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Networking

A professional network is like your personal support network. It is vital for your mental health and longevity in the field. It is refreshing to be able to talk freely with another professional who is not involved in your employer’s office politics. It is a joy to learn how others are implementing the industry changes. Plus, it makes great sense to reach out when you are job searching! They will know if their company is hiring or will be hiring soon. They can give candid advice about whether an employer is good fit or not.

The word “networking” seems daunting, but you have building your network before campus orientation. The heart of the networking is building relationships. As soon as you introduce yourself to another person, you are have a new member in your network. As you progress through your academic program, your fellow students, professors and other professionals on the clinical rotations/internships are the foundation of your professional network in the healthcare field. Remember that when you are sitting in class and appreciate your fellow students. They may be your future co-worker, supervisor or your direct employee.

Elevator Pitch

This is a 30-second summary of who you are. It’s typically the way that you introduce yourself. The most important parts are your name, field/specialty, and a fun tidbit about what makes you “You.” Be bold and exciting in your uniqueness. This helps build your personal brand.

Informational Interview

The best way to expand your professional network purposefully is through informational interviews. It is impossible to know everything about your specialty. There are always specialties within the specialty. Why not learn more from another professional? All you have to do is reach out to another professional, introduce yourself and ask for a few minutes of their time for an information interview because you are interested in their field because…..(pick your reason why!) This technique has been used by students, career changers and everyday workers.

Informational interviews for students typically ask the following questions:

Informational Interview Questions

However, more seasoned professionals may engage in an informational interview to see how industry changes are being impacted, knowing what options are available in other parts of the field, or simple curiosity. It’s okay to reach out to other professionals. It’s fun to talk about our jobs. Once you are a seasoned professional you will probably come up with your own questions, but make sure you have at least 5 questions if you do schedule a time to speak to another professional.

Join a Professional Society

Please consider joining a professional society. Many times, professional associations will have free or reduced rates for students. When you join the society, you are increasing your awareness of what each specialty inside your field is like. You will get insider information about the current challenges that are unique to the specialty as well as a platform to learn and gain mentorship from more senior-level professionals. Professional societies will also follow government discussions and lobby for the profession.

LinkedIn

A professional social networking site that has jobs. Similar to handshake, but not tied to universities. This platform is a great way to see posts about what is happening in your field and similar fields. Tutorials link for setting up your profile are available.