Real Talk: Building Your Career Network

Networking isn’t about schmoozing in a suit or awkward handshakes. It’s about making real connections, with people who can offer insight, open doors, or help you grow. Whether you’re figuring out your future, exploring careers, or applying to grad school, your network is a powerful tool. Let’s make it work for you.

🎯 First Things First: Why Are You Networking?

Before you start reaching out, be clear about your “why.” Are you:

  • Exploring potential careers?
  • Trying to understand what grad school is really like?
  • Looking for advice on how to break into an industry?
  • Hoping to meet someone who works at a specific company?

Knowing your purpose helps you approach people with confidence—and makes your conversations more meaningful.

🧠 What to Expect (and What They Might Expect Too)

When you connect with someone (an alum, a recruiter, a faculty member), they’re not expecting you to have it all figured out. But they do expect:

  • Respect for their time
  • A clear question or reason for connecting
  • That you’re not just asking for a job

Also networking isn’t just for job hunting! It’s helpful for:

🎙️ Craft Your Elevator Pitch

Be ready to talk about yourself… without rambling.

Think: who you are, what you’re studying, what you’re interested in—and maybe one thing you’re hoping to learn or do next. Here’s a quick template:

“Hi! I’m [Name], a [year] at Augustana majoring in [major]. I’m exploring careers in [field] and interested in learning more about [specific area]. I’d love to hear about your experience and any advice you’d be willing to share!”

Check out our guide: Preparing an Elevator Pitch

🧩 Who’s Already in Your Network?

You don’t have to start from scratch. Think about:

  • Professors, coaches, advisors
  • Family friends, neighbors, and relatives
  • Student org leaders or teammates
  • Past employers, internship supervisors
  • Alumni on LinkedIn (more on that below 👇)

Then… start making moves.

🔗 Where and How to Connect

💼 Career Events & Fairs

Meet employers, recruiters, and grad school reps—many are here to connect, not just hire.
👉 Check out upcoming fairs and events.

💬 Viking Connections

Our very own Augustana alumni mentoring network!
Get real-world advice from grads who’ve been where you are.
👉 Access Viking Connections

👩‍💻 LinkedIn Alumni Tool

Search by major, city, employer, or job title to find alumni you can reach out to.
👉 Try the LinkedIn Alumni Tool

👥 Meetup + Eventbrite

Browse free (or low-cost) in-person and virtual networking events in your area or field.

  • Meetup: From tech to photography to career groups
  • Eventbrite: Filter by “Business” or “Career” themes

🏢 Chambers of Commerce

Attend mixers, workshops, and local business events.
👉 Quad Cities Chamber | US Chamber Directory

🌍 Affinity, Service & Spiritual Groups

These groups create space to connect with people who share your values or interests, often more naturally than “traditional” networking.

📩 Make a Great First Move

Template: Connection Request Email or LinkedIn Message

Subject: Hello from Augustana College!

Hi [First Name],
I’m a [year] student at Augustana majoring in [your major]. I came across your profile and was really interested in learning more about your work in [field or company]. I’d love to connect and ask a few quick questions about your career journey, especially how you got started.

Thanks so much!

[Your Name]
[Your Email] | [Your Phone (optional)]

⚠️ Don’t ask for a job. Networking is about curiosity, not closing deals. Be genuine, respectful, and thankful.

🧠 Stay Connected + Communicate Like a Pro

  • Respond to emails within 24–48 hours
  • Be polite and clear
  • Confirm meeting times and follow through
  • Prepare 2–3 thoughtful questions for every chat
  • Say thank you—always

Bonus Tip: After your conversation, send a quick thank-you message or LinkedIn follow-up. It goes a long way.

✅ Final Thought: Networking Isn’t Optional

It’s one of the most important things you can do now to set yourself up for what’s next. Not every conversation will lead to an opportunity, but each one builds your knowledge, confidence, and connections