Networking. It's one of those key words college students hear from advisors, counselors, professors and family. But just how is a student supposed to network? Especially if he or she isn't well connected in the first place?
Believe it or not, even unconnected students can develop a strong network just by being observant, alert and willing to take risks. Networking opportunities can occur anywhere- from formal events and career fairs to unplanned encounters on the bus or at the store.
Here are some suggestions for building a professional network:
Join a professional organization.
Nearly every major, industry or career field has a professional organization that students and professionals can join to stay on top of current trends and issues within their field of interest.
Membership to a professional organization usually includes some or all of the following perks: national and regional conferences, contact directories, newsletters, listservs, subscriptions to professional journals, mentoring programs, networking events, seminars, professional development and various other discounts and privileges. These incentives make joining a professional organization especially appealing to students who are going to be in the job market in the near future. Another perk: most organizations offer discounted membership to students and new professionals.
Upon joining a professional organization, consider attending a conference or event sponsored by the group. There you will meet professionals already working in the field who are more than willing to assist the next generation. You may also receive publications from the organization that list job openings and career advice for young professionals interested in the field.
There are great opportunities for young professionals in the Northeast Ohio area. Check out the following websites for more information about this area's professional organizations:
Contact your school's alumni and/or career center.
At many institutions, the alumni association houses contact information for graduates who express interest in mentoring current students. After establishing a mentoring relationship with alumni, they may be willing to refer you to those in the field who are seeking new hires, or can forward your resume to colleagues.
If you know any recent graduates, let them know that you are interested in learning more information about your career field or specific interest. Alumni can assist you in developing leads that may pay off during your job search.
Never attend an event without making it a point to meet someone new.
This tip goes for nearly every event- from a formal gathering to a speech on campus. Overcome your fears and make it a point to get to know people wherever you go. Someone sitting right beside you may just be a recruiter for your dream company! But you will never know if you don't engage them in conversation.
If you attend a speech or other event on campus, make it a point to stay a little longer and speak to the person. Introduce yourself and let them know you enjoyed the event. Chances are they will ask you some questions about your major, career plans and interests as well.
Guest speakers who present in your major classes are great resources as well. Take the time to engage in a conversation after class. Because they have agreed to present to students, they are probably more than willing to offer advice and leads to students as well.
When preparing for your future or developing a professional network, business cards are like golden tickets. Collect business cards when meeting people and always make sure to follow up with an email or letter soon after. Keep the business cards you collect in a safe place for quick and easy reference later on.
Make your name a recognizable one.
When opportunities to get involved arise, jump on them. Becoming a member of a committee, giving a presentation, or being elected to a leadership role within an organization will get your name out there even if people do not meet you face to face. Once people hear your name in conversation, see it on an email, or read it on an agenda, they will begin to recognize it when it appears in the future.
However, the key to this networking technique is to make sure that your name carries a positive reputation. Although it is important to participate in a variety of activities, try to avoid getting in over your head. If you begin to take on positions without following through, your name may become associated with irresponsibility.
Set up informational interviews.
If you are interested in working for a specific company, try to set up an appointment to meet with a manager or supervisor to simply gather information about the company and the industry. When contacting the person, let him or her know that you are a student studying within the field, and express your interest in learning more about his or her job duties and personal career path. Meeting with professionals at a scheduled time allows them to get to know both your face and your name, and they may keep you in mind when a position opens up.
