• The goal of networking is to exchange ideas, not seek a job.
• Be confident and energetic. Doing so will help others remember you and refer you to other contacts.
• Be punctual, as this shows that you are responsible and respect others’ time.
• Follow up after meeting a contact. Send a thank-you note.
• Networking professionals agree that over-preparing is essential. A tip from Drake, Beam & Morin, a human resources firm, suggests a 10/90 ratio. For every 10 minutes you have a conversation with an individual, you spend 90 minutes preparing.
• Don’t be afraid to let people know that you are job searching for the first time. A high percentage of people get jobs because someone knew someone else who was looking to fill “that position.” If no one knows you are looking for a job, they can’t refer you.
• Bring items like business cards, a portfolio with resumes, a pen, breath mints and your planner/calendar.  These seemingly simple items can help you better connect with colleagues, business leads or potential employers.
• Sample Request for Informational Interview Email/Letter
• Sample Thank you note
• How to work a career fair
• How to ask for an Introduction

• Alumni & Employer Networking Events
• Career & Internship Fairs
• Employer Information Sessions

Whether you are undecided or pursuing a specific career path, job shadowing is beneficial for all students. Defined as an unpaid experience, lasting no fewer than 4 hours and no greater than 50 hours, a job shadow provides students with the chance to observe a professional in his or her work environment and discuss the opportunities and challenges that exist in the industry.

Panther Shadow Program

The Panther Shadow Program is a job shadow experience, comprised of 5-15 students visiting a specific employer’s headquarters or designated facility. It’s designed to provide groups of students with exposure to and knowledge of a company that they are interested in pursuing.

Shadow in your City

Shadow in Your City is a component of the Panther Shadow Program, engaging companies and organizations in Washington D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City.

Social media is revolutionizing the way companies recruit, and you need to know the dos and don’ts in order to use it to your advantage.

LinkedIn

LinkedIn is the #1 professional network worldwide and is a great tool for networking with employers and professionals in almost every career path.

• Join the Pitt Career Network to connect with Pitt alumni who are want to support you in your career goals.
• Participate in the LinkedIn Lunch Series to learn how to make build a strong profile and make connections.
• How to Build a Professional Student LinkedIn Profile

Twitter

Twitter can be a tremendous tool for networking and researching career fields. Follow people and organizations you are interested in to learn the latest information and join the conversation. Participate in live chats to connect with professionals and attract potential employers. Before you get started, make sure you understand how to use Twitter in a professional way.

• How to Use Twitter as a Job Search Tool
• 20 Simple Tips for your Job Search
• Top 50 Employers on Twitter

Facebook

An increasing number of recruiters today view candidates' Facebook pages for screening purposes. If you do not want a potential employer to see your uncensored personal life, change your privacy settings or clean up your profile. Your online presence is becoming more important and you don’t want your Facebook page to prevent you from getting a job.

• 10 Privacy Settings Every Facebook User Should Know