Networking involves building personal relationships with the people you meet every day and keeping in touch with them over time. Whether it’s your neighbor, teacher, or coach, these people are invaluable sources of information for job postings, recommendations, references, and career advice. You shouldn’t wait until you are looking for a job to begin networking.
3 Networking Tips
- Where to Network
You can network just about anywhere. Network with others when joining a school group, participating in extracurricular activities, or volunteering. Generally, any occasion where you’re around other people is an opportunity to strike up a conversation. Attending career fairs, setting up informational interviews, meeting with a friend’s parent, or even talking to the person sitting next to you on a plane are all great opportunities to have a one-on-one conversation with a person who can help with your career goals.
- Do your Research.
When you attend a networking event, such as a career fair, research the companies that will be there. Educate yourself on what they do. If you are setting up an informational interview, go prepared with a list of questions about that person’s career and job path. Be enthusiastic and engaging when you meet with the person you interview. People are more willing to help someone who is energetic and proactive.
- Be Visible and Interested.
Simply joining a professional society or attending a career fair will not make a difference if you aren’t having conversations with other people. It can be intimidating to start a conversation with people you don’t know, but people love to talk about themselves. Even if a person isn’t in your particular career of interest, he or she may know someone who is.