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“Lindsey Jones suggested that I
write to ask for your advice on how
I can best launch my public health
career. Currently I am earning my
Master in Public Health from
Harvard School of Public Health
with a concentration in global
health. After graduation this May
plan to begin my career in
international HIV prevention
.”
•
When making contact, remember that
you
are asking for advice and not for a job
.
If they know of an appropriate position,
they will mention it. You want to request
that they recommend other people with
whom you can speak.
•
Be sure to
follow-up and keep in touch
with your contacts.
•
Always
send letters of appreciation
after
a phone, or in-person meeting.
NEXT:
•
Stay in touch with your network.
Send
them email updates on your progress and
accomplishments and/or send them articles
that might be of interest. You want your
name to be in their mind so that they will
remember to let you know about any
interesting opportunities.
•
Keep the momentum going!
It takes a lot
of hard work and commitment to network
full throttle, but you must if you want to be
one of the 70% of job seekers who secure
their position through networking.
Sample Networking Questions:
•
Which of the organizations in
this field do you think are doing
the most interesting work?
•
Do you think there is a lot of
opportunity
for
a
new
professional?
•
What type of training and
experience will best prepare me
to be a success in this field?
•
Can you recommend some
people in the field I should
consult?
•
What do you look for in the
people you hire?
•
What do you think are the major
challenges new professionals
face in the field?
•
Can you tell me about your
work?