Networking advice for events

These tips are intended to help you feel more comfortable and stand out when you go to a networking event.

Before the Event 

  • Set a focus: Pick 1–2 goals (e.g., learn what career paths La Follette grads have taken, or  meet someone working on policy issues you care about)  
  • Research attendees if possible: If there’s a guest list, look up where alums are working so  you can prepare a few tailored questions (we will provide this to all registrants) 
  • Prep your intro: Have a short, friendly “about me” ready (program, focus area, what you’re  hoping to learn/where you want to grow) 

During the Event 

  • Start with common ground: Open with the shared La Follette connection (“When did you  graduate?” / “What was your capstone on?”). It makes the conversation natural 
  • Ask curious questions: Instead of just “what do you do?”, try: 
    • “How did you get into that role?” 
    • “What do you enjoy most about your work?” 
    • “What’s something you wish you had known when you were in my shoes?” 
  • Balance listening & sharing: Alumni often like to reflect on their paths, but they’ll also be  curious about what’s happening now at La Follette — updates from current students are  good conversation fuel 
  • Mix, don’t stick: Spend 5–10 minutes in a conversation, then politely move on (“It was great  talking with you — I want to make sure I meet a few more people before the event wraps  up”) 
  • Find connectors: If someone says, “I know someone working in X area,” follow up: “Would  you be comfortable introducing me?” 

After the Event 

Follow up quickly: Within a few days, send a short LinkedIn message or email: 

  • Thank them for their time 
  • Reference something specific you talked about 
  • If it makes sense, suggest a coffee chat or ask one follow-up question
  • Keep light touchpoints: Share an article, update them if you act on their advice, or just check in occasionally 

Pro tip: Bring a couple of thoughtful, open-ended questions that you can ask anyone (e.g., “How  has your policy work changed since you started?”). It helps if you blank in the moment. Here are some ideas: 

Questions to ask alumni 

  • “What drew you to your current field after La Follette?” 
  • “Looking back, is there a skill or class from La Follette that ended up being especially useful  in your career?” 
  • “How did you make your first career move after grad school?” 
  • “What do you enjoy most about your current role?” 
  • “What’s one challenge in your work that someone entering the field should know about?” 

Tip: Once the conversation gets going, weave in your own “mini intro” (program, policy focus, what  you’re curious about career-wise). That way, they have context for tailoring advice or connections.