The Villanova University Career Center's "How to Network for Professional Success" workshop. http://www1.villanova.edu/villanova/vpaa/careers.html

1. Networking – what is it?!
• Making connections and exchanging information
with other people. Sounds like “I know someone
who…”
• +/- 75% of jobs are found via “networking” –
including personal contacts, new connections, and
social networking
• You’re already doing it!

2. Where it Happens
Networking Events
• Career Fairs, Info Sessions, Meet and Greets
Chance and Planned Encounters
• Student Groups, Campus events, Vacations, Trains, Planes,
and Automobiles
Personal, Professional and School Contacts
• Alumni, Family, Friends, Faculty, and more!

3. Building Your Network
What are you looking for?
• Info about a position, a field, a company?
Who can help you?
• Relatives, Friends, Neighbors, Professors, etc.
• Activities/sports you’re involved in
• Alumni connections, professional associations, etc.
Take advantage of chance meetings!

4. Informational Interviewing
What is it?
• Conversation where you have the chance to ask someone
else questions about their profession, career path, etc.
• One of the best ways to build your network and learn about
the day-to-day of a job or career
• Villanova resources for connecting with professionals:
NovaNetwork & Career Connections

5. Informational Interviewing
Setting It Up
• You may contact them by telephone or email
• Tell person who you are and why you are calling/writing
• Mention name of reference if someone referred you
• Ask if they are willing/able to do an info interview
• Ask for their preference (in person, on phone, via email)

6. Examples: The Ugly
hey –
i was wondering if u can help me get a internship. i am
philosophy major and i just looking to make some money
next summer. idk what i could do or what i even want to do
but if u know any internships i can get can u sine me up 4
one?
Thanx! 
kevin

7. Examples: The Good
Dear Ms. Summer,
I found your information through Villanova’s Alumni Career Connections
website. I am contacting you because of my sincere interest and curiosity about
the field of marketing which I have been learning about through my business
minor; I am an English major entering my junior year.
I am hopeful that you might be able to give me some insights into the field of
marketing through an informational interview; I would welcome the
opportunity to ask you more about your own career path and your
recommendations for entering the field. I would be delighted to meet in person
if that would be an option, or over the phone; whichever is most convenient for
you. Please let me know if this would be possible. I am most easily reached by
email at jennifer.beale@villanova.edu or phone at 610-519-4060. I am looking
forward to hearing from you!
Sincerely,
Jenn

8. Tips For Informational Interviews
• You lead the meeting and ask questions
• Make sure you do not go over time requested
• Overall goal is to learn – it is appropriate to ask for advice
on job searching, resume, etc,
• It is NOT appropriate to ask for a job!
• Always ask if there is anyone else to speak to
• FOLLOW UP! Send a THANK YOU letter!
– Within 24 hours via email or note
– Error free!!!
• Keep communication open
• Remember reciprocity

9. Social Networking
• Employers look for students on social networking sites like
Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, etc.
• Make the most of these spaces, but remember to maintain
professionalism
• Linkedin is becoming network of choice for recruiting
• Keep in mind what you post on these sites becomes public;
Google yourself to see what comes up
• Building a good reputation online will pay off when you are
searched on the web
• Use social networking as the first step to getting an in-
person meeting!

10. Networking Events:
Learn to Work a Room
Develop the proper attitude
• Overcome negative self-talk and shyness
• Talk to as many people as you can
• Strike out on your own!
• Don’t overlook anyone
Prepare your introduction
• Develop your “elevator pitch”
• Practice makes perfect!

11. Appearances
• First impressions count when you meet
someone new
• Business/business casual attire is appropriate
for informational interviews or planned
networking events
– DOES NOT include: jeans, sneakers, sweats,
shorts, overalls, t-shirts, swooshy/jogging pants,
flip-flops/sandals

12. Questions?
The Career Center is here to help!
Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm
Walk-ins, 11am - 4pm
Appointments: 610-519-4060
www.careers.villanova.edu