By Bruce Frankel

There is no doubt about it, Kernersville is growing. It is becoming a place that young people are settling in after college. A place they want to stay to do business, build their network, and call home.

The average age in 2014 was 39.6 years old, down from 40.9 years old in 2013. No doubt the average age will continue to drop. Those that are recently out of college or in their first decade in their career are building business, growing business, and seeking a place to do business. They are commonly referred to as Young Professionals.

With the growth in our community, there is plenty to do in Kernersville. Seeking out a more laid back environment so that those that are new to careers can feel comfortable and connect to others who are in similar positions; Young Professionals are constantly building their network.
Building your network can be done through a sports league, a professional group, or a casual opportunity to meet others. Always looking for ways to get involved in the community, a Young Professional’s Network can be just what works.

There are many that want to give advice to those that are growing their career. Here are a few fun tips that anyone could benefit from:

• You do not need all the answers–keep asking questions. A great first question to ask yourself is: What is something new I can learn right now?
• Lack of action may be your only failure. Everything else is trial and error.
• Under-promise. Over-deliver.
• Those that seem to “break-through” do most of their work before anyone else starts.
• To stand out to older business associates, ask about their own career path. You may also learn a thing or two.
• Dropbox. Learn it and love it.
• Research the company you would like to join before interviewing with your prospective employer.
• Bring a lunch to work. It is healthier and cheaper than eating out.
• Know the difference between a Roth IRA and Traditional IRA.
• The ability to follow through on assignments can take you from newbie to essential team member.
• The less you write, the tighter the message. The less you talk, the stronger the speech.
• Negotiate your salary.
• Thank you notes are still very effective, do not be too busy to write one.
• Seeking out extracurricular activities does not have to mean you have not moved on from college, it means you are building your network.
• Understand the pay-stub that accompanies your paycheck.
• Take LinkedIn seriously.
• Multi-tasking is great, but some moments require your undivided attention.
• If you are waiting for someone to give you direction, have a seat. You will be there a while.
• Everyone likes to receive praise, but the smartest young adults actively seek constructive criticism.
• A cover letter should add color and personality. It should not summarize your resume.

The Kernersville Chamber of Commerce has recently started a Young Professionals Network. This is made up of an Advisory Board that consists of 16 members. The group hosts events and opportunities, focusing on businesses in the Chamber that Young Professionals would like to go to on the weekends with their friends and family.
The next Young Professionals Networking event is March 15 from 5 PM-7 PM at 66 Pizzeria.

To find out more about the Young Professionals Network visit their Facebook page, www.facebook.com/KernersvilleYoungProfessionals. Contact Taylor DuBois (taylordubois@kernersvillenc.com) at the Kernersville Chamber of Commerce with any questions or to learn more.