6 networking tips to help you forge lasting career connections

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It’s been said that the most successful people in the world look for and build networks, while everyone else looks for work. But that doesn’t mean networking is reserved for the top one percent. In fact, networking is important for all of us, no matter what your income bracket is or how much experience you have.

Networking can help you find a job, leadership position, research opportunity, and a whole lot more. If you do it right, it has the potential to pave your path forward so you can achieve your goals faster and easier. “Networking is a skill you can use again and again—ten days to ten years from now,” says Robyn Williams, associate director of career engagement for the College of Engineering at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.

We’ve put together a few networking tips that’ll help you build relationships, engage in conversations, and find your success in whatever form it takes. Read it, download it, and then get out there to forge those connections.

6 networking tips for students infographic | networking tips

Transcript

6 networking tips for students

  1. Set the groundwork

Start networking before you even need to. Connect with professors at school, supervisors at work or internships, classmates and colleagues, and other professionals in your community. 

  1. Don’t focus on your personal agenda 

Successful networkers build genuine relationships and give more than they receive. They actively listen, ask open-ended questions, and offer to help when they’re able.

  1. Treat everyone with respect 

If you think someone is “just” a clerk or assistant, you risk getting a reputation for acting entitled. Everyone has a unique view on their industry or profession that may help you in yours.

  1. Aim for two connections each semester

Setting attainable networking goals, like this one, helps you see your progress and keeps you invested. Plus, think of how many contacts you’ll acquire before you graduate!

  1. Keep in touch 

Touch base with your connections regularly, ask them what’s new, and share your updates. They’ll remember you and think of you when opportunities arise.

  1. Use professional social media sites

Building, maintaining, and actively using networking platforms like LinkedIn, MeetUp, or Handshake can help you develop industry knowledge and even find jobs.

Pro tip: 

People can sense when you enter a situation with only one goal in mind: making a connection you can use to your advantage. Aim to make authentic connections and establish new relationships, whether they will ultimately be able to help you or not.

GET HELP OR FIND OUT MORE

How to network like you really mean it: Inc.

11 virtual networking tips to boost your career: Forbes

How to network in college: ResumeLab

How to survive a networking event: UBC student services

Networking 101—what is it and why is it important?: Forage



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Have you seen at least one thing on that you will apply to everyday life?
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Article sources

Davis, J., Wolff, H.-G., Forret, M. L., & Sullivan, S. E. (2020). Networking via LinkedIn: An examination of usage and career benefits. Journal of Vocational Behavior, 118. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jvb.2020.103396

O’Neil, M. (2022, September 19). Top 10 professional social media platforms (and useful tips). Career Addict. https://www.careeraddict.com/social-platforms-professional-presence

Reeves, B. (2015, April 1). Know your networking needs. CampusWell. https://non-traditional.campuswell.com/know-your-networking-needs/

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