Develop a list of contacts
- Talk to the obvious people (your family, former co-workers, faculty, advisors) as well as people you wouldn't normally include in your employment search (your doctor, dentist, clergy, hairdresser). Use the Building a Network worksheet to get started.
- Attend career fairs and other industry specific networking events. Professional associations often have student chapters and membership rates. Association meetings are a great way to make contacts.
- Get involved and explore your interests. Do not limit yourself to just attending career fairs and professional events. Networking can be done at events associated with your personal interests, organized by social groups or religious institutions.
- Always be aware of how you act and what you say, both online and in person. You never know when there is a potential contact right in front of you.
- Prepare your one-minute elevator pitch and if a conversation lends itself, speak up and let people know that you are in the employment market.
- Follow up and don't let fear stop you from reaching out. Instead of thinking, “I don't want to impose on others.”, think, “Every contact I make brings me closer to finding my purpose and related employment.”