Learn to Network & Make Connections

Networking can help you:

• Learn about different careers and industries
• Gain industry insights and advice
• Build confidence professionally
• Find mentors and advocates
• Explore internship and job opportunities
• Expand your professional community

On Campus

• Career fairs
• CPDC Events
• Employer information sessions
• Alumni panels
• Faculty office hours
• Student organizations
• Campus events and workshops

Online

• LinkedIn
• Alumni networks
• Professional associations
• Virtual networking events
• Industry webinars

In Your Community

• Chamber of Commerce events
• Volunteer opportunities
• Community organizations
• Professional conferences

Prepare Your Introduction

Create a simple 30-second introduction:

Include:

• Your name
• Major
• Graduation year
• Career interests
• A question or conversation starter

Example

“Hi, I’m Sarah. I’m a junior majoring in Accounting at Nichols College and I’m interested in public accounting and auditing. I’d love to hear about how you got started in the field.”

At Events

• What do you enjoy most about your role?
• How did you get started in this industry?
• What skills are the most valuable in your field?
• What advice would you give a college student interested in this career?

With Alumni

• What was your transition from college to career like?
• Looking back, what do you wish you had done differently in college?
• How has your Nichols experience helped your career?

An informational interview is a conversation with a professional to learn about their career path and industry.

Questions to Ask

• Can you tell me about your career journey?
• What does a typical day look like?
• What skills are most important for success?
• What trends are emerging in your industry?
• What advice do you have for someone entering this field?

Remember

• Keep it to 20–30 minutes.
• Be respectful of their time.
• Come prepared with questions.
• Send a thank-you afterward.

Subject: Nichols Student Interested in Learning About Your Career Path

Hello [Name],

My name is [Name], and I am a [year] at Nichols College studying [major]. I found your profile through LinkedIn/the Nichols alumni network and would love to learn more about your career journey and experiences in [industry].

If you would be willing, I’d appreciate the opportunity for a brief 20-minute conversation at your convenience.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Thanks,

 [Name]

Optimize Your Profile

• Professional photo
• Headline beyond “Student”
• About section completed
• Experiences listed
• Skills added

Connect Strategically

When sending connection requests:

• Personalize your message.
• Mention how you found them.
• Share why you’d like to connect.

Example:

Hello Ms. Smith,

I am a Nichols College student interested in marketing and enjoyed hearing you speak at the Career Fair. I’d love to connect and follow your work.

Thank you, Sarah

A simple thank-you can help strengthen connections.

Thank-You Template

Hello [Name],

Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today. I enjoyed learning about your experience in [industry] and appreciated your advice on [topic].

I look forward to staying connected and following your work.

Thanks,

[Name]

Week 1

• Update LinkedIn profile
• Connect with 5 alumni

Week 2

• Attend one networking event
• Introduce yourself to 3 professionals

Week 3

• Conduct one informational interview
• Send follow-up thank-you notes

Week 4

• Join a professional group
• Create a networking plan for the semester