Bucknell alumni are friendly and can be quite helpful as you are making career decisions or thinking through strategies. Before reaching out, we strongly encourage you to read through these suggestions so you can represent yourself (and Bucknell students) well:
Tips for Reaching Out to Alumni Effectively:
- Let them get to know you before asking for something–Many professionals are going to be busy, as well as thinking about their own reputations in their workplace. While they can help you with contacts, advice, and even opportunities, they are putting themselves at risk to do so for someone they don’t know, so let them get to know you before asking for something.
- Consider asking for an informational interview. It is a low-risk and enjoyable way to get to know someone as well as to learn more about an industry and/or employer. Know how to communicate effectively in an email, voicemail, or in person . See this as a professional relationship (versus a social one) and conduct yourself in a professional manner.
- Do your homework before approaching alumni. They will expect you know something about their industry and employer. Utlize the many career research resources available to you.
- Use strategy as you identify who you will contact and clearly communicate your goals. The VP or CEO of an organization may not be the best choice for your objectives. If you are trying to reach a senior executive, think about how you will interact with the “gatekeepers.”
- Target your interactions – No Bulk E-mails – they can be spotted from miles away.
B-Link
First time log-in:1. Go to B-Link: www.b-link.bucknell.edu
2. Click “first time login” (upper left corner)
3. Type your last name and click find
4. Find your name and click on button next to your name, click next.
5. Enter your Bucknell ID (8 digits) click verify
6. Your profile appears, edit as necessary
7. Create your username and password (middle of the page)
8. Terms and conditions, click yes…we trust you’ll read them later
9. Go to the bottom of the screen and save
Some fun features include:
- Classes, Clubs,Networks – similar to Facebook groups…don’t see one you like? Create your own! Find alumni who are in your hometown, had your major, is in a profession you are considering, etc.
- Career Center – featuring a search of Alumni who are willing to be contacted as mentors!
- Bucknellians in Action – see what Bucknellians are making headlines, who knows maybe you’ll find your next job or idea!
- “News for Alumni”- video clips, Bucknell Magazine online, and more.
- Class Notes—search and post and see what your classmates and other Bucknellians are up to!