COLLEGE OF

Education and Human Development

Making connections

This page will help you understand how to build social capital and manage your networking skills to support your career planning as a CEHD student and graduate.

What Is Networking?

Networking is the art of building connections that can shape your career journey. It's not as intimidating as it sounds – think of networking as creating a support system for your career.

Seasoned workers, who once navigated the same uncertainties, are eager to guide and mentor you. You also have a lot to offer the people you meet. These connections are collaborative exchanges where you receive valuable insights, and you contribute to a community of shared knowledge.

Networking is more than just a means to a job. It's about fostering meaningful relationships that will enrich your career journey. Networking also uncovers the power of your social capital. 

To better understand what networking is, watch this short video: 
 

Your network is invaluable for your career. Here's why building strong connections is so important:

  • It opens doors to job opportunities, internships, and other high-impact practices through referrals.
  • You gain insights and advice from experienced workers and business leaders to guide your career decisions.
  • Collaboration with peers and mentors enhances your skills and expands your horizons.
  • It helps you explore new career paths and industries, supported by trusted connections. Connecting with others helps you push against imposter phenomenon. 


Once you’ve met someone who you want to be a part of your network, you can build a meaningful relationship by asking questions, sharing your experiences, and embracing the mutual growth that comes from these connections.


You Already Have a Network
 

Have you ever recommended a restaurant to someone? Then you have networked. Remember when you shared information with another student about transportation to campus or where to park? That was networking. You already have relationships with people that you have helped and who have helped you. Everyone you know can be a part of your network.


Networking is a two-way street. A big myth is that networking is only about “what you can do for me.” Often networking is a mutual exchange. For example: One of your connections needs to fill a position that you are not interested in. You can refer your friends or classmates to apply. In this exchange, you help your employer connection, and you help your friends. The employer thinks positively about you and will keep you in mind for future opportunities.


Your network is made up of your relationships. Social capital recognizes the value of the relationships you build throughout your personal and career life. Explore how to manage and increase your social capital in order to access more academic and career opportunities
 

4 Steps to Connecting


1. Start with Who You Know
  • Ideate a list of everyone you know who could possibly serve as a contact.
  • Don’t limit yourself to people who are in your career area. Friendly, accessible people in unrelated careers often have contacts they would be happy to share.
  • To get started, name the close contacts in different parts of your life: family, friends, relatives, neighbors, professors, advisors, classmates, alumni, former co-workers and supervisors, and members of professional organizations.

2. Prepare yourself - online and in-person
 
  • Approach all connection opportunities with a plan. Before you meet with a contact or attend a networking event, prepare and learn about the people and organizations you might interact with.
  • Having a web presence that reflects your career or personal brand is as simple as having a complete profile on your LinkedIn page. Understand what other information might be on the web about you already that potential employers and connections might find. Check out our guide to using social media to advance your career.
  • Consider having printed or digital business cards. Find inexpensive options for pre-designed printed cards, create your own printed cards, or explore digital business cards to easily share your contact information or profile.
  • Develop a short introduction or an “elevator speech” that includes a question you can ask a contact about something you’d like to know more about. Your introduction is a short (30-60 seconds) verbal pitch that summarizes who you are and what you’re looking for.

3. Get connected
  • Start contacting the people on your list from Step 1. Tell them about your career plans, and ask for advice and referrals.
  • When you have a networking meeting or informational interview, respect your contact’s time by being prepared. Have a list of questions you’d like to ask. Always follow-up with a thank you email or note.
  • Attend events and be visible. Many groups related to your career area have events open to non-members, or discounted student membership rates. Also, sites like Meetup or Eventbrite list local gatherings related to all types of career areas.
  • Regularly use online social networks like LinkedIn and the Maroon and Gold Network.
  • Have conversations everywhere you go. You never know when you might meet someone who has information that might be useful for you or who you can support.

4. Keep in touch
  • In addition to your follow-up thank you notes or emails, keep in regular contact with your network.
  • Networking, like other relationships, is a two-way street. Share resources and offer support to your networking contacts as a way of building your relationship with them.
  • Be in touch with your contacts 2-4 times a year to stay fresh in their minds. Send them updates on your job search or academic milestones. Remember: Your connections want to hear about you so they can support and celebrate you.


Still unsure where to start? Meet with a CEHD Career Coach to discuss your networking strategy. We're here for you! Schedule an appointment whenever you're ready.

How to Introduce Yourself


Imagine you walk into an elevator. Already in the elevator is a prestigious person in your career area who you have always wanted to meet. The elevator door closes. You have 30-60 seconds to introduce yourself to this important person and make a good first impression. What do you say?


If you have a prepared introductory statement, known as an elevator pitch, you will be ready whenever you meet an important person, employer or potential new connection. Here's a guide to help you craft a short, strengths-based introduction that is both constructive and approachable.


Dos:

  1. Prepare Your Elevator Pitch
    Highlight Key Strengths: Include your name, major/degree, year in school, college/university, career goals, and relevant experience or skills.

    Example: "Hello, my name is Amber Johnson. I'm a junior majoring in Youth Studies with a minor in Leadership. I have two years of experience as an office assistant, which has honed my organizational and communication skills.

  2. Practice Your Pitch:
    Write It Down: Outline your pitch to ensure you remember all critical points.

    Rehearse Regularly: Practice to build confidence and ensure a smooth, natural delivery. Say it outloud and video your delivery.

    Seek Feedback: Practice with friends, family, or mentors to refine your message.

  3.  Engage Meaningfully:
    Ask Thoughtful Questions: End your pitch with conversation starters like "Can you tell me more about your company's marketing strategies?" or "What advice would you give to someone starting in this field?"

    Listen Actively: Show genuine interest in the answers and build a rapport.

  4. Build Relationships:
    Be Present: Pay attention to the employer’s reactions to your pitch and adapt as needed.

    Exchange Contact Information: When the conversation naturally winds down, share your details, and discuss a convenient time to follow up.

  5. Maintain a Positive Attitude:
    Stay Courteous and Polite: Display good manners and a positive outlook.

    Dress for Success: Your appearance should be appropriate for your career area, and feel authentic to you. Still not sure? Reach out to a career coach.

 


Don'ts:

  1. Avoid Being Unprepared:
    Don't approach employers without knowing what you want to say. Preparation leads to more effective conversations.
  2.  Don't Focus Only on Yourself:
    While it’s important to highlight your strengths, also show interest in the employer’s needs and challenges.

  3.  Don’t Directly Ask for a Job:
    Instead of: "Do you have any jobs?"

    Ask: "Could you tell me more about your company’s projects and any advice for someone with my interests?"

  4. Don’t Overwhelm with Information:
    Keep your pitch concise and focused. Avoid lengthy descriptions of your entire career history.
  5.  Don’t Forget to Follow Up:
    After talking with someone, send a thank-you email to your contacts, reiterating your interest and appreciating their time.


By following these dos and don'ts, you can create a compelling elevator pitch that highlights your strengths and leaves a positive impression at career fairs and networking conversations. This approach will help you connect with potential employers and pave the way for future opportunities.

How to Follow Up with Contacts


Send a Thank You: 


Now that you have the employer's contact information, sending a personalized thank-you note or email is a courteous touch. Express your gratitude for the time they took to speak with you.
    


Apply and Follow Up:


Apply to the jobs or internships you are interested in. Remember to mention the name of the person who referred you within your application. Additionally, send an email to the recruiter or networking contact you met to inform them that you have applied. This proactive step can help move your application along in the process.


Receive Additional Support from CEHD Career Services:

These steps constitute short-term follow-up actions that can significantly enhance your networking experience and increase your chances of success in securing opportunities.

Maintaining Contact


Building and maintaining long-term connections with employers is key to career success. Here’s a guide on how to keep in touch with employers and provide updates about your career journey while seeking their support.


Best Practices:

  1. Keep Communication Regular:
    Set a Schedule: Plan to check in with your contacts periodically, such as every 3-6 months. Regular updates show that you value the relationship and keep you on their radar.

    Use Multiple Channels: Utilize email, LinkedIn, the Maroon and Gold Network, and even make a phone call for a personal touch. Diversifying your communication methods can make your interactions more memorable. Ask each contact about their preferred mode of communication.

  2.  Share Career Updates:
    Highlight Key Achievements: Inform your contacts about significant milestones such as completion of internships, new projects, or completed certifications. This helps them see your progress and keeps them invested in your success.

    Example: "I'm excited to share that I've recently been promoted to a Marketing Coordinator role where I'm leading a new project on digital campaigns."

  3.  Ask for Advice and Guidance:
    Be Specific: When seeking advice, clearly outline what you need help with. Specific questions are easier to respond to and show that you’ve done your homework.

    Example: "I'm considering a transition into a project management role. Could you share any insights or resources that might help me prepare?"

  4.  Offer Value in Return:
    Share Relevant Information: Networking is a two-way street. If you come across an article, event, or resource that might interest your contact, share it with them. This demonstrates that you are thinking of them and can provide mutual benefits.

    Example: "I found this article on emerging marketing trends and thought you might find it interesting."

  5.  Express Gratitude:
    Thank Your Contact for Their Time and Support: Acknowledge their help and the impact it has had on your career. Gratitude reinforces positive connections and encourages future support.

    Example: "Thank you for your mentorship. Your advice on improving my presentation skills was invaluable during my recent project."

  6.  Personalize Your Messages:
    Tailor Each Message: Personalize your communications to the specific contact. Mentioning previous conversations or shared interests makes your messages more engaging and genuine.

    Example: "I remember you mentioned a keen interest in digital marketing strategies. I recently led a project in this area and would love to share some insights with you."

  7. Maintain a Professional Tone:
    Stay Courteous and Polite: Ensure your communications are always respectful. This maintains a positive impression and reflects well on your character.


By following these best practices, you can effectively maintain long-term connections with employers. Regular updates about your career and thoughtful requests for support will help strengthen these relationships, ensuring they remain beneficial as you progress in your career journey.