Alumni Career Services Darden Career Connection Team Norms

The Darden Career Connection Team (DCCT) began in 2020 at the start of the pandemic to offer extra support to Darden alumni during a time when networking felt impossible. Five years later, the group is still going strong and has been a wonderful resource for alums in transition, enabling job seekers to learn from each other, expand their networks, and compare notes on challenges and best practices.

Although the group is relatively informal, we have created a set of expectations to guide how members engage.

Respect confidentiality.
Treat what is shared in the group as strictly confidential – especially personal updates and challenges.

Keep your introduction clear and concise.
New members will be invited to introduce themselves to the group. Being clear about who you are, what you are looking for, and how the group might help you, makes it easier for others to offer you targeted support. Members who return to the group after being employed are considered “new” for the purpose of introductions.

Be present with your camera on.
Show up fully—camera on, distractions off. Seeing each other’s faces helps build trust, and active listening fosters stronger connections. There is no expectation for a formal appearance or background.

Come prepared.
Think ahead about how the group might be helpful to you that day. Any questions or challenges bubbling up over the past two weeks? Is there a company you are targeting where you could use an introduction?

Be kind, direct, and constructive.
Share your thoughts honestly but always with respect. Consider how you can be helpful to each participant. You will get help in return, and it also feels good!

Come consistently.
We do not mandate attendance and do not request RSVPs. Come when you can, but consistency builds community. The more you contribute, the more you'll gain in return.

Follow through.
If you say you’ll make an introduction or share a resource – do it. If someone helps you out, let the group know – gratitude builds positive momentum.