Networking tips for new alumni

Networking gives you access to a group of people who have varied experiences and knowledge that you can tap into for valuable career guidance. It also offers you the opportunity to share your expertise and assistance with others. Meeting new people and sparking up new conversations is the perfect way to hone your social skills and boost your self-confidence at the same time—both will help you in many aspects of your life.

The internet is full of tips and tricks on how to network successfully. Here are four we’d like to highlight for those just getting started.

1. Starting—and keeping—that conversation going

Trying to think about what to say to get a conversation going with someone you’ve never met can be nerve-wracking. We’ve all been there! But the more practiced you become, the less anxious you will be.  

Looking for a conversation starter? Here are a few to get you going when attending an SFU event:

• What do you think about the event so far?
• Are you familiar with any of the speakers?
• What is your connection with SFU?
• Follow up with other SFU-related questions.

2. Be curious and practice active listening

Show that you care! Approach new acquaintances with a genuine interest in their business or profession, opinions or experiences.

• Pay attention to body language and nonverbal cues.
• Let the speaker finish without interrupting.
• Be in the moment and listen to what they are saying instead of thinking about how you might respond.
• Paraphrase what is being said, it helps to clarify what you’ve heard and clears any misunderstandings.
• Ask questions!

3. Write notes after each meaningful conversation

Pull out that phone and jot down the person’s name and key points from your conversation. This may prove to be useful later if you’re following up with them, or if you just want to remember an inspiring comment that they made.

4. Following up

Did you meet someone who has an interesting career, and you would love to know more about their journey? Following up after the event with a request for an information interview could be a great option. SFU Career and Volunteer Services has an article offering steps on how to request and prepare for an information interview. View it here.