Networking & the hidden job market

Networking is all about building connections with others. Although networking may sound intimidating, you are doing it informally every day with each conversation you have with family, friends, peers & instructors. Building a strategic network is useful for learning more about a certain career path, organization, or skill. Review our resources below for networking tips and assistance with conducting an informational interview. Need help with growing your network? We recommend the LinkedIn alumni tool where you can search through the SMUMN alumni community. Check out our LinkedIn resources to build your profile today.

Did you know that 70-80% of jobs are never even publicly advertised?! These are filled through networking, internal hires, and referrals. Networking can play a huge role in reducing your time in the job search. Even for posted jobs, a majority of those hired are filled by networking.

How to Introduce Yourself in an Email the Right Way

First impressions matter—especially over email. Whether you’re reaching out to a hiring manager, a potential mentor, or an industry leader, the way you introduce yourself sets the tone for the conversation. But crafting the perfect email can feel tricky. How …

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How to Grow Your Network Without Awkward Small Talk

Stepping into a new field comes with a unique set of challenges – one of the biggest being the need to build a strong professional network. For those who thrive in structured conversations and prefer more profound, more meaningful discussions …

By Ivy Exec
Ivy Exec is your dedicated career development resource.
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Mentor and Mentee Relationship: What You Need to Know

A mentor and mentee relationship is all about guidance, learning, and growth. A mentor is someone with experience who helps a mentee (a less experienced person) navigate challenges, build skills, and gain confidence. The mentee is the one eager to …

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Want to Change Careers? Here’s How Informational Interviews Can Help

Transitioning into a new career can feel overwhelming, but one simple tool can make it a lot easier: the informational interview. If you’re thinking about switching fields, talking to people who already work in your target industry is one of …

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10 Email Templates for Every Situation You’ll Face with a Recruiter

Reaching out to a recruiter can feel a little intimidating, but a well-written email can open doors you didn’t even know existed. Whether you’re responding to a recruiter’s message, following up after an interview, or cold-emailing a company you’d love …

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Contact & Location

Phone
(507) 457-6695
Address

Winona, Minneapolis & Rochester, MN

Career Service Hours

Monday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Tuesday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Wednesday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Thursday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm