Module 4: Networking and LinkedIn
Purpose: Explaining the importance of building and leveraging your network as well as creating your
LinkedIn profile
Networking
What is networking?
The action or process of interacting with others to exchange information and develop
professional or social contacts
The process does take time; don’t feel you need to rush
Effective networkers:
Take a genuine interest in the individual
Build rapport
Know that networking includes mutually beneficial relationships
o It goes both ways, you help each other
70-80% jobs are found through your network
Think of an iceberg as a metaphor for the job market – you only see what’s above the water.
Your network helps you find the jobs below the surface. They are also your advocates within the
organization
You share common interests with the people in your network
They are in the same field/industry, attending the same conferences and professional meetings
You will be using and helping your network throughout your career; it is never static
Opportunities to Network
Professional Organizations
o These are folks who are already in our field, and are looking to help people grow
Informational Interviewing
o Helps learn about field
Social Media and Networking Sites
o Find both trends and job opportunities
o Always include a message with your invitation to connect that introduces yourself, and
wait to ask about jobs until you’ve established a relationship
Young Professionals Groups
o Wide variety of industries instead of just one
Experiential Learning
o Connect with students and professionals in your field, show off your skills
Faculty, Advisors, Family, Friends
o A ready-made network!
Career Services Events and Services
Attending a Networking Meeting
Research the person, the company, the industry, and the career paths and employment
opportunities
o LinkedIn is a good resource for researching the person
o In researching the company, try to find their mission or vision statement
o When researching career paths and opportunities, keep in mind this is more to help you
understand the field and the roles available as opposed to seeking a specific job
opportunity
o Don’t ask about employment right out of the gate – get to know them and fold them
into your network first
Know your professional goals, the questions you want to ask, and have an agenda for the
meeting
o Write down both topics and questions, and leave space for answers
Create a 45 second elevator pitch for starting all your meetings
o Can be formal or informal
o Personal characteristics (your brand)
o Related skills and background
o Accomplishments
o Career focus
Don’t ask about jobs right away – build the relationship first!
Be sure to complete any follow-ups discussed during the meeting
Send a thank you note afterwards
LinkedIn – Showcasing Your Brand
Should mirror your resume as well as additional content
Take ownership of your name and what employers see about you
Keep it updated to reflect accomplishments
Always include a message when inviting connections – a quick intro for someone you don’t
know, and an appreciative note for someone you do know
Produce content instead of passively consuming
