Establishing and Mobilizing Your Network

Networking is, by far, the most effective way to get the job you really want. Through your network, you may uncover unadvertised job openings, benefit from an advocate on the inside who may help you get interviews for jobs and/or support your candidacy during the interview process.

• The W Network
  Wellesley has long been known for the strength and depth of our alumnae network. Networking in its truest sense is about making a connection with someone to share information and advice. We recognize that most women’s life paths encompass far more than just their jobs, and now you will be able to connect with other Wellesley alumnae on a wide range of experiences and topics. Alumnae profiles are sorted by life experiences rather than occupation, to include not only career information, but also volunteer work, hobbies, areas of expertise, professional memberships, services offered, and a variety of affiliations. In addition, alumnae can indicate their interest in discussing a variety of life topics, such as caring for aging parents, women’s health issues, or re-entering the workforce.
  
  Please note the W Network now allows alumnae the opportunity to offer business services, help others find jobs or internships and much more. When searching, please make sure these preferences have been indicated before making such requests of an alumna.
  


• Expanding Your Network
  In addition to Wellesley alumnae, your networking list might include the names of people you know who works in a field related to your field of interest or who may know of someone who works in that field. Internships and community service experiences excellent ways to explore fields of interest, meet individuals, and expand your network.



• Mobilizing Your Network
  Once you have developed your networking list, let each person on the list know that you are beginning your job search. Contact every individual by mail or telephone. Have a resume ready to send to those in your network.
  
  Ask members of your network to meet with you, or as a second choice, arrange a telephone interview to discuss your search. Specify the time commitment you are requesting (usually 15-20 minutes).
  
  State clearly the goals and objectives of your job search. Summarize explicitly but concisely your qualifications, skills, and background as they relate to your chosen field. Specifically state the ways in which you hope network members will be able to help you. Do not assume that the people with whom you meet will know what your needs are, regardless of their professional experience.
  
  Ask individuals in your network about developments in the field, job opportunities. Sample questions include:


• What does your work involve?
• What are critical skills for a position in your field?
• What is a typical work day or work week like for you?
• How would you advise someone to start a career in your field?
• What are the most/least interesting aspects of your job?
• What are the toughest problems and decisions you face?
• What are your typical working hours? Are they flexible?
• Is much travel required? How often and for how long do you travel?
• How effective was your undergraduate education in preparing you for this job?
• What do you think is the most important requirement for obtaining a job now in this field? for advancement?
• How strong are future career opportunities in your field?
• What major changes and developments do you foresee in this field in the future?
• How much do entry-level employees earn? What is the long-range salary potential?
• What types of training does your company give entry-level employees?
• What is the typical career path in your field/organization?
• What is it like to work for this company?
• Might we tour your workplace?

Before leaving the interview, ask for names of other people who might be willing to talk with you and/or names of useful publications to read. Through this process, you are building your network of personal contacts. Keep the names and addresses of all those you meet on file. Always write a thank you note within 24 hours of your meeting.