2 Reach out to alumni

Once you have found some alumni networks that interest you, the next step is to reach out to them. You can do this by sending a friendly and professional message, email, or invitation to connect. You should introduce yourself briefly, mention your shared educational background, and explain why you are interested in networking with them. You should also express your appreciation for their time and attention, and ask for their permission to follow up or schedule a conversation. You should avoid asking for favors, jobs, or referrals right away, as this can seem too pushy or needy. Instead, focus on building rapport, trust, and mutual value.

3 Engage with alumni

The third step to use alumni networks is to engage with them regularly and consistently. You can do this by following up on your initial contact, keeping in touch, and showing genuine interest in their work, achievements, and challenges. You can also participate in any events, activities, or opportunities that the alumni networks organize or offer, such as webinars, workshops, panels, mentorships, or socials. You can also contribute to the alumni networks by sharing your insights, experiences, or resources that might be useful or relevant to other members. You should also acknowledge and thank any alumni who help you, support you, or introduce you to others.

4 Expand your network

The fourth step to use alumni networks is to expand your network beyond the alumni groups. You can do this by asking for introductions, referrals, or recommendations from the alumni you have established a good relationship with. You can also leverage the alumni networks to access other networks, organizations, or associations that are related to economics, such as professional societies, research institutes, think tanks, or consulting firms. You can also use the alumni networks to find out about any events, conferences, or publications that might be of interest to you or your field. You should also keep an eye out for any opportunities, trends, or developments that might affect your career or goals.

5 Maintain your network

The fifth step to use alumni networks is to maintain your network over time. You can do this by staying in touch, providing value, and showing gratitude. You should also update your network on your progress, achievements, or changes in your situation. You should also seek feedback, advice, or guidance from your network when you need it, and offer the same when they need it. You should also celebrate, support, and congratulate your network on their successes, milestones, or challenges. You should also be respectful, courteous, and ethical in your interactions, and avoid any conflicts, misunderstandings, or misrepresentations.

6 Benefit from your network

The sixth and final step to use alumni networks is to benefit from your network in various ways. You can do this by learning from your network, gaining new skills, knowledge, or perspectives that can help you improve your performance, creativity, or innovation. You can also benefit from your network by finding new opportunities, such as jobs, projects, collaborations, or partnerships that can help you advance your career, expand your portfolio, or diversify your income. You can also benefit from your network by enhancing your reputation, credibility, or visibility in the field, as well as your confidence, motivation, or satisfaction.

7 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?