Networking - Making Connections

Networking is an important part of any job search. It is the process of establishing contacts for the purpose of gathering information, communicating your career goals, seeking advice, and obtaining leads on jobs. Unsurprisingly, the larger your network is, the more likely you are to be successful.

1. Create a list of primary contacts. Your primary contacts are family members and friends with whom you already have a relationship. Let these individuals know about your career goals and ask them whether they know of anyone who works in your target area and who might be helpful in your job search. The names they provide you are known as your secondary contacts.

2. Create new contacts. Start by getting in touch with the secondary contacts referred to you by your family and friends. Be prepared to talk about your career goals, skills and experiences. You may want to ask your secondary contacts whether they would be willing to have an informational interview with you. Another way of making new contacts is by joining a professional association, attending conferences in your target field and doing volunteer work.

3. Make cold calls. Calling companies and organizations of interest and attempting to meet with the person who has the decision-making power to hire you, or with someone who is knowledgeable about the field, is a great way to expand your network. If you are extremely uncomfortable making cold calls, you can also write to the organization or company. However, networking by email is much less effective than networking in person or over the phone. 

4. Conduct career conversations. A career conversation involves meeting with an individual in a field or occupation of interest for the purpose of gaining current, regional and/or specialized information. They are a great way of making new contacts and finding out more about the position, organization and industry you are interested in. They can also help you explore possibilities if you are in the process of choosing a major, narrowing down career options or beginning a job hunt. The goal of a career conversation is to probe your contact for information, not necessarily to ask about job openings. If you are interested in conducting career conversations, review the handouts section for tips and advice on how to get started, and ideas on appropriate questions to ask. To prepare for a career conversation:

 How to Navigate Career Conversations

You may also want to attend the Networking workshops and meet with a career advisor to help you customize your approach. To make an appointment, call 514-398-3304.

Networking Guides

For comprehensive, step by step help with networking with alumni and preparation for career fairs, consult our handouts listed below.

• Networking while Physical Distancing: Tips for using LinkedIn from home
  Tips on how to build your network using LinkedIn from home.
• Quick Guide to Preparing for a Career Fair and Making a Business Card
  Information on how to make your own business card.
• 
  Information on how to create and improve your LinkedIn profile.
• How to find McGill alumni on LinkedIn
  Information on how to connect with McGill alumni through LinkedIn.
• Networking books (Available in the McGill Library)