Networking for success!

Renowned companies from various industries presented themselves at the International Business Fair (IBF), which took place on March 19th at the Reutlingen City Hall and online on March 20th.The event was an opportunity for all students of ESB Business School to meet and network with potential employers and explore internship, thesis, or entry-level job prospects. The students also had the chance to participate in one-on-one interviews with company representatives to gather more information or attend company presentations. 

"It is difficult for students who don't have the network to find internships or student positions. Therefore, the IBF is a valuable opportunity to get to know companies, connect with them, and receive direct information about the job market ", says Vanella, a student in the BSc International Business programme.

The International Business Fair was also an excellent chance for the students to gain new information about the industry and valuable insights for career advancement: "I've discovered many new companies that I didn't know about but whose sector interests me a lot. I've also learned new things, like the fact that it's possible to get scholarships. "Says Sofia, a student in the BSc International Business programme. In addition, engaging in such events enables students to acclimate to business practices and refine their interpersonal skills. Therefore, they learn how to approach and communicate effectively with companies.

Moreover, the IBF allows companies to engage with aspiring students, fostering meaningful interactions and creating pathways for future collaboration and talent acquisition. "It is an excellent place for us to meet prospective candidates and to see from which backgrounds those students come, which experience they bring, and also what they are interested in, "says Isabelle Schmidt, a senior consultant at IBM Germany.

Some of the company representatives were ESB alumni themselves. Their participation served as a testament to the excellence of ESB training and to the strength of the ESB Spirit. Sharing their professional journeys and insights inspired current students to aim high and pursue their career aspirations with vigor. Ann-Catrin Wagner, who graduated from the MSc International Business Developpement (IBD) and is now a member of the Mercedes-Benz Management Consulting team, says, "The ESB Spirit is very strong. It is still the international vibe that I loved about ESB. That's why it is always nice to be back."

The ESB Firmenforum was organised by the Career Center of ESB Business School with the assistance of a dedicated student team. One of the center's missions is to create the best conditions for an ideal career start for the students. To guarantee that, the ESB Firmenforum, another traditional networking event, will be organised in winter 2024.