4 answers
Ava
Student
Marietta, Georgia
1
Question
Asked
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ow can I efficiently use my time in college to network and build solid career connections?
Hi! I'm a sophomore Entertainment & Business double major at UGA. How can I efficiently use my time in college to network and build solid career connections? What skills should I focus on developing generally? I've gone to some of the college networking events but feel like I'm coming up empty. Thank you!
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4 answers
Jon'a J.
Sustainability Director
3
Answers
Michigan, Michigan
Updated
Jon'a’s Answer
Hi Ava, going to college networking events is a fantastic start! It's also important to connect with your classmates, as they could become influential in the future. Knowing someone personally is much better than reaching out to a stranger when you need help.
Improving your communication skills is key, whether it's writing, speaking, or leading discussions. Many people fear public speaking, so if you get good at it, you'll already stand out. Building strong relationships with professors is also valuable; you might need their recommendation someday. Don't forget to connect with the alumni network too. Consider joining the Student Government Association or becoming a student trustee. These roles are well-regarded and give you the chance to network in unique spaces.
Improving your communication skills is key, whether it's writing, speaking, or leading discussions. Many people fear public speaking, so if you get good at it, you'll already stand out. Building strong relationships with professors is also valuable; you might need their recommendation someday. Don't forget to connect with the alumni network too. Consider joining the Student Government Association or becoming a student trustee. These roles are well-regarded and give you the chance to network in unique spaces.
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Ava. You've already attended some networking events, which is fantastic! Even if those initial experiences didn't seem fruitful, it's important to keep showing up. Sometimes it takes a little time before you meet the right people. Besides the general networking events, you can attend talks, panel discussions, and lectures that focus on topics related to your majors. These events often feature professionals and alumni who are willing to talk to students.
It's also important to build relationships with your professors and alumni. Professors often have great connections in the industry, and they can provide helpful advice and introductions to people in the field. Make an effort to visit your professors during office hours, ask for guidance, and get to know them. Similarly, you can reach out to alumni through LinkedIn or the alumni network. They might be willing to offer advice, share job opportunities, or connect you with people in the entertainment and business worlds.
Another great way to meet people and build connections is through student organizations. If you haven't already, can consider join clubs or groups that focus on your majors. For example, there may be business-related groups or entertainment-focused organizations that host networking events, workshops, or industry talks. By being involved, you'll meet those who have similar interests.
In addition to building connections, you need to focus on developing your soft skills such as communication, leadership, and teamwork. These are important no matter what career path you choose. Being able to communicate clearly, lead a team, or work well with others will help you stand out when you start applying for jobs. All the best.
It's also important to build relationships with your professors and alumni. Professors often have great connections in the industry, and they can provide helpful advice and introductions to people in the field. Make an effort to visit your professors during office hours, ask for guidance, and get to know them. Similarly, you can reach out to alumni through LinkedIn or the alumni network. They might be willing to offer advice, share job opportunities, or connect you with people in the entertainment and business worlds.
Another great way to meet people and build connections is through student organizations. If you haven't already, can consider join clubs or groups that focus on your majors. For example, there may be business-related groups or entertainment-focused organizations that host networking events, workshops, or industry talks. By being involved, you'll meet those who have similar interests.
In addition to building connections, you need to focus on developing your soft skills such as communication, leadership, and teamwork. These are important no matter what career path you choose. Being able to communicate clearly, lead a team, or work well with others will help you stand out when you start applying for jobs. All the best.
Dan Williams
Marketing
1
Answer
Reston, Virginia
Updated
Dan’s Answer
When you walk into a networking event and feel stuck, focus on learning about others. In my book Tales from the Networking Community, I teach the FORD Method as a simple way to break the ice: ask about their Family, Occupation, Recreation, or Dreams. These four topics open the door to real connection.
Remember what Dale Carnegie said in How to Win Friends and Influence People — a principle that guided my entire career:
‘You can gain more friends in two months by showing a sincere interest in others than you can in two years by trying to get them interested in you.’
Networking is a process, not an event. It grows through curiosity, generosity, and the law of reciprocity. Ask a FORD question, listen, offer something helpful, and aim for just one genuine connection.
Remember what Dale Carnegie said in How to Win Friends and Influence People — a principle that guided my entire career:
‘You can gain more friends in two months by showing a sincere interest in others than you can in two years by trying to get them interested in you.’
Networking is a process, not an event. It grows through curiosity, generosity, and the law of reciprocity. Ask a FORD question, listen, offer something helpful, and aim for just one genuine connection.
Caitlin Canton
Human Resources Manager
4
Answers
Cleveland, Ohio
Updated
Caitlin’s Answer
Hi Ava!
Getting comfortable with meeting new people and socializing is a great first step. Networking isn't my favorite thing either, but you're doing well by focusing on it early. It can be tough to start conversations, especially if you're shy like me, but it's important for building relationships that can really help you.
Look for events that match your interests. If you're not into tech, a computer science networking event might not be the best fit. Bring a friend and set goals together, like meeting 2-3 new people to stay in touch with.
Be yourself and ask questions. People enjoy talking about their experiences, careers, and offering advice. Share your interests and goals, and see where the conversation leads. Don’t hesitate to ask if you can connect again. If they agree and share their contact info, follow up with a quick email. Mention what you discussed and plan a future chat or continue the conversation through email. Stay in touch occasionally if you feel comfortable.
You can do this! Your future self will be grateful, and networking is a skill you'll use throughout your career.
Getting comfortable with meeting new people and socializing is a great first step. Networking isn't my favorite thing either, but you're doing well by focusing on it early. It can be tough to start conversations, especially if you're shy like me, but it's important for building relationships that can really help you.
Look for events that match your interests. If you're not into tech, a computer science networking event might not be the best fit. Bring a friend and set goals together, like meeting 2-3 new people to stay in touch with.
Be yourself and ask questions. People enjoy talking about their experiences, careers, and offering advice. Share your interests and goals, and see where the conversation leads. Don’t hesitate to ask if you can connect again. If they agree and share their contact info, follow up with a quick email. Mention what you discussed and plan a future chat or continue the conversation through email. Stay in touch occasionally if you feel comfortable.
You can do this! Your future self will be grateful, and networking is a skill you'll use throughout your career.