WOU CG 2024-25 DM Accessible - Flipbook - Page 6
Career Conversations
Make the Most of Career
Conversations
Author Steve Dalton suggests the
TIARA Method in his book The 2-Hour Job Search
to build rapport and maximize your time with
your contact.
T - TRENDS
Getting their big picture view builds rapport.
• What trends have you noticed in the
company or industry-wide?
• How has the sector changed since
your career started?
I - INSIGHTS
Seeking their perspectives provides value.
• What lessons have been the most
impactful to you?
• What do you find most challenging
about this work?
A - ADVISE
Shows that you hope to learn from their
experiences.
• What advice would you give your
younger self about this career path?
• What steps would you advise me to
take to optimize my chances to break
into and succeed in this field?
R - RESOURCES
Positions them as an expert and your desire
to learn more.
• What resources would you
recommend I explore next?
• What training or education has been
most helpful for you in this work?
A - ASSIGNMENTS
Demonstrates interest in applicable work.
• Which projects have been most
impactful to you, and why?
• What skills or experiences would
help prepare someone for this type of
work?
Referrals from your
network lead to
opportunities
85%
of jobs get filled through
networking. Some are
never advertised.
6
50%
Referrals account for up to 50% of
hires in the U.S. Those who receive
referrals are more likely to read
their resume, land and interview,
and ultimtely get an offer.
Networking
Networking is the process of making connections with people in order to gather
information and expand your knowledge about a profession, internship, industry,
graduate school, and/or geographical areas.
The purpose of a network is to develop a professional support system to help you as you
grow as a professional, which in turn, can help you support others in the future. It can
also assist you in collecting information and resources about the job market, as well as
develop job leads and referrals.
How can your network help you?
▶ Provide you with career advice and support. Your network could help you identify
solutions to a challenging situation and provide professional support
▶ Introduce you to other professionals and help you advance your career.
▶ Provide you with diverse perspectives to help you grow professionally in your field.
▶ Share knowledge, ideas, and best practices.
Start with your current network – friends, family, professors, advisors, clubs,
organizations, supervisors, colleagues, LinkedIn alumni tool, local businesses.
Strategies to Expand Your Network
▶ Informational interviewing and job shadowing
▶ Join professional and trade associations.
▶ Attend industry and professional conferences.
▶ Develop strong LinkedIn and Handshake profiles
▶ Join the WOU Alumni and other LinkedIn groups
▶ Internships and volunteer work
▶ Attend career fairs
Informational Interviewing
One of the most effective ways to meet people in a professional field and gather
information about what’s happening in an occupation or an industry is to conduct an
informational interview. An informational interview is a networking approach that
allows you to meet key professionals, gather career information, investigate career
options, get advice on job search techniques and get referrals to other professionals. Try
the TIARA method outlined on this page.
Online Presence and
Managing your online presence is important in any profession. In addition to
being mindful of what you post on social media, knowing prospective and current
employers may see it, use professional networking platforms LinkedIn and Handshake
to strengthen your online brand. You can do this by creating and maintaining a
professional profile and engaging in groups and forums in your field on these platforms.
Be sure to customize your LinkedIn URL.
LinkedIn provides opportunity to:
▶
▶
▶
▶
Market your skills, strengths, and experiences
Connect with alumni, professionals, and recruiters
Gain insight on organizations, industries, and opportunities
Apply for internships and jobs
