The answer is — anyone with whom you’d like to build a relationship!
Your network consists of all the people you know and everyone you have yet to meet. Your network includes anyone who may be able to offer advice, information, or referrals to additional contacts; to share information about job openings; to introduce you to people with hiring power; and to serve as a mentor or a guide:
- Classmates
- Coaches
- Parents (yours and those of classmates)
- Relatives
- Professors/advisors
- Administrators and college leaders
- Current and former employers
- Participants in career panels and guest speakers
- St. Olaf Alumni (find them in the St. Olaf Alumni Directory)
- Members of professional associations
Tip: try not to limit your network by focusing on a narrow group of people.
Broad networks are interesting networks. You will meet many different people who can introduce you to new ways of thinking and seeing the world.
With a broad network, you may find yourself connecting people who may not have met each other without your help.