Networking is one of the most effective ways to explore careers, learn from professionals, and discover opportunities. Explore strategies and resources to help you build connections with alumni, employers, and peers. Learn how to conduct informational interviews, grow your LinkedIn presence, and confidently reach out to expand your network. Whether you’re just getting started or strengthening existing relationships, these resources will help you connect with purpose.
Building Your Network and Getting Connected
Cultivating and sustaining your network is an on-going process, even when you are not specifically looking for a job. Start with thinking about who you already know including family, professors and staff, employers and friends. Then consider affiliations that can expand your network such as volunteer opportunities, professional associations, club sports, Meetup Groups, or spiritual organizations. Getting connected often means getting involved so attend lectures, art openings, book warmings and workshops!
LinkedIn: Lewis & Clark College Career Network (L&C Net)
L&C Net is a network of over 2,000 alumni and parents who have volunteered to act as career “experts” to LC students and alumni in transition. Hosted as a group on LinkedIn, alumni volunteers live in locations throughout the United States and abroad and represent a cross-section of industries and professional careers. L&C Net is as an informational resource and there are guidelines in place to assist you in building relationships with alumni and parent volunteers.
Conducting Informational Interviews
An informational interview is used to obtain first-hand impressions of work from people currently employed in a specific field. Think of it as gathering information, rather than a job interview.
This method of collecting information is the best way to find answers to many important questions you may have. For example, what does someone actually do all day long? What are the rewards and demands of a particular kind of work? What are the entry-level jobs? By meeting directly with people, you can also gain deeper insights into the pros and cons of working in a particular organization.
