4 answers
keerstyn
Student
Midland, Texas
1
Question
Asked
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What is the most effective way to network and build connections in the business industry?
I'm majoring in accounting and I know networking is a big part of the job. I want to know how people in business find new ways to network with people besides doing the ordinary things.
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4 answers
Daniel Brennan
94
Answers
Updated
Daniel’s Answer
Internships are a great way to network both with professionals in the industry but also peers who are looking to have a similar career to you. I made friends that i still have today and people who i worked with in my network as an intern that i ultimately ended up working with when i started my career. Its invaluable experience, great for the resume and you get paid!
Anthony DeRosa
VP of Newsletters and Programming
2
Answers
Norton, Massachusetts
Updated
Anthony’s Answer
I wrote about how to effectively network for the Wall Street Journal, which you can read here: https://www.wsj.com/lifestyle/careers/where-to-search-for-jobs-finding-your-next-opportunity-11605109352
In summary: Here’s a concise summary of the passage on networking: Begin with people you already know to build rapport and practice conversational skills. Then, expand your network by connecting with professionals in roles you aspire to. Show genuine interest in learning about their work and ask about job opportunities they might know of.
Gradually push beyond your comfort zone by making new connections, even if it's just one or two at a time. Remember, showing interest in others often leads to reciprocal interest. As Steve Dalton says, being "interested is interesting"—and that curiosity can open doors to job opportunities.
In summary: Here’s a concise summary of the passage on networking: Begin with people you already know to build rapport and practice conversational skills. Then, expand your network by connecting with professionals in roles you aspire to. Show genuine interest in learning about their work and ask about job opportunities they might know of.
Gradually push beyond your comfort zone by making new connections, even if it's just one or two at a time. Remember, showing interest in others often leads to reciprocal interest. As Steve Dalton says, being "interested is interesting"—and that curiosity can open doors to job opportunities.
Theophilus Mensah
Entrepreneur
60
Answers
Grambling, Louisiana
Updated
Theophilus’s Answer
Hi Keerstyn,
This questjons makes me very happy! That’s a great question and I’m really glad you’re thinking about networking early, especially as an accounting major. You’re absolutely right. Networking is a huge part of the business world, and what sets people apart is not just doing the “ordinary” things, but doing them well and finding creative ways to connect.
Personally, one of the best platforms I’ve found for networking is LinkedIn. It’s full of professionals across all industries, and it’s actually how I landed a position with Deloitte this summer even as a freshman! That happened because I was intentional about building real connections.
Here’s what worked for me and what I’d recommend them to you as well.
1. Have a Strong Resume
Before you start reaching out, prepare a solid resume that highlights your experiences and skills, even small ones. You never know who might see it or forward it to a recruiter. If you have a bad resume, people might not have the interest to support you. You have to atleast do something for yourself.
2. Craft Professional Messages
You can approach this in three different ways:
-General Message: This is one message you can send to professionals at different companies. Keep it polite and professional. This is the format I use:
Paragraph 1: Brief intro (name, school, major, interest).
Paragraph 2: One or two great accomplishments or passions that connect to the industry. I always talk about the e-commerce busines that I founded 5 years ago even as a freshman and my nonprofit charity foubdation that I founded 3 years ago.
Paragraph 3: Politely ask for a quick chat, attach your resume or email for follow-up. Be polite, show that you respect their time and be thankful.
-Company-Specific Message: Customize a message for a specific company like Apple or Deloitte. Mention something you admire about their culture, projects, or mission.
-Person-Specific Message: This one is the most powerful. Research the person you want to message. Start by saying something like:
“Dear Theophilus Mensah, your 5 years of leadership at Deloitte really inspire me…” or Your leadership as a Business Development Manager at Apple really inspires me….Find something to relate to the person.
Show genuine appreciation for their journey, then introduce yourself and make your request. After they reply, thank them!
And remember, relationship building is very important. Don’t just collect contacts; nurture relationships. Check in with people occasionally. A quick message or thank you can go a long way.
3. Be Patient and Consistent
Not everyone will reply, and that’s okay. People are busy. But when someone does respond, show appreciation and prepare well even if it’s just a coffee chat. Do your research, ask thoughtful questions, take notes, and always send a thank-you message afterward.
I’m proud of you for asking this question. It shows you’re already thinking like a future leader. Keep going! I will be here to support!
This questjons makes me very happy! That’s a great question and I’m really glad you’re thinking about networking early, especially as an accounting major. You’re absolutely right. Networking is a huge part of the business world, and what sets people apart is not just doing the “ordinary” things, but doing them well and finding creative ways to connect.
Personally, one of the best platforms I’ve found for networking is LinkedIn. It’s full of professionals across all industries, and it’s actually how I landed a position with Deloitte this summer even as a freshman! That happened because I was intentional about building real connections.
Here’s what worked for me and what I’d recommend them to you as well.
1. Have a Strong Resume
Before you start reaching out, prepare a solid resume that highlights your experiences and skills, even small ones. You never know who might see it or forward it to a recruiter. If you have a bad resume, people might not have the interest to support you. You have to atleast do something for yourself.
2. Craft Professional Messages
You can approach this in three different ways:
-General Message: This is one message you can send to professionals at different companies. Keep it polite and professional. This is the format I use:
Paragraph 1: Brief intro (name, school, major, interest).
Paragraph 2: One or two great accomplishments or passions that connect to the industry. I always talk about the e-commerce busines that I founded 5 years ago even as a freshman and my nonprofit charity foubdation that I founded 3 years ago.
Paragraph 3: Politely ask for a quick chat, attach your resume or email for follow-up. Be polite, show that you respect their time and be thankful.
-Company-Specific Message: Customize a message for a specific company like Apple or Deloitte. Mention something you admire about their culture, projects, or mission.
-Person-Specific Message: This one is the most powerful. Research the person you want to message. Start by saying something like:
“Dear Theophilus Mensah, your 5 years of leadership at Deloitte really inspire me…” or Your leadership as a Business Development Manager at Apple really inspires me….Find something to relate to the person.
Show genuine appreciation for their journey, then introduce yourself and make your request. After they reply, thank them!
And remember, relationship building is very important. Don’t just collect contacts; nurture relationships. Check in with people occasionally. A quick message or thank you can go a long way.
3. Be Patient and Consistent
Not everyone will reply, and that’s okay. People are busy. But when someone does respond, show appreciation and prepare well even if it’s just a coffee chat. Do your research, ask thoughtful questions, take notes, and always send a thank-you message afterward.
I’m proud of you for asking this question. It shows you’re already thinking like a future leader. Keep going! I will be here to support!
Caroline Murphy
Public Accountant
2
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Caroline’s Answer
Internships are invaluable opportunities for networking and building professional relationships. To make the most of them, it's essential to approach networking with a thoughtful and genuine strategy. Here's a method that has worked well for me:
1. Approachability and Positivity: Start by maintaining a friendly and approachable demeanor. A genuine smile can go a long way in making others feel comfortable and open to engaging with you.
2. Initiate Meaningful Conversations: Look for opportunities to start conversations, whether they are about a project you're working on, a shared interest, or even something as simple as the latest industry news. Humanizing topics, such as hobbies or personal experiences, can create a more memorable connection.
3. Active Listening: During conversations, practice active listening. Show genuine interest in what the other person is saying by asking follow-up questions and offering thoughtful responses. This demonstrates that you value their input and are engaged.
4. Introduce Yourself Confidently: When the moment feels right, introduce yourself with confidence. Offer a firm handshake if appropriate, and clearly state your name and role within the organization. This can help solidify the interaction and make you more memorable.
Networking is not just about expanding your professional contacts; it's about building meaningful relationships. By being genuine and proactive, you increase the chances of making a lasting impression on those you meet.
1. Approachability and Positivity: Start by maintaining a friendly and approachable demeanor. A genuine smile can go a long way in making others feel comfortable and open to engaging with you.
2. Initiate Meaningful Conversations: Look for opportunities to start conversations, whether they are about a project you're working on, a shared interest, or even something as simple as the latest industry news. Humanizing topics, such as hobbies or personal experiences, can create a more memorable connection.
3. Active Listening: During conversations, practice active listening. Show genuine interest in what the other person is saying by asking follow-up questions and offering thoughtful responses. This demonstrates that you value their input and are engaged.
4. Introduce Yourself Confidently: When the moment feels right, introduce yourself with confidence. Offer a firm handshake if appropriate, and clearly state your name and role within the organization. This can help solidify the interaction and make you more memorable.
Networking is not just about expanding your professional contacts; it's about building meaningful relationships. By being genuine and proactive, you increase the chances of making a lasting impression on those you meet.