BUILD Your Professional Network
Your professional journey is not a solo endeavor! Whether you are exploring and discerning your potential path, hoping to land an internship or job, considering a pivot in your studies and/or original career pursuits, there are professionals who are willing to offer advice, share wisdom, and connect you with others who might be able to help! Leverage platforms and programs like Bronco Exchange and LinkedIn to build your professional network with SCU alumni and other professionals. Learn how to communicate professionally as you conduct outreach, engage in career conversations, and follow-up with employers. Don’t forget that family, coaches, mentors, professors, and peers are all part of your network!
Bronco ExchangeBronco Exchange, Student & Alumni Connections, is an exclusive and easy-to-use platform that connects Santa Clara University students, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends in a virtual community, providing you unprecedented access to the SCU network. Whether you’re exploring fields of interest, seeking career advice from alumni, or interacting with Broncos across the world, Bronco Exchange is here to help.
We recommend starting your networking journey through this platform. Since folks in Bronco Exchange are graduates of and/or friends and family of the university, and have opted into the platform, the response rate is higher. There are also messaging templates for those who may feel intimidated and uncertain on how to approach the process!
LinkedInReaching Out On LinkedIn - Have a polished LinkedIn profile? Great! Let’s put it to use. Learn how to maximize the benefits of this platform (without paying for premium) and make meaningful connections!
LinkedIn Alumni Tool - Exhausted your outreach on Bronco Exchange already? Want to expand your network to other SCU alumni who might not be on Bronco Exchange? Check out the LinkedIn Alumni Tool and a video tutorial on how to best utilize it.
Professional CommunicationCareer Conversations - Check out sample questions you can consider asking in your career conversations with professionals! These examples fall under four general categories: “about the individual and their job”, “about the organization”, “about your marketability”, and “next steps”.
Employer Follow Up - Be proactive and follow-up with employers you haven’t heard back from. Learn what timing is appropriate and learn how to draft that message.
Thank You Samples - Always follow up with a thank you after any professional contact. Check out some examples!