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Networking Tips for the Young Professional
Today’s main points Networking is a skill that anyone can
develop with practice. Professionals want to talk to you! Be confident in what you have to offer a
professional relationship.
What is networking?
“Building relationships based on reciprocity”
Ice breaker Where do you see
yourself in 5 years?
*Focus on your professional goals only.
Treat your peers like CEO’s Marshall Macias, former
CEO at Socialbees Richard Law, Founder
and Chairman at Allysic, Inc.
Megan West, Program Manager of Corporate Citizenship and Public Affairs at Microsoft
How to get started Know your goals Know your skills Be prepared with:
An updated resume LinkedIn profile or personal
webpage Business card Elevator pitch
Begin with low stress:
Alumni are your friends!
How to connect LinkedIn:
Invitation to Connect – State the following: Your purpose/interest Shared interest: previous experience, club,
major, hobby, etc. Once connected, follow up with a call to
action Invite to get coffee Ask for a 15-20 minute informational
interview
Example invitationHello (Name),
I am a current WWU student and noticed your profile while researching the public relations industry. I see that you participated in PRO while at WWU, which I do as well! I was hoping we could connect and share ideas about public relations.
Thank you and have a great day!Kiné Camara
Moving on up: Connecting with non-WWU professionals Identify your targets…
Target company Target job title or career path People who clearly want to be contacted
Example Hello (Name),
My name is Kiné (Ka-nay) Camara and I am currently a student at Western Washington University located in Washington state. I found you while looking up (Company) on LinkedIn. I found your online branding to be really captivating, especially your non-traditional resume.
I am interested in connecting with you to talk about your experience working in public relations as well as your experience working at (Company).
If you are available, I would love to chat soon! I am available [dates/times]. I am aware that we would need to coordinate through time zones. Please let me know when the most convenient time for you would be.
Thank you very much and enjoy the rest of your day!
Best,-- Kiné [email protected]
Informational interviews Research your contact and the company Be sure to establish who will call Stick to your time frame; can ask for
more time ASK: Is there anyone else that you
would recommend I talk to?
Sample questions1. What is a typical day in this position?2. What do you enjoy about your job/
working for XYZ company?3. What is challenging about your position?4. What advice do you have for someone
wanting to succeed in your field?
Go meet people! Professional Readiness Workshop Professional Women’s Association Student Marketing Association The Bellingham Chamber of Commerce
Business After Business Networking Breakfast
Whatcom Young Professionals (WYPS) Meetups The Career Fair Etiquette Dinner
Remember your tools Prepare for these events:
Always bring business cards Know current issues in your field Research speakers/attendees when
necessary Elevator pitch
Networking Basics: 8 Tips to Networking Without Being Fake
Video by Maria Forleo, Business Strategist
Be a connector
Help others Share information Be an asset to your professional
relationships Networking = Reciprocity
Follow up, it’s really important
Be timely: send a follow up email 1-2 days after
contact is made Mention something positive about your
interaction: “I really enjoyed the networking tips that
you provided us. I felt empowered to connect with professionals and I appreciate that.”
Call to action
What questions do you have?
Contact me
Twitter: @Kine_Camara Email: [email protected] Website: www.kinecamara.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kinecamara
