Networking Guide
Take advantage of this opportunity to meet employers and alumni who want to talk to you about their occupations and employment opportunities. Gather information on career options, develop a network of contacts, identify job or internship openings, or land an interview! Use these tips to make the most of Career Expo.
Expand your focus: Don’t exclude an employer that appears unrelated to your major. Technical companies offer non-technical positions, and vice-versa. A technical company may have openings in human resources, marketing, management or accounting. Employers do look for candidates with a strong liberal arts background and internship experience.
Communicate your purpose: If you are looking for a job, state the type of position which interests you. If you are gathering information, tell employers you are exploring career options and are interested in learning about them.
Make a strong first impression: When meeting employers, introduce yourself, offer a firm handshake, make eye contact, state your purpose, ask questions, listen and act professionally. If you are hoping to land an interview, dress in business attire.
Highlight your strengths: Be prepared to discuss your qualifications that are most related to the job. Practice your "pitch" so you can approach employers with confidence.
Bring your resume: Bring enough resumes to give to organizations you are targeting. Carry them in a binder. Omit the objective so you don’t limit yourself.
Ask questions: Use questions to increase your knowledge of industry trends, job options and career paths. Try these questions:
- What entry-level positions in (state your career interest) are available in your organization?
- What kind of background do you look for when filling these positions?
- How do you see this field changing over the next five years?
- What advice would you give me if I wanted to break into this field?
Follow-up: Request a business card for your records. If you want a job interview, send a thank-you note within 24 hours and include your resume.
