5 answers
Reece
Student
Fort Washington, Maryland
1
Question
Updated
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What are your tips on Networking How should I start the conversation? Any tips on keeping the conversation running smoothly? #Spring26?
Starting college in a few months and would love some tips to help things run smoothly and help me succeed in school.
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5 answers
Karen Kitchel
Community Volunteer
467
Answers
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Updated
Karen’s Answer
Great you are preparing for a wonderful time in your life! To network, start with casual conversation. People often like being asked about their family, jobs and what they enjoy doing outside of work. Listening is the most important part. As others talk, listen for the topics they seem to be most interested in and follow up with questions relating to their topic.
Let folks know that you would like to talk to them again and ask if it's ok to follow up in a week, etc. Don't forget to talk to your family, relatives, friends and neighbors as well.
With every good wish and many blessings,
Karen
Let folks know that you would like to talk to them again and ask if it's ok to follow up in a week, etc. Don't forget to talk to your family, relatives, friends and neighbors as well.
With every good wish and many blessings,
Karen
Muhammad Qadir
Consultant
3
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Muhammad’s Answer
Look for a good mentor, someone who is ready to guide you. Be willing to volunteer and help with their work. This way, you stay connected with your mentor and might even earn some money for your efforts. Plus, you'll get answers to your questions and advice as you move forward in your career.
Monica Nitu
Account Operations Manager
4
Answers
Bucharest, Romania
Updated
Monica’s Answer
You might ask them to talk about something interesting they did last week. You could also ask what drives them to do their job. Find out if they have any favorite resources they use to learn new things.
Gail Manley
I set strategy and support the Social Impact team
18
Answers
Cincinnati, Ohio
Updated
Gail’s Answer
It's great to hear you're interested in networking! You're already doing it by talking to people. The key is to make the most of your time with others. Be curious, learn from them, and share about yourself—your skills, interests, and hobbies.
Keep some good questions ready. Ask about family, where they're from, their jobs, interests, and dreams. If you're speaking with professors or professionals, inquire about their daily work, how they got into their field, and their company.
Remember, it's just a conversation, and you're already good at that.
Keep some good questions ready. Ask about family, where they're from, their jobs, interests, and dreams. If you're speaking with professors or professionals, inquire about their daily work, how they got into their field, and their company.
Remember, it's just a conversation, and you're already good at that.
Isabel Quevedo
Analyst
4
Answers
Ramsey
Updated
Isabel’s Answer
You are already ahead by thinking about networking. Networking is a great way to learn, build connections, and create a strong community.
Since you mentioned that you’re starting college in a few months, my biggest piece of advice is to be authentic. During networking conversations, sometimes the flow comes naturally, and other times it may feel a bit awkward, and that’s completely normal.
Depending on who you’re networking with, such as professors, recruiters, or professionals from companies, try to come prepared. Have a few thoughtful questions, do some basic research, and think about topics you’d like to discuss. Ask follow-up questions, maintain eye contact, and stay engaged in the conversation.
It’s also helpful to:
1. Practice a short introduction about yourself (your interests, goals, or what you’re studying)
2. Be curious and open to learning from others’ experiences
3. Follow up after conversations with a quick thank-you message or email
4. Stay consistent—networking is about building relationships over time, not just one interaction
Most importantly, be yourself. People connect best with authenticity, not perfection.
You’ve got this!
Since you mentioned that you’re starting college in a few months, my biggest piece of advice is to be authentic. During networking conversations, sometimes the flow comes naturally, and other times it may feel a bit awkward, and that’s completely normal.
Depending on who you’re networking with, such as professors, recruiters, or professionals from companies, try to come prepared. Have a few thoughtful questions, do some basic research, and think about topics you’d like to discuss. Ask follow-up questions, maintain eye contact, and stay engaged in the conversation.
It’s also helpful to:
1. Practice a short introduction about yourself (your interests, goals, or what you’re studying)
2. Be curious and open to learning from others’ experiences
3. Follow up after conversations with a quick thank-you message or email
4. Stay consistent—networking is about building relationships over time, not just one interaction
Most importantly, be yourself. People connect best with authenticity, not perfection.
You’ve got this!