Non-Target Networking Timeline

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and advice for your situation:

Timing for Networking Calls:

• Current Internship Constraints: Given your long-hours internship, it’s understandable that your available time for calls is limited.
• Optimal Times for Calls: Analysts, associates, and VPs are often busy, and 9-11 AM might not be the best time for them. They might be more receptive in the evenings around 7:00 PM when they start leaving the office.

Strategies:

• Wait Until September: If you believe you will have more free time and flexibility in September, it might be beneficial to wait until then to schedule your calls. This way, you can ensure you’re reaching out at times when your contacts are more likely to be available and in a better mood.
• Email Communication: In the meantime, you can start by sending emails to introduce yourself and express your interest in connecting. This can help keep you on their radar without requiring immediate phone calls.
  • Email Tips:
  • Send Emails at Optimal Times: Consider sending your emails on Tuesdays at 10:00 AM, as people are generally less busy then.
  • Include Your Resume: If you have prior experience, such as internships, include your resume to provide context and increase your chances of getting a response.

Follow-Up:

• Follow-Up Emails: If you don’t get a response, follow up with another email about a week later. Sometimes professionals want to help but forget or don’t have time to respond initially.

Additional Considerations:

• Networking Early: Starting your networking efforts early can be beneficial, but it’s also important to ensure you’re making meaningful connections. If waiting until September allows you to have more productive conversations, it might be worth the wait.
• Flexibility: When you do reach out, suggest reasonable times for calls and indicate that you can be flexible to accommodate their schedules.

By balancing your current internship commitments with strategic email outreach and planning for more flexible scheduling in September, you can effectively utilize your alumni contacts without wasting these valuable connections.

Sources: Want to get me on the phone? Here's how - a networking overview., Networking 101 – 8 tips from a “non-target” school student, Want to get me on the phone? Here's how - a networking overview., Networking 101 – 8 tips from a “non-target” school student, Dear College Students...