Saturday 28th February, 2009

Twenty-two BVI students participated in the 3rd Annual Professional Development Seminar hosted by the London Office at BVI House on 28th February and facilitated by Sarah Setterfield, of Impact 4 Success, a leading UK corporate consultancy firm.

While the first seminar focused on the Legal Profession Act and the second on Financial Services, the third emphasized preparing students for the job market.

“The change in the global economy has had the effect of increasing the competition for a smaller pool of available jobs in both the private and public sectors,” said Director of the London Office, Dawn Smith. “We, therefore, felt that a seminar which would help students nail their job interviews and make the best impression on potential employers would be of particular benefit this year.”

The topics Ms. Setterfield addressed ranged from the professional importance of making a positive first impression to being able to convey one’s value to an organization quickly and concisely. Other topics covered included body language and good etiquette, developing charisma, the key elements of personal image and impact, winning friends and influencing people, and dress codes.

“Politicians use what they wear all the time depending on the different situations they find themselves in and the message they wish to convey,” said Ms. Setterfield. “It’s just one of the many things job seekers can also utilize to give themselves the edge.”

Students who attended came from as far away as Manchester,Lincolshire and Yorkshire.

“I had reservations when I saw the topic but I am glad I attended. The facilitator was 'on point'!!!!” said Suzette Vanterpool, a first year law student Manchester University. “It was very informative,” agreed Kamika Forbes, a student at the City Law School. “Sarah warned us about how people perceive us based on your image and gave us great tips about how we can project ourselves in a positive light.”

“Ms. Setterfield’s presentation was interactive and very high-energy which I think the students enjoyed,” said Ms. Smith. “More importantly, they walked away with a wealth of information that will leave them better prepared to face the challenges of the professional world.”