Newsletter Archives /Today's Career Voice - February 2009
Build a Powerful Networking Strategy While in School
Being in school doesn’t mean you should close the books on networking your way to a great job. Even if your desired employer doesn’t recruit directly on your campus, or your school has minimal on-campus visits, there are tactics to build your own powerful networking strategy before graduation day.
Define your interests.
When networking, it’s helpful if you have some career goals in mind. This will help you define which contacts could be the most helpful and will also let people help you even more. If you don’t have a clear idea of what you want to do, it will be more difficult for people to give you great leads.
Join a club.
Becoming a member of a campus club that relates to your career interests is a great way to meet people in your desired industry. Many clubs have sponsored speakers that visit campus, and being a member or officer will put you first in line to meet them and make an impression. Your fellow students are also great contacts—you never know who may your next hiring manager in a few years.
Volunteer for alumni functions.
When the school hosts homecomings and alumni weekends, volunteer to help. Doing something like giving a campus tour may not sound like a career changing task, but you never know what important alums you might meet. Be on the forefront to interact with alums and make new friends.
Career services.
Visit your school’s career services staff to see what they have to offer. Many have programs designed specifically to help you network with alumni that have landed your dream job. Explore your options for contacting alums to request informational interviews.
Master the informational interview.
If someone is willing to give you their time for an informational interview, make sure you come prepared. Do your homework on the person, their company and industry, and their position. Knowing as much as possible before you go to the interview will let you ask better questions and be more impressive to your interviewee.
Always, always say thank you.
If someone gives you their time in an informational interview, always write a polite, professional thank you letter. You want to show that you not only have good manners but that you also sincerely appreciate that they gave you their time.
Stay sharp and keep your eyes open. Even if a new friend or alumni connection doesn’t seem to be in your desired field, you never know who they might introduce you to. Always be on your best behavior because you never know who you might meet.
