How to Make Professional Friends
80% of jobs or internships are found by making connections with professionals and alumni. The more professional friends you have in your network, the better your chances of finding the right opportunity.
Getting Connected Is Easier Than You Think
Often, hearing the words “connections” and “networking” can easily make your heart beat faster and your palms start to sweat. 😰 😱
It’s Okay. Take a DEEP breath.
Think of “connections” or people in your “professional network” to be more like friends. Friends tend to help friends when they are in need.
What Types of Professional Friends Are There?
The more professional friends you make, the wider your network becomes which can lead to more jobs, internships and opportunities.
- An Adviser - someone who has done what you want to do.
- An Advice Giver - someone that is in a different field than you.
- A Connector - someone who knows people who have done it before.
- An Expert - someone who you trust who will give you honest feedback.
- A Backup - someone who you might need in the future.
- An Alum - someone who was a former student at the University at Buffalo.
Tips for Meeting People
• Don't forget to introduce yourself and remember to thank them for their time.
• When wearing a name tag at a networking event, place it on your right side, so that when somebody shakes your hand, it's easier to read your name.
Ways to Make Professional Friends
We know that you have a lot of questions about your future career path, you are not alone. UB alumni have been in the same situation and they know how you feel.
Fun Fact: Connecting to UB alumni is one of the easiest and quickest ways to build your connections.
Friend-making
Find your people, hopefully leading to your the next big step.
UB Career Connector Network powered by Firsthand
Can't make it to an appointment during office hours and you need quick tips from someone in your industry or to practice for your big interview? You're in luck! Get after-hour advice, coaching and prep from your UB Alumni-Powered Global Network by booking and completing a consultation with a UB alum.
Get Started
- Click the Login to the UB Career Connector Network button below.
- Click Get Advice.
- Register with your UB email address.
- Complete your full profile.
- Browse hundreds of UB alumni that are waiting to help you
- Schedule a consultation.
UB Career Connector Network is powered by Firsthand.
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See our list of conversation starter topics and questions for when doing an informational interview.
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