Connecting with new people, especially when it comes to networking, can feel like a daunting task. The prospect of crafting that first message, whether to a respected acquaintance or a complete stranger, can be intimidating. This guide provides a strategic framework for making that initial connection, helping you move through uncertainty and toward meaningful conversations. By following these steps, you can confidently identify who to contact, understand how to initiate the conversation, and ensure your outreach is both professional and effective.
Decide who to contact.
Reach out to alumni networks.
The IAA has a robust network of alumni who are working in the data field and are excited to connect with current students. This may be the most relevant alumni network to tap into, but don’t forget about any other alumni networks you may have access to. You can also reach out to alumni from your undergraduate school or any other graduate school you may have attended.
Reach out to professional networks.
Consider the connections you’ve made through past jobs or professional organizations. If you don’t have post-college job experiences, you might have connections from an internship. Reaching out to strangers is absolutely allowed (and encouraged), but networking with people you already know will help solidify those relationships.
Seek out companies, industries, or job titles.
Through LinkedIn, you can find employees who work at companies you may be interested in. This can be a great resource to learn more about the work you might seek out after graduation. Feel free to explore based on job title, industry, or company.
Reach out with an intention.
It is important to have a clear request when reaching out to someone new because it gives them guidelines for how to respond.
NOT EFFECTIVE:
“Let’s connect!”
“…”
EFFECTIVE:
“Would you be open to answering some questions about your current role?”
“I would love to ask you a few questions about your career path.”
“Yes!” (or “No!”)
- Let them know why you are connecting in the first message. Likely, you will be requesting the opportunity to ask questions.
- Asking for a 20-minute phone or video call is one of the simplest ways to connect and ask your questions. If LinkedIn limits the number of characters in your first message, this request can be in the second message.
Find a Specific Link.
Building rapport is easier when you have something in common. You can include this connection in your initial message or bring it up during your conversation. Consider looking for…
- A shared identity
“I would love to ask you about your experience as a woman in data science.”
- A shared interest
“I saw on LinkedIn that you used to volunteer with the Boys & Girls Club – I did too!”
- Something you could ask about the IAA
“I love playing ping pong between classes. Was your cohort into ping pong?”
“Dr. West said that your practicum team worked really well together. Do you have any tips?”
Congratulations, you’ve made the connection!
Remember, networking is a skill that improves with practice. With these tips, you are ready to initiate your next networking conversation.
Don’t forget to come prepared to your meeting, and send a thank-you note after!
Columnist: Lukman Awad