“Networking” has been a buzzword for decades. The Oxford Dictionary defines networking as “the action or process of interacting with others to exchange information and develop professional or social contacts.”
In virtually every industry, networking is essential to career growth. If you’re at university, when should you start networking? Yesterday!
Below, we’ll share some of our most successful tips for networking while in college. You can also view 10+ networking tips for students here.
Get to Know Your Classmates
Your classmates are your future colleagues and competition. Building a good rapport now will lend itself to communication, networking, and recommendations in the future.
Take an interest in the industry-related projects that your classmates have underway. Keep in touch with them, especially by passive means such as social networking.
Get to Know Your Professors
Your professors are a part of your industry. Many have held non-academic jobs in their fields. Others have published papers or other materials.
At times, your professors may be able to guide you to “ins” in your industry. For example, one of the author’s university English professors shared a literary website in conjunction with a class assignment. I later submitted said assignment (a book review) to that same website and was granted my first “official” publication as a writer.
If you make a good impression as a student, professors can also be an outstanding resource for references and letters of recommendation. I’ve returned to that same professor on multiple occasions for just that purpose.
Attend Industry Events
Industry fairs, seminars, conventions, and conferences can help you gain knowledge and meet people who are already enjoying success in your chosen industry. Often, these events may be held on university campuses.
In my case, a literary conference was held at my college each year. There, I met authors, editors, illustrators, and literary agents – people holding many different positions in my field. Those contacts have proved invaluable when seeking information or recommendations.
Join Student and Professional Organizations
Does your university have a student organization or club related to your chosen field? If so, join it! Such groups often host or participate in industry-related activities. You will also become acquainted with future professionals in your industry.
You can also join alumni and professional organizations related to your field. Alumni groups include current students and past graduates who are well along in their careers. Professional organizations often offer special membership rates to students.
Volunteer or Apply for Internships
Paid or unpaid work with companies in your industry equips you with valuable experience and hands-on knowledge. It also permits you to work with and get to know others in your field.
Follow Organizations on Social Media
LinkedIn is the best and most respected social media website for professional networking, but many businesses maintain Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter accounts as well. These can help you to understand the company culture. They may also post hiring events, internships, contests, and more announcements.
Build an Online Presence
If you want to keep in touch with and be known by those in your burgeoning network, building an online presence is a must.
Start with professional social media accounts. Then, create your own professional website. Even a simple site is sufficient, and many website builders are free to use.
You can also expand your reach and establish yourself as an “expert” by writing articles or blog posts. You can do so on your own website or on LinkedIn. You can also submit your articles to other journals and websites.
Be Proactive
Don’t merely wait for opportunities to come to you – make them happen. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to someone or ask them questions. If you’re having trouble finding local, in-person contacts, you can even reach out to industry professionals on LinkedIn or by email, phone, or postal mail. True, many will not respond to your inquiries. But when someone does, they become a valuable contact!
Does this really work? Yes, it does. For example, when I was writing for a movie and entertainment website, I visited a Superman-themed museum in the United States. I had read an interview with its owner and curator, who happened to be in the museum that day. I approached, introduced myself, and asked for an interview. That contact played a role in many subsequent articles.
On numerous occasions, I have reached out via email or LinkedIn to business owners, professors, or other experts concerning my current projects. Many are happy to provide guidance or assistance.
You can also follow up with new connections to ensure they are central to your network. Send a brief email or social media message asking how they are doing. Use a LinkedIn tool to endorse a skill or write a review. In the worst-case scenario, you get no response. In the best case, you cement your relationship with a vital member of your professional network.
