OVERVIEW
Networking, which is building and expanding relationships to support your next career steps, is a crucial part of career development and a life-long skill. Most CSU graduates report that they found their first job after graduation through connections, whether through former supervisors, faculty, staff, family, friends, or community members. Your network is a lifelong web of support that already exists and can always grow. The key is knowing who is in your network, what a network can do for you, who you’d like to be in your network and how to contact and maintain these relationships.
Step 1: Identify Your Current Needs and Connections
Before reaching out or starting new connections, clarify what you want to discuss or achieve.
Ask yourself:
- What is my next career step? (e.g., choosing a major/minor, exploring a career, graduate school, internships, or jobs?)
- What are 2–3 questions, fears, or needs I have for this step?
Then ask yourself:
- Who are the people I already know and would turn to for advice? (e.g., roommates, family, friends, professors, supervisors, or mentors)
This clarity helps you focus your outreach and ensures you get the guidance you need.
Step 2: Understand the Three Roles Everyone Needs in a Career Network
Your network is made up of different roles, and some people may fill multiple roles at different times:
Role | Who They Are | How They Help |
Mentor | Experienced people invested in your growth | Share resources, advice, and career stories; guide your decisions |
Link | People connected to companies, organizations, or others you want to meet | Make introductions, advocate for you, share opportunities |
Hiring Official | Managers, HR professionals, or recruiters | Have the authority to hire or supervise you |
Ask yourself:
- Of the people I identified in step 1, which role(s) do they play for my next step?
Example: My baseball coach is a mentor because they know me well, care about my growth, and have experience in my field of interest. - What roles am I missing? Who do I need to connect with next?
Step 3: Build Genuine Connections and Maintain Relationships
Once you know your needs and the roles you’re seeking, start with the people you already know. Ask for introductions or advice, providing multiple ways they can help. Remember: networking is relationship-building, not just asking for a job. Listen actively, show curiosity, and follow up after conversations. A short thank-you message or a note about how their advice helped goes a long way.
Sample Message:
Hello [Name], I hope you’re doing well! I’m currently [next career transition]. I’m reaching out for advice and connections as I navigate this step. Do you know any companies or people in [field/location] you could introduce me to, or any internships or programs worth exploring? Thank you so much for your time and encouragement!
— [Your Name]
Step 4: Expand Your Network
After reaching out to your current network, fill the gaps by connecting with new people.
Informational interviews are short conversations to learn about someone’s career, and are a normal and expected part of networking.
Where to Find New Connections
- CSU Alumni: Search by major, graduation year, or industry on LinkedIn. Message 2–3 alumni to learn about their careers. See templates below.
- Professional Organizations: Look for associations in your field, such as:
- American Marketing Association for marketing students
- Society of Women Engineers for engineering students
- National Association of Social Workers for social work students
You can find potential professional associations by using a search engine and industry keywords. For example, “[Your Field] professional associations” or “[Your Major] industry organizations.” You can also search for organizations on LinkedIn in the Linkedin search bar and then filter by “Groups” or “Companies.”
Check LinkedIn, professional association websites, and social media for local or student chapters. These groups often host networking events, workshops, and mentorship programs.
You can also search for professional associations and networking groups based on identities that are significant to you.
- Student Organizations: Join clubs at CSU that relate to your field or interests. Explore RamLink to identify a full list. Examples: CSU Finance Club, Pre-Health Society, or Sustainability Club. Faculty advisors and student leaders are great contacts.
- Conferences and Hiring Events: Attend career fairs, workshops, and industry conferences. Networking is explicitly encouraged at these events. Check out “How to Prepare for the Career Fair” for more guidance on event-specific tips.
Step 5: Reach Out Professionally
LinkedIn Sample Message:
Hi [Name], I’m a [major/year] at CSU and found you through the LinkedIn Alumni Tool. I’m exploring careers in [field] and would love to hear your story. Are you open to a 15–20 minute Zoom or phone call? Thanks!
Sample Emails:
Hello [Name],
I’m a CSU student studying [Major] and interested in [Field/Industry]. I noticed you’re involved with [Professional Organization] and admire your work. I would love to hear about your experiences and any advice for someone looking to get started. Would you be open to a brief conversation at your convenience?
Thank you!
[Your Name]
Hi [Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I’m a [Year/Major] at CSU. I’m very interested in [Company/Role] and would love to learn more about your career and the work your team does. Would you be available for a 15–20 minute conversation over Zoom or phone? I’d be grateful for any insight you can share.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Elevator Pitch for In-Person Events:
Hi, my name is [Name], I’m a [year/major] at CSU. I’m seeking [internship/job] opportunities starting [time frame], especially in [field/role], where I can [skills or contributions you hope to make]. Could I ask you 1–2 questions about your experience in this field?
Step 6: Prepare for Informational Interviews
Once someone agrees to meet, prepare questions in advance to make the most of the conversation. Focus on learning about their career path, company culture, industry trends, and advice for someone starting out.
Remember, informational interviews are about building relationships, not directly asking for a job. Focus on active listening by giving your full attention, acknowledging what the other person says, and responding thoughtfully. Ask open-ended questions to encourage detailed insights and stories, rather than yes/no answers. Show genuine curiosity about their experiences and express gratitude for their time and advice, which helps build meaningful, lasting relationships.
You can learn more and get a list of questions on our Informational Interviewing page.
Step 7: Follow-Up and Track Your Connections
Once you’ve connected with someone, it’s important to follow up and maintain your networking relationships. Tracking your interactions helps you stay organized and make the most of your network.
Send a Thank-You
- Send a thank-you note or LinkedIn message within 24–48 hours. Reference something specific you learned or enjoyed from the conversation.
Sample Thank You:
Hi [Name],
Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me today about your career in [Industry/Role]. I really appreciated learning about [specific insight, project, or advice they shared], and it gave me valuable perspective on [career path/skills/industry].
I’m excited to apply what I learned and explore opportunities in [field/role]. I hope we can stay in touch, and I’d be grateful for any future advice or guidance as I continue navigating my career journey.
Thanks again for your time and generosity!
Record Key Information
Keep a simple spreadsheet or notes with:
- Name and role of the contact
- Date and type of interaction (call, email, event)
- Key takeaways or advice
- Follow-up actions or next steps
Tracking helps you measure progress, notice patterns, and identify new gaps in your network.
Reflect and Plan Next Steps
- Review what you learned from each conversation.
- Identify gaps in your network or areas to explore further.
- Plan your next outreach, whether it’s a follow-up question, connecting with a new person, or attending a relevant event.
- Periodically check in with contacts to share updates, congratulate achievements, or offer helpful resources. Remember, networking is reciprocal (offering help, sharing insights, or referring others) could help you build more genuine relationships.
- Build relationships gradually — networking is a long-term process, not a one-time task.
Final Note: Networking is a life-long skill. It’s not about collecting contacts, it’s about building genuine relationships. Start where you are, use your existing connections, expand thoughtfully, and celebrate each step forward.
Nervous about Networking?
See these tips and wisdom from students:
- One tip I liked is that networking isn’t about being interestING – it’s about being interestED. I put on my curious researcher hat, pretended to gather intel for a “character in my book who was exploring publishing careers – what would they want to know?” It took the pressure off.
- I wanted to learn about careers in tech, but I was worried about talking to some stuffy dude who wouldn’t get me. I went to the Pride @ Work Panel and learned about a company with an LGBTQIA+ Employee Resource Group (ERG). I contacted someone who leads it, and it was great to have real stories from them.
- I’m first gen and always thought networking was “can you give me a job?” at fairs. I felt way better when I remembered it’s just people and getting to know them. I practiced offering a few ways they could help me; those that got back to me were excited to talk about themselves! They’re adults who consented to helping! It takes practice and will get easier.
- After a year of applying to 100+ jobs, I was desperate and needed to try something else. I went to a fair and reached out to 3 people in sports media; 2 became mentors and 2 recruiters. It was energizing talking with a person, not a rejection email. Within a month, I had offers. This isn’t everyone’s experience, but I wish I’d started while I was still in college. I would’ve saved myself so much time.