We asked W. P. Carey Alumni: What value has networking provided in your career and what advice do you have regarding networking?
Here is what they shared:
- Engage on Professional Networking Platforms
- Shared Connections Help Establish Rapport
- Expressing Genuine Interest Creates Meaningful Connections
- Prioritize Networking Early in Career
- Build Your Reputation
Engage on Professional Networking Platforms
Networking plays a critical role in job searches as it allows candidates to connect with key industry professionals and gain access to job opportunities that are often not advertised publicly.
As an executive recruiter, I’ve observed that networking can dramatically increase a candidate’s visibility and credibility with potential employers, making them more likely to be considered for positions. A strong network provides insights into industry trends and company cultures, which can be invaluable during interviews.
An actionable tip for job seekers is to actively engage on professional networking platforms like LinkedIn and to attend industry conferences and seminars. This not only expands their network but also keeps them informed about the latest industry developments and potential job openings.
Jon Schneider, B.S. Marketing ‘99, President and Founder, Recruiterie
Shared Connections Help Establish Rapport
As someone who has lived and worked in various countries, networking was essential in my job search. Having lived and worked in countries like Spain, Honduras, Indonesia, Senegal, and Madagascar, I had developed a global network that spanned various industries. For instance, during one of my interviews, I realized that the interviewer and I had mutual acquaintances from my time living abroad. This shared connection not only helped establish rapport but also demonstrated the far-reaching nature of my network.
A simple conversation could lead to learning about an opportunity halfway across the world that perfectly aligned with my experiences. That’s how I ended up in my perfect international position that I have now in a fantastic community of learners.
Zane Dickey, B.S. Marketing & Spanish ‘93, Associate Director of Admissions, IB Theory of Knowledge Educator, Social Media Coordinator, Verde Valley School
Expressing Genuine Interest Creates Meaningful Connections
Networking has been pivotal in the success of my remote business providing coaching and marketing services.
After graduation, I launched a podcast called “Brand New Thought” with a mission to share paradigm-shifting approaches to personal development. This was an occasion for me to interview people I admired and create engaging content. With this, I could leverage one of the most powerful principles of influence – reciprocity. Before my future clients met me, they could already engage with content that would address their unique problems. This made my networking efforts more meaningful and helped me get more out of platforms such as LinkedIn.
For anyone looking to network more effectively and joyfully, my advice is to set the following intentions.
- Try to notice genuine commonalities with people – we are more alike than different, and it merely takes a bit of effort to notice that.
- Try to genuinely admire people and respect their unique journeys.
When you start communicating with someone, point out these commonalities and pay genuine compliments, because it will create good soil for everything else.
Razmik Sargsyan, Fulbright Scholar (Master of Mass Communication) ‘22, Marketing manager DreamApply
Prioritize Networking Early in Career
Networking plays a major role in any job search. It’s important to prioritize this step early on. You would be amazed at how many people in the job market have found their role through a mutual acquaintance, friend, or former co-worker!
Make a list of anyone you know in a given field or who may be generally well-connected. Don’t worry if you don’t think you have a good network; don’t let that be a barrier. You can build a network even if you don’t have one to begin with. Throughout your communication, be concise, professional, and courteous. Ask them if it would be okay to set up a phone call to discuss your job search. When you speak to them, ask if they know anyone in your chosen field who could hire you, help you, etc. See if they’ll help make the introduction. In many cases, you may find that they can give you two or three names of people who may be able to help. Be sure to thank them with a courteous email after your meeting.
Cory Watson, B. A. Organizational Leadership ‘16, Floor Manager, Crate and Barrel
Build Your Reputation
If you’re a student who hasn’t created a reputation yet, get out there. Put in the work, get your name out there, and do free work to gain real-world experience. Build a name for yourself.
When I was just starting my career, most of my days were dedicated to networking because I was a nobody. Fast forward, and I haven’t officially networked in the last three years. Despite not intentionally networking, my business has grown significantly because our work does the networking for us. People know me and our business, and they’re the ones who send us work because they know we’re good at what we do.
When you’re good at something and people know that you’re good, then people will do the networking for you.
Rani Sweis, B.S. Global Business ‘09, Chief Creative, Attic Salt
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