Network, network, network. If you’re like most college students nearing graduation and embarking upon that oft dreaded job search, you probably have heard this word used in succession three times so many times by now that it is driving you crazy. But keep in mind that there is a reason why your Career Services Counselor has repeated this so many times, and that is because it works. If you’re like most graduating seniors, you probably don’t have much work experience outside of waiting tables or odd jobs, and haven’t had an opportunity to build up much of a network yet. Don’t agonize, because one of the best networking tools at your disposal is actually right under your nose: alumni
But this article is not intended solely for new or upcoming graduates. Alumni can be utilized in all phases of your career, experienced or not. One golden rule I will emphasize though, before proceeding: only ask for help if you are willing to give back in the future; there’s a difference between asking for help versus a handout. There will be other alums that may need your assistance in the future, so give before you take, even if it is a promise to yourself in the future to pay it forward.
The first rule of thumb, and most important; utilize alumni only for the purpose of building relationships, NOT asking straight out for a job. The point is to cultivate a rapport that could potentially lead to leads on jobs in the future. Treat this as an informational interview, NOT a job interview! Alison Doyle of About.com has a great synopsis of how to conduct an Informational Interview. The people you're contacting are busy professionals, so afford them with the proper respect and courtesy they deserve.
One of the best ways to find alumni is through your college career center. An ever increasingly popular method Colleges and Universities are using now are online databases, chalk full of information on alumni working in a variety of fields and industries. Search the alumni directory if not online, or join your local Alumni Club or Association. Becoming active in an Alumni Group is invaluable due to the opportunities it provides for direct networking. When I lived in Las Vegas, the Notre Dame Club I was a part of had a game watch every football Saturday in the fall. And it was not only us at the sports bar. Clubs with alumni from Colorado, USC, Auburn, Nebraska, South Carolina and Washington were among a number of schools represented as well. Not every alumnus will be willing to assist, but I have found that the majority in some form or other will.
The key to effective alumni networking is to start early. In other words, if you are graduating in mid-May, don’t wait to start contacting alumni the week before. Don’t send spam or mass mails, and don’t cold call people! Instead, construct a polite and personalized email to ask them if they would be willing to spend a few minutes of their time providing insight into what skills their job requires and how to prepare yourself for a career in their field. Being as such, it will be much more productive on both ends if you target only those who are in a similar career of interest. You may be able to gain a mentor, and if you leave a great impression, they may even introduce you to others in their industry. Overall, focus on making real and meaningful connections. Remember: it’s not always the quantity, but rather the quality of contacts that make the difference.
With the increasing popularity of social media, take some time and search LinkedIn or Facebook to locate alumni groups of your institution. Twitter also provides a great opportunity to either follow career services departments or alumni from your school. Send a request to join them, identifying yourself with credentials that you are either a current or former student of the institution, then once added, actively participate. Utilize discussion forums and other features to make yourself known, and thus enhance opportunities to network.
Lastly, thank each alumnus who willingly helps for everything and anything they did for you, whether it's just responding to your email or helping you land an interview. Show gratitude! There is nothing worse than helping someone who takes it all for granted. Take the time to write a personal ‘thank you’ note or card in addition to the verbal or electronic thanks you send. Leaving a personal touch will leave more of a lasting impression.
Following proper etiquette will benefit not only you, but those who follow you. Missteps along the way won’t only burn bridges for you, but potentially for those who seek assistance afterward as well.
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