WHY NETWORKING?
It is estimated that more than half of positions are found through
networking and who you know. Networking is the process of building
mutually beneficial relationships with individuals over time to explore
potential majors, careers, positions and organizations as well as gain a
list of industry contacts and helpful resources.
You can network with anyone from family, friends and professors to
industry professionals just about anywhere, e.g. wedding, grocery store,
a job fair, conference or even online.
HOW TO NETWORK
Whether you are looking for a new job or wanting to learn more about
an industry, you will need to prepare a game plan and know how to
introduce yourself. You can do this through an elevator speech.
An elevator speech is a brief 30-second introduction of yourself that
identifies who you are as a professional and what you can offer an
employer. Prepare an outline and cast your NETS (Name, Education,
Target Job, and Skills):
N:
E:
T:
S:
Remember to maintain eye contact, sound natural, and remain engaging
when delivering your elevator speech. It will be awkward at first, but
with practice, you will get better!
If you are looking to learn more about an industry, you can use your
elevator speech to introduce yourself to potential contacts and conduct
an informational interview. An informational interview is an informal
conversation where you ask questions with the intent of learning more
about a person's field or position. Informational interviews can take
place in person, over the phone, through email or through social media.
What was your major in college?
What was your first job after college?
What tasks did it entail?
How did you get your first job in your field?
What kinds of tasks do you perform?
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
What are the key experiences or skills needed?
What college courses would best help me
prepare for a career in this field?
There are a variety of questions that you can ask
someone during an informational interview
including:
SOCIAL MEDIA
Social media has expanded how we network and
how frequently we engage with others. We have the
capability to engage with various audiences and
connect with professionals globally. When used
correctly and professionally, any social media
platform can help expand your network! The most
commonly used platform for networking is LinkedIn,
which can help you find jobs, make industry
contacts and learn about companies:
KEEP IN MIND
Always present yourself professionally, especially on
social media, and continue to network even when
not job searching. You never know who might be
your next boss or when your next job might present
itself. It is always a great idea to connect with
people you meet on LinkedIn and follow-up with
contacts frequently.
networking 101
helping you navigate your academic and career success through college and beyond
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