Don't Forget Your Contacts On Holidays

No... I don't mean your contact lenses (which you obviously wouldn't want to forget either). I mean contacts from your network.


What do I mean by contacts from your network? If you have attended one of the networking workshops providing by Career Services then you know:


A network is the sum of your contacts. Contacts are the people that you have built or maintained relationships with in your field of interest. These are the mentors or potential references who you have taken the time to get to know. In other words, contacts are important for future opportunities related to your career. If you don't have a network, then it's time to start thinking about establishing one - it's important!


Why wouldn't you want to forget your contacts on the holidays?


During the holidays, people usually take some time off of work. This is a perfect time to send a card in the mail, an e-mail, or even a quick message on a social networking site to wish them a happy vacation. It is another way to let your contacts know that you appreciate them.


However, notice that I said "wish them a happy vacation." It is important to be sensitive of the fact that there are myriads of religious affiliations and cultural beliefs. Therefore, unless you already specifically know somehow that they celebrate that holiday, you will want to avoid wishing your contacts a happy (insert holiday here) and instead let them know in a culturally neutral way that you hope they have a nice break.


Speaking of wishing someone a happy vacation, our campus is closed starting this Thursday through the following Monday. On behalf of UT Tyler Career Services, have an excellent vacation everyone!


Best wishes,
Bridget Hopp, Career Advisor
UT Tyler Career Services

Students Networking at our Patriots to Professionals Career Fair Fall 2010