In this series, I’ll share advice straight from the source. Interviewing alumni, students, professionals, and academics to give you advice from those who’ve been in your shoes.

This week, I spoke to Sarah McCann, a 2017 UVA grad who now works as a Strategy Director at Vocon.

Here’s an excerpt from our conversation.

COLD OPEN

What Does Networking Mean To You?

Networking is establishing personal relationships. It's more than transactions. Every call doesn't need to be about the internship, you might just be reaching out to hear their story, and you never know where that may lead.

I got my first job through a personal relationship. It wasn’t the fancy corporate job I envisioned, but I knew the people there would look out for me.

As a young person, my first professional network was my parents and friends' parents. Asking what they did and listening to their stories helped a lot.

After my first job, I realized getting ahead in your career is about finding new opportunities through new people. Really, it’s just about making friends.

You have to remember that building relationships means being there –  not just for the good times, but the tough ones too.”

IF I WERE YOU

What Advice Would You Give To Students?

Show up early, be polite, have questions prepared. Be transparent about your intentions. 

Follow up in a thoughtful way – once a week or once a month – keep them updated on what you’re up to.

If you’re attending a career event, email the company reps beforehand. That way, when everyone crowds them, you’ve already made an impression.

Don’t be distracted on a call and always assume the other person is busy. 

And most importantly – if someone connects you with an opportunity, follow through. Nothing’s worse than making an introduction for a student and seeing them drop the ball by not following up or sending a thank-you.