WGU Career & Professional Development
Resource Library
Networking
If you want to go somewhere, it is best to find someone who has already been there.- Robert Kiyosaki
Upwards of 85% of open positions are filled through networking (payscale.com). If you are looking for work, focus your time on building your network rather than pouring through online listings. Networking is simply establishing and leveraging relationships through conversations with people who are and will become your friends and community of colleagues as you go through your career. Developing your network is easy because you know more people than you think you know. Start developing your network today by following these steps.
STEP 1 - Download the Networking Guide
Networking Guide: Download the guide for clearly defined steps on how to expand and leverage your network. To access LinkedIn Learning videos, please first login with your WGU credentials.
The guide will teach you how to:
Apply networking strategies and identify networks, industries and companies of interest.
- Examining the Four Principles of Connections (LinkedIn Learning video, 3m 8s)
- Identifying Your Ideal Networks (LinkedIn Learning video, 4m 24s)
- Industries & Companies
Develop your brand and professional introduction.
- Giving Your Elevator Pitch/Professional Introduction (LinkedIn Learning course, 13m total)
- Info-mercial Worksheet
Utilize social media/LinkedIn to help get you connected.
- How to Network Through Social Media (LinkedIn Learning video, 2m 11s)
- 5 Ways to Use LinkedIn to Network
Develop your network.
- Professional Organizations
- Internship or Volunteer
- Informational Interview Overview
- Informational Interview Questions
- Informational vs. Job Interview (LinkedIn Learning video, 3m 4s)
Reach out to your network
- Contact Referrals & Build Your Network (LinkedIn Learning video, 3m 1s)
- Remember to Follow Up (LinkedIn Learning video, 2m 16s)
STEP 2 - Stay Connected
Take advantage of all of the perks that come along with being a student or alum and leverage your WGU network!
WGU - Western Governors University Alumni & Students
Night Owl Network
Night Owl Network - Alumni Networking Group (currently for Alumni only)
STEP 3 - Reach Out to Career & Professional Development
As you complete the activities described in the guide, a Career Advisor is available to answer questions, provide clarification, and offer support.
To request an appointment: Send your questions, areas for clarification and a copy of your Networking Guide (complete with your own notes and progress) to careers@wgu.edu and a career advisor will be in touch shortly after your email is received.
We look forward to working with you!
