Networking
It is often said that a large percentage of job seekers find positions through networking, but it is hard to know what that means and how to get started. Networking is about building relationships, especially through gaining knowledge and advice.
It is not about using someone to get a job. Networking can help you at whatever point you are in your career exploration or job or internship search.- The process of networking starts with your built-in network, family and friends.
- An informational interview, the basic unit of networking, gives you the opportunity to ask a professional a set of questions and to articulate and clarify your skills, interests, and experiences. (see steps and tips for informational interviewing)
- Networking requires preparation, research, outreach and follow-up, beyond the actual conversation. (track outreach using this spreadsheet)
- You can expand your network by reaching out through the My Hamilton Connect alumni directory. While not required to access the platform, students are strongly encouraged to attend the Networking workshop as well as work with a peer coach to write their networking outreach messages. A schedule of networking workshops can be found on Handshake.
