Today it’s even easier to identify connections for networking.
Let’s start with one word: LinkedIn.
We have a Bucknell Alumni LinkedIn group that is growing every day and it’s a no brainer to start there. Apart from the group, LinkedIn (in general) is a great way to make connections and build your network but make sure you are doing it wisely!
A second, and uniquely Bucknell way, to build your network is by participating in our Bucknell Professional Networks. These are already conveniently organized with alumni by industry which takes out a lot of the work on your end. These networks work throughout the year to put together panels, field trips, and other networking opportunities for students and alumni. In my opinion you’d have to be absolutely crazy not to take advantage of this!?!
A third way to identify connections is using the Alumni Directory or the Career Advice Search in B-Link. Now that all students (not just Seniors!) have the ability to gain access to the Alumni Directory I don’t know how or why there would be anyone without this access. The Alumni Directory allows you to search for alumni on many different fields (including Extracurricular Activities!) to find alumni that work at a company you are interested in, live in a city you are moving to, had the same major as you and/or all of the above in infinite combinations! The Career Advice Search is a similar directory but this is composed of alumni who have indicated a willingness and desire to connect with students. Not that any of our alumni aren’t willing but these folks take any uncertainty out and have taken the extra step to indicate to us that that’d love to chat with students. Of course, regardless of what they have indicated, reaching out to alumni can be scary. Make sure you are prepared to do it professionally and in a way that makes a great first impression. We have some sample voicemail and email scripts to help if you are feeling nervous (or of course come chat with us by making an appointment!)
Of course before doing this you will need to:
- Figure out some companies you’d be interested in learning more about (helpful hint: the Vault is a great place to start this research)
- Think about the type of job or position you think you would like doing
- Make sure you know your “Networking Essentials“
Now it’s off to Thanksgiving Break with you! Try putting these tips to work. Are your parents having family friends over? Going to a relatives house? Be thankful for the connections that are all around you and, while you are enjoying your Thanksgiving dinner, start building and identifying your connections!
Check back later today for some “Sample Networking Questions” you can use around the table.
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