Networking Tips

You will usually be reaching out to someone who you don’t know, so it’s important to establish how you’re connected to the person from the very beginning. How did you find their contact information? Why are you reaching out? Make these things clear in the very beginning of your email so that the contact will want to read on. Better yet, try to establish this in the subject line of your email so that the contact will know to open it. Something along the lines of “Syracuse Student Seeking [Industry] Advice.” Or, if someone referred you to the contact, drop the name of the referral in your subject line: “Fred Green Referral.”

When you first reach out to a new contact, it’s a good idea to keep in touch every four to six weeks to start. This will ensure that you’re “top of mind” for the contact; the person will find it easier to remember you, especially when an opportunity arises that makes them think of you! This is ideal. 

We don’t recommend leading with the fact that you want to work for that person’s employer. This can cause you to come across as disingenuous or opportunistic, even if this isn’t your intention. Instead, focus on the individual – not what you want – first. Try asking a question about the contact and then mentioning that you’re also interested in internships or careers with the company. Take a look at this example:

“Which skills did you develop as a TRF major that help you in your advertising career?… I am also interested in your company’s internship program. I’m not sure if you’re involved with the internships at [company], but I was wondering if you have any advice on applying or if there is anyone you recommend that I follow up with.”

Inevitably, you’ll run out of questions to ask the contact at some point. That’s ok! Consider giving them an update on your job/internship search, letting them know how their advice has helped you in your search, or sending them an article that made you think of them. There are many ways to stay connected that don’t involve asking questions simply for the sake of asking them. The most important thing is that you do keep in contact with the person so that you remain top of mind.

No! Keep in mind that the Newhouse Network is only one resource. It’s definitely convenient because it places Newhouse alumni on one clean platform. However, you can still find Newhouse alumni with whom to network while you wait for Newhouse Network access. LinkedIn is a great place to start, along with CareerShift. It’s also a good idea to peruse company websites for contacts that you may be interested in reaching out to. The Career Development Center staff can help you navigate each platform and use them to your benefit!

The beauty of networking is that it is completely up to YOU who you decide to reach out to. This means that you’re not limited to Syracuse or Newhouse alumni alone. If you’re interested in working for an advertising agency, and you can’t find any alumni there, find a person who is in a role that you can envision yourself pursuing. You’ll have to establish the connection (your purpose for reaching out) in a different way in your initial email, but you’ll still be forging a connection. That is the important thing. Keep in mind: every connection is a good connection to have. The more people who know who you are and what you want to do, the better your chances are of finding the right opportunity.