your influence, understand what goes behind the scenes, and close deals.

• Leverage strategic networking toward career success and job satisfaction.

• Network to perform your current job at the next level, enable your team, and provide support to your management.

Our facilitator, a master networking professional, will share proactive networking strategies, best practices and first-hand accounts.

Facilitator:

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Sophia Velastegui
Head of Silicon/Architecture Roadmap
Nest Labs (subsidiary of Alphabet, Inc)

Sophia Velastegui is the Head of Silicon/Architecture Roadmap of Nest and under her leadership, Nest has created and grown it's product architecture and silicon solutions recognized for defining the IoT market. Sophia has proven technical and global business expertise combined with a passion for innovation. She is responsible for product vision and strategy across Nest product lines. Sophia has been a driving force in executing the vision for Nest, and spearheading key strategic initiatives across Alphabet to drive disruption in the market.

Over the course of her career in technology, Sophia has held various Senior Product Management and Engineering positions in Apple, Applied Materials, and startups. She has envisioned, designed, and developed market-leading products.

She is a member of the board of directors for Elwyn California, leading service provider for people with significantly disabilities. Sophia holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech, and a Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials from University of CA at Berkeley.