The majority of employers fill openings through referrals or the “hidden job market” — meaning that sometimes, job openings aren’t even posted!

Building a network will increase the chance of finding these opportunities.

LinkedIn is the largest professional networking site in the world! This can be a great site to utilize to build your network, connect with Wolfpack alumni, explore career paths, and apply for jobs.

Check out these SLIDES on building a powerful LinkedIn profile! A recording of our LinkedIn working session can be accessed here. The transcript is available with the closed captions option.

Research the event you are going to (career fair, dinner, presentation, club meet-up).

Research who will be there and show enthusiasm for the work they have done for their organization or field. This will show you are knowledgeable about available positions and the organization itself.

Prepare questions to ask and make sure you can articulate your relevant skills that match the company’s needs.

Can you tell me more about internships or entry-level roles at your company?

What are typical career paths for tech professionals within your organization?

What happens after I apply for a role?

What is the best time of year to apply for roles at your company?

What qualities or experience help make someone successful at your company?

What is the culture like at your company?

In what ways are new professionals supported and mentored?

• What positions are they recruiting for?
• How do your interests & skills align with their work? Their mission?
• What have they worked on in the past? 
• What are they currently working on? 
• What are employees from the company talking about on LinkedIn?

Research the event vibes! If you are not sure, ask the event organizers, or go with business casual — always a great option.

Outfit ideas: Jacket or sweater/blouse with a collared or button-down shirt. Solid fabrics, modest in appearance, and simple accessories. Fresh, clean, and neat!

If you need professional clothing, look here!

Name, degree program, and grad date + career interest.

Positions of interest with their organization + a couple of points of connection

Your first question for them. 

Adding a personal element can help the recruiter remember you, consider these ideas to share:

Why you chose Computer Science
What you like about Computer Science
What you are interested in learning more about within the field of Computer Science
What type of work sounds interesting or exciting to you

How you got into computer science

How you ended up in this program or event

Be confident and ask questions
Set a goal for yourself (meet 3 new people, get 1 new job lead, etc.)
Remove distractions – put your phone away!
LISTEN just as much ask you speak
Make space for others – don’t overtake the conversation!

Tech groups in the triangle – 144 different groups! 

Why are these great places to network? 
You will probably be one of the only students in attendance!

You can get great info about what it’s like to work at specific companies and if they are hiring

Gain meaningful referrals! 

• Make sure to send a thank you email or message after you connect with someone. 
• This is a great opportunity to follow up on any research or projects they asked you to complete. 
• You can also mention something you remembered or are excited about to show your enthusiasm.