For Alumni: Networking Success Tips

• Students are sometimes apprehensive about contacting a professional. Be prepared to ask the student questions about his or her interests, classes, goals and activities.
• Share information about yourself. Students are interested in knowing what you enjoy, such as professional organizations, activities and hobbies, and how you balance work life with family and other interests.
• You may have a college experience in common with many students. Don’t hesitate to ask your student about college experiences.
• Offer students the chance to interact with your colleagues as is appropriate. For example, if you are a recruiter in HR and think that a student would benefit from corresponding with the trainer in your department, try to make this connection.
• Keep in touch with your student. Send an occasional e-mail to ask how he or she is doing and offer encouragement.
• Don't be afraid to set parameters. Let the students know how much time you are able to give and how/when it is most convenient to visit.
• Be prepared to talk about your current and past jobs, what skills and experiences helped you get them, and offer advice to students in terms of entry-level positions in your field today.
• Do tell a student if he/she has contacted you at a particularly busy time. Know that you have the freedom to make arrangements to visit online, by phone or in person in a few weeks after you've finished the big project, family vacation, or whatever! If you are busy for an extended period, simply let the Career Services Office know. We can set your account such that you continue to be a member of the program and receive program information without being accessible to students.

Note: The purpose of the Connections program is not job referral. You have volunteered your time to offer advice based on your personal experiences and knowledge.