In today’s world there is a big emphasis on social media and using the internet to find jobs/internships. Many students have several accounts using different social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. It is becoming more popular for employers to search online to find out more about potential employees. A good way to see what employers see is to Google yourself. Students should be very thoughtful when setting up these social media profiles and keep future employers in mind. Even with your profile set on private, there are ways for employers to see it. With a professional social media site you can catch employer’s attention and even find out what openings they have by following them on Twitter or “liking” them on Facebook.

The first thing to remember when setting up any online account is the name you will be using. Make sure you use a professional name for your profile and email account. You might not want to use a nickname because potential employers might not recognize the profile as yours. Also having a professional email account on your resume is very important; it represents the image you want the employer to have of you.

Next, think about what information you want employers to see. You can create a professional account and a non-professional account using a nickname so that it will not be found by employers. On your professional profile, remember your profile picture represents the image you want the employer to have of you. The tagged pictures of you on Facebook should not include alcohol even if you are 21; make sure all of your pictures do not reflect badly on you. On Twitter and Facebook use the bio section as your 30 second commercial (see 30 Second Commercial handout). This is a chance for you to brag about your accomplishments. You can also use the Facebook status update and Tweets to show your positive side and highlight your professional and academic accomplishments. Things to keep out of your status updates and tweets are anything negative about a person, company, or group. Along those same lines, watch the kind of language you are using in your posts, employers won’t appreciate curse words being posted for everyone to see.

LinkedIn is a professional social networking site that can be used for job searches. It allows you to upload your resume as well as write your own summary of what you are pursuing now and where you hope to go in the future. There are sections for you to write in your experience, education, and any other information you think is helpful. There are groups where you can join professional conversations and gain other professional information.  “Friends” are called “connections” on LinkedIn. Your connections can write recommendations for you that are linked to your profile for others to see. You are also “connected” to all of the contacts of your contacts and are able to send messages to them. This is great for networking and informational interviewing. You will also receive emails from LinkedIn that show you updates on your groups and job listings that you may be interested in. This is a great site to start your online job search profile. You can even put your LinkedIn profile address on your resume next to your contact information.

What makes a personal social media site professional?

1)     Use a professional name for your profile and email address

2)     Think carefully about what information you put into your profile

3)     Set up a professional profile picture and make sure all pictures of you are responsible

4)     Keep tweets and status updates clean and respectful

5)     Start a LinkedIn profile and connect with potential employers

By: Sara Arnette

Graduate Assistant in the Career Center and student earning a Master of Science in Community Agency Counseling

As many of you might have noticed, not every degree program requires you to complete an internship. When I was an undergraduate here at MSU I was in a program like that and I remember thinking, “why would I take extra time (that I don’t have) to work for free?” So I did what many students do and I did only the things required of my degree program. When I got my degree and began my job search I was hit with employers telling me I did not have enough experience for their position. I was finding out the hard way that a degree does not always get you the job. You need a degree AND experience to land that dream job once you graduate.
I know that there seem to be a lot of down sides to taking on an internship. The main concerns for students are that they don’t have time to add in an internship between class, work, and student organizations and that they might not be getting paid for their time. Both of these concerns are valid and true to some extent. It is difficult to add in an internship to a busy schedule, especially when you might have to give up an activity to fit it in.
Now that we have gotten the down sides out in the open, let’s get into the up sides. First is the most obvious, you get hands-on experience working in your field. This is something that every employer is looking for from a candidate. It’s the most valuable thing you have in combination with your degree. Second, you get a chance to network in the workplace. You build your network of connections just by being in the work setting with others. Just think of the references you will make! Third, you don’t have to work 40 hours a week at an internship. The experience still valuable even if you only work 10 hours a week, or however many hours you can fit into your schedule. Internship sites are usually very flexible with intern hours, so don’t be afraid to voice how much time you can commit to them. Fourth, you may be able to get class credit for the time you put in at your internship site. Talk to your advisor to see how many internship hours equal a credit hour. Fifth, you will be able to explore the career field more in-depth and figure out if it is really the right fit for you. There are many facets to every field and major, wouldn’t you like to figure out if you like your options BEFORE you graduate? Sixth, completing an internship, especially when not required, shows your genuine interest in your career and demonstrates your willingness to go above and beyond basic requirements. Both of these are very important to your future employers. Lastly, if the other reasons aren’t enough, some internships are paid. Make sure you check with the employer if it is not specified on the job description.
To recap, here’s a list of the pros and cons of getting an internship:

Pros:
• Hands on experience
• Networking opportunity
• Flexible hours
• May receive class credit for your time
• Some are paid internships
• Explore career field and find your fit
• Shows an employer you are truly interested in this career field and are willing to go above and beyond basic requirements

Cons:
• Not enough time between class, work, and student organizations
• Not all are paid internships
As you can see there are more pros than cons for getting an internship. Next semester is coming up fast, have you considered finding an internship yet? The Career Center can help you find an internship opportunity, look over your resume before you apply, and help you write a great cover letter. Check out what opportunities are out there waiting for you today!

By Sara Arnette, GA in the Career Center and student in the Master of Science in Community Agency Counseling program

Do you get nervous before an interview? Don’t worry, everybody does. What can you do about it? How do you overcome those sweaty palms and nervous twitches that we all have? I’m here to tell you some tips to help you manage this interview anxiety.

As a member of the Career Center staff, I have conducted numerous mock interviews over that past two semesters and have seen a lot of nervous students. First, let me say that practice will go a long way to helping you with those interview jitters. Practice with a friend, by yourself, or make an appointment with the Career Center. The more experience you get, the more confident you will feel before and during your interview because you will have an idea of what to expect.

What if practice doesn’t make perfect, you ask? What if you do numerous practice interviews yet still find yourself nervous as you sit in the waiting area for the employer to call your name? The answer isn’t simple. The truth is you might always feel anxious before an interview. So now that you have landed an interview and are about to meet the employer, what can you do to manage your anxiety in the moment?  Read on for answers!

Think about the interview this way: this isn’t just the employer’s opportunity to get to know you; it’s also your opportunity to get to know them. What kind of atmosphere would you be working in? Are they a good fit for you? Don’t be afraid to ask the employer questions as well, they often give you the opportunity to ask at the end of the interview. This is your opportunity to interview them, so go ahead and ask those questions that have been running through your head ever since you researched them online (I know you have done your research on the employer by now).

Take a few deep breaths as you are waiting to go into the interview room. If you focus on your breath, it will be harder for your mind to race with anxious thoughts. While you are waiting, find a fixed point on a wall and don’t look anywhere else. Notice if you are breathing fast or slow. Breathing slowly will help get more oxygen into your body and help calm your nerves.

If deep breathing doesn’t work, try making a fist and focus on the muscles in your hand. Slowly relax your fisted hand until it is completely relaxed. This is called progressive muscle relaxation. This can be done in your car, while you are walking into the building, or when you are waiting for the employer. This technique helps you focus your mind on something other than your nerves. Combining deep breathing with progressive relaxation is a great way to help relax before an interview.

To review your anxiety management skills:

1)      Get as much practice as you can, make an appointment with the Career Center

2)      Think of the interview as your chance to get to know the employer

3)      Take a few deep breaths before you go into the interview

4)      Practice progressive muscle relaxation with your fist, either in your car or while you are waiting

So on your next interview don’t fret if you find yourself a bundle of nerves. Just remember these quick and easy tips and you will do just fine. Good luck and don’t forget to come practice your interviewing skills (and your newly acquired anxiety management skills) at the Career Center!

By: Sara Arnette, GA in the Career Center and student in the Master of Science in Community Agency Counseling program

On many occasions you have probably thought to yourself, “If I could just get in front of the hiring manager, then I’ll be able to land that job interview.”  This seems to be one primary obstacle applicants encounter due to the prominence of online job boards and increased competition.  So how you do overcome this obstacle?  In addition to a superb résumé, one of the best ways to land an interview is by attending a career fair.  The following tips will help you leverage the benefits of a career fair.

Prepare Yourself

• Arrive 10 minutes early with a firm handshake and smile in tow.
• Prepare questions for the employer.

What qualities are you looking for in a candidate?

                        Why did you choose to work for this organization?

                        What positions do you offer?

• Review the organization’s mission, achievements, and current initiatives BEFORE you speak to the recruiter.
• Have a purpose to your actions, rather than visiting every booth.  Select the employers with whom you wish to engage prior to the event.

Present Yourself

• Take a polished résumé for each employer you hope to meet, plus a few extra.
• Be sure to leave your belongings at home (e.g., pursue & backpack).  Use a hardcover portfolio or folder to carry your documents.
• Dress like you would for an interview- suits or blazers are encouraged.  Make sure your attire is looking sharp, yet conservative and subtle.
• Avoid strong perfumes or colognes.

Distinguish Yourself

• Never ask for a job.  Only seek advice or information regarding the company.
• Prepare a 30-second commercial to introduce yourself.

My name is…

                        I am majoring in…

                        Some of my experiences include…

                        I am looking for a position/company where I can…

                        I would be an asset to your company because…

• Collect business cards for follow-up communication.
• Within a few days, write a thank you letter to those you are genuinely interested in working for and refer back to your conversation at the career fair.

With these simple steps, you can set yourself apart from the crowd and truly be noticed by employers.  Remember this is your chance to set a memorable first impression.

We encourage you to apply this advice during COBA Career Days and our annual Fall Career Fair on September 28, 2011.  Please visit our homepage for additional event details!

By Joey Battelline

Graduate Assistant in the Career Center

The days when having a degree alone would guarantee you a job are over. However, I’m sure you are all aware of this fact, considering we seem to be bombarded with messages such as this on a daily basis. For that reason, the focus of this blog will not be to discourage you or warn of the increased competition out there, but rather to inform you of what you can do while you are in school to help you land the job you want after graduation.  

1.     Get work experience – part-time employment, seasonal employment, service-learning, volunteer, practicum/internship

When considering candidates, employers are primarily looking for relevant work experience and transferable skills. When trying out a possible career field through an internship, part-time experience, volunteer opportunity, etc., it’s okay if you learn that the work is not something you enjoy or are interested in. It is certainly better to find this information out before graduation. Get as much work experience as possible in college (while also maintaining a solid GPA) in order to improve your skill set to market to employers. Generally, the skills obtained carry more weight to employers than the position’s title

2.     Engage in student activities

Take advantage of the numerous opportunities available on campus. While being involved in student activities will not solely determine whether or not an employer chooses to hire you, it does help set you apart. Engaging in student activities demonstrates that you have communication skills, interpersonal skills, time-management skills (due to juggling multiple duties, i.e., school, extracurriculars, etc.), teamwork skills, motivation, and leadership skills (if you choose to assume a leadership position within an organization); all of which are important skills employers are looking for in applicants.

3.     Stay focused on your goals

Have fun and enjoy your time in college, but remember to focus considerable energy toward career goals. Do not lose sight of why you are in college. This is a time to develop and realize one’s potential. Remember to always put your best foot forward.

 4.     Prepare a professional cover letter and résumé

Gaining relevant work experience can only get you so far; it is important to also market yourself well to employers. When writing a cover letter and résumé, be confident. E.g., in a cover letter, do not include statements such as, “I think I am the best candidate for the position.” Instead say, “I am the best candidate for the position,” and then explain why. Your cover letter and résumé will be the first impression an employer has of you. Make sure it sells your skills effectively.

(Visit the Career Center for more information on preparing a professional cover letter and résumé.)

5.     Practice your interview skills

While there is no way to predict the exact questions that an employer will ask, it is helpful to prepare answers to general interview questions. You may want to refer to this list of common interview questions and tips on how to answer them: http://www.usatoday.com/careers/resources/interviewcommon.htm

Know your résumé and be prepared to give examples explaining your statements. When the interviewer asks if you have any questions at the end, make sure you do! Show your interest in the company and position.

Additionally, dress appropriately and professionally. If in doubt, always overdress. Arrive 10 minutes early. When meeting the interviewer, give a firm handshake and smile.

(The Career Center can help you practice these interview skills and give recommendations to help you market yourself most effectively.)

6.     Use the powers of networking

While in college, gather a network of professionals (professors, supervisors, peers, etc.) to which you can call upon as a reference and/or to inform you of possible job openings. Join professional organizations related to your career interests and utilize this resource to meet others in your field. These connections can provide valuable advice and information that will help you locate positions and companies you would enjoy. References are crucially important for applicants, and in some cases, you may land a position via networking before it is even open to the public.

 7.     Why you?

Think of ways to demonstrate how you stand out from the rest of the candidates. Let them know why they should hire you. Spend substantial time soul searching and trying to delve into this question; it could seal the deal on landing the job you want.

8.     Do not give up

Lastly, and most importantly, never give up. Keep sight of your dreams and find a way to make them reality. It will probably be a long, tedious journey, but once you reach your goal, it will all be worth it.

John C. Maxwell, author of Failing Forward: Turning Mistakes into Stepping Stones for Success, says, “Success is not a destination. It is the journey you take.” The decisions you make in your day-to-day life are what make you successful. If you are working through these steps listed above and exerting your best effort, you are already on the pathway to success. Stay determined and you will land the job you want that will set you on your career path.

Emily Clark, Practicum Student – M.S. in Student Affairs in Higher Education

The Career Center is proud to announce a few new additions to our website:

Going Global is a very helpful resource that can help you whether you are looking for a job in Missouri, another state, or another country.  In the USA/Canada Career City Guide, you will find information about many key cities including cost of living, lists of the largest employers, job search websites, cultural information, and a list of nonprofit/volunteer opportunities.  When looking for a position in another country, it is often difficult to navigate the visa process and cultural differences in the job search process.  For those looking for H1B visa sponsorship, Going Global will give you a list of H1B employers by state and city with links directly to the employer’s website.  With the Country Guides resource, you will find all of this key information in one place including job search resources, business and networking groups, and industry and employment trends. When conducting a job search, it is very important to research employers before applying for positions and the Employer Directory can help.  This tool provides basic information including a brief description, number of employees, link to their website, and contact information. There is even a place to search for job/internship postings both in the US and internationally.  Overall, you will find that Going Global is a wonderful resource no matter where your job search takes you.

**You can access Going Global from anywhere in the world through your Job Tracks account (contact the Career Center for Job Tracks login information- 417-836-5636).  The link on our website can only be accessed from an on-campus computer until you create a personal account.  After your personal account has been established, you may log-in from anywhere.

Uniworld allows you to search for either American firms operating in foreign countries or foreign firms operating in the United States using a variety of filter criteria.  It will provide you a spreadsheet with information about the different companies including locations, contact info, website, revenue, CEO names, and a brief description of services/products.  This is all very useful information when doing research and identifying possible employers to target.

**You can access Uniworld from anywhere in the world through your Job Tracks account (contact the Career Center for Job Tracks login information- 417-836-5636).  The link on our website can only be accessed from an on-campus computer.

The NACE Salary Calculator will allow you to research salary information specific to your industry, education, and location.  Using the Job Seeker link, you will enter your own information including major, GPA, experience level, university, and location.  From this you will see the starting salaries for the bottom 10%, median, and top 10% of those in your field as well as a starting salary you can expect to be offered giving your specific situation.  This is essential information for you to have for any job interview.

**The NACE Salary Calculator can be accessed from anywhere.

Stay up-to-date on all Career Center events and promotions, “Like” us on Facebook and join the Missouri State University Career Center group on LinkedIn.

It sounds so intimidating, doesn’t it?  How exactly do you go about negotiating a salary?  I was definitely intimidated by this concept (am still am a little bit) when I was offered my first job, but here’s some things I’ve learned & advice I received that’s worth mentioning:

1st-Don’t even think about negotiating before you receive a job offer.  Once you know they want you-that’s when you have leverage.  Also, don’t initiate a discussion about salary-let the employer bring up the subject first.  It’s also appropriate to discuss salary negotiations during a review at a current job.

2nd-Don’t ask for more money because you just bought an expensive house (this also applies when asking for a raise during an annual/quarterly review).  It’s not the employer’s responsibility to fund your lavish lifestyle. 

3rd- Negotiate respectfully and with finesse.  An example of how to respond after you receive an offer: “Thank you for the offer.  The salary is a little lower than I expected so would it be possible for me to take a few days to think about it and get back to you by Monday morning?” And when you do ask for more money, instead of asking for a $5000 increase, ask for $400 more per month.

4th-Explain to the employer why you’re worth more money. Do your research into what skills are required for the job, what the cost of living is in the area, and what entry-level employees are paid in your field.  Prepare a list of the skills that make you deserving of a higher salary or additional benefits. 

5th- Be flexible.  Keep in mind that some companies are limited on salary-like governments and sometimes universities, but there are other things that can be negotiable too-like vacation days, relocation assistance, unpaid time off, start date, membership dues, benefit plans, cell phone, child care, advanced education or training, work location, etc.

If you’re extremely uncomfortable with negotiating, start small by negotiating your start date.  I started my first job out of college, 3 days after they offered it to me.  I wish I would have taken at least another week to relax, visit my family or go on vacation.  Once you start working, there really is no stopping.  One of my friends received 2 job offers out of college, negotiated for a higher salary and got it.  She said if she did it all over again, she would ask for more vacation time rather than a higher salary. Think about what you really want out of a job before you negotiate, but sometimes it just takes time to learn what’s most important to you.

Some other tips:

When filling out a job application and it asks for your salary requirements-do some research & put a range.  If you simply say, I’d like $40,000 and they offer you $40,000, you’re not in the best position to negotiate.  However, if you put $38,000-$48,000, you have some room for negotiation.  It’s also very important to research how much you can expect to make.  Glassdoor.com and salary.com are great resources for company research and the NACE Salary Calculator can give you a realistic salary range for your specific situation. 

 I was fortunate enough to receive 2 great job offers before I even graduated from college.  Typically when this happens, there’s 1 job that you want more than the other-which was true in my case.  Therefore, you want to be careful about how you negotiate.  I was able to get more money out of the job I really wanted by letting them know that I had another offer. Even though they didn’t give me exactly what I asked for, they met me halfway.  The job that I didn’t take actually still ended up being more money than the one I did take, but I’ve learned (in my few short years of work experience), that money isn’t everything and I know I made the right decision.

For assistance with negotiating a salary or other points of negotiation, make an appointment with the Career Center!

Here’s an online resource with more info on negotiating: Quintessential Careers

Good Luck with your negotiations!
Andrea

P.S. I’d love to hear any stories that you have about salary negotiating or anything career related!  Please share!

Walk into an interview after preparing your 30-second commercial, practicing your behavioral interview responses, researching the company, and having overcome the urge to speak too quickly and look everywhere but the interviewers eyes and you’ll certainly be ready to sell yourself…..short.   Unfortunately for interviewers and candidates this is the norm rather than the exception.  Let me be the first to help you break your bad habits and improve your approach. 

As I said, interviewing isn’t just selling yourself, it’s selling your best self.  Thinking beforehand about how you’re going to respond to the different types of questions is only preparing for interviewing on a surface level.  To really capture the interviewer’s attention and ensure that you’re creating the right impression, you need to think more strategically in your preparations.  This is why simply selling yourself is more often than not, selling yourself short.  So what can you do to take it to the next level? You’ve come this far, just keep reading.

It all starts with your approach.  As I mentioned, traditional preparation is extremely valuable because it gives you a foundation for your interview.  The next step is to not just talk about where you’ve been and what you’ve done – the approach that most people take.  As I said, this is surface level.  To go from selling yourself, to selling your best self you must critically review those experiences and determine why those things are worth mentioning and how those can be used to show your BEST self.  Take the employer’s perspective and think to yourself, “what’s in it for me?”  How are you going to create value for their business?  How can you describe your strengths, experiences, passions, and characteristics in relation to the position?

By describing your experiences in this context and within this perspective, you’ll begin to improve the relevance of the features you’re selling about yourself.  This will be the critical element in your interview that can certainly improve not only what you’re saying, but also how you’re saying it.  Being more effective in your descriptions of your past will undoubtedly improve the general outcomes of your interviews.

The difference between selling yourself and selling your best self is entirely up to your preparedness and analysis of your experiences.  I realize it’s a very abstract concept.  Regrettably, being able to quantify a moment at which you have “arrived” is not going to be extremely obvious.  But, if you use this perspective and approach the interview like you would any individual question, letting the results speak for them self, your “arrival” may just be the first time you sit down for your first day on the job. 

If you’ve only read the title and searched for a bullet point to help summarize the point of this article, this is for you:

• Do your best to show your best and you’ll be best positioned to get the best.

 From the Mind and Fingers of Jason Polsgrove

Graduate Assistant – Missouri State University Career Center

Human Resources Specialist – Classy Llama Studios

Are you one of “those” students? The ones who are graduating and moving someplace where they don’t know anyone. Here are some things you can do to make moving to a new place less overwhelming and scary, and help you get settled faster.

Before the Job Search:

• If you are looking for a different job and you aren’t picky about where, do some research on the cities prior to applying or accepting the interview.
• Some things to research:
  • How many people live in the city?
  • What percentage of the population is close to your age?
  • Crime statistics.
  • What things are there to do?
  • How can you meet other people?
  • Resources to help you research:
    • US Census
    • Police Department Crime Statistics
    • Google
    • Wikipedia
    • City Chamber of Commerce and/or Visitor’s Bureau

 After you accept the position:

• Housing
  • Analyze what you’re looking for:
    • how much can you afford
    • # of bedrooms
    • washer/dryer in unit, laundry facilities, hookups
    • allows pets
• Ask your incoming colleagues for references of good places or good neighborhoods
• Use apartment finders, Craigslist, Google
• Renting a house may be a better option for you than an apartment
• Most rental companies will want a pay stub or letter from your employer verifying your start date and salary prior to accepting your application.
• Moving Companies
  • Consider moving yourself or hiring movers to assist you. Some companies will offer financial assistance with relocation, however, most entry level positions will not.
  • Make sure you
    • Turn on your utilities and water prior to moving in
    • Have an identified cable/internet/phone provider to set up the equipment within the first few days of arrival
    • Tell your rental insurance company about your move if you are staying with the same company. Some rentals will want a copy of your rental insurance property prior to move-in.
    • Forward your mail.

 After you move:

So, you’re in your new place and ready to make the city home. Here’s some tips:

• Join the city’s Young Professionals Group. Most of these are run through the city’s Chamber of Commerce. If they don’t have one, maybe you could start one!
• Consider volunteering.
• Seek out special interest groups: running, library, board games, knitting (one website is http://www.meetup.com/, but you can also use Google and craigslist).
• Join one of the sports through the Park Board.
• Take a class in an area of interest.
• Join other professional associations.
• Invite your colleagues out to lunch/dinner.
• Adopt a dog (which you will take for walks, go to the park or dog park).

These are certainly not the only things you should when relocating or the only ways to get involved, but can help you get started! Feel free to contact the Career Center with other career concerns!

Good Luck and Congratulations!
Chandra

Why Network?

Do you feel discouraged when someone suggests you need to network to find a job?   After all, if you do not know enough to talk about your career direction, it’s difficult to get out there & talk to people who are immersed in their careers daily.    Many people would prefer to sit in their comfortable surroundings in front of their computer and search jobs online.  But let’s be honest, is that really working out for you?  Do you feel like you are in the driver’s seat of your own job search?

Positive aspects about networking:

• Gives you a feeling of control
• 75% success rate in your job search vs. 25% success rate finding a job through an advertised posting
• Higher success rate of finding a job you really like

What have I learned about job searching?  If people do not know who you are and you don’t have just the right credentials to get that job, it’s slim chance you’ll be getting a call from the employer for an interview.  Networking allows you to get in front of the people who make decisions prior to an interview.  Networking opens doors to opportunities you didn’t know even existed.  Networking can occur in a group setting, at the store, with your friend or in a meeting at a coffee shop.

Here are some tips to successful networking:

Be Prepared

Take time to assess yourself so you can clearly define and communicate your skills & interests.  You will need to talk about yourself so creating a 30 Second Commercial is highly recommended.  

A 30 Second Commercial includes your name, academic background, (future) graduation, brief background about your work experience outlining skills & strengths and ends with what you would like to do next or how this person may be able to assist you.

What do you want from the network meeting?  Clearly tell them that you would like information about their career field, organization, other contacts in the field or just advice.

Target companies/Industries of interest

Make a list of employers that you’d like to research so you can find someone who works for that organization.

Start with people you know

I bet you don’t know what your friend’s neighbor does for a living?  Maybe they work for a company that hires your major?  This same principle applies to everyone else you know. 

Make a list of people you know and let them know what you are looking for.  Ask them if they know someone who works for one of your target companies or in the career field you’re interested in.

Be Patient

You may at first be talking to people who are not directly in the field of your interest, but they may be stepping stones to the right people so be patient and appreciative of the time of those who do talk to you.  These people can be your cheerleaders, your eyes, ears, and voices for you so don’t think that they can’t help.

Be Professional

Respect their time and be flexible to meet or talk with them on their time (if ever so brief).  Set at least one goal you hope to gain from the appointment so you don’t flounder around and waste time.  Be appreciative and always send thank you notes.  Even offer to buy them coffee if you meet at a coffee shop.  They are meeting for you so treat them as a special guest.

Dress professionally as this is your chance to impress them.  Remember that people make their decisions about you in the first 10 minutes of meeting…so, make it a good one.

Be Organized

Keep track of everyone you’ve talked with, make sure you send them thank you notes and keep in contact with them by updating them on your progress.  Collect business cards and follow-up with new contacts they may have suggested you speak with.

Take their advice and get moving

It’s amazing how many times people ask for advice and then don’t follow it.  Do what they suggest – don’t keep asking for more advice and expect to make progress.   Get comfortable doing things that are uncomfortable – that is how you grow, build confidence and find what you’re looking for.

Think of them, not just about yourself

It’s important to realize that networking is a reciprocal relationship.  Find out what their needs are so you can re-pay them for their time & energy spent on you.  It doesn’t have to be big things -  often times, you might just know the answer to things they need or maybe they don’t have an expertise you have.  It’s a great way to demonstrate your character.

Sample Questions to Ask During Networking Meetings

• What do you like most (least) about your work?
• Can you describe a typical workday or week?
• What type of education and experience do you need to remain successful in this field?
• What are the future career opportunities in this field?
• What are the challenges in balancing work and personal life?
• Why do people enter/leave this field or company?
• Which companies have the best track record for promoting minorities?
• What advice would you give to someone trying to break into this field?
• With whom would you recommend I speak? When I call, may I use your name?

Dos & Don’ts of Networking

• Do keep one hand free from a briefcase or purse so you can shake hands when necessary.
• Do bring copies of your resume.
• Don’t tell them your life story; you are dealing with busy people, so get right to the point.
• Don’t be shy or afraid to ask for what you need
• Don’t pass up opportunities to network
• Don’t ask for a job, ask for information and advice

 There is also a website that can help you network professionally: Linkedin.  Now this doesn’t mean that you don’t have to network face-to-face, but it can give you a place to start.  Another thing that you can do with networking is an informational interview.  For more information on networking, Linkedin.com, informational interviewing or other career related topics, check out our website or make an appointment with the Career Center!

 Thanks for reading,

Margie