About the Organization

Q: What is The Link Up Network?
A: The Link Up Network is an inclusive, diverse, and equitable professional networking organization. We provide professional development through education, resources, support services, and networking opportunities. Our mission is to serve the unemployed, underemployed, self-employed, and employed professionals—as well as the businesses and nonprofits that support them and help advance their career.

Q: How is The Link Up Network different from other networking groups?
A: We are a volunteer-run organization that hosts hundreds of events each year—both online (via Zoom and Clubhouse) and in person. We offer career management resources, skill-building workshops, emotional support during transitions, and access to industry experts with decades of experience to aid in advancing your career.

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Membership

Q: Do I need to apply for membership?
A: Yes. Membership requires submission and review of an application to ensure alignment with our mission and community standards.

Q: How much does membership cost?
A: While most of our career fairs and many events are free, we encourage members to support our mission through memberships that will enhance their career.

• Bronze Membership: $59/year
• Silver Membership: $79/year
• Gold Membership: $99/year
  Membership includes exclusive benefits, event discounts, and access to premium resources.

Q: Can I still be involved if I already have a job?
A: Absolutely. Career management is a lifelong process. Networking ensures you remain prepared for future opportunities, career changes, or business growth. Staying engaged also helps you keep up-to-date with new technology, strategies, and professional connections.

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Events & Career Fairs

Q: How do I find events?
A: Visit the Events tab on our website for an up-to-date calendar. We also share events via MeetUp and other community platforms.

Q: Do I need to purchase tickets to attend?
A: Most networking meetings and workshops request a modest ticket fee (around $35). Career fairs are usually free for attendees, unless otherwise noted.

Q: What is a career fair?
A: A career fair is an event where job seekers connect with employers, HR representatives, and alumni. Employers share details about open positions, company culture, and hiring processes, while attendees have the chance to network, ask questions, and sometimes even secure interviews.

Q: Why should I attend a career fair?
A: Career fairs offer unique opportunities to:

• Meet employers face-to-face
• Gather insights about industries and organizations
• Build connections for future opportunities
• Gain information to strengthen your resume or cover letter

Q: How do I prepare for a career fair?
A:

• Research: Review the list of participating companies and research 3–7 in detail.
• Prepare Questions: Create meaningful questions about roles, industries, or company culture.
• Craft Your Introduction: Prepare a 30–60 second self-introduction highlighting your background and goals.
• Dress Professionally: Choose attire that helps you feel confident and reflects the industry you’re targeting.
• Bring Essentials: Copies of your resume, a professional folder, questions for employers, and a pen/notepad.

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Networking Guidance

Q: What are the right attitudes and expectations for networking?
A: Networking is about building genuine relationships. Keep these principles in mind:

• Approach with a mindset of mutual benefit.
• Offer help before asking for it.
• Show interest in others’ goals and needs.
• Have realistic expectations—it takes time to build trust.
• Remember: it’s your responsibility to manage your career, not someone else’s.

Q: What benefits will networking offer me?
A: Networking can help you:

• Discover new job opportunities (70–80% of jobs come from networking).
• Gain insights on targeted companies.
• Find new business opportunities.
• Build long-term professional relationships.
• Strengthen your personal and professional brand.

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Career Tools & Resources

Q: What services does The Link Up Network provide?
A: We offer:

• Networking Groups: Meet professionals across industries and practice your personal pitch.
• Workshops: Covering LinkedIn optimization, resumes, personal branding, interviews, salary negotiation, and more.
• Expert Advice: Access to leaders in career development and job search strategy.
• Support: Both practical tools and emotional encouragement during career transitions.

Q: What is a One-Pager and why do I need one?
A: A One-Pager is a concise, one-page profile designed to make it easy for others to help you. It includes your contact info, a summary of your background, key skills, and a list of target companies or contacts. Unlike a resume, it’s designed for networking—not job applications.

Q: How do I create a One-Pager?
A: Use a resume template or our sample One-Pager as a guide. Summarize your experience, highlight key accomplishments, and add a “Target Companies” section. The goal is to make it easy for your network to connect you with opportunities.

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Professional Development

Q: What career management resources are available?
A: We provide resources on:

• Networking strategies
• Resume and cover letter writing
• Elevator pitches
• Personal branding
• Navigating applicant tracking systems
• Salary negotiation
• Interview preparation

Q: How do I introduce myself at networking events?
A: Keep it short and clear:

1. Share your name and what you do (or hope to do).
2. Highlight one or two key skills or experiences.
3. Express interest in learning about the other person or their organization.

Q: How should I follow up after a networking event or career fair?
A: Always send a thank-you email within 24 hours. Reference something specific from your conversation, express appreciation, and if relevant, ask a follow-up question. If you don’t hear back, send a polite follow-up after two weeks.

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