Networking and Cal Poly Career Connections
What Is Networking?
Networking isn't about collecting contacts - it's about building genuine relationships that lead to information, advice, referrals, and opportunities.
In today's competitive job market, personal connections matter more than ever. More than half of U.S. workers report finding their current job through a personal or professional connection.
Our goal is to help you recognize the network you already have, build meaningful new relationships, and confidently use your network throughout your career. Remember: networking is not asking for a job.
How Do I Network?
Conduct an Informational Interview: A low-pressure conversation where you ask questions, explore a career or company, and build your professional network.
Networking Action Plan: This plan will help you identify contacts, ask thoughtful questions, explore careers through informational interviews, and maintain professional relationships.
Informational Interviewing & Job Shadowing: A guide to connecting with professionals in your network or fields of interest to explore careers and determine whether a particular career path is a good fit for you.
Use Cal Poly Career Connections:
Cal Poly’s (free) exclusive online networking platform for Cal Poly alumni and students. Connect with alumni in your field to get real world career advice and even set up an informational interview! Send 40 messages per month!
Students - Sign up today by clicking the Career Connections icon in the My Apps section of your Cal Poly portal. 
LinkedIn Alumni Tool: Use LinkedIn's Alumni Tool to find graduates from Cal Poly, explore their career paths, and connect with professionals working in industries or roles that interest you.
Watch: Networking 101 - How to use the platforms above so you can grow your network
Other Ways to Network:
Expand your network by attending career fairs, employer information sessions, and campus events, joining clubs and organizations related to your interests, and building relationships with your professors, who can offer guidance, mentorship, and valuable professional connections.