Network with Employers

Keep it Short: Aim for a 30-60 second pitch—just enough time to introduce yourself and spark curiosity.

Practice: Rehearse your pitch until it feels natural. You want it to sound confident but not robotic.

Tailor it: Adapt your pitch depending on who you’re talking to and the situation. You might want to emphasize different aspects of your experience depending on whether you’re talking to a recruiter, professor, or peer

Be Engaging: Make eye contact, smile, and be enthusiastic. The way you present yourself is just as important as what you say.

Ask for Action: Whenever possible, suggest the next step—whether it’s scheduling a follow-up, sharing your contact info, or sending a resume.

1. Introduction
   
   • Start by clearly introducing yourself.
     
   • Mention your name, what you’re studying or your current role.
     
   • Example: “Hi, I’m Jane Doe, a Biology major at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.”
     
2. Who You Are and What You Do
   
   • Highlight your skills, experiences, or specific areas of interest.
     
   • Focus on something unique about your background that sets you apart.
     
   • Example: “I have a strong background in molecular biology and am particularly interested in genetic research, having assisted in several research projects on DNA analysis.”
     
3. What You’re Looking For
   
   • Specify the opportunity or role you are seeking. Be clear about what you want (internships, mentorship, job opportunities, etc.).
     
   • Example: “I’m currently looking for an internship in genetic research where I can apply my lab skills and contribute to real-world projects.”
     
4. Why You’re Interested
   
   • Share why you’re passionate about your field or the specific opportunity. This helps show your enthusiasm and dedication.
     
   • Example: “I’m really passionate about the potential genetic research has in improving medical treatments and am excited about contributing to advancements in this field.”
     
5. Closing
   
   • Finish by offering a way for the person to get in touch with you or suggesting a follow-up conversation.
     
   • Example: “It would be great to connect further. Here’s my business card, and I’d love to chat more about how I could contribute to your team.”
     

1. For a Career Fair
   “Hi, my name is Jane Doe. I’m a sophomore studying Environmental Science at UNLV. I’m passionate about sustainability and have been involved in multiple campus projects, including a recycling initiative that reduced waste by 25%. I’m currently looking for an internship where I can apply my research and data analysis skills. I’d love to learn more about your company’s environmental programs.”
   
2. For Networking at an Event
   “Hello, I’m Jane Doe, a Marketing major at UNLV. I’ve gained hands-on experience through my role as a social media manager for a local nonprofit, where I increased engagement by 40%. I’m looking for opportunities to apply my skills in digital marketing with a company that values creativity and data-driven strategies. I’d love to learn more about working within your team.”
   
3. For Informational Interviews
   “Hi, I’m Jane Doe, a senior in Computer Science. I’ve been focusing on software development and have completed several internships, including a project where I helped build an app that improved workflow efficiency by 20%. I’m interested in learning more about software development roles and the challenges in the industry. I’d love to hear about your experience working at [Company Name] and any advice you have for someone entering the field.”
   
4. For reaching out on Linkedin
   “Hi [Name], I’m Jane Doe, a Biology student at UNLV. I’m passionate about genetic research and have hands-on experience with DNA analysis through my lab work. I’d love to connect and learn more about your career in [specific area/industry]. Thanks for your time!”
   
5. For reaching out via Email
   Subject: Introduction from a UNLV Biology Student
   
   Email:
   Hi [Name],
   
   I hope you’re doing well! My name is Jane Doe, and I’m a Biology student at UNLV with a focus on genetic research. I’ve had hands-on experience with DNA analysis in the lab and am looking to connect with professionals in this field. I’d love to learn more about your experience and any advice you might have for someone starting out.
   
   Thank you for your time, and I look forward to connecting!
   
   Best regards,
   Jane Doe

• What It Is: Networking is the process of building and nurturing professional relationships, where both parties share knowledge, advice, and opportunities.
  
• What It Isn’t: Networking isn’t just about asking for a job or immediately expecting something in return. It’s about forming genuine relationships that benefit both parties over time.

• In-Person Networking: Attending career fairs, networking events, conferences, and other in-person gatherings to connect with professionals and employers.
  
• Online Networking: Using platforms like LinkedIn, Handshake, and industry-specific forums to engage with professionals and expand your network virtually.
  
• Informational Interviews: A one-on-one conversation where you learn more about a person’s career journey, their job, and the industry. These are valuable for gaining insights and advice without the pressure of a job search.

• Make sure your online profiles (LinkedIn, Handshake, personal website, etc.) are polished and professional.
  
• Share relevant articles, comment on industry discussions, and maintain an active presence that reflects your expertise and interests.
  

• Friends and Family: Friends and relatives may know someone in your field or be able to introduce you to professionals with relevant experience.
  
• Classmates: Learn about internships, on-campus opportunities, or connections they’ve made through classes and student organizations.
  
• Coworkers: Current or former coworkers may know of openings in their networks or offer referrals based on your shared work experience.
  
• Employers: Reach out to hiring managers or recruiters in your field to inquire about potential job or internship opportunities.
  
• Alumni: UNLV’s alumni network is an excellent resource. Alumni are often willing to help students by offering advice or job referrals.
  
• Professors: Faculty members can provide insights into job markets, research opportunities, and industry connections.
  
• Industry Professionals: Connect with professionals in your field of interest, especially those who have experience in roles you’re aiming for.

• Email: Write a concise and personalized email introducing yourself, explaining your interest in their work, and asking for advice or an informational interview.
  
• LinkedIn: Connect with professionals and send them a brief, engaging message. Be polite and specific about why you want to connect.
  
• Career Fairs: Prepare for networking by researching the companies attending and being ready to introduce yourself.

Prepare a short, engaging pitch (30-60 seconds) that explains who you are, what you’re studying, and what you’re passionate about. Be prepared to highlight your skills and what you’re seeking (internships, advice, etc.).

• Research: Know which employers are attending and what positions they’re hiring for. Familiarize yourself with the companies’ missions, values, and recent developments.
  
• Elevator Pitch: Practice your introduction to quickly and confidently share who you are and what you’re looking for.
  
• Resume: Bring several copies of your resume to distribute to employers. Ensure your resume is updated and tailored to the industry.

• Introduce yourself with your name, major, and year.
  
• Ask open-ended questions like, “Can you tell me more about the types of internships you offer?” or “What qualities do you look for in candidates?”
  
• Focus on listening and building a rapport instead of just pitching yourself.

Send personalized thank-you emails within 24 hours to the employers or recruiters you spoke with. Reaffirm your interest and reference something specific from your conversation to keep the connection fresh.

Example:

Subject: Thank You for Your Time at [Career Fair/Event Name]

Email: Dear [Recruiter’s Name],

I enjoyed speaking with you at [Career Fair/Event Name] and learning more about [Company Name] and the [specific role or program discussed]. Our conversation about [specific topic you discussed] really resonated with me, and I appreciate the insights you shared.

I’m very interested in [internship/job opportunity, industry insights, etc.] and would love to stay connected. Please let me know if there are any next steps I should take or opportunities to continue the conversation.

Thank you again for your time—I look forward to staying in touch!

Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Email]
[Your LinkedIn (if applicable)]

• Professional Photo: Use a high-quality, professional-looking photo.
  
• Headline: Include a clear, concise description of your career goals or areas of expertise.
  
• Experience: List internships, volunteer work, and relevant projects to demonstrate your skills and accomplishments.
  
• Skills & Endorsements: Add specific skills that match the roles you’re interested in.
  
• Recommendations: Request recommendations from professors, supervisors, or colleagues who can speak to your work ethic and abilities.

• Follow companies and industry leaders to stay updated on news, trends, and job openings.
  
• Comment on and share relevant articles or insights to demonstrate your engagement and expertise.
  
• Engage with professionals by sending personalized messages that are specific and respectful of their time.

• Personalize your message by explaining why you are reaching out.
  
• Be clear in your interest, goals, and reason for connecting
  
• Be concise and get to the point so they are more likely to respond

An informational interview is a one-on-one conversation with someone in a role you’re interested in. It’s an opportunity to gain insights into their career, industry trends, and advice on breaking into the field.

However, an informational interview is not a job interview since you’re not applying for a position. Instead, it’s a chance to learn more about a career field, company, or role by speaking with someone who has firsthand experience.

These conversations help you gain insights, build connections, and explore potential paths.

• Find someone whose career path interests you and politely ask if they would be willing to chat.
  
• Reach out via email or LinkedIn with a respectful request for a brief conversation. Keep your message concise and specific about why you’d like to learn from their experiences.

• Career Path: “Can you share your career journey and how you got to where you are today?”
  
• Industry Insights: “What trends do you see shaping the industry in the next few years?”
  
• Advice: “What skills or experiences do you think are most important for someone entering this field?”
  
• Be respectful of their time and follow up with a thank-you note.
  

• Always be polite, respectful, and professional in your interactions.
  
• Proofread your emails for spelling and grammar mistakes before sending.
  
• Be timely in responding to messages, especially if someone offers you advice or an opportunity.

• Wait a few days after an event or conversation before following up. If they don’t respond right away, give them space.
  
• When following up, be polite and considerate. Reaffirm your interest and keep the message brief.

• Set reminders to check in periodically with your connections, especially if they’ve offered you advice or assistance.
  
• Share updates about your academic progress or new experiences that may be of interest to your network.