LaSalle Network

 
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It’s not what you know, it’s who you know. And who knows you.

 
 

Find A Job

 
Networking remains the number one source for finding a job. So you're better off mastering it now, because it's not going away

What is Networking?

Networking means developing a broad list of contacts – people you’ve met through various social and professional functions — and using them to your advantage when you look for a job

Building a circle of contacts who know your current situation and want to help you succeed in finding a new job

Networking doesn’t have to be scary!

Why Network?

  • Over 60% of all jobs are found by networking
  • Saturated job boards
  • Saturated market – stand out!
  • To obtain job leads, advice, and introductions to others so you can expand your network

Where Do I Network?

Everywhere!

Informal networking – a great place to start

  • Your family, friends, and neighbors — and with their family, friends, and neighbors
  • Airplanes, fun events, waiting in line at Starbucks, elevators, anywhere!

Formal Networking

  • Set up informational meetings
  • Attending networking event
  • Organizations (i.e. Toastmasters, Young Professionals)
  • Alumni associations
  • Societies corresponding to your interests (Society of Women Engineers, Association for Sociological Research, American Management Association) Volunteer groups
  • Career/Job Fairs
  • Guest speakers who come to your company or class

Social Media

  • LinkedIn
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

How Do I Network?

  • Formulate your Elevator Pitch
  • Your background
  • Unique qualifications
  • What you’re looking for (internship, job opportunity, information)
  • Be brief

–  Example: I’m a graduating senior from North Park University. I got your name from the alumni office, where they said you were an alumna from 1999. I understand you’re now a CPA and audit manager in Chicago. My minor was in business, and I’m interested in positions in accounting. I’d like to know how you got where you are today, and what advice you’d have for a college graduate just coming into the job market today. Do you have a moment right now?

  • Get organized (keeping an Excel database)
  • Set goals for yourself (5 new contacts per week)
  • Remember, it’s just a conversation

What Do I Do After I Network?

  • Time to put that Excel spreadsheet to work!
  • Follow-up
  • Send hand written thank you cards
  • (e.g. “I followed your advice by contacting Ms. Lee and we plan to meet next week. Thank you again for this great lead…”)
  • Email updates on your search
  • Send articles (sparingly!)
  • Networking is about who knows YOU, and who knows you’re looking for work
  • It doesn’t have to be scary
  • Networking can take place anywhere
  • Practice, practice, practice
  • Follow-up, follow-up, follow-up