Networking means creating meaningful connections with people in your field or community — whether in a professional environment or in your daily life. These relationships can open doors to opportunities, help you learn from others’ experiences, and support your career growth.
Remember: Networking is a two-way relationship. Ask how you can help others reach their goals, not just what they can do for you. This will help build two-sided relationships that can lead to future opportunities for you both.
Why Does Networking Matter?
Building your network helps you meet professionals who can share real-work advice, discover opportunities for internships, jobs, and future programs, learn real-world skills you won’t find in textbooks, and build your professional reputation. While the personal benefits are undeniable, approaching it with generosity—how you can use your skills and experience to benefit others—will transform the experience from a formal, forced best-practice into something that feels more natural and authentic.
Get Ready to Network
Practice Your Elevator Pitch
An “elevator pitch” is a short introduction (30-60 seconds) that describes who you are, your skills and experience, and your career goals. The point is to present yourself in the most impactful and time-efficient way in the amount of time it would take to ride an elevator (where it gets its name). Write it down and practice until it feels natural.
Create Business Cards
Business cards are very important because they help people remember you and leave them with all your contact information. Make sure it includes your name, current role or program/areas of expertise, email, phone number, and LinkedIn profile (optional). It should look clean and professional, but don’t hesitate to add a memorable personal flair.
Ask if the company you’re at provides business cards! If not, you can print your own using these free or low-cost options:
Pro tip: Always ask for the other person’s card when you share yours to show your interest so that you can follow up with them as well.
Where to Network
LinkedIn is essential for professional networking as most employers use it to find candidates. If you don’t already have one, complete a profile ASAP. (Read our LinkedIn guide for detailed tips.) It’s a great way to network virtually by looking for people who have mutual connections. LinkedIn also has job listings and many great career resources. Maintain a strong presence by posting regularly and engaging with others’ content.
Your Program Site
Expand your network at your host company. Get to know those outside your immediate team — you never know where different connections might lead! Join committees or join special projects, if applicable, and attend social events. Remember, beyond sharing your goals, talk with others about their paths and aspirations. We maximize the benefits of these relationships when we support each other!
Special Events
Look for networking opportunities at professional and social events during your program. These might include informational sessions, conferences, job fairs, coffee breaks, camp staff events, local community gatherings, or au pair cluster meetings.
Stay Connected
Send Follow-Up Emails
Once you do form a connection, it’s a good idea to follow up 24-48 hours after meeting. This is to ensure the relationship extends beyond the initial in-person interaction. Remind the person about your conversation, including the professional and personal information discussed, to help them remember you. This is also your chance to follow up with anything you promised during your conversation, including your resume, an article, etc. Keep it concise, and be sure to thank them for their time.
Connect on LinkedIn
Send a connection request with a brief message reminding them how you met. Consider reaching out to mutual connections, letting them know how you found them.
Join the Exchange Alumni Network!
If you’ve completed a U.S. government-sponsored exchange program, watch your inbox for an invitation to join this exclusive online community of 500,000+ alumni. Connect, network, build on your skills, access alumni-only opportunities, and get inspired.
- Register at alumni.state.gov
- Connect with Alumni Affairs on LinkedIn.
- Follow @Exchangealumni on X.
Request Informational Interviews
Informational interviews help you learn about someone’s role and build relationships. While it’s possible this can lead to a job eventually, it’s important to use these as learning opportunities.
Here are some good questions to ask:
- How did you get to your current position?
- What do you enjoy most about your work? What would you change?
- How do people typically enter this field?
- What does a typical career path look like in your industry?
- Which professional associations should I know about?
- How do you stay current in your field?
Always Say Thank You
Expressing your gratitude is a great way to demonstrate your professionalism and strengthen relationships —whether it’s after someone meets with you for an informational interview, introduces you to a contact or company, or provides advice or guidance.
The form of communication you choose depends on the type of interaction. For example, handwritten notes feel more personal. Email works best for quick follow-ups or when that’s how you’ve already been communicating.
Stay Open and Have Fun
Networking doesn’t have to feel formal or forced. Opportunities to connect happen naturally—at events, coffee shops, or even during your commute. The more you practice, the more natural it becomes. Soon you’ll discover that building these relationships isn’t just valuable—it’s genuinely rewarding.
*See also: Resources for Career Training USA alumni
