Career Corner Career Advice for College Grads - How to Network With Family and Friends - Hallie Crawford

Career Corner Career Advice for College Grads - How to Network With Family and Friends Ever seriously considered talking to friends and relatives about your career search? Believe it or not, it can be one of the first big career moves you make. Youll most likely gain some great insights and maybe even an opportunity or two â€" try it out. Granted, job networking with your nearest and dearest may feel uncomfortable at first. But since you dont yet have a professional network, you almost have to start with people in your immediate circle. Actually, this is a great opportunity for them to start seeing you as more than just a kid out of college, but someone serious about their future career goals. You may feel a bit funny about approaching your uncle Bob in a professional and serious manner. But believe it or not, he can be one of the best people to give you the inside scoop on your chosen field and hell likely be flattered that you asked for his advice. So…how do you kick this networking thing into gear? In the next several Career Corner posts are tips to ease you into the practice: Tip #1- Take the first step If you have a former employer from a college job, then definitely contact them and make sure you get letters of recommendation. Next, start thinking of who you can approach and ask your parents for ideas. They know more people than you think and may even have some connections in the industry you’re interested in. Family and friends are usually happy to support you so theyre a safer place to get this process going. Get started today! Career Expert