Networking Lesson: Alumni Want To Help

I just had lunch with Amanda to celebrate her new job. She landed it through building alumni relationships. Here’s how.

About 9 months ago, Amanda went to an alumni event here in Chicago. There she met Gary, a fellow alum from her graduate program. Fast forward 8 months and Amanda hears about an interesting opportunity at Gary’s company.  She re-connects with Gary and he forwards her resume to the hiring manager. Amanda starts her new job Monday.

Lessons learned:

• Get out there and look for nice ways to meet new people
• Your alumni network is a great way to meet people who you can help and who will want to help you
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help