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by Taylah Berry, edited by Chelsea MuirÌý

So,Ìýyou’veÌýcrafted your epic elevator pitch and wowed a few members of industry with your unique value and capabilities. What now?  Ìý

After leavingÌýaÌýlasting impression,Ìýit’sÌýtime to take the next steps towards harnessing those connections and opportunities. Ìý

Transitioning from pitch to action: Ìý

• ¹ó´Ç±ô±ô´Ç·É-³Ü±è Ìý

Don’tÌýlet thoseÌýinitialÌýconversations fizzle out. Ensure you follow up promptly with a personalised message on LinkedIn or email. Reference specific points from your conversation to show your attentiveness and interest. Remember,Ìýit’sÌýabout building a meaningful and mutually beneficial relationship. IfÌýappropriate, you can politely ask for introductions to others in their network or industry who might align with your career aspirations as well. Ìý

• Seek mentorship or advice Ìý

If the conversationÌýpermits, express your admiration for the individual’s career journey and ask for guidance or mentorship. People often appreciate being valued for theirÌýexpertise.ÌýYou’llÌýfind that majority of the time people love to talk about themselves, so will be more than happy to help you. Ìý

• OfferÌýassistanceÌýor collaboration Ìý

Show willingness toÌýassistÌýor collaborate on projects if the opportunity arises. ThisÌýdemonstratesÌýyour proactive approach and commitment to adding value beyond yourÌýinitialÌýintroduction. The connections you make should be a two-way street – what you bring to the table is equally important. Ìý

• Stay engaged on professional platforms Ìý

Keeping active on LinkedIn or other networks will help to keep you front of mind. This could be sharing relevant content,ÌýlikingÌýand commenting on their posts and continuing to post about your own updates and achievements. Ìý

• Expand your reach Ìý

While your elevator pitchÌýimpressedÌýa fewÌýnew people,Ìýdon'tÌýlimit yourself to those immediate contacts. Attend networking events, workshops, or industry conferences. Engage in online forums or join professional groups to broaden your network. NetworkingÌýisn’tÌýjust about quantity;Ìýit’sÌýabout the quality of connections you cultivate. Ìý

• Utilise UQ’s resources Ìý

The Career Development TeamÌýprovidesÌýa range of workshops, events and online resources that are available all year round toÌýassistÌýwith your career journey. These resources are all free to students. Head to the events page to register. There is also a self-paced online platform called My Career Adviser that is a great one-stop-shop for everything from resume writing toÌýidentifyingÌýyour value proposition. Ìý

Remember, an elevator pitch is just the beginning.ÌýIt’sÌýa tool to open doors, butÌýit’sÌýyour follow-up actions and ongoing effort that will help you turn thoseÌýinitialÌýconnections into meaningful opportunities and relationships. Ìý

Stay proactive, adaptable, and persistent in your pursuit of career development.ÌýYou got this!Ìý

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Don't forget to visit the for more resources and information to help you in your career.ÌýÌý

Want to continue your career development outside of Employability Week? Find upcoming events and workshops here.Ìý