Networking strategies

An important first step to networking is to determine who is in your network. It is a good idea to compile a list of folks you know who you may want to reach out to. Consider who you know personally and come into contact with regularly. The following list may help you to get started:

It’s easiest to start reaching out to the contacts you know well (e.g., friends or family). You may be surprised by how many people you know, and how many of these folks may be able to refer you to contacts in your chosen field (McCormick, Salganik & Zheng, 2010). You can ask the folks you know well to help you by critiquing your networking approach.

Try the Five Contact Challenge to get you started with networking

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Once you feel comfortable speaking with your closest contacts, move on to your acquaintances (e.g., classmates, parents of friends). Alumni of the University of Waterloo can be valuable contacts who are often very receptive to helping current students. Look for alumni on LinkedIn or speak with your professors to learn about getting in touch with alumni from your discipline who now work in your field of interest.

Did you know that networking is a little bit like exercise? You know you can exercise to improve your health, but until you find an exercise plan that works for you, it can be challenging to stick with it. Networking is similar. A plan of networking that works for some doesn’t work for others.  

Below are some networking strategies to consider. As you review these tips, reflect on what works with your personal style, comfort level, connections and sense of security. 

Connect with associations: 

Associations related to your field may also be helpful in linking you with useful contacts: 

• Joining associations will increase the likelihood of their assisting you (Zabel, 2008) 

• As a member, you will receive valuable industry information and have the opportunity to network with other association members, some of whom may be in a position to hire 

• Being active in an association (e.g., working on a committee) allows you to demonstrate your skills  

• Associations aren’t only open to professionals in the field: many are open to the public and most encourage students to join by offering reduced membership fees 

Connect with professionals through referrals: 

It can be helpful to initiate contact with your referrals and researched leads with a networking email or LinkedIn message with the goal of setting up a phone, virtual or in-person meeting. 

Open yourself to others through events and opportunities: 

• Attend conferences 

• Join campus clubs 

• Volunteer to work with an organization in your field 

• Join online listservs/discussion groups 

• Attend job/career fairs 

Engaging with others as you go: 

Beyond having a planned approach to networking, don’t underestimate the value of speaking with people you meet everywhere to add to your contact list. When you are at an event, you might give yourself a goal of talking to at least two new people.  

Benefits of online networking: 

• Less intimidating than in-person networking by offering a comfortable way to begin introducing yourself and engaging in diverse conversations 

• It’s flexible: you can chat with others at any time 

• People who have joined an app, networking site or group have done so voluntarily, so they’re more likely to be receptive 

• It’s a way to build your network of contacts when your schedule doesn’t permit much time for other networking activities 

• Video calls can provide the opportunity to speak to someone “face-to-face” even if they live far away 

Some virtual groups will organize face-to-face or online meet-ups or professional development opportunities. Take advantage of the opportunity to meet with whom you already have a strong virtual relationship - and to make new contacts. 

While there are many benefits to virtual networking, there are also some potential challenges to consider. 

Potential challenges of online networking: 

• Messages can be less personal than face-to-face communication: it’s hard to read subtle, non-verbal aspects of electronic communications and these could thus be taken out of context 

• The contact you are communicating with may not be representing themselves honestly 

• Platforms can experience technical issues, and internet access can be somewhat unpredictable depending on where you and your contacts are located  

Choosing a virtual network:

Consider your industry and choose a platform that works best for your needs. A popular professional networking site is LinkedIn. It has many networking features and encourages its members to seek out new contacts in and outside their industry. If you are considering creating a LinkedIn profile, or seeking to fine tune your profile, consider attending a LinkedIn workshop hosted through the Centre for Career Development or book an appointment with a career advisor. 

Another valuable platform is  Ten Thousand Coffees. Founded by one of UWaterloo’s Science alumni, this site allows you to build your network, discover new opportunities or share your ideas by connecting with people for a coffee chat, by phone or online. Register and join one or more hubs to locate students, recent grads and alumni who can provide helpful advice on your career direction and job search.

(Note: the Faculties of Science and Engineering have free hubs available to their students and alumni). 

LinkedIn Messages 

A common way to reach out to new networking contacts is through LinkedIn. Often, you can send a message to 2^nd connections (people who are connected to your contacts). You can also message others (e.g. 3^rd connections) on LinkedIn by sending a connection request and including a personal note with it. Always include a personal note because it increases the likelihood of a response. 

In your personal notes or LinkedIn messages, you want to introduce yourself and explain why you’d like to connect in a brief message. For example, you could: 

• Introduce yourself and offer insights into your career aspirations and why you are reaching out to them 

• Highlight a common connection or shared interest that you both possess. Even if you are not personally acquainted, you can peruse their profile to identify areas of alignment 

• Extend an invitation to connect and, if desired, propose a casual coffee chat or short meeting (virtual or in-person)  

Once they accept your connection request, thank them for accepting the request, which will both show them you appreciate their time. At this time, you can also follow up with further information you would like to share, or questions you would like to ask. 

To write a networking email, follow the cover letters format. Try to keep your letter to one page. Individuals often feel comfortable using a networking email because they are asking for advice rather than a job, and a résumé isn’t attached. It typically consists of three parts: 

Introduction/first paragraph (build relationship with the recipient): 

1. Identify yourself by mentioning your field of interest, university and/or faculty/program 

2. Explain how you obtained the recipient’s name, or who referred you, if applicable 

Possible opening statement examples: “I was given your name by... ”, “I understand that your organization is a leader in...”, and “I am considering a career in...”, or “I heard that you have been working in the area of...” 

Middle paragraph (request meeting): 

1. Acknowledge that the reader is busy but request an in-person, phone or virtual meeting at a mutually convenient time 

2. Request 20 - 30 minutes of meeting time 

3. Explain clearly what you would like to discuss during the meeting: information on the industry/field, career related/job search questions, the appropriateness of your résumé, etc. 

Final paragraph (closing and follow up): 

1. State that you will be calling on a specific day/time to ask about arranging a meeting date/appointment (and ensure that you do!) 

2. Include your contact information (phone/email) 

3. Thank the reader for reading your letter and add that you look forward to meeting them 

Consider creating a general letter template that you can use when introducing yourself to a potential contact. Keep it professional and to the point by including relevant academic/work history and/or skills, your shared interests (e.g., both in same occupation, etc.)  and a request for advice and/or information (e.g., “What recruiting firms did you use in Calgary?”). 

After sending your networking email, follow up with a phone call within the time period indicated in the letter. Job seekers may initiate contact by phone instead of sending an email first. Sending an email first allows the contact to think about how they might help you before you speak in person. 

Tips for effective phone communication: 

• Practice your planned script out loud, including what you will say if you get through to voicemail instead of a person. If you leave a message, make sure you leave your phone number, and also state when you will try to contact the individual again 

• Clearly identify yourself and reason for calling; refer to the letter you recently sent 

• Reiterate your desire to obtain assistance with your job search, and ask for 20 to 30 minutes of your contact’s time to meet with you 

• Be prepared with your networking interview questions in case the contact invites you to ask your questions over the phone rather than in person 

• If a contact states that they don’t have time to answer any questions, ask if there might be another time to speak and/or if there are any other people you might contact 

• Regardless of the outcome, be sure to say thank you for their time and information 

The meaning of your message is communicated by the way you speak over the phone. Preparation is key! 

• Ensure that you are clear, succinct, confident and enthusiastic 

• Dress as you would for an interview and smile during a phone call: doing so may help you project a more positive and professional attitude 

When you are successful in arranging a meeting, treat the meeting as you would a formal interview: in addition to obtaining valuable information for your job search, you also want to make a favourable impression. This person might at some point be in a position to refer you for a job opening. 

When you arrive, introduce yourself and establish rapport. Explain the purpose and agenda (i.e., looking for job search information, advice and referrals). It’s a good idea to refresh the contact’s memory regarding your background and experience, and then to share information and ask questions based on your research.

Here are some sample questions: 

• What is your advice to look for work in this field? 

• What main job search techniques would you use to find work in the field right now? 

• What challenges face those who work in this field, or who work with typical employers? How can one stand out in the face of these challenges? 

• Do you have suggestions for improving my résumé ? 

• How can I better promote my skills and experience? 

• Do you know of any organizations that might be interested in someone with my qualifications? 

• What other people might I speak to as I gather information? May I have permission to use your name? (Note: it is very important to obtain permission before mentioning a contact's name to a new referral) 

• What groups/associations would you recommend that I join or volunteer for? 

• Would it be alright to contact you again in the future? What is the best way to reach you? 

Try to get referrals; you might get two or three from a contact who has no hesitation in referring you. Listen carefully while your contacts speak. If they talk about a company or organization that seems promising, ask if they can suggest whom you could speak with there. 

At the close of the meeting, thank your contact and mention how helpful the meeting has been. 

Within 48 hours of the meeting, send a thank-you note, either via regular mail or email. It should be brief and sincere, expressing appreciation for the meeting. 

Also include what you have done or plan to do because of the meeting. This will reassure the contact that their time with you was well spent. If you have received a contact name, industry information and/or good tips on changing your résumé, be sure to explain how this information is/will be of benefit. If appropriate, you may choose to indicate that you will forward your revised résumé soon. Try to incorporate at least one of the contact’s suggestions. Send your résumé as a follow up rather than with the letter so that it doesn’t detract from the sincerity of the thank you.  

Upon accepting a job, contact those in your network who assisted you and/or are referring you to others. This will let them know that there’s no need to continue assisting in your job search. They will likely appreciate the update and may wish to congratulate you.

The idea of beginning and maintaining conversations with strangers can be daunting, and for some folks networking may feel uncomfortably transactional. Some folks have larger networks than others, and some folks experience identity-related barriers that can make networking more difficult. There are many strategies you can discuss with a Career Advisor on what works for you to support you in intentionally building your network, and it can help to think of networking as conducting authentic conversations and building a community within the scope of your career.  

It may be encouraging to know that many people are quite receptive to someone who has a genuine passion for the field and is seeking information. Most people enjoy talking about their work as well as giving advice. If this feels outside your comfort zone, remind yourself that conversations are about listening and not about self-promotion.  

That being said, you want to be intentional with who you connect with and you want to feel comfortable and as safe as possible when connecting with others. Here are a few suggestions for intentional and safer networking, whether it’s connecting directly with someone or joining online networks (such as LinkedIn Groups): 

• Connect with those who have a similar career background or trajectory: whether you’re just starting your career, looking to progress further in your career or making a career change, it’s very informative to connect with someone or a group who have a similar career background and path as you. These connections can support you by being able to speak to your competencies, relate to any challenges you may be experiencing, and provide strategies that worked for them and may work for you. Moreover, you will find that you may receive more targeted and focused feedback and guidance as opposed to someone in the field who does not share a similar career background as you.  

• Connect with someone with a shared identity/identities in your field or prospective field: Connections who do not share an identity or identities with you may not be aware of any challenges or barriers that exist for you, nor may they be able to support you in navigating those challenges if they are aware. Connections who share an identity with you can provide guidance and lived experience to support you in your career, as well as connecting you with others or online groups who can support you further. Particularly, these connections can advise on how best to leverage your experiences, navigating any barriers you may be experiencing, and they can be a safe person to talk to about challenges, frustrations, and strategies when experiencing barriers during work search or in the workplace. There are also identity-specific resources and networks that may be useful. For example, Lime Connect  is a global non-profit organization with the mission to prepare and connect high-potential university students with disabilities to scholarships, internships, a fellowship program and full-time careers offered by their corporate partners. 

• Connect with people you know: Consider doing the Five Contact Challenge to network with the people you know. Starting with the people we know, especially the people whose company we enjoy, can ease you into networking and practice those conversations and relationship building. 

While the above groups of connections can support you in getting a job, notice that a lot of career support is not just about the end goal “getting the job” but the path towards getting one and maintaining a healthy career. Networking is better understood as reciprocal (rather than “transactional” as it is felt by some); networking is establishing and maintaining mutually beneficial relationships to help others achieve their goals as they help you achieve yours. You learn about their experiences, interests and goals, and they will want to learn about yours. Be a good listener, ask questions, share your story and reflect on the information you get. Avoid over-rehearsing what you will say: let your passion, curiosity and your genuine self steer your conversations. 

Don’t let your contacts forget about you! The more you learn about a contact through your conversations, the more ideas you will have for effective ways to follow up. For example, if you see an article or hear about something that might interest a contact, you can pass it along, and in the process help remind them of you in a positive way. Some networking opportunities will allow you to find ways to engage with that person every couple of weeks. Other networking contacts, once developed, may only need to be contacted about once a year to remain strong. Your hope is that you will be remembered when something comes up in your line of work. 

Some ways to help develop your confidence: 

• Volunteer with people who share your passion to develop lasting relationships. It's a great way for others to get to know you and your talents, and ultimately to increase your existing network 

• Note what aspects of networking you dislike, and develop an action plan to network in ways that suit you 

• Engage in networking activities when your energy level is at its highest 

• Consider networking online to practice 

Each step you take will help to boost your confidence and comfort with networking. Making contacts can be fun and very rewarding, both professionally and personally. 

1. Next: Personal pitch and Preparing for job fairs

Zabel, D. (2008). The Mentoring Role of Professional Associations. Journal of Business & Finance Librarianship, 13(3), 349–361. https://doi.org/10.1080/08963560802183187.