Collecting Knowledge
2.2 Build Connections Beyond Campus
Now that you’ve started building connections with peers, faculty, and staff on campus, it’s time to explore going beyond campus. There are many ways that you can begin to build relationships with people who may work in the field you are interested in. Conducting an informational interview or participating in a job shadow experience can provide valuable insight into a career or industry you may be considering and is an excellent way to expand your network.
2.1 Update and Explore Handshake
Build a strong profile Adding these elements to your profile makes you 5x more likely to get a message from a recruiter! • Add recent work or volunteer experience. Include any jobs you’ve held; don’t worry about relevance when first building your profile. • Include your skills and organizations. Employers search for students based on what they list on their profile – make sure to be thorough! • Consider when to make your profile public so that employers are able to proactively find you! Keep your career interests up to date • In the “For Employers Only” section, add career and location interests which assist in connecting you to recruiters. • Share your preferences, and Handshake will share relevant job, internship, and event recommendations. Show employers you’re interested • Keep track of which employers viewed your profile, and “favorite” the employers you want to connect with most to let them know you’re interested. • Apply to jobs! It might sound obvious, but the first step to securing an opportunity is applying. • Upload your resume so that you can easily apply to positions using the mobile app.
2.2a Informational Interview Guide
An informational interview is an informal conversation with someone working in a field that’s interesting to you. The conversation serves to offer the
opportunity to gain information, perspective, and advice. Candid Career Video - How to Do an Informational Interview Before you meet
• • Use LinkedIn, family, friends, the UWSP Alumni office, your Adviser or Career Coach to identify potential interviewees. Reach out to a few individuals with a brief note introducing yourself and requesting 30 minutes of their time (see sample message below). • Brainstorm questions you want to ask and be prepared to take notes. • Verify the details of your meeting (time, date, location/format, technology). • Have a brief elevator pitch prepared to introduce yourself, a career goal or two, and some professional interests.
Sample inquiry message Subject: Informational Interview
*Adapted from
Dear Ms. Spruce, I’m currently a freshman at UW-Stevens Point and I’m preparing to return home for the summer break. I see that you are the county forester where I grew up in Sheboygan County. I’m interested in working outside and am considering Forestry as a major. I’d like to learn more about your day-to-day work and advice about pursuing Forestry as a major and career. I’m wondering if you’d be interested in meeting for about 30 minutes in late May. If so, please let me know and I’ll follow-up to schedule a time for us to meet. Thank you for considering, Stephanie Pointer (715)123-4567
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