Students can benefit greatly from networking to gain valuable professional contacts, build strong networks, and launch successful careers.
The vast majority of open positions are filled through informal means. What’s more, data from St. Louis’ Federal Reserve Bank shows that jobs gained through networking tend to be of higher quality, pay more, and last longer. In addition, the poll found that those with extensive professional networks were more likely to be promoted within their organizations. But networking might be scary for people who are timid or have never tried it before.
However, that doesn’t have to be the case. First, don’t look at it as a means to an end (getting people to do things for you or an easy way to find a job) but rather as a chance to connect with others. So, you’re already connected to your family, friends, close relatives, and workmates. Still, it’s important to grow that connection by adding people who work in your desired field or one closely similar. Here are networking tips to learn while you’re still in college.
1. Join a club or organization and make a difference on campus
Being involved on campus has many positive effects. Gaining college participation will look great on your CV, introduce you to fascinating people, and help you expand your network.
Honor societies, professional organizations, social sororities, fraternities, student media, jobs, club spots, and more are just a few of the many campus networking opportunities. It’s an excellent opportunity to network with other students, as well as speakers, faculty advisors, and mentors.
Attend the club and networking fair after playing on an online site like Sloto in your leisure time if your school offers one. You can also talk to classmates and acquaintances, explore the bulletin boards in the library and study lounges or sign up for an email newsletter.
The cliché is true: there really is something for everyone.
2. Mind your virtual footprint
When using social media or other forms of online networking, you must watch how others see you online. Certain companies may view your social media profiles as part of the application process. If the prospect of conversing with a stranger causes you to break out in a cold sweat, take heart. You’re not limited to face-to-face interactions when networking online.
Establish your internet identity as a first step. Make a profile on LinkedIn if you don’t have one already. Make a website or launch an online portfolio, depending on your field. You’re off to a fantastic start, even if it’s currently sparse.
You can also use social media to your advantage, but only if your profiles are spotless. Facebook alum groups are a great resource; your school may have one. If you see a posting for a position at a company where you think you could be a good fit, reach out to an alum! You two have at least one thing in common (your educational background), so why not strike up a conversation on that? Inquire in depth about the organization and the vacant role. They might tell their boss how great you are, giving you a leg up on the competition.
3. Make use of the university’s careers center
Use your school’s career services office to boost your chances of finding a job after graduation. Your resume will be reviewed and revised, and they will inform you of forthcoming job fairs and other opportunities to bolster your resume and employment history. They might even be able to connect you with industry veterans who are also university alums.
Your university’s jobs center can provide information on these and other career-related events happening on and off campus, including those hosted by significant companies that recruit at your school. A trip to your career office is worth the trouble.
4. Practice networking
It’s important to remember that not every networking event needs to be a high-stakes job interview. Join networking events related to food if you work in journalism. Even if this is outside your career path, you’ll find the task intriguing. Next, you can practice approaching strangers, introducing yourself, and striking up conversations at the party. Plus, the people you meet at that event could be the key to opening doors for you professionally in the future.
Start by discussing your job goals with one person, such as a new roommate, a professor teaching a course you’re interested in, or even a cold email message to a professional in your field. One chance encounter can lead to unexpected opportunities, or at the very least, practice and the possibility of a new buddy.
5. Join alumni associations
A wide range of opportunities are available to you, including undergraduate and graduate study and membership in prestigious honor organizations. You don’t have to be a university graduate to join, and there are many advantages to being part of these associations.
Joining an alum group is a great way to reconnect with classmates and make connections with professionals in your field who may be able to provide you with future jobs or client leads. Join the groups, stick with them on social media, subscribe to their newsletters, and try to make an appearance or two at the events they host.
Takeaway
It would be best if you didn’t stop cultivating and expanding your network after you’ve landed a job. Connecting with others in your field is essential, as you never know when you’ll need to reach out to them.
Keep working on networking as a means of navigating the hidden job market. Take care to act quickly on any leads that are presented to you.
