Post-College Networking & Recruiting

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some efficient methods for networking and recruiting post-college:

1. Leverage Alumni Networks:

   • Reach out to alumni who work in the teams or companies you are interested in. Alumni are often open to sharing their experiences and can pass your resume along to hiring managers.

2. Career Fairs and Conferences:

   • Attend career fairs and conferences such as NABA, ALPFA, and ASCEND. These events can be great for landing entry-level positions and expanding your network.

3. Cold Emails and Coffee Meetups:

   • Continue to use cold emails and set up coffee meetups. Aim for 2-3 phone calls or coffee meetings a day. Be concise and to the point in your emails.

4. Network Across All Levels:

   • Don’t just target senior professionals. Network with analysts, associates, and professionals in allied professions. These connections can be valuable as they often handle recruiting and can provide insights into the industry.

5. Get Creative with Networking:

   • Reach out to professionals with similar backgrounds, such as those from the same city, state, or college organizations. Use LinkedIn to find 2nd/3rd connections and leverage similar interests or career paths.

6. Maintain and Leverage Relationships:

   • Focus on maintaining and leveraging your existing relationships. Follow up with your network regularly, and try to turn these relationships into meaningful recommendations or job offers.

7. Use Your Career Center:

   • Utilize your school’s career center to find graduates who have taken similar paths. They can often provide valuable connections and advice.

8. Follow Up Efficiently:

   • Keep a spreadsheet of your contacts and follow up with them periodically. Some suggest coffee chats every couple of months, while others recommend sharing relevant articles occasionally.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively expand your network and increase your chances of finding new opportunities, even in a sluggish hiring market.

Sources: Networking 101 – 8 tips from a “non-target” school student, Networking 101 – 8 tips from a “non-target” school student, Some Thoughts on Networking, How tf do I network, Graduating without a job offer