Networking

Networking is the process of building mutually beneficial professional relationships. People in your network can help you gather information, find job leads—including those that aren't widely advertised—and connect with the people who make hiring decisions.

There are many ways to build your professional network:

• Talk to people you already know who are working in fields or industries related to your career interests, including relatives, friends, or acquaintances who work in technical positions and professors or instructors in the College of Engineering.
• Join a club or student organization related to your desired field. Many of the engineering student organizations have corporate sponsorship and invite industry contacts to give professional development presentations or company information sessions at general meetings.
• Participate in Penn State career events, including career fairs, information sessions, and professional talks and presentations. These events can help you connect with recruiters, engineers, and alumni.
• Use LinkedIn to make contacts with professionals you already know and make new connections through your existing contacts (e.g., at companies or organizations of interest).
• Arrange an informational interview with a professional in an area of interest to you.

Professional networking is an ongoing process. Maintain your network by staying in touch with your contacts periodically. Keep them abreast of your career search and any new developments. Return favors for people in your network too!