A Message To The Class Of 2014: Connecting Is The Key To Igniting Your Career

BETHESDA, Md., May 15, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Every day is an opportunity to connect, to be inspired by others and to use the power of professional networks to realize a dream. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott is helping future business travelers with the launch of "Everyday Connect," a multimedia resource offering college graduates career insights from young entrepreneurs who were featured on this year's Forbes 30 Under 30 list.

The campaign, housed on Tumblr at http://everyday-connect.com, starts a conversation with young professionals and reinforces the idea that the next generation of business leaders needs to invest in real, meaningful relationships to help propel their careers. It reminds college graduates, entering a challenging job market, to take the time now at the start of their professional journey to build long-lasting relationships that will inspire them to succeed in whatever they choose to do.

"Everyday Connect" features short films, infographics, tips and survey data to help graduates identify opportunities and build their own professional network. Fairfield enlisted four entrepreneurs from various industries to share their thoughts on the power of mentorship and personal connections. "Everyday Connect" program ambassadors include  Mark Arnoldy, Executive Director at Possible Health; Eden Full, Founder, SunSaluter; Meg Gill, President/Co-Founder, Golden Road Brewing; and Kane Sarhan, Co-Founder of [E]nstitute.

"At Fairfield, we see ourselves as a partner for business travelers on the road, helping them keep their momentum strong and stay connected with people who matter to them," said Shruti Buckley, vice president and global brand manager, Fairfield Inn & Suites. "Everyday Connect is an engaging way for us to share some wisdom from our exceptional group of mentors and offer the next generation some tips and advice that will help them achieve their goals."

GRADUATES TAKE NOTE!!! SUCCESS ETIQUETTE TIP: DON'T FORGET TO FOLLOW-UP TO SAY THANK YOU
A survey conducted by Fairfield Inn & Suites among 1,000 employed adults over the age of 21 nationwide revealed:

• Seventy-seven percent of people are willing to help college graduates find work.
• Forty-nine percent of respondents claim to have a mentor in their profession.
• Recognition is not of significant importance to people who help others in their professional network – only 51 percent of respondents said that this mattered to them.
• A phone call is the generally preferred method of acknowledgment, with 91 percent of respondents saying this is an appropriate way to express appreciation, followed by a thank-you card (88 percent), or an e-mail (81 percent). A post on a social media network will sooner suffice (27 percent) than flowers (26 percent).
• Sixty-six percent of respondents acknowledged the power of personal relationships in helping them maintain momentum in their careers.

The survey data reveals that there is a strong inclination among working adults to help young people at the start of their careers find work. A large majority of respondents cite personal connections as helping them in their careers, and almost half say they have a mentor in their profession, demonstrating there is a willingness to pay forward the support and guidance they have received. In a digital world, survey respondents revealed a great interest in maintaining the lines of communication open.

Consumers Get Chance to Reconnect and Reunite Through "Everyday Connect"
Fairfield is not only providing practical advice and information with the "Everyday Connect" campaign, but it is also extending the opportunity to consumers to reconnect and reunite with the people who have helped them succeed in their careers. Starting June 2, a series of questions will be posted via the brand's Twitter handle - over a four-week period around the power of personal connections. Based on the responses, five winners will be chosen and given a trip to reunite with the mentor of their choice in New York City as well as meet with the campaign's influencers.  

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott is designed for today's traveler who is looking to be productive on the road, whether for business or leisure. In addition to complimentary Wi-Fi and hot breakfast, Fairfield Inn & Suites offers thoughtfully designed rooms and suites that provide separate living, working and sleeping areas. With more than 700 properties throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and India, Fairfield Inn & Suites hotels participate in the award-winning Marriott Rewards^® frequent travel program that allows members to earn hotel points or airline miles for every dollar spent during each stay. For more information or reservations, visit www.fairfieldinn.com, become a fan at www.facebook.com/fairfieldinnandsuites or follow Fairfield at www.twitter.com/fairfieldhotels.

Visit Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) for company information. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

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SOURCE Fairfield Inn & Suites