Search Online for a New Professional Contact

In this lesson, you will learn how to expand your professional network by searching online for new contacts, particularly when your existing network doesn’t align with your professional interests or desired career path. Sometimes, you may not know anyone directly connected to your field of interest, which is where online research becomes valuable. Begin by opening a new browser tab and navigating to Google. Start your search by looking for local businesses in the field you are interested in. For instance, if you’re curious about a career in veterinary medicine, search for well-regarded veterinary clinics in your area. Once you select a business, explore their website to learn more about it, helping you decide if it’s a place you might want to engage with or work at in the future. Business websites typically feature a company description on the homepage, with links to services offered or client reviews. Often, you’ll find profiles of employees, including their contact information, which can be a goldmine for networking.

When choosing a professional to contact, consider the range of insights different employees can offer. A seasoned employee can provide a wealth of information and advice about their profession, while a newer employee might share insights on what it’s like to start a career in that field today, including educational requirements. Once you identify a potential contact, add their information to your spreadsheet for future reference. This step is crucial for organizing your growing professional network and ensuring you can easily reach out when you’re ready. The next part of this lesson involves writing an email to one of these new professional contacts. Your current task is to search online for a new professional contact and then record their contact information in your spreadsheet. This proactive approach will help you to build a robust network, essential for career development and exploration.