Networking & Relationship Building
Build relationships that build your career.
Networking is how most jobs actually get found. Studies show only about 20% of jobs are posted publicly, leaving 80% discovered through people. But networking isn’t a job-search tactic you turn on when you need work. It’s a relationship practice you start now and continue throughout your career. This page will show you how.
Are you a graduate student?
This content is tailored for undergraduates.
Graduate students, see Academic Job Market Preparation
By the end of this page, you’ll know what networking actually is (and isn’t), how to build a network from zero, what to say in a LinkedIn connection request or informational interview ask, and where to go next for additional support. You’ll find networking etiquette tips, sample outreach language, and resources including ConnectUT, LinkedIn, CliftonStrengths®-tailored networking strategies, and the Vol Edge Networking Basics module.
Looking for a job or internship right now?
Visit Networking for Job Search for networking strategies focused on finding opportunities and connecting with employers.
What networking is and what it isn’t
Before you build a network, it helps to know what you’re building toward. Networking is a relationship practice, not a sales pitch. At its core, networking is about learning from others, building professional relationships, and staying connected over time.
Networking is
- Learning about someone’s professional experience
- Respecting someone’s time
- Building a professional relationship
- An opportunity to seek professional advice
- Potentially a way to find a mentor
Networking is not
- Asking for a job
- Being pushy with requests
- Aimlessly sending generic resumes
- Unprofessional or overly personal
- Only done when you need work
Give before you ask. The strongest networks are built on relationships, not transactions.
Informal and formal networking
Networking doesn’t always happen at a career fair or professional event. Some of the most valuable professional relationships begin through everyday interactions and grow over time.
Informal networking
Informal networking happens naturally through activities you’re already involved in. If networking feels intimidating, start here. The relationships you’re building in classes, organizations, and campus jobs already count. Focus on getting to know people, asking questions, and staying connected over time.
Examples include:
- Volunteering
- Study groups
- Courses and faculty office hours
- Clubs and student organizations
- Part-time campus jobs
Formal networking
Formal networking is more intentional. These opportunities are designed to help you meet professionals, learn about industries, and build connections beyond your immediate circle. Formal networking can help you explore career paths, learn about opportunities, and gain advice from people working in fields that interest you.
Examples include:
- Career fairs and recruiting events
- Informational interviews
- Internships
- Industry conferences and workshops
- Professional association events
- LinkedIn outreach
Want to learn more about one of the most effective networking strategies? Visit Informational Interviews to learn how to request and conduct conversations with professionals in your field of interest.
How to start when you have no network yet
Most students think networking starts with strangers. It actually starts with people you already know. Here’s where to begin.
- Start with people you already know. Most students underestimate the size of their network. Faculty members, supervisors, classmates, family friends, organization advisors, coaches, and mentors can all be part of your network. The Vol Edge Networking Basics module includes an activity to help you map your network and identify connections you may have overlooked.
- Pick three to five people to connect with. Don’t try to network with everyone at once. Identify a few people you’d like to learn from, such as UT alumni, professionals in a career field you’re exploring, or someone whose career path interests you.
- Do your homework before reaching out. Take a few minutes to review their LinkedIn profile, company website, or professional background. Look for shared experiences, interests, majors, organizations, or connections you can reference.
- Personalize your message. Avoid generic connection requests. Mention how you found them, why you’re reaching out, and what you’d like to learn. A little personalization goes a long way.
- Follow up after meaningful conversations. If you meet someone at a career fair, panel, networking event, or information session, send a connection request or thank-you message within 24 to 48 hours while the conversation is still fresh.
- Focus on relationships, not transactions. Ask questions, seek advice, and learn from others. The goal isn’t to ask for a job. It’s to build a professional relationship over time.
- Stay in touch. Networking doesn’t end after the first conversation. Check in occasionally, congratulate people on accomplishments, share relevant articles, or send a quick update. Strong professional relationships are built through consistent connection.
What to say when you reach out
The hardest part of networking is often sending the first message. Use these examples as a starting point, then personalize them to fit your situation.
LinkedIn connection request (after meeting at an event)
Hi Sarah, it was great meeting you at the UT Career Fair yesterday. I enjoyed learning more about your work with Deloitte and hearing your advice about getting started in consulting. I’d love to stay connected and continue following your career journey. Thank you again for taking the time to speak with me.
Best, Jordan
Informational interview request
Hi Mr. Davis, my name is Jordan Smith, and I’m a junior majoring in marketing at UT. I found your profile through ConnectUT and noticed that you also graduated from UT. I’m exploring careers in brand management and would love to learn more about your career path and experience in the field. If you’re available, would you be willing to meet for a 20-30 minute conversation in the next few weeks?
Thank you for considering my request.
Best, Jordan
Follow-up after an informational interview
Hi Mr. Davis, thank you for taking time to speak with me today. I especially appreciated your advice about gaining experience through internships and building relationships early in my career. Our conversation gave me a clearer understanding of the field and some helpful next steps to pursue. I appreciate your willingness to share your experience and insights. Thank you again for your time, and I hope to stay in touch.
Best, Jordan
What to say when you meet someone
Whether you’re attending a career fair, employer information session, conference, or networking event, a strong introduction helps start a meaningful conversation. An elevator pitch isn’t a memorized speech. It’s a brief introduction that helps someone understand who you are, why you’re there, and where you’d like the conversation to go.
A simple framework:
- Who you are. Introduce yourself with your name, major, year, or area of interest.
- Why you’re here. Explain what brought you to the event or why you’re interested in speaking with them.
- Highlight a few relevant experiences or skills. Share one or two experiences, strengths, or interests that relate to the conversation.
- Discuss next steps. Before the conversation ends, know what comes next. If you’re interested in an internship or job, ask about the application process. If you’d like to stay connected, ask if you can connect on LinkedIn or follow up later.
Example
Hi, I’m Jordan, a junior majoring in marketing at UT. I came to today’s career fair because I’m interested in learning more about opportunities in consumer marketing. This summer I worked on social media campaigns for a local nonprofit, which confirmed how much I enjoy creating content and analyzing engagement. I’d love to learn more about your internship program and how students typically apply.
Practice your elevator pitch
The best elevator pitches sound natural because they have been practiced. Quinncia gives you instant, personalized feedback on your pace, clarity, filler words, confidence, and overall delivery, so you can refine your introduction before your next networking event or career fair.
Go deeper
Your LinkedIn profile
Build a professional online presence, expand your network, and learn how to use LinkedIn effectively throughout your career.
Networking tips by CliftonStrengths domain
Discover networking strategies tailored to your CliftonStrengths and learn how to build connections in a way that feels authentic.
Connect with UT alumni on ConnectUT
Connect with UT alumni and professionals to explore career paths, ask questions, and expand your network.
If something feels off
Employers who recruit at UT are required to maintain Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) compliance in their recruiting processes. Students should apply the same standard to professional connections and opportunities encountered outside of campus recruiting.
If a networking interaction, opportunity, or request makes you uncomfortable, trust your instincts and seek guidance before moving forward. If you’re unsure how to navigate a situation, we’re here to help you evaluate opportunities and make informed decisions throughout your career development journey.
Do this next
Networking doesn’t happen all at once. Start small. Update your LinkedIn profile, explore networking strategies that align with your CliftonStrengths, and challenge yourself to make one new professional connection this week. If you’d like support along the way, we’re here to help.
Want a coach’s eyes on your networking strategy?
A career coach can help you map your network, identify the right people to reach out to, draft your outreach messages, and build the confidence to make the first move. Most students start with a single in-person or virtual appointment.
Career Coaching & Education
Center for Career Development & Academic Exploration
865-974-5435