You’ve probably explored many different avenues in your job search, but if you haven’t tapped into your alumni network, you’re missing out on a golden opportunity. From networking events where you can connect with fellow alums to career services benefits, your alma mater can help you land your next job, no matter how long it’s been since your days as a coed.
Learn how to take advantage of all the career-boosting opportunities your college or university has to offer.
3 Ways to Maximize Your Alumni Network
Join the Alumni Association
Perhaps the most obvious approach, joining your alumni association is a fantastic way to make connections with other professionals who share your alma mater. Of course, simply joining the organization won’t expand your network, so you need to attend as many events as possible. Even if you don’t still live in the city where you went to school, many alumni associations — especially for larger schools — have chapters throughout the country and even the world, so there is a very good chance events are happening in your local area.
Take Advantage of Career Services Offerings
You may have used your school’s career services assistance to land your first job, but at many colleges and universities, this benefit never ends. Some schools charge a nominal fee for access to career services, while others offer it free to alums. For example, Pitt provides alums with free access to its FutureLinks career database and most on-campus career fairs and networking events. Check with your alma mater to see what type of support is offered, as this might be the best thing that ever happened to your career.
Use LinkedIn to Search for Connections
LinkedIn offers many opportunities to connect with your alumni network, including groups specific to your alma mater and the ability to search for people who went to your school. Join all applicable alumni groups on LinkedIn and actively participate in conversations to make connections and get your name out there. Use the search feature to find fellow alums working in jobs you’d like to have or at companies, you’re interested in and send an InMail message introducing yourself. Bring the connection to life by asking to meet in person for an informational interview to discuss their job or company.
Contact HTSS, Inc. to find the right career opportunity for you in the Lehigh Valley, Berks County, Bucks County or New Jersey. Whether you’re searching for a short-term job to earn some extra money or want to get your foot in the door with a great company, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.