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How do you start networking successfully?

Wanting some advice for networking for my future career.

fall25 kinesiology
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Godfred’s Answer

I used to think networking was a formal process where you had to be super professional and ask people for coffee meetings, but honestly, the best connections I've made have happened way more naturally than that. Start with what's already around you. Talk to your teachers about their previous experiences in teaching, reach out to older students who are studying the subjects you're interested in, and join clubs or online communities related to your field. The key is to genuinely be curious about what people do, rather than just trying to collect contacts. When you meet someone doing something cool, ask them about their work because you genuinely want to know. Share what you're working on and stay in touch by occasionally updating them on your progress or sending them something relevant you've found. People remember students who show genuine interest and initiative far more than they remember those who simply ask for favors. Also, don't wait until you "need" something to reach out – the best networking happens when you're just building real relationships over time, and LinkedIn is actually useful for keeping up with people once you've met them. It feels awkward at first, but it gets easier, and you'd be surprised how many people are willing to help a high school student who's genuinely interested in learning.
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Laura’s Answer

Hi Paige - I'll speak from my past experience as a college recruiter for my company - hitting more on formal networking but as Godfred shared above, sometimes the best/easiest people to network with are those around you (fellow students, teachers, family friends, etc). These are great individuals to practice with and to get comfortable figuring out your "elevator pitch" and/or questions you want to ask to show genuine interest in learning more about their experiences and obtaining advice. I met many students through career firms and student organizations on campus. These are forums that make it easy for students as companies come to campus to interact with prospective future hires. Usually when companies speak to student organizations/classes they stay afterward to be available for questions. These opportunities are great for you to interact with full-time individuals to learn about their experiences and to share a bit about yourself. You should always be prepared with a resume and ask for a business card/best way to contact them for follow-up (and follow through with a thank you note to jump start the post meeting conversation). During these interactions, be yourself and be ready to speak credibly about what you are seeking (even if you are uncertain, you can turn this into a question for them). Also, it is always good to research the company so you have some background and can be prepared with questions. Career fairs offered through the campus career services group is networking on steroids - if your chosen major has a career fair, don't be shy to participate regardless if you are at the point in your college career where you are seeking an internship or full-time employment. Start early, build experience as this will make you more comfortable with these interactions. Good luck, Paige, and Go Green!
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