Contact Mandy Pulido for Career Support at ajpulido2@utep.edu
Networking with coaches, athletes, professionals, professors and peers is an excellent way to create future opportunities. During your time at UTEP, be sure to take advantage of the resources, events and community provided daily for you to grow your network.
WHERE TO START NETWORKING
- In class with peers and professors
- Using Linkedin.com to connect with professionals and alumni
- With regular audiences members that attend your games
- At University Career Center Career Fairs
- Fall: Career EXPO
- Spring: Spring Career Fair and Internship and Part-Time Job Fair
- In student organizations or events on campus
- Participate in networking events in the community
PREPARE YOUR ELEVATOR PITCH
Hello, my name is _______________. It’s so nice to meet you! I’m a student-athlete at the University of Texas at El Paso majoring in ____________. Along with my years of experience in (sport), I’ve strengthen my skills in ___________ and have been recognized for _____________. I would like to connect in the near future to discuss collaboration or employment opportunities. Could I have your contact information?
Make sure you track your networking, be sure to schedule time to reconnect with people. See below for an example of how to track networking.
Tips to be an AUTHENTIC Networker
Stay informal and focus on building relationships. People are more apt to do business of give referrals to people they enjoy, not a salesperson.
Flash a smile! Don't forget to flash those pearly whites! You will put others at ease and come across as friendly and approachable.
Ask simple questions to get the conversation started, just ask "May I join you?" or "What business are you in?" Be curious and interested in people you meet, and offer information freely and generously that will help THEM.
Do your research. Find out ahead of time who will be at an event. Research them on google or LinkedIn and know who you want to connect with. Remember that the quality of the connection is more important than the quantity.
Say someone's name when you meet them; you're more likely to remember it...and people like hearing their name. Talk to people at parties, sports games, supermarket lines, event the doctor's office. Anywhere!
Let your enthusiasm for your career bubble out so people can't help but wonder about you. Be able to articulate what you are looking for and how others may help you. Be clear on what you do and why, and what makes your doing it different from others doing the same thing.
Don't forget to follow-up! If you have had an awesome exchange, ask how you can continue the conversation. Follow up through email or LinkedIn within 48 hours of the event.
Take notes. Make a good connection? Take a moment to jot down a note on their business card and for more specific follow-up. Follow through quickly and efficiently on referrals you are given.
Get involved with an organization or cause meaningful to you. Utilize that interest or activity to start a conversation.
Share the wealth. Be willing to share your contacts and referrals, do this in sincerity, without necessarily expecting something in return.