In this episode of Professional Launch, host Ricot Aladdin dives deep into the real-world value of networking and relationship-building in early career development. He’s joined by Kurtis Karn, Associate VP of Talent Acquisition at KLJ Engineering, and Alex Cassett, a college intern with a knack for marketing and meaningful connections.
From Kurtis’ journey through pharmaceutical sales to his passion for mentorship and talent strategy, to Alex’s inspiring path from high school competitions to professional internships—this episode is packed with actionable insights and heartfelt moments.
We explore:
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Why the best opportunities often come from relationships, not résumés
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The biggest misconceptions students have about networking
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How to make meaningful connections—even if you’re an introvert
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The magic of mentorship and building your personal board of directors
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How to use LinkedIn (and social media) wisely as a young professional
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Why in-person connections still beat digital handshakes (most of the time)
Whether you're a student, job seeker, or seasoned pro looking to pay it forward, this episode will inspire you to lean into community and connection to unlock new opportunities.
🔗 Plus, learn about the mentoring platform at ProfessionalLaunch.org and how you can get involved.