Networking can feel intimidating, especially when you're just starting out. Extern recently hosted a webinar with three rising professionals who shared the secrets behind their successful networking journeys. These Extern alumni—Claudia Duverglas (Analyst at Deloitte), Sarah Hasan (Incoming Intern at Nintendo), and Rajat Sood (Incoming Intern at Pfizer)—offered practical, real-world advice on how to turn a single conversation into career-changing connections.
Be Proactive
"Most people appreciate students being proactive. It shows you’re willing to learn." - says Claudia Duverglas, now an analyst at Deloitte
Networking is not transactional; it’s about cultivating long-term relationships. A single LinkedIn message or a brief coffee chat can lead to valuable advice, mentorship, and even career-defining opportunities.
Starting with What You Have: Leverage Your Existing Network
One of the easiest ways to start networking is to tap into your existing communities. Whether it’s your school, hometown, major, or student organization, you already have built-in common ground with more people than you think.
How to Begin with Familiar Faces
Sarah Hasan, an Incoming Intern at Nintendo, shared that she began her networking journey by reaching out to alumni from her university who were working in fields she was curious about. This strategy helped her build confidence, practice asking thoughtful questions, and learn about different career paths—all without the pressure of a high-stakes introduction.
Here’s an example of how you can start small:
“Hi [Name], I noticed we both studied at [University] and saw you’re working in [Industry]. I’d love to learn more about your experience.”
Why Shared Experiences Matter
That one shared link—whether it's a school, a city, a club, or a career path—can turn an intimidating message into a friendly introduction.
💡Pro Tip: Your first connection doesn’t have to be perfect. It’s about building your communication muscles, learning from someone’s experience, and expanding your network. Even if you don’t get a response, you’re still practicing a valuable skill.
Making the Most of Informational Interviews: Turn Conversations into Opportunities
Informational interviews are powerful tools for understanding an industry, building connections, and gaining insights that can guide your career decisions. They aren’t about landing a job—they’re about learning.
Why an Agenda Matters
During the event, Claudia Duverglas, an Analyst at Deloitte, shared practical advice for setting up these conversations:
“Send a calendar invite with an agenda. It shows you’re serious and value their time.”
How to Prepare for Informational Interviews
This simple step demonstrates respect for the professional’s schedule and shows that you’re well-prepared. To make the most of your informational interview:
- Prepare 3–5 thoughtful questions in advance.
- Focus on learning about their journey and challenges.
- Follow up with a thank-you note that references something specific you discussed.
Sample Questions to Ask:
- What skills do you think are most valuable for someone entering this field?
- How did you decide this was the right path for you?
- What are some challenges you’ve faced, and how did you overcome them?
💡Pro Tip: Having a clear purpose for the conversation helps both parties stay focused and get the most out of the interaction.
Following Up and Staying Connected: The Secret to Long-Term Networking
Reaching out is just the beginning—the real magic happens in the follow-up. One key mistake students often make is assuming that a single conversation is enough. The truth is, maintaining that connection over time is what builds real relationships.
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How to Follow Up Effectively
The panelists shared practical ways to keep your network alive and thriving:
- Send a thank-you email right after the conversation, referencing something specific you learned.
- Share updates about your academic or career progress. For example, if you land an internship, it’s a perfect reason to reach out and say, “I thought of our conversation when I accepted this position. I’m excited to learn more about [Industry].”
- Engage with their content on LinkedIn—commenting on their posts or sharing their articles shows you’re staying connected.
💡Pro Tip: Your follow-up doesn’t have to be complicated—a quick message or a LinkedIn comment can be enough to keep you on their radar.
Top Networking Questions (Real Advice for Building Connections)
During the webinar, students had the chance to ask real, practical questions about networking. Here are the Top 11 Questions Answered, providing you with clear, actionable steps:
1. How do you follow up when you don’t get a response?
Follow up politely after one to two weeks with a clear message. Express your genuine interest and acknowledge their busy schedule.
2. How do you approach someone when you have nothing in common?
Lead with curiosity. Acknowledge their career journey and express your interest in learning from their experiences.
3. Is attending the same university enough of a connection?
Absolutely! A shared university experience is a great starting point. Mentioning mutual professors or alumni groups can build rapport.
4. What’s a respectful way to ask for a referral?
Focus on learning first—referrals often come naturally after a genuine relationship is built.
5. At what point do you ask for a referral?
After establishing mutual understanding and rapport, usually after a few conversations.
6. How to manage informational interviews that go off-topic?
Steer the conversation back with prepared questions. Gently guide it back to your main goals.
7. What if English isn’t your first language?
Focus on clarity and genuine effort. Professionals value curiosity over perfect grammar.
8️. How do you keep a new connection from fading out?
Consistently engage by sharing updates, congratulating milestones, or commenting on their posts.
9. Is LinkedIn too formal? What about other platforms?
It depends on the industry—LinkedIn is ideal for corporate, while Twitter or Instagram may work for creative fields.
10. Can networking happen "downward," like mentoring?
Yes! Mentorship can flow in both directions. Sharing your knowledge also builds your brand.
11. Any advice for Big 4 interviews?
Prepare with the STAR method, understand company values, and be ready to discuss both technical and soft skills.
Your Networking Journey Starts Now
Networking isn’t just a one-time task—it’s a skill that grows with practice, patience, and genuine curiosity. By starting with familiar connections, crafting clear and thoughtful messages, and nurturing those relationships over time, you’re laying the foundation for a network that can support your career aspirations long-term.
As the panelists shared during the webinar, the first step is often the hardest—but it’s also the most rewarding. Whether it’s sending that initial LinkedIn message, reaching out to a guest speaker, or simply following up after a conversation, each action is a building block toward your professional growth.
And remember: You don’t have to be perfect to get started. What matters is that you’re willing to show up, ask questions, and learn as you go. The professionals you admire were once in your shoes, figuring out their own path. Many are eager to help you do the same—you just have to take the first step.
Your networking journey starts now. Take that first step, you never know where it might lead.
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