Networking

The old adage says, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” While that’s not entirely true, it’s certainly not false, either. Networking—building personal connections within your preferred industry—gives people an opportunity to get to know you and your brand.

In addition to our networking Pinterest board, Forbes magazine has developed a list of the top 10 people that should be in your network.

LinkedIn is an exceptional tool for networking. Review these LinkedIn resources to get started:

• Alumni Tool worksheet (PDF)
• How to Network blog
• Join the NAU Alumni Association’s LinkedIn group
• Looking to get started with some LinkedIn best practices?

Personal branding online

Networking is no longer just an in-person experience: the impression that you give online is just as important as how you present yourself at a networking event. This online brand calculator, while not a perfect tool, can give a decent measure of the quality of your online presence and can provide you with the perspective your employers will get when they begin to do their own online investigation. Consider the results very carefully, keeping in mind that this may be the first impression future employers have of you.

We also have a personal branding Pinterest board where you can find tips to ensure your social media presence is working in your favor during your job search.