Networking is a mutually beneficial exchange of ideas and information between individuals connected by a shared career interest, industry, or goal. It plays a vital role in uncovering job opportunities, gaining insights, and building a professional reputation.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics,
70% of all jobs are found through networking.
That means your next opportunity may come from a conversation, not a job board.
Effective networking helps you:
- Cultivate relationships in your industry
- Discover hidden or unadvertised opportunities
- Raise awareness of your personal brand
- Build confidence and improve communication skills
- Find mentors, collaborators, and peers
Elevator Pitch
Your First Impression
An Elevator Pitch is a 30–60 second professional introduction. It helps you start meaningful conversations with employers, alumni, faculty, and other professionals. It’s called an elevator pitch because it should be short enough to deliver during a quick elevator ride.
It answers questions like:
- “Tell me about yourself.”
- “What do you do?”
- “What are you interested in doing next?”
A compelling pitch communicates your personal brand, showcases your unique strengths, and leaves a memorable impression.
Before You Create Your Pitch, Reflect On:
- What makes you unique?
- What are you seeking (job, internship, mentorship)?
- What can you offer others?
- What do you want people to remember about you?
How to Build Your Elevator Pitch
Think of 1–2 top academic or work experiences using the STAR Method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
Boil each experience down to 1–2 sentences, focusing on your actions and the outcome.
What are your standout qualities? Are you a:
- Problem solver?
- Analytical thinker?
- Creative communicator?
Adapt your pitch to match who you’re talking to and what they care about (company, field, role).
Keep a natural tone. End with a question or offer to help.
Sample Pitch Format
“Hi, my name is [Name], and I’m a [year] student at IWU majoring in [major]. I’m passionate about [career interest]. Last semester, I [brief example]. I’m currently exploring opportunities in [industry] and would love to learn more about your work. Can you share how you got started?”
Sample Pitch:
“Hi, my name is John Smith and I am a Junior studying computer science at Indiana Wesleyan University. I am interested in cybersecurity and web development because they challenge me to use my analytical skills to keep information secure. Last semester, I worked with a professor to develop a program that analyzed the psychological effects of social media on Instagram users. Right now I am looking for summer internship opportunities and I am interested in learning more about your company.
Can you tell me about the internship opportunities your company provides?”
Five-Steps to Networking
Networking is the art of building mutually beneficial relationships by exchanging ideas, information, and opportunities with others who share your professional interests. At its best, networking leads to career advancement, mentorship, new opportunities, and personal growth.
Whether you’re attending a career fair, participating in a student organization, or having a casual chat with a professor, you’re likely networking — often without realizing it. To be intentional and effective, follow this five-step approach to developing your network.
Know Your Why:
Clarify what you’re hoping to gain from networking. Are you exploring career paths? Looking for internship leads? Seeking mentors? Preparing for interviews? Your goals will shape who you approach and how.
Assess Your Network:
Start with who you already know — classmates, professors, past supervisors, coaches, advisors, and family friends. These contacts are often your best starting point. Expand outward from there.
Know Your Approach:
Networking can be formal (career fairs, alumni events) or informal (office hours, volunteering, LinkedIn messages). Be ready to engage in different contexts and settings.
Use these platforms and spaces to identify potential connections:
- LinkedIn – Search by company, role, industry, or school affiliation.
- Handshake – Great for connecting with employers seeking college students
- IWU Alumni Network – Tap into the Wildcat community.
- Professors, Staff, and Life Calling & Career Events
- Internships and Student Organizations – Your peers and supervisors are valuable contacts.
- Professional Associations – Join industry-specific organizations or clubs
- Volunteer Experiences and Community Involvement
Introduce Yourself Professionally:
Whether via email or LinkedIn, be polite, clear, and concise. State who you are, how you found them, and why you’re reaching out.
Sample LinkedIn Message:
“Hi [Name], I’m a student at IWU majoring in [your major], exploring careers in [industry]. I admire your work in [field] and would love to learn more about your experience. Would you be open to a brief conversation?”
Set Up the Meeting:
Confirm date, time, location, and platform (phone, video, or in-person). Be flexible and respectful of their schedule. Plan to keep conversations to 30 minutes.
Do Your Homework:
Learn about the person’s role, organization, and career path. This shows respect and helps you ask thoughtful questions.
Ask Great Questions:
- How did you get started in your field?
- What’s a typical day like in your role?
- What do you enjoy most about your job?
- What advice would you give someone entering this field?
Be Professional:
Dress appropriately, show up early, maintain eye contact, smile, and listen actively. Don’t ask for a job — ask for insight.
Be Positive and Curious:
Avoid negative questions. Instead of asking “What do you hate about your job?” ask “What are the biggest challenges in your role?”
Track Your Contacts:
Use a simple spreadsheet to record names, roles, meeting dates, notes, and next steps. Keep it organized so you can follow up intentionally.
Send Thank-You Notes:
Always follow up within 24 hours of a conversation with a thank-you email. Express appreciation and reference something specific you learned.
Stay in Touch:
Check in occasionally with updates, questions, or articles they might enjoy. Building a network is about creating lasting relationships, not just one-time chats.
Final Tips for Networking Success
Be Prepared— Know your pitch and bring a resume or business card.
Be Professional— Dress appropriately, make eye contact, and smile.
Be Patient— Networking takes time. Stay genuine.
Be Organized— Keep track of conversations and follow-ups.
Be Genuine— Focus on quality conversations over quantity. Don’t just talk — listen.
