So, last week I decided to dub November “Networking Month,” and we started with the basics of Networking.
As promised, this week we are going to discuss some “Networking Essentials”
Sometimes networking happens where we least expect, like at a Football Tailgate, and sometimes it happens right where we expect it, like at Bucknell Professional Network event. Regardless of where it happens these essentials can help you feel a bit more prepared.
Before (if there is a before):
- Know yourself. Sounds easy right? But it’s is important to identify your values, what is important to you, your interests and have an idea of what you would like to do. All I’m asking for is an idea.
- Develop your “Elevator Pitch”
- If you are going to a “networking event” then you can prepare for it by seeing what companies or alumni will be there. If you see some of interest then make sure you do some company research or research on the type of position you want to ask about. For career fairs the BRIDGE makes this easy because it lists the companies that are coming.
- Have your resume ready! I know I said you shouldn’t go into networking expecting a job but that doesn’t mean you can’t be prepared if someone asks you for your resume. Resumes can be hard to start but {surprise} the CDC can help! We can help in all stages of Resume writing. You can come in for a resume review during Quick Questions (Mon-Fri, 1:30-3:30), make an appointment, or be sure to hit up one of our “resumania” periods during the year around big events like Employer Expo and Externships.
- First impressions matter so remember to treat each connection as a prospective employer
- Practice! You can make an appointment for a mock informational interview or a mock networking session. Stop in, call 570-577-1238 or email cdc@bucknell.edu to set this up.
During:
- Respect the time of the contact. If you are meeting someone for coffee to network or conduct an informational interview (which is still networking just in a small setting) then make sure you arrive ON TIME and do not overstay your welcome. Remember: people are very busy so respect and appreciate the time they have to give you.
- Ask specific, targeted questions, don’t be vague! Be as specific as possible about what type of information you want from them. We’ve heard from many alumni, parents, friends and employers that it is overwhelming to receive emails or calls where someone says “Tell me about advertising” or “tell me about ad sales” so…
- Do your research and narrow your focus as much as you can ahead of time
- Communicate clearly (verbally and non-verbally – as in eye contact!) and demonstrate knowledge of the industry and/or job.
After:
- Send a personalized follow-up thank you letter or card within 48 hours after your conversation or meeting. And if you think thank you notes are old fashioned think again! Laura Carlson ’12 just posted some Alumni Advice for Career Fairs in which the alum said the same thing!
- Pursue leads given by the contact – did they tell you to check out a certain blog? Or email your resume to one of their business associates?
- Keep in touch and build the relationship
- Keep notes! Excel can be used for a lot of amazing things but one of the basic misuses of it can also be keeping track of your contacts. We found some good advice on how to start by Career Coach David Hults
Still want to learn more? Great! Jump on over to the Vault (#6 on the list) and check out their “Guide to Schmoozing”
OK that’s all for today’s installment of our November Networking Month. I hope we haven’t overwhelmed you…
Tune in later this week for more on developing elevator pitches.