UMass Amherst Alumni Association

Your Career

Career Tips: Networking Ideas

Not sure how to begin networking to improve your career? Here are suggestions to explore networking opportunities in your profession or field of interest.

• Join your professional and/or industry association.

• Stay involved with your Alumni Association and Sorority or Fraternity if you are a member. Contacts from your alma mater can be golden resources!

• Join a local business or service group such as Jaycees, Rotary, Women's Club, or Urban League. Check the Google.com Organizations Web Directory

• Explore any business networking groups which may exist in your city. Contact your local Chamber of Commerce to find our about any ongoing networking meetings.

• Use the power of the Internet to make contacts and expand your network. Check out more ideas on Networking and the Internet.

• Stay on top of industry publications and news.

• Volunteer for opportunities within your company or organization that allow you to meet people from other departments and groups. These could be special task forces, problem-solving groups, or even event organizing.
  
• Attend conventions, national or regional professional meetings, and other events that provide an opportunity to make contacts in your field or industry.