Eight Types of People to Ask For a Meeting

Building a strong professional network requires more than simply meeting new people: it requires a thoughtful strategy. This worksheet helps students identify key networking contacts, prioritize relationship-building efforts, and create a systematic approach to expanding their professional network during the job search process.

Why Use This Resource?

  • Develop a more intentional networking strategy.
  • Identify valuable contacts within your existing network.
  • Expand your professional connections through referrals and introductions.
  • Learn how different types of contacts can support your career goals.
  • Create a system for tracking networking conversations and follow-up activities.

What You’ll Find

  • Guidance on eight categories of people who can contribute to your networking efforts.
  • Strategies for leveraging existing relationships before reaching out to strangers.
  • Tips for securing introductions and informational meetings.
  • Recommendations for networking with alumni, classmates, professors, former colleagues, and target company employees.
  • Practical advice for managing outreach and maintaining networking momentum.
  • Templates for documenting contacts, conversations, referrals, and follow-up actions.

How to Use This Resource

Review each networking category and begin building a list of people you already know who may be able to provide information, introductions, or career guidance. Use the contact-tracking worksheets to organize outreach efforts, document conversations, and monitor follow-up activities. Continuously expand your network by asking for referrals and identifying new contacts through each conversation.

Accessing the Resource

Select View Resource to access the worksheet and begin building a strategic networking plan.

View Resource