Welcome to the UMSI Career Development Resource Hub

Making Connections

Step One: Find Alumni

Ready to take the first step toward your network? The UMSI Career Development Resource Hub has a variety of tools to help you find and connect with UMSI alumni. Start by exploring the UMSI Alumni Network on LinkedIn, where you can filter by industry, location, and graduation year to find professionals who share your interests. Additionally, check out the UMSI Mentorship Program, which pairs students with experienced alumni for one-on-one guidance and support.
Here are some useful links to get you started:

• UMSI LinkedIn Group

  You can find alumni through this link on linkedin.

• CareerLink

  You can also find alumni through this careerlink, our cdo's special website.

• UCAN

  You can find alumni through UNIVERSITY CAREER ALUMNI NETWORK (UCAN), which catalyzes connections between students and professionals.

• Alumni Career Connections

  You can also find alumni on the Alumni Career Connections section through this careerlink.

Don't forget about Your own network:

• UMSI & beyond
• Friends and peers (your own personal network)
• Faculty, supervisors, mentors (your own professional network)
• LinkedIn search

Step Two: Get a Response

Once you've identified potential connections, it's time to reach out. Craft a personalized message that introduces yourself, explains why you're interested in connecting, and asks for a brief conversation or advice. Be respectful of their time and make it easy for them to respond. Remember, networking is about building relationships, so focus on genuine engagement rather than just asking for favors.
Don't get discouraged by low response rate - average response rate to “cold messages” is around 20%. Each contact you connect with is an important and valuable addition to your network! Here are some methods to writing an effective outreach message:

• Phone call
• Zoom/Video Meeting
• In-person meeting
• Email communication

Network FAQ

• What should I do and don't do during networking?
  Do:
  • Keep it short: demonstrate that you respect their time
  • Establish a time frame: it's easier to say yes to 20 minute coffee chat in the next 2 weeks than an undefined time commitment
  • Personalize the message: convey your respect & value for them as an individual
  Don't:
  • Do NOT ask for any information that is readily available online
  • NEVER send your resume first. Always ask for permission
  • Do NOT begin by asking for a referral - build the relationship first
  • NEVER ask for a job!
• How to write an email to get a response?
  
  • Write a descriptive & enticing subject line
  • Start with context that connects you
  • Clearly state what you're looking for & why you're reaching out
  • Be specific - what is your "ask"?
  • Be flattering - why are you reaching out to them in particular?
  • Be concise - respect their time & keep it short
  • Make it easy to say yes - define the timeline
  • Say thank you
• Are there any other supporting documents to help me write a networking email?
  Absolutely! Here are some useful websites to get you started:
  • Networking Email Templates from Resume Worded
  • Lettersmith: Support Tool for Professional Communication
  • Lettersmith Quick Reference Guidet