Purpose: Generate networking interviews -- which allow you to research career fields, obtain helpful advice on job seeking, and important referrals on to potential employers.
Audience: Alumni, Friend of Parent, Parent of Friend, Family Friend, Someone you were referred to by a faculty member, etc.
Sample Networking E-Mail #1
January 4, 2007
Dear Mr. Black: It was with pleasure that I found your name on MiddNet Online. I am a graduating Middlebury senior exploring a career in Environmental Law. It has been a difficult decision for me to decide which environmental sector to focus upon and whether to apply directly to Law school or to pursue a Legal Assistant position following graduation. I am contacting you because I am interested in your direct experience in this field, as well as your perspective on the pros and cons of various law programs, and their timing, with which you may be familiar. If possible, I would like to speak with you directly; I would anticipate no longer than a 15 minute call. In advance, might I email you a list of 6-7 related questions? Perhaps you could email a reply and one or two convenient times for me to phone over the next week or so to follow up. I look forward to your email and thank you for your consideration. Jennifer Fairbanks '07 |
Sample Networking E-Mail #2
January 15, 2007 Dear Rob: Sharon Glazer suggested I contact you based on your experience in the publishing field. I am currently at Random House but looking to make a transition from the editorial side into marketing, which does not look possible in house. I'm seeking the advice of seasoned professionals about how to best position myself and would very much appreciate an opportunity to meet with you briefly to get your perspective. Would you be available next week for a half-hour meeting? I'll call you in a few days to see if we can set up a time that's convenient for you. Sincerely, Ted Morris '07 |
Sample Networking Letter
Middlebury College
MC Box 0004
Middlebury, VT 05753
October 12, 2002 Ms. Bea Friendly '97
Associate Media Planner
Young & Rubicam
000 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 11111 Dear Ms. Friendly: I was delighted to find your name in Middlebury College's alumni database because I am seeking an opportunity to speak with an experienced professional regarding career opportunities in advertising and public relations. Although I have had an internship with a local advertising company, I am hoping to learn more about the national and international advertising marketplace from your perspective. As an intern for Evergreen Advertising and Marketing, I gained an appreciation for the creative and organizational aspects of communicating effectively with targeted consumers of media. I have developed excellent analytical, decision making, and interpersonal skills through my studies in International Politics and Economics, participation in the Student Investment Committee, and study abroad experience. My goal is to find the best way of presenting my skills and abilities to potential employers. I would greatly appreciate having an opportunity to talk with you about your work and your point of view on effective job search strategies for graduating seniors like me. I will call you in the next week to see if we might be able to arrange a convenient time to talk. In the meantime, feel free to contact me at 802-443-0007. Thank you for considering my request. Sincerely, Jennifer Fairbanks Jennifer Fairbanks '07
Enclosure: Resume |