Elizabeth Tharakan ’06 has graciously written this blog piece on the value of networking and the Wellesley network. Take a look!
“You don’t ask for a job on a date; you build a relationship.” That’s what the career services adviser at Cardozo School of Law advises law students and recent grads when it comes to taking senior lawyers for “coffee dates” that could lead to business relationships. I network informally all the time, not just during a job search: when I get a manicure with my friend, when I browse through my Facebook and LinkedIn contacts lists, when I volunteer for Wellesley Alumnae of NYC’s “New York Cares Day,” when I go to an MIT-Wellesley mixer, and when I visit the muffin room at Redeemer Presbyterian Church. All of these occasions are ways to build the community of people in your formal or informal network; all of these people may be those you tap into later down the road, during your job search or information search or quest for mentorship. You cannot, however, be too shy to tap into them and ask them for help. You must not be ashamed to ask for assistance when you need it.
But, before I could start networking, I needed some help. “I am trying to get a ‘story’ about who you are,” said my mock interviewer, a lawyer and second-degree connection I had met through a friend of a friend. “I have met you and emailed with you a bunch – and I don’t really get a sense of who you are or what your ‘story’ is. Like Barack Obama. No one really cares what he believes. But he’s got a compelling narrative. What is your narrative?” I found myself frustrated: I could say that I am articulate, have great communication skills, and am a leader. But really, ANYONE could say those things. I had to control the interview by weaving stories that highlight my accomplishments into my answers.
On this mock interviewer’s suggestion, I brainstormed about the five accomplishments I was most proud of to discern what common themes I could find about myself (brainstorming led to a long process of self-discovery). My Wellesley degree has helped me in networking within the legal world. It has taught me how to write well and how to communicate orally and verbally in ways that will lead others to be receptive to my inquiries for informational interviews or for jobs. I suggest that you take the time to brainstorm about your accomplishments as well – you’ll want these to be communicated effectively when you begin to network yourself.
When I was at Wellesley, I pursued my passions with regard to participating in academic and extracurricular activities that almost satiated my curiosity about life. Almost, but not quite; I am still curious to learn and do more! I encourage students to do the same: you can intend to be an astrophysicist or an investment banker for years before finally deciding to become a lawyer, or vice-versa. You don’t need to know at 22 what you will do for the rest of your life. In fact, the stories that make up your “compelling narrative” will be fodder for discussion on your coffee dates, demonstrating that you are a brave woman who can build a real connection.