Building a Professional Network

Your existing network consists of family, friends, professors, current and former supervisors, team and club members and many other individuals you interact with on a regular basis. Drawing on these contacts can be extremely beneficial during your job and internship search.

Develop a list of your contacts to help identify members of your network (use the Networking Prospects hand out below). Many of these individuals will often share similar backgrounds, interests or goals, which can facilitate the development of strong professional relationships.

Identify Existing Contacts

• Friends & Family
• Professors & Advisors
• Student Clubs & Organizations
• Supervisors & Colleagues

Develop New Contacts

• Job & Internship Experience
• On-Campus & Volunteer Experience
• Career Services & Alumni Networks
• Employer Presentations & Networking Events
• Professional & Trade Associations

Additional Resources

• Networking Handout – myths & realities
• Networking – Making Connections
• Networking Prospects
• 30 Second Elevator Pitch 
• Career Fairs Strategies for Success 

For more information on how to build your professional network, watch this video!

Refer to your network for career-related advice, information and job and internship leads. Continue to develop your network by seeking new contacts along the way.