{"id":7467,"date":"2021-07-23T21:53:26","date_gmt":"2021-07-23T21:53:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/inside.rotman.utoronto.ca\/career-services\/?page_id=7467"},"modified":"2025-09-10T15:34:38","modified_gmt":"2025-09-10T15:34:38","slug":"networking","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/inside.rotman.utoronto.ca\/career-services\/networking\/","title":{"rendered":"Networking"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wpb-content-wrapper\"><p>[vc_row content_width=&#8221;grid&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1446198786982{padding-top: 65px !important;padding-bottom: 41px !important;background-color: #f4f4f4 !important;}&#8221;][vc_column][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<div class=\"wpb_text_column wpb_content_element \">\n<div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">\n<h5>Connect effectively<\/h5>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"vc_row wpb_row vc_inner section\"><\/div>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;25px&#8221;][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Networking is an essential part of managing your career, now and in the future. Here\u2019s how to make meaningful connections.[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;]\n<blockquote class=\"qodef-blockquote-shortcode\"  >\n\t<h4 class=\"qodef-blockquote-text\">\n\t<span>In this section<\/span>\n\t<\/h4>\n<\/blockquote>[vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#networking\">The benefits of networking<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#network\">Identify your network<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#events\">Networking events<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#chats\">Informational meetings and coffee chats<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#emails\">Tips for effective emails<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#Rotman\">The Rotman network<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#maintain\">Maintaining your network<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMGlkJTNEJTIybmV0d29ya2luZyUyMiUzRSUzQyUyRmElM0U=[\/vc_raw_html][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;]\n<blockquote class=\"qodef-blockquote-shortcode\"  >\n\t<h4 class=\"qodef-blockquote-text\">\n\t<span>The benefits of networking<\/span>\n\t<\/h4>\n<\/blockquote>[vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;][vc_column_text]Networking is about building and maintaining professional relationships, not just landing a job. Over time, your contacts may provide valuable tips, advice, insights and introductions. If done thoughtfully, networking can be a powerful tool, one that connects you with people who enrich your professional life \u2014 and you can do the same for others.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Networking can help you:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none\">\n<ul>\n<li>Meet new contacts and strengthen existing relationships<\/li>\n<li>Learn about different jobs, industries, career paths and job search strategies<\/li>\n<li>Stay current on developments in your own industry<\/li>\n<li>Find out how people got where they are in their professional lives<\/li>\n<li>Understand a company\u2019s culture and what makes a person \u201cfit\u201d<\/li>\n<li>Gain exposure and build your professional brand or reputation<\/li>\n<li>Find advertised employment opportunities (the \u201cactive job market\u201d)<\/li>\n<li>Find unadvertised employment opportunities (the \u201chidden job market\u201d)<\/li>\n<li>Keep up your job search momentum<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;]<div class=\"qodef-message  \" style=\"background-color: #e20778\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-message-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"#\" class=\"qodef-close\">\n\t\t\t<i class=\"q_font_elegant_icon icon_close\"  style=\"color: #e20778\"><\/i>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text-holder\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<strong>Tapping the hidden job market<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Studies have found that\u00a0up to 75% of jobs aren\u2019t advertised, so job seekers who rely solely on postings likely miss out on a wealth of opportunities. And for jobs that <em>are<\/em> advertised, candidates who apply early \u2014 perhaps before jobs are even posted \u2014 are more likely to get an employer\u2019s attention.\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n[vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMGlkJTNEJTIybmV0d29yayUyMiUzRSUzQyUyRmElM0U=[\/vc_raw_html][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;]\n<blockquote class=\"qodef-blockquote-shortcode\"  >\n\t<h4 class=\"qodef-blockquote-text\">\n\t<span>Identify your network<\/span>\n\t<\/h4>\n<\/blockquote>[vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;][vc_column_text]You already have a network \u2014 even if you\u2019re new to networking! Everyone you know is a potential source of information, introductions and job leads, so don\u2019t limit yourself to work and school contacts. Make a list of people in these categories:<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none\">\n<ul>\n<li>Family members and friends<\/li>\n<li>Classmates and professors<\/li>\n<li>Faculty and friends from your undergraduate years<\/li>\n<li>Rotman alumni<\/li>\n<li>Colleagues<\/li>\n<li>Former employers and co-workers<\/li>\n<li>LinkedIn connections<\/li>\n<li>Professional associations<\/li>\n<li>Religious\/spiritual organizations<\/li>\n<li>Community organizations, volunteering<\/li>\n<li>Political parties<\/li>\n<li>Sports teams, gym, hobbies<\/li>\n<li>Professionals (lawyer, accountant, realtor, doctor, dentist, insurance agents)<\/li>\n<li>Superintendent or property management<\/li>\n<li>Hairdresser and other service providers<\/li>\n<li>Neighbours<\/li>\n<li>People met while travelling<\/li>\n<li>Newcomers from your home country<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Most people are happy to help if they\u2019re approached professionally and the \u201cask\u201d of them isn\u2019t onerous. Many people also enjoy talking about themselves: their jobs, their accomplishments and their life journeys. See below for tips about meeting with contacts.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>How to approach someone professionally<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Use a professional greeting.<\/strong> When emailing the contact, use a formal greeting (\u201cDear Mr. [last name]\u201d or \u201cDear Ms. [last name]\u201d), not a casual \u201cHey, [first name].\u201d (Do not use \u201cMrs.\u201d).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Respect the person\u2019s time.<\/strong> Don\u2019t ask if the contact can meet in the next day or two. Instead, ask if they might be available to meet for 20 minutes in the next few weeks.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Don\u2019t ask for a job.<\/strong> When you meet with the contact, never ask for a job. This puts them on the spot and could embarrass them.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Don\u2019t ask for more contacts.<\/strong> You can ask if there\u2019s anyone they think you should talk to next, but it\u2019s up to them to offer an introduction.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Be professional and polite.<\/strong> If, for some reason, you think the person won\u2019t be helpful to your career, do not abruptly end the meeting. (Yes, this happens!)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Send a thank you email.<\/strong> Thank the person for their time and advice.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>People you don\u2019t know<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>For people you want to meet \u2014 such as Rotman alumni or people you find on LinkedIn \u2014 think about what you might have in common. If you can establish a \u201ccommonality of experience,\u201d it\u2019s often easier to get a meeting. For example, do you work in the same industry? Did you immigrate from the same part of the world? Did you both switch careers in mid-life? Do you share a similar interest or hobby? If you can\u2019t establish a commonality of experience, draw on people\u2019s natural willingness to help others. Clearly explain why you\u2019d like to meet, and make it easy and convenient for them.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>You can also expand your network through professional associations, industry conferences, and events organized by boards of trade, chambers of commerce and other organizations.[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;]<div class=\"qodef-message  \" style=\"background-color: #e20778\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-message-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"#\" class=\"qodef-close\">\n\t\t\t<i class=\"q_font_elegant_icon icon_close\"  style=\"color: #e20778\"><\/i>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text-holder\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<span style=\"color: #ffffff\"><strong>Your personal brand and career story<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #ffffff\">Before you start networking, spend some time developing <span style=\"text-decoration: underline\"><a style=\"color: #ffffff;text-decoration: underline\" href=\"https:\/\/inside.rotman.utoronto.ca\/career-services\/your-personal-brand-and-career-story\/\">Your Personal Brand and Career Story<\/a>.<\/span><\/span>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n[vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMGlkJTNEJTIyZXZlbnRzJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[\/vc_raw_html][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;]\n<blockquote class=\"qodef-blockquote-shortcode\"  >\n\t<h4 class=\"qodef-blockquote-text\">\n\t<span>Networking events<\/span>\n\t<\/h4>\n<\/blockquote>[vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;][vc_column_text]During your time at Rotman, you\u2019ll have many networking opportunities, including industry speaker events, Information Sessions, club events and much more. Here\u2019s how to get the most out of each event.<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong> Be prepared.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Approach networking events with a game plan. Whether you\u2019re attending a conference, a dinner party or a group event, find out who will be there, research their backgrounds and prepare a few questions. Practise your networking career story. If attending in person, bring business cards.<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol start=\"2\">\n<li><strong> Take the initiative.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Meeting new people can feel intimidating. If you\u2019re nervous or shy, you\u2019re probably not alone, and others will welcome the opportunity to talk if you start a conversation. Try starting with \u201cHello, I\u2019m ________. What brings you to this event?\u201d or \u201cHi, I\u2019m ________. How do you know (event organizer)?\u201d From there, ask open-ended questions that get the other person talking about themselves and their professional life. Listen attentively \u2014 that\u2019s the most valuable skill in networking. If you\u2019re at a professional event, consider offering your business card.[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;]<div class=\"qodef-message  \" style=\"background-color: #e20778\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-message-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"#\" class=\"qodef-close\">\n\t\t\t<i class=\"q_font_elegant_icon icon_close\"  style=\"color: #e20778\"><\/i>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text-holder\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<strong>Business card etiquette<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Yes, business cards still matter! Master\u2019s students are expected to have them handy, especially at in-person recruitment events. Keep these tips in mind:<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Only offer a business card to people you\u2019ve had a conversation with and intend to follow up with.<\/li>\n<li>Offer your card first, and if the other person doesn\u2019t reciprocate, ask for theirs.<\/li>\n<li>If you get someone\u2019s business card, follow up via email or LinkedIn within a day or two.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>To purchase business cards, please visit <strong><span style=\"color: #ffffff\"><a style=\"color: #ffffff\" href=\"https:\/\/thebiznessedge.com\/rotman-custom-printing-zone\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Business Edge<\/a><\/span><\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n[vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<ol start=\"3\">\n<li><strong> Offer to help others.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Networking isn\u2019t about an end goal (such as getting a job). Think about what expertise you can offer to others. Helping someone often builds a stronger relationship, and they\u2019ll be more likely to help you in the future.<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol start=\"4\">\n<li><strong> Follow up and stay connected.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>A day or two after a networking opportunity, follow up with your new contacts via email or LinkedIn. If appropriate, send a thank you note to the event organizer and anyone who went out of their way to help you. Mention something they said during the conversation, to show you were listening. Consider staying in touch by sending them relevant information you come across (industry-related news, conferences, etc.).<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ol start=\"5\">\n<li><strong> Stay organized.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Keep track of your networking activities, including events, people you meet, contact information, job titles, how you met, subsequent conversations, next steps, etc.[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;]<div class=\"qodef-message  \" style=\"background-color: #e20778\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-message-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"#\" class=\"qodef-close\">\n\t\t\t<i class=\"q_font_elegant_icon icon_close\"  style=\"color: #e20778\"><\/i>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text-holder\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<span style=\"color: #ffffff\"><strong>Job Search Tracker<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #ffffff\">To keep track of your networking activities, download the <span style=\"text-decoration: underline\"><a style=\"color: #ffffff;text-decoration: underline\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dropbox.com\/s\/pzmio2o24akpj0c\/Job%20Search%20Tracker.xlsx?dl=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Career Services Job Search Tracker Excel workbook<\/a><\/span>, which contains four spreadsheets:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"color: #ffffff\">LAMP List<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #ffffff\">Target Connections (who, when, where, etc.)<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #ffffff\">Applications and Interviews<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #ffffff\">Personal Job Search Metrics (goals for your search)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n[vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMGlkJTNEJTIyY2hhdHMlMjIlM0UlM0MlMkZhJTNF[\/vc_raw_html][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;]\n<blockquote class=\"qodef-blockquote-shortcode\"  >\n\t<h4 class=\"qodef-blockquote-text\">\n\t<span>Informational meetings and coffee chats<\/span>\n\t<\/h4>\n<\/blockquote>[vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;][vc_column_text]Informational meetings and coffee chats offer a more structured way to connect one-on-one. These are valuable opportunities to gain knowledge about an industry or a job you\u2019re interested in, and to build relationships with potential decision makers, managers and key insiders within your target companies.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong> Decide who you want to meet and why.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>What do you hope to learn? For example, meeting with an employee of a company you\u2019re curious about could provide insight into what it\u2019s like to work there, and whether the company culture aligns with your values. Your objective is to gain information and build your contacts, not ask for a job.[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;]<div class=\"qodef-message  \" style=\"background-color: #e20778\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-message-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"#\" class=\"qodef-close\">\n\t\t\t<i class=\"q_font_elegant_icon icon_close\"  style=\"color: #e20778\"><\/i>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text-holder\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<strong>Why you should never ask for a job <\/strong><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Asking a networking contact to give you a job is overwhelming and an undue burden, and it may embarrass them. If you develop a good rapport with the contact during the meeting, they will likely tell you about opportunities without being prompted. They may also be willing to introducing you to a colleague. If so, draft an email for them to forward along, so that you can shape the message and avoid taking up too much of your contact\u2019s time.\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n[vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;][vc_column_text]<strong>2.<\/strong> <strong>Request a meeting.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Send an invitation via email or LinkedIn. Steve Dalton, author of <a href=\"https:\/\/2hourjobsearch.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>The 2-Hour Job Search: Using Technology to Get the Right Job FASTER<\/em><\/a>, created a \u201c4 Point Email\u201d template for meeting requests:<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none\">\n<ol>\n<li>Limit your email to 100 words.<\/li>\n<li>Don\u2019t mention jobs anywhere.<\/li>\n<li>Mention your connection first (this is key when contacting alumni)<\/li>\n<li>Generalize your interest (mention why you\u2019d like to meet, without going into too much detail).<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>See \u201cTips for effective emails,\u201d below, for more guidance.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>A copy of <em>The 2-Hour Job Search <\/em>is available at Rotman\u2019s Milt Harris Library.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol start=\"3\">\n<li><strong> Prepare for the meeting.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Treat networking meetings as you would client meetings: arrive prepared and be ready to lead!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Research the person\u2019s background, their company and trends in their industry. Write a list of questions, and be specific. \u201cI read about your company\u2019s recent acquisitions in Chile, and I\u2019m curious about the challenges it faced in that transition\u201d is more focused than \u201cTell me about your company\u2019s recent acquisitions in Chile.\u201d (More about questions below.)<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Be mindful of what\u00a0your contact can realistically answer or discuss, based on their position in the organization.\u00a0Also consider the individual and the circumstances of the meeting. Be sensitive and aware of how someone might interpret your questions. You want to build trust and connect with the person, which will increase your chances of getting an introduction to someone else in their network.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Other preparations: <\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none\">\n<ul>\n<li>Customize your career story for this person and practice saying it.<\/li>\n<li>If meeting in person:\n<ul>\n<li>Print a copy of your resume, just in case<\/li>\n<li>Pack your business cards, a notepad and two pens<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ol start=\"4\">\n<li><strong> Strive for a productive meeting. <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Show up early. Be very respectful of your contact\u2019s time.<\/li>\n<li>Try to come across as informed and curious, and as a good listener. Take notes, including personal details they mention (for example, hobbies, events or upcoming vacations). You can refer to these details in future correspondence.<\/li>\n<li>Don\u2019t go over your allotted time. Say something like: \u201cI promised I would only take 30 minutes, and our time is just about up.\u201d You\u2019ll get a sense of whether or not the contact is willing to stay longer.<\/li>\n<li>At the end of the meeting, give the appropriate thanks and inquire if there is someone else they recommend you speak to for additional advice and information. Give your contact a business card (if in person) and ask if you can connect with them on LinkedIn.<\/li>\n<li>Send your contact a thank you email or card within a day or two. It\u2019s polite, and it gives you another opportunity to make contact. Consider keeping in touch by sending information that may be of value to your contact (industry news, conferences, etc.).<\/li>\n<li>If a mutual acquaintance facilitated the meeting for you, send a thank you note.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Meeting questions<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Download the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dropbox.com\/s\/1cr0mdqdc77vknj\/Informational%20Meetings%20Question%20List.pdf?dl=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Informational Meeting Questions list<\/a> and check out the TIARA: Questions for informational meetings section in our <a href=\"https:\/\/inside.rotman.utoronto.ca\/career-services\/job-search-strategies\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Job search strategies<\/a> section for ideas on what to ask. These lists are just starting points \u2014 always tailor your questions for each person. Avoid generic questions and any that could easily be answered with a Google search. You want to make the best use of your limited time together![\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;]<div class=\"qodef-message  \" style=\"background-color: #e20778\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-message-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"#\" class=\"qodef-close\">\n\t\t\t<i class=\"q_font_elegant_icon icon_close\"  style=\"color: #e20778\"><\/i>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text-holder\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<strong>Networking at work<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re a working professional Master\u2019s student, try these four strategies to expand your connections within your company:<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Volunteer for committees and events.<\/li>\n<li>Ask to work on projects where you have access to senior leaders and\/or work cross-functionally.<\/li>\n<li>Talk to people in other departments \u2014 every person knows something that could be helpful to you.<\/li>\n<li>Stay current on potential opportunities across the organization.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n[vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMGlkJTNEJTIyZW1haWxzJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[\/vc_raw_html][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;]\n<blockquote class=\"qodef-blockquote-shortcode\"  >\n\t<h4 class=\"qodef-blockquote-text\">\n\t<span>Tips for effective emails<\/span>\n\t<\/h4>\n<\/blockquote>[vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>We use the term \u201ccoffee chat\u201d here at Rotman, but it may not be well understood elsewhere. Instead of asking for a coffee chat, invite people out for coffee, as shown below.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ol start=\"2\">\n<li>When sending an email invitation, use a clear subject line, such as:<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 80px\">Network with Rotman student<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 80px\">Coffee chat request from Rotman student<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol start=\"3\">\n<li>In your email, include what you\u2019d like to discuss (without going into too much detail), and ask if the person is available to meet for 20 minutes in the next few weeks. Suggest a location that\u2019s convenient for your invitee \u2014 and if they prefer a video chat or it is more convenient for a video chat due to different geographic locations, so be it. Remember, they\u2019re doing you a favour.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ol start=\"4\">\n<li>If you don\u2019t know the person well, don\u2019t address them by their first name. Use \u201cMr.\u201d or \u201cMs.\u201d followed by their surname. Check their LinkedIn profile to see if they\u2019ve indicated their gender pronouns.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ol start=\"5\">\n<li>In the first paragraph, state the field, industry, company or type of work you\u2019re interested in.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ol start=\"6\">\n<li>Also in the first paragraph, explain how you heard about the person (e.g., you found them on LinkedIn or in the Rotman alumni directory, a mutual acquaintance suggested you get in touch, you heard them speak at a conference), and why you\u2019re getting in touch (\u201c[Name] suggested that I speak to you as she thinks highly of your experience in [subject]\u201d or \u201cI enjoyed hearing you speak about [subject] at Rotman on [date] and I\u2019d like to learn more.\u201d)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ol start=\"7\">\n<li>Make sure you\u2019re asking the right person for the information you want. Avoid being too general. For example, if you write that you want to learn more about \u201cmarketing in retail companies,\u201d your target may not understand why you chose them (as there are many, many people in marketing in retail companies). Tailor your request to their specific expertise.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ol start=\"8\">\n<li>Don\u2019t just say you want to learn about the \u201ccompany culture.\u201d Culture is made up of many things: behavioural norms, approaches to teamwork, values, priorities, what gets celebrated and how, etc. Be more specific.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ol start=\"9\">\n<li>Give the person seven business days to reply before following up. If you don\u2019t hear back within a few days of your second message, move on to another contact in that company or industry.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Sample email <\/strong><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>NOTE:<\/strong> Do not copy the sample below and use it verbatim. Rewrite all the highlighted text in your own words, or draft a new message using the tips above.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px\">Dear _________________,<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px\">I\u2019m a first\/second-year M[BA, MA, FRM, Fin] student at Rotman with a strong interest in [company]. I located your profile on LinkedIn and see that you\u2019ve been at [company] many years and are also a Rotman [alumnus\/alumna].<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px\">Before starting my MBA, I worked in a sales function for three years in close coordination with the marketing team. I\u2019m eager to learn about [subject] at [company] and would enjoy hearing about your experience there, [company]\u2019s approach to brand management and any advice you have for succeeding in this line of work.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px\">I would really appreciate the opportunity to connect with you. Might you be available for a 20-minute coffee meeting in the next few weeks? I would be happy to meet at a location, or via an online meeting, and time convenient to you.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px\">Sincerely,<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px\">(Include a signature line with your name, your contact information and a link to your LinkedIn profile.)<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;]<div class=\"qodef-message  \" style=\"background-color: #e20778\">\n\t<div class=\"qodef-message-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"#\" class=\"qodef-close\">\n\t\t\t<i class=\"q_font_elegant_icon icon_close\"  style=\"color: #e20778\"><\/i>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text-holder\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"qodef-message-text-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<strong>Tip:<\/strong> Often an online meeting is easier for people to accommodate, so don&#8217;t hesitate to suggest it!\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n[vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMGlkJTNEJTIyUm90bWFuJTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGYSUzRQ==[\/vc_raw_html][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;]\n<blockquote class=\"qodef-blockquote-shortcode\"  >\n\t<h4 class=\"qodef-blockquote-text\">\n\t<span>The Rotman Network<\/span>\n\t<\/h4>\n<\/blockquote>[vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;][vc_column_text]Rotman provides a wealth of opportunities to make connections. Take advantage of the events, tools and clubs you have access to.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong> Your classmates<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Your classmates are a good first point of contact to learn more about a specific industry, company, role or job function. Refer to the\u00a0Peer-to-Peer Spreadsheet<strong> that will be available in October <\/strong>to find out where current students are working or have worked.<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol start=\"2\">\n<li><strong> Rotman Connect<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>The benefits of being part of the Rotman community include having access to alumni who are willing to help. <a href=\"http:\/\/www.rotmanconnect.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rotman Connect<\/a> boasts over 8,500 alumni who you can message directly for advice, mentorship, insights, contacts, expertise and informational meetings. Take advantage of the alumni directory by downloading the Rotman Connect app from Apple\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/apps.apple.com\/ca\/app\/graduway-community\/id1457549791\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">App Store<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=com.graduway.rotmanconnect&amp;hl=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google Play<\/a>, updating your profile and contacting alumni in your target industry. If you have any questions about Rotman Connect, you can contact Thiadora Botros at <a href=\"mailto:thiadora.botros@rotman.utoronto.ca\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">thiadora.botros@rotman.utoronto.ca<\/a> on the Alumni Engagement Team.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> Rotman alumni should <em>not<\/em> be your first point of contact for networking. Put simply, Rotman alumni could be decision-makers at their respective organizations. You need to create the best first impression by demonstrating you\u2019ve done your homework before reaching out.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ol start=\"3\">\n<li><strong> Rotman events<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Each year, Rotman hosts about 100 events, including public talks by international bestselling authors, industry nights, case competitions, workshops, book launches and speaker series featuring top management executives and other thought leaders. Not only do these events provide stimulating views, but they also offer opportunities to meet alumni, classmates and executives in your field of interest. See <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rotman.utoronto.ca\/ProfessionalDevelopment\/Events\/UpcomingEvents\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">what&#8217;s coming up<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Treat <em>all<\/em> events as networking opportunities and \u2014 particularly when representatives from an industry or a company are present \u2014 as \u201cquasi-interviews.\u201d The impression you make on people <em>will<\/em> impact your job search success.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none\">\n<ul>\n<li>Research the company, roles and speakers\/guests (for example, on LinkedIn).<\/li>\n<li>Prepare a few thoughtful questions. A thoughtful question is:\n<ul>\n<li>One that can be answered in a few sentences (i.e., doesn\u2019t require a deep, theoretical discussion)<\/li>\n<li>One that is directly relevant to the person\u2019s company and their role<\/li>\n<li>One that has a purpose \u2014 ask something you want to know about, not simply to show off your knowledge (ask yourself \u201cWhat do I hope to learn through this question that will help me in my search\/understanding of this line of work?\u201d)<\/li>\n<li>One that does not risk offending (e.g., don\u2019t ask the VP of Marketing why the company\u2019s latest campaign was so badly received)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li>Customize and practice your career story.<\/li>\n<li>Dress the part \u2014 it matters.<\/li>\n<li>Show up on time.<\/li>\n<li><em>Do not <\/em>use or look at your phone\/devices during the entire event. It sends a clear message to our guests and others that your mind and priorities are elsewhere.<\/li>\n<li>Introduce yourself when you ask a question (no need to thank the speakers or guests \u2014 the event organizer will do that).<\/li>\n<li>Focus on the speakers, not the food at in person events (when the session breaks to the networking component, network!).<\/li>\n<li>Share face time \u2014 don\u2019t be \u201cthat person\u201d who crowds everyone else out or interrupts another student\u2019s conversation.<\/li>\n<li>Have fun! These events are wonderful opportunities to test out your ideas about what industries, companies or roles might suit you. Students often leave events with a great deal of interest and excitement about a company that they didn\u2019t have going in.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol start=\"4\">\n<li><strong> Rotman alumni on LinkedIn<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>To find out where Rotman alumni are working, visit Rotman School of Management\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/school\/rotman-school-of-management-university-of-toronto\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">LinkedIn page<\/a> and click \u201cAlumni.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Students in their graduating year may submit a request to join the official\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/groups?home=&amp;gid=2631&amp;trk=anet_ug_hm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rotman Alumni Network<\/a>\u00a0on LinkedIn.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Tips for connecting with Rotman alumni<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Access to a large number of successful professionals in a wide range of industries is one of the most valuable career tools that Rotman offers. Take full advantage of the opportunity, but know the rules of the game before starting.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>A Rotman alumna kindly provided this valuable networking advice:<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px\"><em>Just a note regarding the alumni directory and the requests that come from students based on our listings in that directory. I really think that this directory is a wonderful thing and I&#8217;m always pleased to get requests from Rotman students and to hear that they are interested in my firm. It&#8217;s great that we&#8217;re still generating interest even though we haven&#8217;t been very prominent with recruiting.<\/em><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px\"><em>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px\"><em>Having received a number of calls\/emails from students over the past couple of months, I thought I&#8217;d pass on a few pointers, in hopes they&#8217;d be helpful:<\/em><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px\"><em>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none\">\n<ul>\n<li><em>Emails are always better than a phone call for a first introduction \u2014 we&#8217;re often working irregular hours, and it&#8217;s difficult to find an appropriate moment to return a call. I can always find a moment to send an email, and via email will schedule a mutually acceptable time to chat.<\/em><\/li>\n<li><em>It&#8217;s better to indicate that you&#8217;re interested in learning more about the company rather than requesting a summer (or full-time) job.<\/em><\/li>\n<li><em>Be careful about gender on the salutation (it always catches me off-guard to be called Mr. when I am a Ms.).<\/em><\/li>\n<li><em>Extend an open request to chat instead of asking for a response by a certain date (asking for a response \u201ctoday or tomorrow\u201d expresses disrespect for my potentially busy agenda). I want to help and provide information, but often cannot find the time on short notice.<\/em><\/li>\n<li><em>Reach out to just one person at a time from a company and try another person only if you don\u2019t get a response \u2014 we often talk to each other, and find out that we\u2019ve all spent time responding with the same information to the same person.<\/em><\/li>\n<li><em>Don&#8217;t worry too much about selling yourself or your program in an introductory email \u2014 it&#8217;s enough to know that you&#8217;re a fellow Rotman student and are interested in the company. It&#8217;s difficult to find time to sift through long emails.<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_raw_html]JTNDYSUyMGlkJTNEJTIybWFpbnRhaW4lMjIlM0UlM0MlMkZhJTNF[\/vc_raw_html][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;]\n<blockquote class=\"qodef-blockquote-shortcode\"  >\n\t<h4 class=\"qodef-blockquote-text\">\n\t<span>Maintaining your network<\/span>\n\t<\/h4>\n<\/blockquote>[vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;][vc_column_text]A healthy network doesn\u2019t spring up overnight. It requires ongoing awareness, care and maintenance \u2014 don\u2019t let yours languish. Questions to keep in mind:<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none\">\n<ul>\n<li>Do I regularly add new people?<\/li>\n<li>Do I reach out to contacts\u00a0<em>before<\/em>I need something from them?<\/li>\n<li>How often do I hear from contacts?<\/li>\n<li>Am I contributing and sharing posts that are relevant to my target industry?<\/li>\n<li>Am I linking people, ideas and opportunities that only I could bring together?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;]\n<blockquote class=\"qodef-blockquote-shortcode\"  >\n\t<h4 class=\"qodef-blockquote-text\">\n\t<span>Learn more<\/span>\n\t<\/h4>\n<\/blockquote>[vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Article: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.caseinterview.com\/how-to-talk-to-strangers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u201cHow to Talk to Strangers\u201d<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Article: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/dailymuse\/2012\/03\/06\/non-awkward-ways-to-start-and-end-networking-conversations\/?sh=1bfe9d412372\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u201cNon-Awkward Ways to Start and End Networking Conversations\u201d<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Article: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.workitdaily.com\/conversation-starters-networking-events\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u201c18 Easy Conversation Starters for Networking Events\u201d<\/a><\/li>\n<li>View the <a href=\"https:\/\/web.microsoftstream.com\/video\/1cd63787-ac9f-47ed-8c38-51623dc6367d\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Informational Interviewing &amp; Networking<\/a> video<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;]\n<blockquote class=\"qodef-blockquote-shortcode\"  >\n\t<h4 class=\"qodef-blockquote-text\">\n\t<span>Next steps<\/span>\n\t<\/h4>\n<\/blockquote>[vc_empty_space height=&#8221;30px&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Develop <a href=\"https:\/\/inside.rotman.utoronto.ca\/career-services\/your-personal-brand-and-career-story\/\">your personal brand and career story<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Download the <a href=\"https:\/\/apps.rotman.utoronto.ca\/DashboardTools\/CareerServices\/HelperApps\/GetProtectedFile.ashx?f=PeertoPeer+2025-08-27.xlsx\">Peer-to-Peer Spreadsheet<\/a> to help you network with current students across Rotman\u2019s graduate programs.<\/li>\n<li>Download the Career Services <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dropbox.com\/s\/pzmio2o24akpj0c\/Job%20Search%20Tracker.xlsx?dl=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Job Search Tracker<\/a> Excel workbook.<\/li>\n<li>Attend the Career Services workshops on networking and LinkedIn.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><em>Next: <a href=\"https:\/\/inside.rotman.utoronto.ca\/career-services\/managing-your-search\/\">Managing your search<\/a><\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;40px&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[vc_row content_width=&#8221;grid&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1446198786982{padding-top: 65px !important;padding-bottom: 41px !important;background-color: #f4f4f4 !important;}&#8221;][vc_column][vc_column_text] Connect effectively [\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;25px&#8221;][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]Networking is an essential part of managing your career,&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":746,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"full-width.php","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-7467","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/inside.rotman.utoronto.ca\/career-services\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/7467","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/inside.rotman.utoronto.ca\/career-services\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/inside.rotman.utoronto.ca\/career-services\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/inside.rotman.utoronto.ca\/career-services\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/746"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/inside.rotman.utoronto.ca\/career-services\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7467"}],"version-history":[{"count":42,"href":"https:\/\/inside.rotman.utoronto.ca\/career-services\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/7467\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":10348,"href":"https:\/\/inside.rotman.utoronto.ca\/career-services\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/7467\/revisions\/10348"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/inside.rotman.utoronto.ca\/career-services\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7467"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}