Networking, Informational Interviews and Reaching Out!

Networking

Networking is a key job search tool! It is the introduction - the set up of a "blind date". A referred candidate gives the employer a higher degree of confidence because they trust the person who made the referral. But you and the employer still have to determine if the relationship is mutually beneficial.

"Is it really all in who you know? Because I don't know anyone." - History Major, 2005

YES YOU DO HAVE A NETWORK!! You already have a network of people in your life, so start there. Networking is simply talking to people about what they do and listening to their story.

Talk with your friends, family classmates, professors, internship co-workers - everyone you know! Spread the word that you are looking for a great future opportunity, an internship and/or a job. Forward a resume to them in case they hear of something or meet someone who might be a connection. Keep in mind, that not all jobs are posted. It is only through networking that you learn out about many jobs.

Other valuable layers in your network:

• People that your friends and family know.
• Alumni Career Network
• Career Days/Job Fairs
• Informational interviews
• Internships - Keep in touch with colleagues and supervisors
• Outside Activity Connections - Maintain relationships with the people who you share common interests as they may be more likely to hear of opportunities that interest you.
• Professional associations - While you are a student, become a member of a professional association in your area of interest (e.g. Society for Human Resource Management), both here on campus and nationally.

Informational Interviews - call them ...Creative Conversations

These enable you to do research and collect information on the companies and organizations you are considering by talking to people in that field or organization. Why not find out what other people have done with their bachelors and how they got there! If you could design your ideal job, would that job look like the one you are discussing? Don't wait for it to come to you - go get it!

Part of the job search process is reaching out and finding out what information that could lead to opportunity! This is also a great way of getting to know people in your field - a common challenge for new graduates.

What to ask:

• How did you get started in this field?
• What do you like most and least about what you do?
• Do you have suggestions for someone starting in this field?
• What publications would you recommend that I read?
• Can you describe an average day of work for you?
• Are there any courses I could take to prepare myself?
• What unique skills make people stand out in this industry?