Networking

Networking is the process of meeting people to exchange ideas and to make contacts for future interactions. The interactions may be for job contacts or to get information about your interest areas.

• Why is networking important?
  • To get advice about job search strategy
  • To find information about a particular position
  • To learn how your skills are relevant to a job
  • To find out what a particular job might involve
  • To research trends in your field of interest

  Ultimately, you hope that networking will lead to consideration for job openings, whether it's with your network contact's friend or with some other contact, but don't walk into a networking meeting expecting this to happen.

• Who Do I Know?

  What if your list of personal contacts is too short, or you don't know even one person in the area you're exploring? Don't despair; you are probably more prepared than you think. The trick is to probe beyond the first layer of contacts. Let's say, for example, you want to get into a specific college as a MAT employee. You've asked all of the people you know but have had little direction. What do you do next? You probe beyond the first layer. This link will give you more ideas for your probing.

• Quality vs. Quantity:

  While the number of connections you make is important, never let the quantity take precedence over the quality. Be sure that every contact is made with courtesy and tact, and make sure that your strategy is appropriate. Be prepared with specific questions. People are most helpful when they know what you need. Meet in person whenever possible. People are more likely to help when they can attach a name to a face. Follow up with your contacts, thanking them for their assistance or keeping them abreast of your plans. They may then serve as future contacts for you.

• A Quick Course in Probing:

  Ask professors (both present and past), ask colleagues, department heads and deans. Ask anyone you come in contact with in your daily routine. Let them know what your career goals are and ask if they have suggestions on how to attain those goals. You will probably want to get appointments with deans and department heads. With colleagues, you could ask them to lunch.

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