CAREER

• Remember to appear confident, express genuine curiosity, and stay present and connected throughout all of your
networking interactions.
• If you would like to speak further with people that you meet, don’t forget to ask for a business card. Be sure to send
a follow-up thank you within 24-48 hours of your meeting or conversation.
Finding People to Connect With
Networking Circle
Start by referring back to the people you listed in your networking circle on page 59. Who did you write down in that exercise that you
can reach out to and see if they would be willing to connect with you or connect you to someone in their network? Remember you
are only asking for an introduction, not a job! Be aware that if you’re being referred, the person who is referring you has put their own
reputation on the line. Make sure you prepare, follow through on all referrals given to you, and take the process seriously.
Columbia Alumni
One of the best ways to connect with Columbia alumni is via LinkedIn. It might feel strange reaching out to someone you do not
know, but many alumni feel a strong association with their alma mater and would be happy to speak with you and provide advice.
Ways to connect with alumni:
• LinkedIn (see page 66)
• CCE events such as Alumni Mock Interviewing Night and our CC Dinner series. Check out our website for more details.
• Through student groups and your academic departments. Many departments have additional resources for connecting
students and alumni. The Mechanical Engineering department has a database of alumni who are willing to speak with current
students for advice, for example.
• Alumni often attend employer information sessions and career fairs to represent their current companies and this is a great
opportunity to connect.
• CCE sponsored internship programs connect you with an alumni mentor, check out the STEP, CEO, CCASSIP, SCCEN,
and CU GO programs.
• For students who have already graduated, check out the University-wide alumni directory available through the Columbia
Alumni Association.
BUILD A CAREER NETWORK
Additional Techniques
You can make contact with individuals who you are interested in meeting, but to whom you might not have a direct connection.
Do you want to break into the production of TV documentaries? Note the names of editors and researchers shown at the end of your
favorite documentaries. After seeing if there are any connections through your own immediate network or Columbia network, email
them directly, try contacting them through their production companies, or send a message through Twitter.
LinkedIn Groups
There are thousands of groups on LinkedIn bringing together professionals in various industries, search broad areas of interest and find
groups on almost every career!
MentorNet
MentorNet (mentornet.org) matches engineering, science, mathematics, and technology students with professionals for mentorship.
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