By: Gabriel Ruiz
Knowing how to network in university is a crucial skill. In the job market, it’s not what you know, it’s who you know. Finding ways to foster and maintain connections with others is vital. While at college, there are many resources to take advantage of to best reach out to those in your career field.
Use LinkedIn and Handshake
The first step is to present yourself accordingly. Upload your most current resume and portfolio so peers, alumni, and employers can view the most impressive version of yourself. Second, make sure to routinely add new acquaintances and people you meet on LinkedIn. Whether that be from class, clubs, or sports teams, add them while you’re “connected” in person to avoid a potentially awkward request later. No matter if that person is working in your related field, you never know who knows who or where you will end up in a few years time. Lastly, join any career field related groups or communities on these platforms to connect with others and learn about new opportunities you can take advantage of.
Connect With Professors
Nourish connections with professors by participating in class, going to their office hours, and talk to them about your aspirations outside of class. Professors enjoy helping students who are genuinely interested in their professional goals. An easy way to leave a lasting impression is to email them a thank you note at the end of the semester for a great class. Some professors have an alumni contact list they hand out to students. Take advantage of this opportunity to email them and connect with those more experienced in your field. Alumni can be a true resource of knowledge and advice.
Career Fairs
Career fairs are a great way to connect face-to-face with employers who are currently hiring. When attending, dress to impress and bring a folder with resumes to hand out to them. Make sure your resumes are easy to digest. Ensure that your standout achievements and your targeted talking points jump out on the page. Have your personal elevator pitch prepared to start the conversation off strong. Don’t forget to leave the conversation with some sort of contact information from the employer. No matter how well the conversation went, after the career fair has ended, reach out and thank them for the opportunity. If you scored an interview or have further questions, make sure to address those as well.
These tips may seem small on paper, but they can make all the difference in the real world. People enjoy working alongside those they are familiar with; individuals who are friendly and easy to work with are the ones we want on our team. Connecting on a personal level with those around you can aid your career path from fresh out of college to 40 years down the road.
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