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August Webinar Recap

"Connections that Count: Networking with Purpose" with Derek Jack


In August, Derek Jack shared insights on networking, starting conversations, and building meaningful professional relationships. Drawing from his experience counseling students, Derek shared real-world examples of how students have successfully networked and developed authentic, organic connections.

1) What is Networking and Why Does It Matter?

Derek shared that networking is about building genuine relationships—not simply collecting contacts. He highlighted how a strong network can help you learn, grow, discover new opportunities, and navigate your career at every stage.

He also emphasized that networking isn’t only valuable when you’re searching for a job. By intentionally building and maintaining relationships throughout your career, you can create a network that continues to evolve alongside you and provide support, insight, and opportunities along the way.

2) Starting the Conversation

Derek gave practical ways to make a first interaction feel more natural and comfortable. He encouraged attendees to explain why they are reaching out, do some research beforehand, and learn about the person’s background and experience. He also emphasized the value of asking for advice or perspective rather than immediately asking for a job.

When it comes to networking conversations, Derek’s advice was simple: don’t start by asking for a job—start by building a relationship because networking and relationships are not transactional. These conversations should feel organic and normal, not scary. Derek also shares that genuine connections can lead to opportunities naturally over time.

3) Building the Relationship

Derek shared examples of students who successfully built meaningful relationships with mentors and members of their professional networks. He emphasized that building a relationship takes more than one conversation—students should reach out, follow through on advice they receive, follow up, and continue connecting when natural opportunities arise.

He also highlighted how platforms like BYU Connect and LinkedIn can make it easier to find people, start conversations, and maintain relationships over time.

4) Networking Throughout Your Career

Derek highlighted that networking evolves throughout your career and can serve different purposes at different stages. For students, networking can be a valuable way to explore career paths, gain insights, and learn from others’ experiences. Early-career professionals can use networking to build industry connections, expand their knowledge, and learn from those around them.

For established professionals, networking becomes an opportunity to maintain relationships, expand their network, collaborate with others, and mentor the next generation. Derek emphasized that no matter where you are in your career, there is always value in building and maintaining meaningful connections.

Derek Jack

Derek Jack currently serves as the Career Services Manager for the BYU College of Fine Arts & Communications, where he leads the development of a college-wide career ecosystem that integrates career readiness into the academic experience. With more than 20 years of experience in higher education and career development, he partners with faculty and college leadership to strengthen employer and alumni connections, and to build experiences and resources that help students gain clarity, confidence, and direction in their professional paths.

Prior to his current role, Derek served as Associate Director in BYU Careers & Experiential Learning and held leadership positions at Utah State University Career Services. He also teaches courses in job search and graduate school preparation at BYU and is a certified Strengths Coach and trained facilitator in Stanford’s Designing Your Life, bringing a strengths-based, student-centered approach to career development.

A Four Corners native, Derek grew up enjoying the great outdoors. His interests include performing with the Millennial Choirs & Orchestras, the BYU Faculty & Staff Choir, landscaping, and spending time with his wife and six children.