The Do’s and Don’ts on How to Succeed in Your First Leadership Program with RSM

Congratulations! You got accepted into one of our Pathways Programs! The RSM Pathways Program is designed to give you, as a university business student, insight into what we're all about, while providing RSM a great opportunity to get to know you better as well! It's a mix of a little business and a lot of fun! But, we understand that for some of you, this is your first exposure to our firm or even experiencing an office setting. So how do you prepare? We figured these helpful tips are a good place to start:

1. DO - Research the company

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It shows us you’re prepared and eager to learn more about us! It also enables you to ask more thought provoking questions during the program, which might make you stand out amongst the crowd.

2. DON'T - Be afraid to ask the tough questions

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We understand this isn’t a one way street. As much as we’re interviewing you during the program, you have to make sure we’re the best fit for you as well! Ask our people, especially our Partners, those tough questions to get to know us better. 

3. DO - Be confident

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We invited you to our program for a reason! Your personality and skills got you here, and that confidence will enable you to make the most out of your externship.

4. DON'T - Be a wallflower

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Those that get the most out of Pathways are utilizing this time to network. Chat with RSM associates about why they chose to work here. Also, get to know your fellow Pathways participants. You all may be interning together at RSM in the future! 

5. DO - Be engaging

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What you get out of the program will be directly impacted by what you put into it, so be an active participant. Pathways is the springboard for other opportunities at RSM so listen, learn, ask thoughtful questions and network with those around you. They will be able to give you unique insight into life at RSM. 

6. DON'T - Sit on your cell phones

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We know you have your own lives and active social media accounts to keep up with, but it’s only 2 days of your summer!  So when you show up, pay attention and be engaged – and if you do, you might even have some fun! 

7. DO - Come prepared to learn! 

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We don’t expect you to come in and know EVERYTHING. Just come ready to be engaged and eager to intake as much information as possible!

8. DON'T - Just follow the crowd

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We understand your parents, mentors and friends all have your best interest in mind when it comes to your future. Stay true to yourself and make sure when you’re going through different programs, you are making your own decision and accepting the offer that is the best fit for YOU – and hopefully that’s with us! 

9. DO - Be yourself! 

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Your unique skills, talents and personality are what make you stand out. At RSM, we value you as an individual so don’t be afraid to show us who you truly are!

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