Networking
Read these three articles:
Professional Network: UMBC Mentoring Program
The UMBC Professional Network program connects its network of active alumni and employer volunteers to UMBC current students (and alumni who use UMBCworks to support their job search) in support of their career exploration and academic development. Through your UMBCworks account, you can view a list of all mentors (UMBC alumni and employers) who have volunteered to be part of the Professional Network. Read on . . .Associations, Meetings & Online Tools
Join a national or local association of people in your industry/field. Attend a user meeting/training for something you use, such as a particular piece of software. Explore over venues for professional networking, such as online tools.
Links by Major
List of associations and other resources related to your major at UMBC.
LinkedIn
Like Facebook and MySpace but just for professional networking. LinkedIn is an online network of more than 20 million experienced professionals from around the world, representing 150 industries. Connect with people you know, people they know and so on. Ask a question to everyone you are connected to or the world.
Job Fair Etiquette
Learn how to make job fairs work for you and be the most prepared for them. Read on . . .
Informational Interviews
Information interviewing is a process by which people who are making career decisions can gather information and establish contacts in specific career fields directly from experienced professionals. Read on . . .
Letter of Inquiry
Sending a letter of inquiry can be a way of introducing yourself to a company that you have researched and liked but not found any specific jobs posted in your area of expertise. This can be a way of getting your foot in the door or at least making contact with employment professionals. These sort of shot-in-the-dark kind of efforts can lead to informational interviews or even real interviews. See our Sample Letter of Inquiry.
Additional Articles & Resources
QuintCareers: The Art of Career and Job-Search Networking
Career Changes Through Successful Networking
Gives real life stories of successful individuals who felt the need to change their careers and the importance of networking in their succeeding in their endeavors.
American Society of Association Executives: DIrectory of Associations
