Networking......

Messiah College Career Network

(FalconNet and LinkedIn)

Step One:  Please read the following information regarding the Messiah College Career Network:

Purpose: The purpose of the Messiah College Career Network is to enrich your student learning and broaden your vocational awareness by connecting you with alumni who have experience in your area of interest.

Overview

• Better understanding of specific career fields/industries
• Researching specific positions
• Increasing your knowledge of new opportunities or trends in your field
• Understanding the grad school process
• Integrating your liberal arts experience into your career

Expectations

The individuals you contact understand that you are not asking for a job or employment opportunities. Their specific role is to provide you with networking resources, feedback, and information gained from their own professional and personal experience.

The contact information that you receive will include the name of the alum, email address, position title, and name of the organization.

First Point of Contact

• Research your area of interest before contacting the alum. This can be done in the Career Center or through on-line resources at www.messiah.edu/offices/career.
• Contact each alum through their email address in FalconNet or LinkedIn.
• Ask if they would prefer corresponding through email or if you can call them.
• If you want them to review your resume and give you feedback, then ask for their feedback before sending it.
• When you do communicate, be sensitive to their time schedule and ask the most important questions first.
• Ask if the individual can recommend the names of 2-3 others in your area of interest. Ask their permission if you can use their name when talking with others.
• MOST IMPORTANT: Follow up with a personalized thank you note (either through their address or through email).

Follow Up

Out of courtesy to those you contact, always follow up with a thank you letter. This is a time to express your appreciation for the contact’s time and the information he/she shared with you. If some of the information caught your attention, you can mention the value of the specific information that was shared with you. These small acts of courtesy (writing a thank you letter) can reinforce a positive impression.

Step Two:  Two of the most valuable tools in your network development is the FalconNet and Linkedin. By clicking on either of the links below, you are agreeing to the protocol and expectations described above.

                                                

 

 

Other resources to guide you with networking:

• What is it and why is it so important?

This section includes definitions of networking, along with effective strategies to begin growing your professional network.

• Etiquette

Tips for professional etiquette when networking.  Included are sample correspondences.

• Informational Interview Questions (PDF)

Sample questions to ask during an information interview.

VAULT.com

VAULT.com is a resource to which the Career Center subscribes.  Check out the downloadable guide on "schmoozing."