Thanksgiving break is a perfect opportunity to work on career development. Whether you’ll be home for the holiday or have a few extra days to unwind, consider getting a career chat on the calendar to make an impactful connection in an industry you’re interested in.

What is a Career Chat?

A career chat is an informal conversation with someone who has experience in a field or role that you’re interested in. These can be virtual or in person. It could be with an @Indiana University Bloomington alum you find on theWalter Career Success Network, a family friend, a professor, or even a professional that you find on LinkedIn.

Why should I have one?

Career chats are a great way to expand your network while getting your questions answered. Chats allow you to:

• Learn about Different Careers:These conversations can give you insights into various career paths, industries, and day-to-day work life that you might not find in a textbook.
• Get Advice: Career chats can offer personalized guidance on navigating your chosen industry, preparing for interviews, and refining your professional skills.
• Build Your Network:Networking doesn’t always need to be formal or rigid. Career chats allow you to connect with people in a low-pressure setting, which can lead to valuable relationships — maybe the most important takeaway from career chats!
• Increase your confidence:The more you talk with working professionals, the more comfortable you’ll become discussing your career goals, asking thoughtful questions, and building your personal brand.

Why Break is a Good Time for a Career Chat

We understand that holiday breaks can be busy as well, but it’s also a rare opportunity to be able to step away from the usual hustle and gain perspective on your career goals. Break might be an ideal time for a career chat because:

• You have time for reflection:With school out of the way for a minute, you can think more clearly about your career aspirations, what you want to learn, and how you might take actionable steps forward.
• Easier Access to Alumni and Professionals:Many professionals also take time off around holiday breaks, so they might be more open to chats with students during a time when they have the availability.

Schedule your career chat

Once you’re ready to schedule a career chat, take the following steps.

• Identify who you want to talk to: Think about professionals in your network, alumni, or even professors who could provide insights into the career paths you’re considering.The Walter Center Success Network (WCSN)is a great way to connect with fellow Hoosiers in your industry or city.
• Prepare meaningful questions:A career chat is your chance to learn, so come prepared with thoughtful questions. Use these questions to help you brainstorm.

-> What was your career journey like?

-> What advice do you have for someone wanting to enter this field?

-> What does your day-to-day at this job look like?

-> How do you see this field evolving in the next 5-10 years?

• Follow up:After the chat, be sure to send a thank-you note expressing your gratitude for their time and insights. A simple LinkedIn message or an email goes a long way in building lasting relationships.
• Take action:Act on the advice you’ve gathered! Whether it’s updating your resume, exploring newjob or internship opportunities, orscheduling an appointment with a career coach,take one or two steps after your conversation.

Career chats are a small investment that can yield big rewards down the road. Consider having at least one over the Thanksgiving break. It’s an easy and effective way to gather advice, build your network, and explore career possibilities.

Stop by the Career Studio before breakto talk this over with the Walter Center’s peer coaches. They can help you identify professionals and get those initial messages sent out. Make it easy on yourself and let us help you!