Discussing Career Networking Events with Career Services - TOEFL Listening Practice Test

The TOEFL Listening section is intended to test your ability to comprehend spoken English in both academic and everyday situations. It includes a variety of dialogues and discussions that mirror real-life conversations, making it crucial for you to hone your listening skills. The section covers topics ranging from academic talks to social and professional interactions, with all content presented in a multiple-choice format.

For effective preparation, we’ve crafted a practice set focused on "Discussing Career Networking Events with Career Services." In this exchange between a student and a career advisor, you’ll gain valuable insights into networking techniques and how to leave a strong impression at career events. Engaging with this material will not only boost your listening comprehension but also provide useful career advice. Let’s dive in and improve your TOEFL listening abilities!

Listening Instructions

• You can listen to each conversation and lecture only once.
• You have approximately 8 minutes to listen to the conversation/lecture and respond to the questions.
• Each question generally carries one point unless otherwise specified in the instructions, which will explicitly state the assigned points for specific questions.
• After listening to the Conversation, respond to questions related to the topic based on explicit or implicit statements made by the speakers.
• Feel free to make notes as you listen. You can refer to your notes to aid in answering the questions. 
• We recommend practicing note-taking with a pen and paper, similar to what you'll do during the TOEFL Exam.

Conversation on Discussing Career Networking Events with Career Services

Now listen to the audio.

Questions

Directions: Mark your answer by selecting your choice.

1. What is the main purpose of the conversation between James and Mr. Thompson?   
   
   1. To discuss the details of a job application
   2. To prepare James for a career networking event
   3. To arrange a meeting with potential employers
   4. To review James's resume

1. According to Mr. Thompson, what should James include in his brief introduction? 
   
   1. His hobbies and interests
   2. His major, relevant experience, and what he is looking for
   3. A list of companies he wants to work for 
   4. Personal anecdotes unrelated to his career

1. What does Mr. Thompson mean when he advises James to “be yourself; authenticity is key in networking”?
   
   1. James should act differently to impress employers
   2. James should present a genuine version of himself to build trust   
   3. James should avoid discussing his true interests
   4. James should mimic the behaviour of successful professionals

1. How does Mr. Thompson feel about James's nervousness regarding the event?
   
   1. He is dismissive of James's concerns
   2. He is understanding and reassuring 
   3. He is critical of James for being unprepared  
   4. He is indifferent to James's feelings

Transcript of the Audio Conversation on Discussing Career Networking Events with Career Services

Answers and Explanations of the Conversation on Discussing Career Networking Events with Career Services

1. Answer: B. To prepare James for a career networking event.

Explanation: The conversation focuses on Mr. Thompson providing James with advice and tips to help him feel more prepared for the upcoming networking event. The other options, such as discussing job applications, arranging meetings, or reviewing a resume, are not the main focus of their discussion.

2. Answer: B. His major, relevant experience, and what he is looking for.

Explanation: Mr. Thompson specifically advises James to include his major, any relevant experience, and what he is seeking in terms of opportunities in his introduction. The other options, such as hobbies, a list of companies, or unrelated personal anecdotes, do not align with the advice given.

3. Answer: B. James should present a genuine version of himself to build trust.

Explanation: Mr. Thompson's advice to "be yourself" emphasises the importance of authenticity in networking, suggesting that being genuine helps to establish trust with potential employers. The other options imply inauthentic behaviour or avoidance of true interests, which contradicts the essence of effective networking.

4. Answer: B. He is understanding and reassuring.

Explanation: Mr. Thompson acknowledges James's nervousness and reassures him that it is normal to feel that way, indicating his understanding of James's concerns. The other options, such as being dismissive, critical, or indifferent, do not accurately reflect Mr. Thompson's supportive attitude.

5. Answer: B. Follow up with a thank-you email.

Explanation: Mr. Thompson suggests that James should follow up with the contacts he makes after the event by sending a thank-you email, which is a common practice in networking to reinforce connections. The other options, such as ignoring contacts, preparing for another event, or sharing experiences on social media, are not recommended by Mr. Thompson.

Your diligence in finishing this practice test is noteworthy. Build upon this foundation with our extensive collection featuring diverse academic scenarios and expert guidance.

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