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What are some common mistakes students make during networking events, and how can we make a stronger impression?
I regularly attend networking events and want to improve how I connect with recruiters and professionals. I’m looking for advice on what makes someone memorable in a positive way.
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4 answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Dress in professional attire, wear your best smile, and ask questions about the company and job.
Updated
C’s Answer
Hi Niki,
Networking events are a great way to learn what the employers are looking for, what the current trends in your field are etc.
To make it most effective, I would suggest the following:
1. Appearance matters: You don't have to wear expensive clothes or accessories, but be well groomed and have a bright smile whenever you meet someone or talk to someone.
2. Have multiple copies of your resume handly both printed and electronic (e.g. PDF version), in case someone wants to see it. If you have a LinkedIn profile, include that in your resume and ask to connect to the people you meet there. This is a good way to expand your network beyond just the event. If you don't have a LinkedIn profile, create one - it is free!
3. Know before you go: Research the employers you are most interested in that will be at the event. This will allow you to have meaningful conversations with that employer's representatives and show them that you are tuly interested in them, and not just superficially. Ask specific questions (you can write these down ahead of time on paper or your phone and refer to them when you approach prospective employers.
4. Interact with others: You can do this by just introducing yourself to others and asking about their day, what their typical day at work looks like. Most people are usually willing to give info, especially to students. Even if you are hesitant the first few times, don't give up, you will become comfortable soon. You can also practice introducing yourself with a friend or a trusted adult before the event.
5. Follow-up: After the event, do reach out to the employers/recruiters you met and Thank them for their time & ask if they need any additional details from you.
Good luck!
Networking events are a great way to learn what the employers are looking for, what the current trends in your field are etc.
To make it most effective, I would suggest the following:
1. Appearance matters: You don't have to wear expensive clothes or accessories, but be well groomed and have a bright smile whenever you meet someone or talk to someone.
2. Have multiple copies of your resume handly both printed and electronic (e.g. PDF version), in case someone wants to see it. If you have a LinkedIn profile, include that in your resume and ask to connect to the people you meet there. This is a good way to expand your network beyond just the event. If you don't have a LinkedIn profile, create one - it is free!
3. Know before you go: Research the employers you are most interested in that will be at the event. This will allow you to have meaningful conversations with that employer's representatives and show them that you are tuly interested in them, and not just superficially. Ask specific questions (you can write these down ahead of time on paper or your phone and refer to them when you approach prospective employers.
4. Interact with others: You can do this by just introducing yourself to others and asking about their day, what their typical day at work looks like. Most people are usually willing to give info, especially to students. Even if you are hesitant the first few times, don't give up, you will become comfortable soon. You can also practice introducing yourself with a friend or a trusted adult before the event.
5. Follow-up: After the event, do reach out to the employers/recruiters you met and Thank them for their time & ask if they need any additional details from you.
Good luck!
Updated
cassandra’s Answer
Hi Niki! Common Networking Mistakes (and How to Stand Out)
1. Talking too much about yourself
➡️ Keep it balanced—ask thoughtful questions and listen.
2. Being too generic
➡️ Mention something specific about the company or role.
3. Trying too hard to impress
➡️ Be clear and genuine. Confidence > perfection.
4. No clear introduction
➡️ Have a quick 15–20 sec intro: who you are, what you’re studying, and your interests.
5. Not following up
➡️ Send a short LinkedIn or email within 1–2 days referencing your conversation.
What actually makes you memorable
Curiosity (ask good questions)
Specific interests (not “I’m open to anything”)
Genuine conversation
Strong follow-up
Bottom line:
Focus less on impressing and more on building a real connection; that’s what people remember.
1. Talking too much about yourself
➡️ Keep it balanced—ask thoughtful questions and listen.
2. Being too generic
➡️ Mention something specific about the company or role.
3. Trying too hard to impress
➡️ Be clear and genuine. Confidence > perfection.
4. No clear introduction
➡️ Have a quick 15–20 sec intro: who you are, what you’re studying, and your interests.
5. Not following up
➡️ Send a short LinkedIn or email within 1–2 days referencing your conversation.
What actually makes you memorable
Curiosity (ask good questions)
Specific interests (not “I’m open to anything”)
Genuine conversation
Strong follow-up
Bottom line:
Focus less on impressing and more on building a real connection; that’s what people remember.
Updated
Karen’s Answer
Great question! Be prepared with how you want to greet recruiters, perhaps in a unique way. Thanking them for being there is always a positive comment. Begin with a question for them, rather than telling them about yourself -- perhaps something about what they like about the organization. Try to bring up a unique accomplishment about yourself -- something they might remember. Shaking hands and smiles are always good too.
With every good wish and many blessings,
Karen
With every good wish and many blessings,
Karen