Networking
Networking can take place at almost any time. It can be a pre-planned meeting or an impromptu conversation at a conference, career fair, conference or anywhere. A successful networking experience benefits you and the other individual.
Things to remember:
- The goal of networking is to exchange ideas, not seek a job.
- Networking isn't a one-time contact. It is a long-term relationship in which you can develop ideas, ask questions and share experiences.
- Networking provides professionals the ability to solicit your help if you could be a useful resource or could provide expertise in a given area.
- Be confident and energetic. This will help others remember you and refer you to others.
- Be punctual. This shows that you are responsible and that you respect others' time.
- Follow up after meeting good contacts. Send a thank-you note.
- Networking professionals agree that over preparing is essential. A tip from Drake, Beam and Morin, professional human resources, suggests a 10/90 ratio. That means, for every ten minutes you have a conversation with an individual, you spend 90 minutes preparing.
Don't be afraid to let people know that you are job searching for the first time. A high percentage of people get jobs because someone they knew, knew someone else who was looking to fill "that position." If no one knows you are looking for a job, they can't refer you.
Bring the following items to networking functions.
business cards
leather folder with resumes
pen |
breath mints
planner
|
Networking with Faculty
Faculty members are a tremendous resourece to students at the University of Florida, especially graduate students.UF faculty are national and international experts in their respective fields of scholarship and research. It is up to you, however, to take the initiative in inviting them to share their wisdom and experiences with you. Networking with faculty is critically important for students wishing to pursue academic careers.
To make the most out of the networking process, identify where your career interests lie. Once you have identified your goals and interest areas, review the strengths of your faculty. Who among them is knowledgeable in your area of interest? Who's work do you admire? Who can provide you with insight into your area of specialization and to the career options available therein? Are there faculty members outside of your department who have similar interest? Who are they?
After identifying the faculty members whose interest areas are most closely aligned with yours, begin by establishing a relationship with them. the opportunities for converstation and mentoring are numerous and include the following:
- Go to office hours regularly.
- Attend departmental socials.
- Let your faculty member/s know about your research and teaching preferences so that you may be advised of research, writing or teaching opportunities.
- Volunteer or apply to work on a research project with faculty
- Invite specific faculty members to be on your dissertation committee and solicit their feedback throughout the writing and research process.
- Write an article for publication and ask select faculty to review it and provide feedback.
- Volunteer to sit on a departmental or university committee of students and faculty in your area of interest
- Attand national meetings/conferences at which departmental faculty will be present.
Networking with Faculty/Professionals at the National Level
National meetings are great opportunities to network with academics and professionals from around the nation and world. Participants have specifically gathered to share their scholarship or expertise with others within the profession, therefore, it is a good idea to get in the habit of attending these conferences early in your educational experience.
Most national conferences offer three basic ways to network with scholars and/or professionals in your field.
Presentations
A variety of presentations will be offered at most national meetings. Select the presentations that are most closely associated with your area of interest and make a point to speak with the presenter(s) during the break or at the close of the presentation.
Many an opportunities to collaborate on future projects have been born through conversations with workshop presenters, so make sure you bring a business or contact card with you to distribute during just such occasions. It’s also a good idea to ask for the presenter’s business card so that you can follow-up with her/him after returning home.
Socials
Social events are typically scheduled throughout the duration of the conference. Some socials are open to all conference participants and offer the chance to mingle in a relaxed environment. Resist the urge to spend time with people you already know. Meet with professionals or faculty members in your field of interest.
Begin preparing for the social before you actually arrive. The program guide for the conference/annual meeting often includes pictures and short bios for key presenters and committee leaders. Review this information prior to attending the social and decide in advance who you would like to talk to.
Open Committees and Special Interest Groups
One of the best ways to network is to get involved with groups and committees at the national level. Most annual meetings offer opportunities for leadership roles and involvement in special interest groups.
The program guide should provide a list of ongoing committee and interest group meetings. If you are a novice in this arena, it is suggested that you (1) choose a few committees or groups of interest, (2) attend their respective meetings, (3) select the one(s) in which you are most interested, and (4) investigate ways in which you can become more involved in the group’s endeavors. By serving on a committee our subgroup, you may gain the opportunity to work closely with professionals and/or academicians in your field, and they have the chance to see your skills and abilities firsthand.