Build Your Professional Network Wrap-Up

In this lesson, you learned how to begin building your professional network.

You: Created a spreadsheet to keep track of your professional network, Searched online to find a new professional contact, And wrote a networking email to request an informational interview.

Once you hear back from your contact and begin a conversation with them, you can consider them part of your professional network.

As you add contacts, keep track of them in your spreadsheet.

Not everyone you reach out to will become part of your professional network.

That’s ok.

Some people may not respond to your email, or may be too busy to help you.

As you continue to build your network and meet new people, it’s important to maintain the relationships you already have.

The people in your professional network are valuable sources of information, and may become your future employer, coworker or mentor.

Try to get to know the people in your network.

Don’t just contact them when you need their help.

Stay in touch with your contacts, even if it’s only an occasional message to ask how someone is.

Check in with everyone in your network every few months.

Building your professional network will help you develop strong relationships, learn about new job opportunities, and get career advice and support.

Knowing how to organize information in a spreadsheet will help you complete important tasks at work, such as managing a team project or creating a budget.

Being able to communicate professionally and effectively with employers, teachers and colleagues will help you succeed as a student and in your future career.

The ability to build positive relationships with other people is a valuable skill in both your personal and professional life, and will help you be a better classmate, teammate, and coworker.

Good luck developing your professional network and pursuing your career goals!