1 answer
Joanne
Student
Newark, New Jersey
1
Question
Updated
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How do I go about making connections that will help me in the long run ?
Hi, my name is Joanne and I am a rising college freshman! My question is about how do I go about making connections that will help me in the long run? Do I simply just make friends, or do I specify that my intent is to broaden my network for future purposes? Is this a common consensus amongst everyone else in the growing workforce that we all want to make connections?
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1 answer
Natalie Anderson - Dawes
Intern Operations Lead - Talent Acquisition / HR
2
Answers
Round Rock, Texas
Updated
Natalie’s Answer
Hi Joanne,
I love this question! First of all, I think it is great that you are already planning ahead and wanting to set yourself up for success early on. You have been building connections your entire life even if you did not think about it that way but you most likely have teachers, friends, parents, etc. that you could reach out to for advice, reviewing resumes or even more personal struggles so don't lose those relationships as you step into college.
I would say though coming from a university recruiting background, take advantage of all of the resources you have at your university and the opportunities right in front of you. I did not do this and while I am grateful for the career I have had thus far, I do regret not allowing myself to go and learn more about networking, doing mock interviews, understanding different career paths, etc.
The career center is a free resource that is accessible to you and they will guide you in the right direction. Attend the career fairs even though I know they can seem overwhelming but build the confidence to have the conversation as you never know where a connection might lead. Attend employer information sessions or networking events and then set up 1x1 conversations - Always ask for 2-3 other names anytime you meet with someone new because your network can never be too large.
Create a LinkedIn profile if you haven't already and don't be afraid to just send a message, but see what things based on their profile that you might have in common or a mutual connection.
Wishing you all the best!
I love this question! First of all, I think it is great that you are already planning ahead and wanting to set yourself up for success early on. You have been building connections your entire life even if you did not think about it that way but you most likely have teachers, friends, parents, etc. that you could reach out to for advice, reviewing resumes or even more personal struggles so don't lose those relationships as you step into college.
I would say though coming from a university recruiting background, take advantage of all of the resources you have at your university and the opportunities right in front of you. I did not do this and while I am grateful for the career I have had thus far, I do regret not allowing myself to go and learn more about networking, doing mock interviews, understanding different career paths, etc.
The career center is a free resource that is accessible to you and they will guide you in the right direction. Attend the career fairs even though I know they can seem overwhelming but build the confidence to have the conversation as you never know where a connection might lead. Attend employer information sessions or networking events and then set up 1x1 conversations - Always ask for 2-3 other names anytime you meet with someone new because your network can never be too large.
Create a LinkedIn profile if you haven't already and don't be afraid to just send a message, but see what things based on their profile that you might have in common or a mutual connection.
Wishing you all the best!