3 answers
Gabriel
Student
Blackshear, Georgia
1
Question
Asked
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How can I best network for my future career in college?
I understand communication is vital and key to creating opportunities. So what are the best ways I can network myself in college to develop connections that can set me up for my future career?
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3 answers
Karen Kitchel
Community Volunteer
431
Answers
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Updated
Karen’s Answer
You are wise to look for ways to network! Suggest you include lots of folks in various positions and organizations because each will have a different skill set and perhaps a variety of values and opinions. Begin with your family, relatives, friends and neighbors while you're at home. Don't hesitate to ask guidance counselors and others you meet at college for ideas on who to contact.
With every good wish and many blessings,
Karen
With every good wish and many blessings,
Karen
Gerard Baltrusaitis
Internship/Employment Specialist at JVS Detroit
39
Answers
Troy, Michigan
Updated
Gerard’s Answer
Gabriel,
Great question, and it's an important one.
To make networking easy, try using informational interviews. This method has been effective for years.
Here's how to do it:
1. Find someone in a field you're interested in and ask to meet them. This could be at their office, a coffee shop, or a library.
2. Research their background and the industry. Prepare questions to ask during the meeting.
3. After the interview, send a "Thank You" note. If it went well, update them occasionally on your progress.
4. Don't ask for a job during the interview. It's not appropriate. If they know of an opportunity, they'll contact you.
1. Determine what industry/career that you might be interested in.
2. Research on LinkeIn, an alumni directory or with family/friends of individuals that may be of interest and value to you and your career.
3. Follow the four steps above.
4. Repeat.
Great question, and it's an important one.
To make networking easy, try using informational interviews. This method has been effective for years.
Here's how to do it:
1. Find someone in a field you're interested in and ask to meet them. This could be at their office, a coffee shop, or a library.
2. Research their background and the industry. Prepare questions to ask during the meeting.
3. After the interview, send a "Thank You" note. If it went well, update them occasionally on your progress.
4. Don't ask for a job during the interview. It's not appropriate. If they know of an opportunity, they'll contact you.
Gerard recommends the following next steps:
Adriana Porras
Program Manager
5
Answers
San José, Costa Rica
Updated
Adriana’s Answer
Hello! Here are some easy and powerful ways to network in college to boost your future career:
Join Clubs and Organizations: Get involved in groups that match your interests. This is a fantastic way to meet people who share your passions and connect with professionals.
Attend Events: Participate in workshops, guest lectures, and industry conferences. These events are perfect for meeting experts and fellow students.
Use LinkedIn: Set up a profile and connect with classmates, professors, and industry professionals. Join groups that interest you and take part in discussions.
Seek Internships: Gain valuable experience and make connections through internships. They offer hands-on learning and great networking chances.
Talk to Professors: Your professors can introduce you to their network and provide helpful advice.
Stay in Touch: Keep in contact with the people you meet. Send updates now and then to maintain those relationships.
Remember, networking is about building real connections, so be yourself and show interest in others. You’ve got this!
Join Clubs and Organizations: Get involved in groups that match your interests. This is a fantastic way to meet people who share your passions and connect with professionals.
Attend Events: Participate in workshops, guest lectures, and industry conferences. These events are perfect for meeting experts and fellow students.
Use LinkedIn: Set up a profile and connect with classmates, professors, and industry professionals. Join groups that interest you and take part in discussions.
Seek Internships: Gain valuable experience and make connections through internships. They offer hands-on learning and great networking chances.
Talk to Professors: Your professors can introduce you to their network and provide helpful advice.
Stay in Touch: Keep in contact with the people you meet. Send updates now and then to maintain those relationships.
Remember, networking is about building real connections, so be yourself and show interest in others. You’ve got this!