How can you use your alumni network to build relationships in Service Operations?

2 Research your potential contacts

Before you contact anyone from your alumni network, you should do some research on their background, current role, and interests. This will help you tailor your message, avoid irrelevant or inappropriate topics, and show that you are genuinely interested in them. You can use various sources of information, such as LinkedIn profiles, company websites, blogs, podcasts, or publications. You can also look for commonalities or points of connection, such as shared hobbies, passions, goals, or challenges. This will help you establish rapport and trust with your potential contacts.

3 Reach out with a clear purpose

When you reach out to someone from your alumni network, you should have a clear purpose and a specific request. You should also be respectful, polite, and professional. You can use email, phone, or social media to initiate contact, depending on the channel that is most appropriate and convenient for both parties. You should introduce yourself briefly, mention how you found their contact information, and explain why you are reaching out. You should also state what you are hoping to get from the interaction, such as advice, feedback, referral, or collaboration. You should avoid asking for favors, jobs, or money directly, unless you have already established a strong relationship.

4 Follow up and maintain contact

After you have contacted someone from your alumni network, you should follow up and maintain contact with them. You should thank them for their time, attention, and assistance, and express your appreciation and gratitude. You should also update them on your progress, achievements, or challenges, and ask them for their opinions or suggestions. You should also look for ways to add value to them, such as sharing relevant information, resources, or opportunities, or introducing them to other contacts. You should also keep track of your interactions, such as dates, topics, outcomes, and action items, and use them as reminders to follow up regularly.

5 Nurture your relationships

The ultimate goal of using your alumni network to build relationships in service operations is to nurture those relationships and turn them into long-term and mutually beneficial partnerships. You should not treat your contacts as mere sources of information, leads, or favors, but as potential friends, mentors, or collaborators. You should show genuine interest, respect, and care for them, and support them in their endeavors. You should also seek feedback, guidance, and learning from them, and apply their insights to your own practice. You should also celebrate their successes, acknowledge their contributions, and reciprocate their generosity.

6 Expand your network

As you build and nurture your relationships with your alumni network, you should also look for opportunities to expand your network and connect with more people in service operations. You can do this by attending events, joining groups, participating in forums, or creating content related to service operations. You can also ask your existing contacts to introduce you to their contacts, or refer you to their networks. You can also introduce your contacts to each other, and create a community of service operations professionals who can share, learn, and grow together.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?