Lectures, workshops and training courses

• Where and when do I start networking?
• How to network in a room full of strangers?
• How can I use my network to find out more about interesting job openings?
• What can I offer to my network?

Everyone talks about it and everybody seems to know how to do it. Networking. It is the best way to get detailed information about the job market, job openings and possibilities. But how do you network?

This interactive lecture provides hands-on tips that can help you build an interesting network. The kind of network that can support you in your transition from university into the job market.

Through his lecture:

• You will gain knowledge about the basic principles of professional networking
• You will experience that networking can come as second nature to you
• You get various guidelines and tips on networking
• You will get insight in both general and personal pitfalls, but also on how to avoid these problems
• You will play with your networking style
• You will learn how to define your personal brand

If you are specifically interested in digital networking, sign up for the free lecture Getting the most out of LinkedIn.

Opinions of other students on Networking skills
In 2017, students rated this lecture with an average of 8.0

- "Interactive learning exercises. Practical examples."
- "I got a great insight of how networking is really like and after knowing this I feel better because my fellow students have the same doubts and insecurities as I do."
- "Makes you realise that your network is bigger than you think."

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2 hours (morning or afternoon)

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• Where do I find information about the salary that I can expect?
• Is there anything special in my contract or employment conditions that I have to pay attention to?
• What am I to do if the negotiation fails?
• How do I prepare for the terms-of-employment interview?
• What is expected on my first day at work of me?

Yes, you have made it through all selection rounds!  A new phase starts, one that you are probably less familiar with. What to expect now? With this lecture you prepare yourself well!

In this new lecture you will:

• Get an insight in the negotiation process prior to signing up your contract
• Find out about the general European labour law agreements that would apply to you
• Get referred to online information on salaries and labour law worldwide
• Learn about what to expect at the workplace when you start working there
   

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2 hours (morning or afternoon)

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• How do I extend my network through LinkedIn?
• How do I search for suitable jobs on LinkedIn?
• Which picture do I choose for my profile on LinkedIn?
• Which privacy settings should I mostly be aware of?

Is everyone always talking about LinkedIn and the importance of it? That you miss out on many vacancies and invaluable network opportunities if you do not have an account on LinkedIn? Maybe you would like to make a start with it but there is something holding you back.
This lecture helps you on track to get using LinkedIn your way!

Through this lecture:

• You will get a basic understanding of the LinkedIn-profile, tags, discussion groups, job vacancies, and privacy settings
• Gain knowledge on how to connect to other members and thus increase your own network
• Get insight in the way companies and recruiters review your profile and how they use this information
• Learn how to ensure that other LinkedIn users will easily find you on this network site.

Students’ opinions about Getting the most out of LinkedIn
In 2017, students rated this lecture with an average of 8,1

- "Time well spent. All information was very useful."
- "It is nice that it is interactive, the trainer stimulates the students to share their opinions."
- "Practical take-away, which I can use. Good overview of all key LinkedIn components."
- "I liked the examples that the trainer used to illustrate his points."

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2 hours (morning or afternoon)

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• How do I prepare for my job interview via Skype or phone?
• How can I make a convincing job application video?
• How to write my CV, if the company uses recruitment software for the initial selection?
• Do I need to worry about my digital footprint?

Internet, social media and other technological developments have significantly changed the field of recruitment and the entire job application process. Many things actually change faster than our awareness of it.
Recruiters increasingly use applicant tracking systems, but what does this mean for you as a job applicant?
Through this interactive lecture you will learn about new possibilities and risks. You immediately get started with various tips and tools.

In this lecture:

• You get an up-date about the most important developments in the field of recruitment & job applications.
• You learn how to produce a compelling short job application video, by discussing various tips, tricks and tools.
• You gain knowledge on applicant tracking systems, and on how to write your CV if you know that this software will initially assess your CV.
• You learn how to prepare for a job interview via phone, Skype or Face-time.
• You get more insight in your own digital footprint: its benefits and risks and how to change this footprint.

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2 hours (morning or afternoon)
Preparatory homework

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Studying is supposed to be fun. Okay, sometimes it’s not... acknowledged! But how can you prevent unpleasant surprises and elegantly circumvent known and common pitfalls? In a nutshell: how can you make the best of your time as a student (and what does the best actually stand for?) and during that process even really enjoy your time? 

During this lecture we will dispel some myths about studying, provide a couple of general dos and don’ts and share some precious tips on how to make your academic life fun and worth remembering.

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2 hours (morning or afternoon)

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Everyone can think creatively. So the question is not whether you 'are' creative, but how you can improve creative thinking and how you can break through traditional thinking patterns or conventions. During this interactive lecture you get the chance to discover your creativity and bend it to your will.

We will play with different forms of creative thinking - based on this you will gain insight into how you can give creativity a place in your daily life and what you need to be able to do that.

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 1 meeting of 2 hours (morning or afternoon)

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Do you sometimes have difficulties to deal with challenges of your study? Do you want to get the best out of yourself and perform optimally according to your ability? Then this is the lecture for you!

In this interactive lecture you will learn how to develop a resilient mindset that helps you to deal with challenges and to perform optimally according to your ability.

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 1 meeting of 2 hours (morning or afternoon)

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I am differently-abled because of a health condition:

• I have a disability
• I have a –chronic- illness (e.g., cancer), or I am recovering from one
• I have a health condition (e.g., dyslexia, ADHD, epilepsy, a mental health problem)

… and I will be graduating from Maastricht University!

It can be quite a challenge to enter the labour market and find the job that fits you, potentially even more when you have exceptional needs and abilities due to a health condition. This lecture addresses the challenges specific to finding and applying for a job when you are differently abled because of a physical or mental health condition.

You might ask yourself

• How do I find a job that matches with my personal needs and abilities?
• Should I mention in my application letter or CV that I have dyslexia? What do I have to disclose about my different ability and what not? And when?
• Can I ask for facilities in the application procedure, such as getting more time for the interview? 
• And what about my legal rights regarding employer’s adaptations to the working environment?

If you recognize these questions, this lecture is for you!

In this lecture, you will …

• Gain insight in the job application process.
• Get to recognize your distinguishing talents and competencies as an employee.
• Learn how to identify jobs and employers that fit your needs, abilities and talents.  
• Discover best practices in the application process, and evaluate their suitability to you. 
• Get information about your legal rights and the employer’s obligations with regard to recruiting, hiring and employing differently abled employees.

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 3 hours (morning or afternoon)

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• How do I get insight in what I want and can do?
• How do I distinguish myself from others? In what way do I make a difference?
• Where do I start if I want to know what to do after my study?
• What is my main motivation in my work?

​Do you recognize these questions or do you have more questions? Then this is the workshop for you!

In this workshop:

• You will gain insight into your competencies and your wishes and needs for a future job
• You get a starting point for entering the labour market
• You will make a list of your competences, your most important qualities and your motivation
• You will present this to others in a short conversation
• You will think about yourself and learn what others see in you

Homework
For this workshop you need to do a homework assignment.
You will receive this assignment in the confirmation email as soon as you have registered for the workshop.

Opinions of other students on Discover your competences
In 2017, students rated this workshop with an average of 8.3

- "It is interesting to see how the different parts fit together in the end"
- "Your driving force is a good indication for the sort of work you should look for!"
- "By watching and listening to other students, you will be able to learn more about yourself"
- "This workshop will structure your thoughts and provide you with more insights in what you really want!"

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3 hours (morning or afternoon)
Preparatory homework

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• What kind of questions can I expect during a job interview?
• How do I keep my nerves under control and how do I answer every question?
• What clothes do I put on and how do I make a good first impression?
• What questions could I ask during a job interview?

Do you recognize these questions or do you have other questions about a job interview? Your preparation will be perfect thanks to this workshop!

In this workshop:

• You will get insight in the way you ask questions during job interviews
• You get information about the structure and content of a job interview
• You will practice answering frequently asked questions
• You will receive feedback from both your fellow students and the trainer

Homework
Think about questions you find difficult to answer. Bring these to the workshop.

Dress code
Suitable clothing is required. Wear the clothes you would wear for a real job interview!

Opinions of other students about Job interview
In 2017, students rated this workshop with an average of 8.3

- "Usually there is only a presentation and one quick practice exercise. Here, there is actually enough time to really learn (by doing)"
- "I liked the very practical approach, there were a lot of hand-on exercises" 
- "It was nice to see others tackle difficult questions and it gave me a better idea on how to handle them myself"

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3 hours (morning or afternoon)
Preparatory homework

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• How do I increase my chance of receiving an invitation for a job interview?
• What do I put in the cover letter and what should my CV look like?
• Can I use the same CV for all vacancies?
• What about side jobs, do I only mention them if they are relevant to the job?

​Do you recognize these questions or do you have more questions? Then this workshop is perfect for you!

In this workshop:

• You will learn about the purpose of a curriculum vitae (CV) and application letter
• You gain insight into the selection process of resumes and application letters
• You will get information about the structure and content of CVs and application letters
• You will receive feedback on your CV and application letter
• You will practice adjusting and improving your CV and application letter

Homework
In preparation of the workshop, find a vacancy that suits you. You write your CV and cover letter in English to apply for the position. You bring three documents (vacancy text, CV and letter) to the workshop.

Opinions of other students on CV & letter of application
In 2017, students rated this workshop with an average of 8,5

- "It was good that we took the role of a recruiter. It showed me what really matters" 
- "I liked the possibility to assess each other’s CVs and letters"
- "​I appreciated the feedback from the others, because everyone pays attention to different things"
- "I liked the fact that you do not get a 'standard' layout for CV & letter of application, but get good guidance on which items you should consider"

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3 hours (morning or afternoon)
Preparatory homework

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• How do I prevent a continuous lack of time and that feeling of anxiety?
• How do I keep an overview of what I have to do for my study?
• What can I do to better organize my work?
• How do I prevent procrastination?
• How do I keep my concentration and not let myself be distracted?

Do you recognize these questions? Then choose this workshop and improve your time management skills!

In this workshop:

• You will review your own working methods and understand what you spend your time on
• You get many tips and tricks for developing an effective schedule
• You learn about the importance of planning your free time and time to rest as well
• You will discover that spending time on your schedule ultimately results in less work
• You will make a plan for the future to work better and more efficiently

Opinions of other students on Time management
In 2017, students rated this workshop with an average of 8,3

- "Very enjoyable group and useful information. Very motivating!"
- "Small group with good focus. I feel that I am well prepared for a new approach"
- "Practical advice, personal advice and great input from other students"
- "Understand why my approach did not work. Now realize how I can improve my time management skills"

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3 hours (morning or afternoon)

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• How can I clearly present my point of view and convince and inspire my audience?
• How can I make my PowerPoint-presentation look best?​ How many slides do I use?
• What can I do to connect with my audience? What do I look at and where do I keep my hands?
• How can I prepare myself to be more confident during a presentation and be less tense?

Do you want to present convincingly and in a more relaxed way? Whether you need to give a sales pitch, TED talk, present a project plan or research results - this workshop is built around your own presentations! You practice, receive feedback and learn what you can improve.

In this workshop:

• You will practice presenting
• You will get to know the basic presentation techniques
• You learn how to create a clear and convincing storyline
• You get best practices for Powerpoint, the use of microphones and supporting material
• You will learn how to use your voice and body language to communicate effectively
• You learn how to connect with your audience.
• You will learn to be better prepared and more relaxed

Homework
In preparation for the workshop, you need to make a short PowerPoint presentation (in English) to present during the workshop. You send the presentation in advance by e-mail. You will receive more information about the homework (the format, the content and the deadline) in the e-mail confirming your registration for the workshop.

Opinions of other students on Presentation skills
In 2017, students rated this workshop with an average of 8,5

- "Everyone got the opportunity to present and learn. I got a lot of tips and tricks!"
- "I liked the personal, constructive and honest feedback"
- "I appreciate the feedback from the trainer and the group. I learned a lot!"
- "I liked the practical approach: information with accompanying practical exercises"
- "The possibility to practice with a microphone and in a lecture room!"

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3 hours (morning or afternoon)
Preparatory homework

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Do you find it difficult to find a good balance between study and leisure time? In this workshop you look for your own stress signals and you get tools to keep stress under control. You also learn in what way good time management helps you to find a better balance between studying hard and feeling well. 

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3 hours (morning or afternoon)

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The contemporary mindfulness meditation finds its origin in an old Buddhist practice. Mindfulness or awareness is the heart of Buddhism. With mindfulness meditation you learn to be present with your attention on here and now. You learn to be aware of your current experience in an accepting way. You learn to distance yourself from, for example, things you worry about. An effect may be that your mind becomes calmer and you experience more relaxation.
Mindfulness meditation is a skill that you can learn by practicing.

This workshop offers a first introduction to mindfulness meditation. Afterwards you can continue to practice mindfulness meditation at home yourself.

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 3 hours (morning or afternoon)

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Do you think your self-confidence needs a boost? Does your (lack of) self-confidence makes it harder for you to reach your goals? Then sign up for this workshop. During this workshop you will learn how to be more aware of your personal emotions and characteristics. You will get tools to give your personal life a positive boost. 

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3 hours (morning or afternoon)

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This workshop provides you with tools to better understand the relationship between your thoughts, behaviour and feelings, using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

CBT assumes that it is not the events themselves that cause negative feelings and behaviors, but our thoughts about them. You learn to recognize thought patterns that lead to dysfunctional behavior and negative emotions. The key is to turn these thinking patterns into helping thoughts. This creates a more objective view of events, you can overcome negativity and change behavior.

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 1 meeting of 3 hours

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Do you sometimes feel lost? Just doing what you are doing because everyone else is? Maybe handling things in a way you think is expected of you? Or do you go against the tide because you know what you don’t want but are not so sure what you’re looking for instead?

This workshop will help you figure out what is important and meaningful in your life. It will help you find direction and discover your strengths to lead the life you choose. You learn to become aware of the bumps in the road and how to take action to bypass them.

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3 hours (morning or afternoon)

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Do you struggle with

• choosing which study path to follow?
• deciding which career path to take?
• making up your mind on the important choices in life?
• putting off  your decision until the last moment you can choose?
• not making a decision yourself, and leaving your choice up to how the situation turns out?
• saying goodbye to the options which you did not choose?

Do you want

• to make study or career choices with more awareness?
• to feel less stressed and overwhelmed when you need to make important life decisions?
• to get an insight in your personal pitfalls in decision-making?
• to learn tips and tricks that help improve your decision-making process?
• to know which steps to take in your next big (study, career or life) decision?

If so, then this workshop is for you!

From choosing your study program or electives, to deciding on taking a gap year or not – life is full of choices and it can be an excruciating challenge to make up your mind and decide.
This workshop supports you to develop skills that make your decision-making better.

In this workshop, you will …

• Gain insight in the elements at play in the decision-making process.
• Explore what makes a good decision.
• Learn to identify your challenges and recognize your pitfalls in decision-making.
• Discover a wide range of approaches on how to make effective decisions.
• Practice decision-making strategies on making a choice in a personal dilemma.
• Identify decision-making strategies that help you make your decision making better.

Homework
For this workshop you need to do a homework assignment.
You will receive this assignment in the confirmation email as soon as you have registered for the workshop.

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3 hours (morning or afternoon)
Preparatory homework

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Always feeling tense and nervous? Do you panic before or during tests or a presentation? Then the fear of failure training may be something for you. You’ll learn to deal with your fear of failure so that you can perform better as a student and go through life somewhat more easily.

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 4 meetings of 2 hours

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Stop procrastinating is a self-help group for students who find it difficult to concentrate on their studies and tend to procrastinate. The group ensures that you improve your study behaviour and that you use an effective method for studying. You will meet 2-3 times, with a trainer present, and work in groups. You will get tips and practical ideas for more structure and discipline. Furthermore, there is always opportunity to discuss your personal study problems that are not specifically related to a faculty or courses. This is an intensive group in which being present and actively participating are conditions for success.

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 2-3 meetings of 2 hours with a trainer present and 4 meetings in subgroups

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This group is meant for students who lost a loved one.
If your loved one is still live at the moment, but will die in the (near) future or if you are afraid a loved one will die, please make an individual appointment.

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 4 meetings of 2 hours

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This training is intended for students who want to work on developing an assertive attitude and more self-confidence. Students who want to learn how to be fully appreciated, who want to learn to communicate better, learn to set limits and want to be less insecure.

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 4 meetings of 2 hours

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You like to have it all together. You are calling the shots and are in control. You work very hard but it never seems enough or the work is never done. Maybe you have perfectionistic characteristics and it is starting to get to you.
Although working hard is a good trait, overdoing it can also cause a lot of tension and even result in stress-related problems.

In this training you learn how to deal with your ‘perfectionism’. Letting go and trying to do things less perfect. Just okay can be good enough. You will get more insight into the underlying causes of perfectionism and you’ll learn what to do to find a better balance in life to change perfectionism into optimalism.

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 4 meetings of 2 hours

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Do you sometimes lie awake for hours, thinking about the same things over and over? Do you worry so much that it is hard to concentrate on your studies? Does the constant stream of negative thoughts stop you from feeling happy?

We all worry sometimes – that is what makes us human. But if it is starting to take over your life, this course may be for you.

The training gives you insight into your worrying behaviour and your brain. Through science-based techniques, such as attention training and relaxation exercises, you learn to recognise the thought patterns that lead to worrying and to address them more quickly.

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 4 meetings of 2 hours

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