Networking Basics
Benefits of Networking
An estimated 80% of jobs are never advertised. Networking allows you to tap into this hidden job market. Develop a bank of contacts. Think of everyone you meet as a potential networking contact.
Social Media
- Keep your Facebook clean and free of anything potentially incriminating
- Be cautious and assume anything you post to the internet can be viewed by anyone
- Google yourself to see what you find
- Check your privacy settings often
- Consider keeping your professional network on LinkedIn and your social network elsewhere
- Join our LinkedIn Group to connect with employers and career coaches
Develop a 60-Second Commercial
Meet with people in informal settings, career fairs, professional meetings, or conferences and introduce yourself, highlighting your qualifications. Share relevant skills, courses, internships, accomplishments, and experiences, and identify how your skills fit with their needs.
Conduct Informational Interviews
Contact people of interest in your field and ask to conduct informational interviews. Be prepared with the specific questions you want to ask in a 20-30 minute time period: What are the skill sets you use most in your job? How do most people enter this field? What type of position in this field might I reasonably target given my background? What criteria do you use for hiring at my level?