Santa Clara University

Network Your Way to Success

• Informational Interviewing

  You can learn about careers and industries by talking with people who are already working in those fields. Informational interviewing is a way for you to learn from professionals about an industry or job of interest to you and discover what qualities are needed to succeed in a particular field. Informational interviewing is NOT asking for a job. It is an opportunity to make a professional connection with someone whose interests or background you share.

• Professional Associations

  Professional Associations provide members within a particular field with professional development opportunities. These may include conferences, regional events, mentorship, job and/or internship postings, and career and graduate school information. Identify a professional association in your field and see how it might assist you.

• LinkedIn

  LinkedIn is a professional networking and job search tool. Create an online profile similar to your resume and join industry groups to network with professionals. Through your network and "three degrees of separation" you may identify people you know at companies that interest you. Check out our advice on using LinkedIn effectively (PDF)

• Volunteer

  Develop leadership skills while making a difference. Offer your skills and talents in ways that can benefit others. Get your foot in the door with a particular industry or organization by making connections with people in a field that interests you. Check these sites for local, national, and international volunteer opportunities.