The Sloan Industry Advisor (SIA) program is a powerful way to build meaningful connections with MIT Sloan alumni who volunteer their time to support your career exploration. These conversations are an opportunity to gain industry-specific insights, receive candid feedback, and start building your professional network.
To help you get the most out of your experience, here are a few tips:
Show Up Prepared
Before your meeting:
- Do your research. Read your advisor’s bio, review their LinkedIn profile, and take note of their career path and current role.
- Come with an agenda. Reflect on what you hope to gain from the conversation and prepare thoughtful questions. Topics could include industry trends, career transitions, role expectations, or resume feedback.
- Skip the basics. Research the topics you have questions about so you can skip the basic questions and ask more engaging questions based on the conclusions you are drawing from your research. For example, instead of asking, “What skills are most important to land a job in fintech?,” you can ask, “Based on my research, the skills that are most important for working in Fintech are A, B, and C, do you agree with that list, and would you add anything to it?”
Don’t Wait Until You “Need” Something
Industry Advisors are most helpful when you build the relationship before you’re in an urgent job search.
- Start early, when you’re exploring paths—not just when you’re job hunting.
- Building rapport over time increases the likelihood that your advisor will be invested and able to support you when opportunities do arise.
Don’t Ask for a Job
This program is about insight, not job placement.
- Instead of “Do you know of any open roles?” try “What advice would you give someone trying to break into your field?”
- Advisors are much more receptive to helping students who show curiosity and initiative rather than those seeking a quick win.
Focus on Building a Real Relationship
Treat this as the beginning of a professional relationship, not a one-time conversation.
- Think about how you can add value to the conversation. What information (article, insights from class, or an event) or introduction could you provide them that may be helpful to their work? Adding value will help you stand out.
- Send a thank-you note after your meeting.
- Stay in touch with occasional updates or thoughtful follow-ups.
- Ask if they’re open to hearing from you again in the future—and take them up on it! They often want to hear how things are going for you.
Remember: They’re Volunteering to Support You
Sloan Industry Advisors are giving their time because they care about helping you succeed.
- Respect their time and be punctual.
- Show genuine appreciation.
- Keep in mind: alumni often want to give back more, but many students don’t follow up or keep the relationship going—be the student who does!
You’re not just gathering advice. You’re building your network for the long game.
Start early. Be thoughtful. Stay curious. The connections you build now can open doors in unexpected ways later.
Browse our current MIT Sloan Industry Advisors and schedule an appointment!
