Harvard School of Public Health Career Guide

“Lindsey Jones suggested that I write to ask for your advice on how I can best launch my public health career. Currently I am earning my Master in Public Health from Harvard School of Public Health with a concentration in global health. After graduation this May plan to begin my career in international HIV prevention .”

Sample Networking Questions: • Which of the organizations in this field do you think are doing the most interesting work? • Do you think there is a lot of opportunity for a new professional? • What type of training and experience will best prepare me to be a success in this field? • Can you recommend some people in the field I should consult? • What do you look for in the people you hire? • What do you think are the major challenges new professionals face in the field? • Can you tell me about your work?

• When making contact, remember that you are asking for advice and not for a job . If they know of an appropriate position, they will mention it. You want to request that they recommend other people with whom you can speak. • Be sure to follow-up and keep in touch with your contacts. • Always send letters of appreciation after a phone, or in-person meeting. NEXT: • Stay in touch with your network. Send them email updates on your progress and accomplishments and/or send them articles that might be of interest. You want your name to be in their mind so that they will remember to let you know about any interesting opportunities. • Keep the momentum going! It takes a lot of hard work and commitment to network full throttle, but you must if you want to be one of the 70% of job seekers who secure their position through networking.

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