Three Tips for Maximizing Our New Online Networking Tool, Walden Career Connections!

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We all know that networking is important, but it can be stressful! What if I told you that Walden Connections Networking eventyou could engage in networking that’s purposeful, fun and fast?

On Tuesday, March 8, from 7:00– 8:00 p.m. EST, the Career Services Center will be launching its new networking tool, Walden Career Connections. The event is online, so attendees will chat live with other members of the Walden community from anywhere in the world!

“We are very excited to offer Walden students and alumni live virtual networking events,” said Lisa Cook, Senior Director of Career Services. “Through personally attending one of these networking events, I was matched in a virtual chat room with a career services director on the East Coast.  Her recommendation led to our launch of this new tool for Walden.”

Here are some tips to make the most of your experience:

1) Brand Yourself

Make sure to add a picture and headline to your registration to kick-start the conversation and project a friendly, professional image. Consider having your “elevator pitch” on hand during the event so you are prepared to communicate your interests, experience and values. Remember – your brand should be centered on your educational and career goals, not your current job. Walden Career Connections allows participants to use their LinkedIn profile to register, which can make the branding process easier!

2) Prepare Some Talking Points

The conversations on Walden Career Connections are only 8 minutes, so it is important to have meaningful interactions. Aim to establish new relationships by finding common ground. Be prepared with questions so you are never at a loss for words. Here are some examples:

  • What inspired you to seek a degree at Walden?
  • How did you get into your current line of work?
  • Where do you see your career in the future?
  • What are you looking to provide or hoping to gain from this event?
  • How do you embrace Walden’s social change mission?
  • What’s the best piece of career advice you have received?

3) Follow-up

The most important part of networking happens after the event is over! Remember, establishing a professional network is a marathon, not a sprint. Make sure to follow-up with your new contacts. You will have access to a transcript of your conversations so you can review notes and identify people that you would like to connect with further. Make sure to gather their contact information and follow up via email or LinkedIn.

If you have not registered for Walden Career Connections, make sure to click this link and get started. Create an account with Walden Career Connections and complete the event registration form. On March 8, from 7:00– 8:00 p.m. EST, log in and join the live session from anywhere. Join a booth based on your college and you will be matched with other Walden community members for one-on-one timed chats.

Make sure to use our networking tips to make the most of this exciting event!  We hope to virtually see you there!

Written by Senior Career Services Advisor Angie Lira