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Networking

Cornell University Cornell University College of Arts and Sciences Cornell University

College of Arts and Sciences, Liberal Arts at Cornell University

Give [yourself] enough time prior to starting job hunting. Lots of services are available at the Career Center just to gather information as well as contacts, which is half the battle in any job search. Network as much as possible. You never have too many contacts; things will pop up in the most unlikely situations at the most unexpected times.

English, Account Coordinator, Advertising Agency

Networking Made Easy

You network everyday, in the classroom, when you are out with friends, and on-line.  This page will give you the basics on how to network professionally. 

  • Identify and expand your network
  • Connecting with your network

Identify and expand your network

  • Think about the networks you already have: colleagues and supervisors from past jobs and volunteer work; extracurricular activities; faculty; high school friends; Cornell peers and their families; your family. 
  • Cornell CareerNet Mentors: Over 1,000 alumni who specifically want to assist you with your career development.
  • LinkedIn: Connect with people around the world who possess an interest in networking. LinkedIn’s Grad Guide offers advice for getting started and is relevant to students seeking internships as well.
  • Encyclopedia of Associations: available in CCS Library, 103 Barnes Hall
  • People you meet every day, on the bus, at the dentist’s office, and around town.

Connecting with Your Network

People in your network may not have jobs to offer, but they will have valuable advice to share, stories about their career paths, and possibly recommendations for contacting others.  Effectively working your networks will eventually lead to a job posting or contact.

  • Reach out to everyone you know and tell them what you are looking for (exploring career options, searching for a job).
  • Reach out to new contacts to introduce yourself and ask if they have time to talk with you about their career path.
  • Be prepared to share a short introduction of yourself and your skills (Review Market Your Skills).
  • Add an objective to the resume you plan to circulate among your contacts.
  • More information on informational interviewing, including sample questions and introductory letters, is available in The Cornell Career Guide.
  • Ask for advice.
  • Ask if they know anyone else you can contact.
  • Follow-up.  Follow their advice. Send a thank you letter. Keep in touch.

 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 70 percent of all jobs are found through networking.

Keep in touch. Your networks will benefit you throughout your career; it’s not just about finding your next job.

Alumnus speaks on building your network

The incredible network of Cornell Alumni