Networking

Networking is the development of relationships that can benefit your internship or career exploration. Networking is not asking everyone you know for a job. It is an opportunity to gather information about the skills necessary to succeed in the various types of jobs, careers and industries of the people you meet. This can help you clarify your career interests, next steps and is an important part of the job and internship search process.

Where to Network

  • UC Davis Career Fairs held quarterly both online and in-person
  • Company information sessions and events hosted by Career Center On Campus Recruiting
  • LinkedIn to connect with industry professionals worldwide and Handshake to connect with other students and employers in your industry
  • Informational interviews
  • National, regional or on-campus conferences like the UC Davis Undergraduate Research Conference or Graduate & Professional Student events such as UC Davis Career Connections Symposium
  • Networking meetings or events (i.e. mixers or industry dinners)
  • Clubs, organizations and campus fraternities/sororities
  • In the workplace with coworkers, supervisors or company events
  • In day-to-day life, with family or friends in casual conversation (i.e. at family gatherings or social activities)

How to Prepare

When preparing to attend a networking event:

Informational Interviews

An informational interview is an arranged meeting with someone who works in a job, career field or organization that interests you. Before conducting an informational interview we encourage you to review our informational interview video. It offers several benefits, including:

  • Career Research: A very effective technique for researching and screening careers, jobs or employers.
  • Industry Insight: Answers questions about what it's like to work in a particular career field, job or for a specific organization. This helps determine if a field is a good fit for you.
  • Networking: Increases your network of contacts, which is crucial as many jobs are obtained through networking.
  • Strengthen your Application: Prepares you for the job search by learning firsthand about the application process.

Finding People to Talk To

This may be easier than you think. Many people enjoy talking about their work and sharing their experiences. Start with your own network:

  • Career Center and UC Davis faculty and staff
  • LinkedIn
  • Friends and family members (including roommates, classmates and their families and friends)
  • Directories, other print resources or company website links and staff listings
  • Cal Aggie Alumni Association Career Resource Network
  • Professional associations and events
  • Career Center events

How to Initiate Contact

Be clear about your objective before you initiate contact. Set clear goals about what you want to gain from the informational interview. Once you have a contact's name, you can reach out via email, LinkedIn or phone. Let them know how you found out about them. Explain why you are reaching out, and be polite, positive, and businesslike. Request a 15-30 minute time to talk via phone or online. It's helpful to prepare a draft or script. Here is a sample script for phone or email introductions:

"Hello, my name is Max Mustang. Alex Aggie suggested I call you. I am a senior majoring in English at UC Davis, and am interested in learning more about careers in technical writing. Alex recommended you as someone who is well-respected in this field. I'm wondering if I might make a half-hour appointment with you sometime soon to seek your advice. Thank you!"

Remember, you are seeking insight into their job market, not asking them for a job.

How to Prepare

Do initial research on the career field or employer using the internet. Develop a 30-second overview of yourself, including your reasons for contacting this person. Plan open-ended questions to keep the conversation flowing. Dress neatly and appropriately, just as you would for a job interview. Be sure to bring multiple copies of your resume, a notepad and pen for taking notes and a list of prioritized questions to ask.

How to Conduct the Informational Interview

Start by thanking your contact for meeting with you. Establish rapport with small talk, then introduce yourself and explain why you sought them out. Proceed with your prioritized questions. Remember, this is a conversation, not an interrogation and aim to keep the meeting to around 20-30 minutes. Below are sample questions you might ask. Pick a few key ones that work for you:

Questions about the Career:

  • How did you become interested in this career?
  • What is a typical workday like? What are your job responsibilities?
  • What are the rewards, challenges and frustrations of working in this career?
  • What entry-level jobs are available in this field?
  • What experience is necessary to enter this career?
  • What advice do you have for someone preparing to enter this career?

Questions about the Organization/Industry:

  • How does your position fit within the organization/industry/career field?
  • What is your work environment like?
  • What is the economic forecast for this industry?
  • What is unique to your organization? Who are your competitors?

Questions about Future Growth/Salary Information:

  • What are the employment prospects for someone entering this field?
  • What are some current issues and trends in this field?
  • What is a typical starting salary or salary range in this field?

Follow-up Questions:

  • Would you mind taking a quick look at my resume?
  • How should I target my resume for your industry?
  • Are there professional publications I should read or associations I should join?
  • What other professionals in this field would you recommend I speak with for additional information? May I use your name when I contact them?
  • May I keep in touch with you?

Keep in mind the questions above are suggestions. We encourage you to tailor your own questions for each interview to get the information you need from an industry professional.

We recommend sending a thank-you note or email shortly after your interview that expresses your appreciation for their time and advice. Remember this could lead to future job opportunities or referrals. So keep in touch and check in occasionally to maintain the relationship - you never know who you will cross paths with in the future!

Job Referrals

What is a referral? Companies use employee referral systems to tap into their employees' networks to find qualified candidates for open roles. The idea is that current employees are likely to recommend people who would be a good fit, making the hiring process faster and more efficient. Many companies even offer incentives, such as bonuses or rewards, to employees who successfully refer candidates who are hired. This motivates employees to participate actively in the referral process.

Strategies for you as an applicant: Use your networking skills and informational interviews to connect with people in your network at companies of interest to ask for a referral.

  • Ask if their company uses a referral system: Referrals can be industry specific, and are mostly used within Tech/STEM and Fortune 500 companies
  • How to apply: Typically the referring employee would provide you with a specific link to apply through– wait to apply until they agree to give you a referral.
  • Clear Communication: When asking for a referral, be clear about why you're a good fit for the position. Highlight your relevant experience, skills and how you align with the company's values.
  • Make It Easy: Provide your referrer with all the necessary information—your resume, LinkedIn profile and details about the job you're applying for—so they can easily submit your referral.

Sample Request for a Referral: Here is a brief message script you can use to ask for a referral on LinkedIn, which should be edited for your needs:

My name is [Your Name], and I recently graduated from UC Davis with a degree in Statistics. Go Aggies! I see that you are a fellow alumni working at Spotify in data analytics.

I'm currently exploring opportunities in data science, and I noticed a [link job post of interest] position at Spotify that aligns with my skills and interests. During my studies, I gained experience in [mention relevant experience, e.g., machine learning, statistical modeling, data visualization], and I've worked on projects like [briefly describe a relevant project]. I believe these experiences have prepared me to add value to Spotify's team.

I'm wondering if you would be open to serving as a referral for this role or if you have any advice on how to best approach the application process. I've attached my resume for your reference, and I'm happy to provide any additional information you might need.

Thank you so much for considering my request! I know your time is valuable, so I truly appreciate any guidance or assistance you can offer.