What is Alumni Career Networking? Why Should I Network?

Alums can help you learn about a job, career field, organization, or sector (nonprofit, public, or for-profit). Alums can give you advice and information about looking for internship and summer job opportunities, or for your first job or subsequent job/career changes. It is an excellent method of doing career research. Up to 85% of all positions are filled through networking. Remember, however, that your purpose is to gather information from someone who is working in a career or organization that interests you. Do not ask for a job or internship; your task is to gather information in a professional manner. Use Career Center staff to help you focus your request, and to review your materials.

What do I Say When I Contact an Alum?

All of the alums whose contact information you see in the alumni directory have voluntarily entered their data. Repeatedly, alums express an interest in “giving back” and helping current Carls in their life/career planning efforts.

Making an initial contact with an alum involves two separate steps, done in two different communications. Remember: the following are examples—you should personalize your contacts to your situation.

The Initial Contact

You first need to ask their willingness to assist you. Following is an example of an initial contact.

Tips:  Use their work email or contact information. In the subject line of your email, say “Carleton student seeks advice” or something similar that will let them know your email is not SPAM.

Content: “Dear Ms. Doe, I’m a sophomore and beginning to look for career-related activities for winter break. I found your name in the alumni database, and wonder whether or not you would be willing to give me advice for my search. Please let me know.  Sincerely, _________”

The Second Contact

Once the alum replies to your initial contact, you make a second, brief contact stating a specific request for information. Because alums are as busy as are most of us, you need to approach them courteously. We have had some negative feedback from alums who were disheartened and offended by lengthy, presumptuous or unprofessional contacts from a few current Carls.

Tips: Once you hear back that the alum is willing to assist you, your second email or contact will tell the alum exactly what piece of information you would like from him/her. If you don’t hear back from the alum, wait a week or two and then try again. Again, use Carleton or Carl somewhere in your subject line.

Content: “Dear Mr. Doe, Thank you so much for your willingness to assist me in my search for career activities for winter break. I am interested in gaining exposure to the field of _________________ (list whatever that person’s field is), and am available from Nov. 23-Dec. 31.”

Options for final inquiry line (choose only one):

• “If you were me, where would you look for possible volunteer or work possibilities in your field?” Or:
• “What advice can you share with me which would help me identify organizations or people who may need and benefit from seasonal help?” Or:
• Write your own words!

Closing: “Thank you so much for your time and assistance. Sincerely, ________”

FOLLOW UP!

Once the alum provides you with information, write back immediately to thank them for the info and to let them know that you WILL let them know what happens with your exploration or search.