Peer Career Consultant Blogs

LinkedIn: 
Reaching out to professionals through LinkedIn or email doesn’t have to be daunting. Here’s why: 

1. People want to help. 9 times out of ten, people using LinkedIn know the value of a network and are often eager to offer guidance. 
2. People love to talk about themselves. Especially in competitive fields, many individuals enjoy sharing their experiences and offering advice, which can be a great way to connect.
   

When crafting your message, keep it short and to the point. Here's a template that has worked well for me: 

"Hi [Name], I'm Zack Ferreira, a senior studying finance at Santa Clara University. I’m passionate about [specific area: finance, accounting, marketing, etc.] and interested in learning more about [Company Name]. Would you be open to a quick chat? I'm available [insert days and times]. Thanks!"

This template makes it as easy as possible for the other person to follow up in one message so you both are not playing phone tag. It is as simple for them to follow up with a “Yes, X:XX time works, call me at XXX-XXX-XXXX.” 

Email: 
If you don't hear back through LinkedIn, don’t be discouraged. Persistence is key, and getting in someone's inbox can be more direct than LinkedIn. 

Best Practices for Successful Networking: 
When reaching out, make it as easy as possible for the other person to respond. Offering a few specific time slots for a call shows respect for their time. If they agree, send a Google Calendar invite to keep things organized and ensure both of you have the meeting on your schedules. 

Before the call, prepare at least five questions tailored to their role or company. Start calls with an intro about yourself: name, major, where's home, past experiences, and what you are looking for now. These conversations will become easier and more natural with practice. The more you engage with professionals, the better you'll become at asking insightful questions that leave a lasting impression.

Two somewhat cheesy but successful questions that I have finished career conversations with have seen good success. They are 1) “is there anything you wish I asked?” and 2) “Who else do you recommend talking to at XXX firm?” The first question gets immediate feedback if you skipped something or gives the person you're interviewing a lasting impression that you asked all the good questions. The 2nd question starts to build out that spiderweb of people within a team/firm and the person you're chatting with will most likely give you the best way to reach another person within their firm. 

Following Up: The Key to Long-Term Relationships: 
Connecting with someone is just the first step. Maintaining those relationships is just as important. A good rule of thumb is to touch base with your most fruitful contacts once a quarter. You don’t always need a reason—sometimes a quick “I saw this article and thought of you” or “We should catch up soon” is enough to stay on their radar. Like reaching out prior, make it as easy as possible. Keeping up with people helps your name stick in their head. When they see the next opportunity open up your name wants to be on the top of their mind.