Networking can help you to identify new job leads, learn more about roles you are interested in, and connect you with other people. Some people stay in the "safe zone" by spending their time only applying for open positions that they see on a job board. While this may seem like a good idea, finding a job through the hidden job market is a more successful strategy. By spending your time building authentic and genuine relationships, you can maximize your job search or career planning efforts. This blog post will outline some “tools” you can use when networking to help build these professional relationships.
Connect on LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a powerful platform to build relationships and your network. When connecting with new contacts on LinkedIn, be sure to send a customized and personalized message. A potential new contact may disregard your request if you do not bother to send a personalized message.
You can also use the Alumni tool on LinkedIn to connect with other Brock grads. Brock has alumni working all over the world, across all industries. This is a great first step in building some new connections!
Informational Interviews
Information interviews are career conversations that present an opportunity to learn, gain insight, and build a relationship with another person. Unlike when you are interviewing for a job, the informational interview puts you in the driver’s seat because you prepare and ask the questions.
The Elevator Pitch
No networking toolbox would be complete without the elevator pitch. Think of this as a personal sales pitch that you can use in any networking setting! Your elevator pitch should be a 30 second or approximately (75 words) self-introduction that includes:
- Your name
- Education
- Key skills or strengths
- How you are using (or will be using) your strengths
- What you are seeking “the ask”
Keep in mind that you wouldn’t say all this information in one breath. Ideally you will weave these key points into a conversation.
Connect with us virtually and in-person this summer!
If you have any questions related to networking, we have virtual Q&A hours Monday to Friday from 11am-1pm. We also have CareerZone drop-in Q&A hours Monday to Thursday from 1-4pm! We also host café presentations every Tuesday and Thursday from 2-3pm. Stay tuned for this week’s presentations on “New Grad Search” and “Leveraging LinkedIn”.
Unable to join us for live drop-ins? No worries, students can access our online chat at https://brocku.ca/ccee/career-education/ for common inquiries.
Connect With Us!
We are here to support you, so don’t be afraid to ask for help! We offer many student resources on our portal (careerzone.brocku.ca) and can be contacted via email at career@brocku.ca to answer your questions.
Follow us on our Social Media to stay up to date on our events and workshops!
Twitter: @BrockCareerZone
Instagram: @brockcareerzone
Written by Megan Vlahiotis, Career Assistant and Blog Manager
Edited by Kara Renaud, Supervisor of Career Education, CCEE Department
