Recently, I have been speaking to a lot of students about networking. Networking has many components and layers that make it difficult to unpack and break down into tangible steps. One of those complications is that networking looks different depending on the industry you are interested in—and can be weighted differently. It is a skill that you will need to consistently practice (even when you have a job!) repeatedly, to get the most benefits. I have outlined some networking considerations below that I believe are integral to one’s practice, and I hope these will get you started on your networking journey as well as serve as helpful reminders if you find yourself already on the journey.
Consideration #1
It’s not just about referrals.
While referrals can be an outcome of a coffee chat or zoom call, that should not be the focus of your efforts. I like to consider networking as gathering data on a potential industry/role one might be interested in. Learning about how a company works, what a role entails, or highlights of someone’s work history is crucial to help someone navigate that company’s application process and create application materials that stand out. Anyone can look at the company website, but not everyone will be able to mention a specific diversity initiative in their cover letter that they only learned about through a conversation with someone at the organization (see what I mean?). Use the information learned to help you get ahead, stand out, and even maybe get an introduction to someone else of interest!
Consideration #2
Cold emails count and tailoring those emails is crucial.
Now, for this I may be dating myself, but does anyone remember those chain emails where one person sent them along and they threatened some ill fortune would happen if you did not forward them to at least 10 friends? Remember how annoying it was that they all looked and sounded basically the same? Well, I do and that is not a trap you want to fall into with a cold email. If you want someone to respond you need to not just introduce yourself ( as well as state where you found their contact information and include your availability), but you also need to tie your interest to the work they have specifically done, or the role they specifically have. Is there anything on LinkedIn that stands out to you? Maybe a specific project they were apart of that sounds interesting to you? Maybe they took a gap between careers and their pivoted? Other than them working at the company you want to work at all, why do you want to talk to THEM? It can be extra work, but going this extra mile for each potential contact will help you get responses.
Consideration #3
Career Services can help!
I know, I am sorry if you have read to this point and are now disappointed that with this blog, I may be doing a bit of self-promotion. But the entire team at career services is here to help ( seriously!). We can help develop a networking strategy, help you navigate conversations, draft emails, and so much more. We even have a whole page on our website here dedicated to resources surrounding the practice ( my favorite guide is this one).
So, if you are feeling rusty and want to get started don’t be afraid to reach out and make an appointment! You can meet our team here.
