New Graduates Must Cultivate Alumni Network
<p><strong>New York — May 8</strong><br />Don’t think of graduation as an ending — consider it the beginning of your long-term career project. That is the advice of Robert Graber, founder of WallStJobs.com. </p><p>“It is axiomatic that successful careers are built on effective networking, and there is no better time to start building that network then when you still have a fresh connection with your school,” he said.<br /><br />Graber suggests you promptly introduce yourself to your school’s alumni relations office and offer to do volunteer work. </p><p>“There is always a need for interested graduates to help them organize reunions or development projects, and that will give you exceptional exposure to many alumni who are well along in their own careers,” he said. “I am always amazed at how often a hiring decision is swayed in favor of selecting a fellow alumnus over another candidate.”<br /><br />Graber also offered additional ways a new graduate can get involved in their school:</p><ul><li>Become a class representative.<br /></li><li>Participate in fund-raising events.<br /></li><li>Become an alumni interviewer.<br /></li><li>Attend reunions.</li></ul><p>“And even if you can’t find the time to get deeply involved, at least be sure to keep your contact information current in any alumni directories,” Graber said.</p>
