Getting Advice from Professionals in My Industry

 

To start the process of connecting to those who can guide you, create a list or spreadsheet of what you are looking for, and then who is doing the work you are interested in. This time taken to think about your goals and who might best understand how to help you reach them is important. Once you have the list of people, add to the list with contact information, job titles, company names, and if there is any connection you have to them (are they Le Moyne alumni?). You now have a list of people to begin building your community.


REFLECT:

The first step for you may be to understand what you want to do. You should also be thinking about what engages you, where your strengths lie, and how you feel you can best share those qualities in the workplace.


EXPLORE:

LinkedIn is an excellent tool to connect with professionals (and Le Moyne alumni), search potential jobs, and create a dynamic online image. Our LinkedIn materials will help you navigate your account, maintain your professional profile, and help you capitalize on potential connections and job opportunities.  Explore our LinkedIn resources. Also, be sure to follow these clear guidelines found in our LinkedIn Guide.

Networking, supported through platforms like LinkedIn, can be a crucial part of your job search, as it gives you the opportunity to speak and make contacts with people in or related to your intended profession. It’s important to start making connections early so you have plenty of time to cultivate relationships. Read our Networking Guide for step-by-step instructions on how to begin networking and strategies for developing good, professional contacts. There is also a video to supplement our guide, you might find that useful. Using your list/spreadsheet, begin to reach out the people you have selected, making sure your outreach is professional and concise.


PREPARE: 

Professional Documents make a difference...

A stellar résumé can serve as a reminder of your strengths and skills after meeting with someone. Using a resume to craft the right mix of who you are and how you can contribute to the dynamic of an organization can be daunting. Fortunately, our Resume and Cover Letter Guide will give you all of the tips, tricks, and strategies to create an effective testimony of your experience and skills.

Tell me a little bit about yourself…

It’s probably the question you dread hearing but the one that can open up a world of possibilities for you. We want you to be successful in your outreach. Our Interview Guide provides comprehensive, step-by-step instructions for before, during, and after your informational interview to help you feel confident as you take another step in your career journey. Remember, while you're preparing, you can use Big Interview to practice questions. You can also schedule an appointment for a mock interview with a career counselor or coach by going to Handshake.

Want more help in this process?

Sign up for our Career Practicums - Design Thinking and the Next Step and Creating Connections (CMM 202 and CMM 203, with crosslistings) -- through Phinfo, and create a plan for moving forward and learn to build relationships that connect you to your personal and professional goals.

PURSUE:

Once you have reached out, talked to people, and collected information about yourself and the career path ahead, you can more deftly navigate the search for opportunities that engage you and create a sense of satisfaction and the knowledge you are contributing to something and making a difference. All along the way, Le Moyne Career Advising and Development is here to help.