In the US, networking is one of the most important ways to get work—to put your elevator pitch (and yourself!) in front of new people.
As an immigrant professional, you may not have a large network right now, but you can build that network one connection at a time. Here are a few ways to get started:
1. Prepare before you walk into the room.
Good networking begins with good preparation; learn as much as you can beforehand. Who will be there? What companies or industries will be represented? Most importantly, what do you hope to accomplish?
This is also where your elevator pitch comes in. As we shared in our Pitch Perfect blog, a strong pitch should quickly communicate your background, skills, global experience, and professional goals.
Practice it, but remember that your pitch should be a conversation starter, not a speech.
2. Lead with connection, not a job request.
It can be tempting to enter every networking conversation thinking, Can this person help me find a job? Instead, try shifting the thought to: What can I learn about this person?
Networking is about building relationships. Ask about their work, how they entered their field, or what they enjoy about their industry. Listen and look for common ground. A meaningful professional relationship may eventually lead to a referral, introduction, mentorship, or professional opportunity.
3. Expand where you network.
Your next professional connection might not be at an event in your industry. Explore conferences, community events, professional associations, job fairs, volunteer opportunities, and events outside your immediate field. Meeting people with different backgrounds can expose you to careers, organizations, and opportunities you haven’t considered.
And don’t forget about LinkedIn to connect with professionals, participate in conversations, engage with posts, and stay visible within your industry.
4. Do your research before job fairs.
A job fair allows you to bring your research, resume, and elevator pitch together. Before attending, research participating employers to identify the ones you want to meet.
When you reach a recruiter, make sure you introduce yourself using a version of your elevator pitch tailored to that organization.
Thirty seconds can be enough to give someone a reason to remember you.
5. Don’t forget the follow-up.
You had a great conversation and exchanged information. Now get ready to follow up.
Within a few days, send a brief message thanking the person for their time. Mention something specific you discussed so your note feels personal rather than generic.
Be sure to keep the connection going. Send an occasional update. Engage with something they post. If appropriate, suggest continuing the conversation over coffee.
You may arrive in the US without a professional network, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay without one. Every conversation is a chance to make a connection, and every connection has the potential to lead somewhere new. All you have to do is take the first step.
For more information and resources to help you build your network, make sure to visit the UpGlo Learning Platform. Signing up takes just a few moments and will give you access to modules and courses designed specifically for immigrant professionals.
