How can you use your network to learn about different career paths?

1 Identify your goals

Before you reach out to your network, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve. What are your interests, skills, values, and aspirations? What kind of career path aligns with your goals? What are the skills, qualifications, and experiences required for that path? Having a clear vision of your desired outcome will help you narrow down your search and target the right people in your network.

2 Find relevant contacts

Once you have identified your goals, you can start looking for contacts in your network who can offer relevant information and advice. To do so, you can use various platforms and methods, such as LinkedIn to search for people by industry, role, company, location, or keywords. You can also join alumni networks to find people who have graduated from the same school, program, or course as you. Professional associations and referrals from existing contacts are also great ways to expand your network. You can attend events or workshops to meet and learn from experts, peers, and mentors. You can also access publications or newsletters to stay updated on the latest trends and developments in your field. Asking for referrals from friends, family, colleagues, or mentors is a great way to get introduced to someone who can help you learn more about your desired career path.

3 Conduct informational interviews

One of the most effective ways to use your network to learn about different career paths is to conduct informational interviews. These informal conversations with people who work in your field of interest allow you to ask questions about their role, responsibilities, challenges, achievements, skills, education, and career journey. Through informational interviews, you can gain firsthand knowledge and insights on different career paths, discover new opportunities and options that you might not have considered before, and learn about the pros and cons, rewards and risks, and expectations and realities of different careers. Additionally, you can get feedback and advice on your resume, portfolio, or skills, as well as build rapport and trust with potential mentors, sponsors, or referrals.

To successfully conduct informational interviews, you need to prepare by doing research on the person and their career path. Prepare a list of specific and relevant questions to ask them as well as a brief introduction of yourself and your goals. You should also contact the person via email, phone, or social media politely request for an informational interview. Explain who you are, how you found them, why you are interested in their career path, and what you hope to learn from them. During the interview itself, dress appropriately, arrive on time and thank the person for their time and willingness to help. Follow your prepared questions but also be flexible and attentive to their responses. After the interview is done send a thank-you note expressing your gratitude and appreciation for their time and insights. Keep in touch with the person updating them on your progress or achievements.

Using your network to learn about different career paths can help you make better decisions about your career development. By reaching out to people who work in your field of interest you can gain valuable information advice and guidance that can help you explore your options identify your goals and pursue your aspirations.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?