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What are some of the best networking tips you have for a business student?
#student #business
18 answers
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Doc’s Answer
Addy it's preferable to begin networking before you begin job hunting. That way you can learn as much about the industry as possible and have a better career plan in mind when you apply for specific jobs. Also, if you establish your contacts early, you can better prepare for job searching and interviewing. You could ask your contacts what their job hunting experience was like and what approaches worked best for them. You could also ask them which approaches were the least useful. Many colleges have groups, clubs, and associations that you can join to expand your opportunities and meet amazing people, both on and off-campus. There’s never going to be another time quite like college where you’re surrounded by thousands of amazingly smart and interesting people, so get to know the people you think will change the world someday.
At college, you’re exposed to some of the most brilliant academic minds in the world, so why not take advantage of that? If there’s a subject area you’re interested in, don’t be afraid to go to professors in that field; they love talking about their work and meeting young people who are just as interested. You never know which professor will end up being the professor who changes your life's trajectory. Many colleges have groups, clubs, and associations that you can join to expand your opportunities and meet amazing people, both on and off-campus. There’s never going to be another time quite like college where you’re surrounded by thousands of amazingly smart and interesting people, so get to know the people you think will change the world someday.
Online sites, like LinkedIn, are popular ways to reconnect with former colleagues and seek out new connections. Once you've set up your profile, you can import your contacts from your e-mail account or phone and send invites to those individuals to connect with you via the site. To start interacting with new people, join the many groups that are available on the site, particularly those that are in your industry or relate to your career goals. This can help you plan for a career by opening your eyes to new company and job possibilities. Outside of networking, there are other resources that aspiring professionals may want to take advantage of when planning their careers. Campus career centers are available for students in postsecondary institutions. Students can meet with career centers to discuss career options based on their education, interests, and goals.
There’s never another time like college where you’re surrounded by thousands of amazingly smart and interesting people.
At college, you’re exposed to some of the most brilliant academic minds in the world, so why not take advantage of that? If there’s a subject area you’re interested in, don’t be afraid to go to professors in that field; they love talking about their work and meeting young people who are just as interested. You never know which professor will end up being the professor who changes your life's trajectory. Many colleges have groups, clubs, and associations that you can join to expand your opportunities and meet amazing people, both on and off-campus. There’s never going to be another time quite like college where you’re surrounded by thousands of amazingly smart and interesting people, so get to know the people you think will change the world someday.
Online sites, like LinkedIn, are popular ways to reconnect with former colleagues and seek out new connections. Once you've set up your profile, you can import your contacts from your e-mail account or phone and send invites to those individuals to connect with you via the site. To start interacting with new people, join the many groups that are available on the site, particularly those that are in your industry or relate to your career goals. This can help you plan for a career by opening your eyes to new company and job possibilities. Outside of networking, there are other resources that aspiring professionals may want to take advantage of when planning their careers. Campus career centers are available for students in postsecondary institutions. Students can meet with career centers to discuss career options based on their education, interests, and goals.
There’s never another time like college where you’re surrounded by thousands of amazingly smart and interesting people.
Thank You Aryana. Alone, we can do so little; together we can do so much. Believe you can and you’re halfway there.
Doc Frick
Thank You Husain. “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” — Winston Churchill
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Thank You Jerome. “The broadest, and maybe the most meaningful definition of volunteering: Doing more than you have to because you want to, in a cause you consider good. ” – Ivan Scheier
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Updated
Keith’s Answer
Engage.
Getting to know people and networking requires effort. Whether attending industry events (seminars, conferences, etc.) or meeting in other venues, you will have to invest in those relationships.
Remain Connectivity.
It is easy to say, but not easy to do. When you operate in the same circles and space, it is easy to maintain connectivity. With more virtual environments, you will have to be more purposeful. Be intentionally on keeping those connects. You will never know when that will benefit you.
Be Authentic.
Eagerness to network is a nice start, but you will have to be authentic in those endeavors to establish a network. If you are not authentic in your relationships, it will be transparent. That can also serve to work contrary to your favor.
Getting to know people and networking requires effort. Whether attending industry events (seminars, conferences, etc.) or meeting in other venues, you will have to invest in those relationships.
Remain Connectivity.
It is easy to say, but not easy to do. When you operate in the same circles and space, it is easy to maintain connectivity. With more virtual environments, you will have to be more purposeful. Be intentionally on keeping those connects. You will never know when that will benefit you.
Be Authentic.
Eagerness to network is a nice start, but you will have to be authentic in those endeavors to establish a network. If you are not authentic in your relationships, it will be transparent. That can also serve to work contrary to your favor.
Updated
Mark’s Answer
Hi Addy!
If you haven't already, create yourself a LinkedIn profile. Be open to new connections, but don't be afraid to make the first move. Also, your school may very well have an alumni group on Facebook! These can be super helpful! Use part-time jobs and internships to your advantage as this is the perfect way to gain experience, figure out what you like and don't like as well as make a little money. More importantly, you’ll meet people. People to network with. People who know other people and who will perhaps go on to do bigger and better. Also, take advantage of professional networking groups and clubs on campus.
What Type of Networking Fits Your Personality Best?
https://www.topresume.com/career-advice/career-quiz-networking-type-personality
Good Luck!!
Mark
If you haven't already, create yourself a LinkedIn profile. Be open to new connections, but don't be afraid to make the first move. Also, your school may very well have an alumni group on Facebook! These can be super helpful! Use part-time jobs and internships to your advantage as this is the perfect way to gain experience, figure out what you like and don't like as well as make a little money. More importantly, you’ll meet people. People to network with. People who know other people and who will perhaps go on to do bigger and better. Also, take advantage of professional networking groups and clubs on campus.
What Type of Networking Fits Your Personality Best?
https://www.topresume.com/career-advice/career-quiz-networking-type-personality
Good Luck!!
Mark
Updated
Aryana’s Answer
Hey Addy! I have a few suggestions for networking that have worked for me as a business student:
1. Join clubs / student orgs on campus. I joined DSP, a co-ed business fraternity, my freshman year and it has opened me to endless opportunities. Not only did I make lifelong friends, I have networked with professionals across several industries and have grown my network to a size I couldn't have without being in this org.
2. COLLEGE PROFESSORS!
3. LINKEDIN!!! This should be your best friend. Add all your friends, professors, anyone you've worked with, and follow companies you like. From there, you will start to grow your network. Reach out to people frequently and be willing to learn from them! Do your research on them so you can ask questions, learn from them, and offer your help to them. DON'T CONNECT WITH EVERYONE. It may seem exciting at first to be getting connections. But once you reach 300-500 connections, it can be overwhelming, so you should only connect with people you KNOW and think you would do business with in the future or genuinely want to know what they're doing. This way you don't overcrowd your feed and you will have constantly interesting people and updates to look at. Once you have an established network, you can research organizations you're interested in and see who in your network knows someone there. That's your foot in the door which is priceless these days.
4. Informational interviews. This is a win-win. You get to learn about careers and organizations you're interested in, while building a relationship with someone with that role or in that organization. Many people are willing to give back and share their experiences with you, all you have to do is ask! Being genuine is key. Keep up with the people you interview so you stay on their radar for upcoming opportunities. There won't always be an opportunity out of these, besides learning, but eventually you'll meet someone who can offer you an internship which makes doing these all the more worth it.
5. NETWORKING IS ABOUT BUILDING AND MAINTAINING RELATIONSHIPS! It took me a while to learn this. You should not view networking as only a way to further your needs and desires. It's a 2 way relationship, like any other relationship. You should be genuine in your pursuit of meeting new people and have a genuine interest to get to know them, rather than just being concerned about what they can do for you. By being genuine and willing to build a relationship, your network will be stronger for it and you are more likely to receive help from them in the long-term so it's a win win!
6. Create a spreadsheet to write down all your connections and people in your network. This way you have them in one place and it's easy to look back to see who you can reach out to when you need help with something, or you have something to offer them. From here, you can follow up with your network to update them and keep them in the loop on what you're doing, follow up with what they told you they were doing last time you spoke, and offer ways you can be of help to them. That way you are building and maintaining a relationship with them.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any questions. Best of luck!
Create a LinkedIn profile and reach out to 1 new person a day.
Have 1 informational interview every week/2 weeks.
Create a spreadsheet to write down all your connections, that way you have them in one place.
Follow up with people in your network every 3-6 months (update them on you, follow up with what they told you they were doing, offer your help)
1. Join clubs / student orgs on campus. I joined DSP, a co-ed business fraternity, my freshman year and it has opened me to endless opportunities. Not only did I make lifelong friends, I have networked with professionals across several industries and have grown my network to a size I couldn't have without being in this org.
2. COLLEGE PROFESSORS!
3. LINKEDIN!!! This should be your best friend. Add all your friends, professors, anyone you've worked with, and follow companies you like. From there, you will start to grow your network. Reach out to people frequently and be willing to learn from them! Do your research on them so you can ask questions, learn from them, and offer your help to them. DON'T CONNECT WITH EVERYONE. It may seem exciting at first to be getting connections. But once you reach 300-500 connections, it can be overwhelming, so you should only connect with people you KNOW and think you would do business with in the future or genuinely want to know what they're doing. This way you don't overcrowd your feed and you will have constantly interesting people and updates to look at. Once you have an established network, you can research organizations you're interested in and see who in your network knows someone there. That's your foot in the door which is priceless these days.
4. Informational interviews. This is a win-win. You get to learn about careers and organizations you're interested in, while building a relationship with someone with that role or in that organization. Many people are willing to give back and share their experiences with you, all you have to do is ask! Being genuine is key. Keep up with the people you interview so you stay on their radar for upcoming opportunities. There won't always be an opportunity out of these, besides learning, but eventually you'll meet someone who can offer you an internship which makes doing these all the more worth it.
5. NETWORKING IS ABOUT BUILDING AND MAINTAINING RELATIONSHIPS! It took me a while to learn this. You should not view networking as only a way to further your needs and desires. It's a 2 way relationship, like any other relationship. You should be genuine in your pursuit of meeting new people and have a genuine interest to get to know them, rather than just being concerned about what they can do for you. By being genuine and willing to build a relationship, your network will be stronger for it and you are more likely to receive help from them in the long-term so it's a win win!
6. Create a spreadsheet to write down all your connections and people in your network. This way you have them in one place and it's easy to look back to see who you can reach out to when you need help with something, or you have something to offer them. From here, you can follow up with your network to update them and keep them in the loop on what you're doing, follow up with what they told you they were doing last time you spoke, and offer ways you can be of help to them. That way you are building and maintaining a relationship with them.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any questions. Best of luck!
Aryana recommends the following next steps:
Lauren Grzyboski, CFE, CAMS, MBA
Cybersecurity, Privacy, and Forensics Associate
47
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Updated
Lauren’s Answer
Hi Addy,
Great Question! I think it's important to get involved and join organizations both in the college setting, but also through the professional setting too. Look into different organizations the business department offers in general and for your major specifically. For example, my business department had many organizations to get involved in, such as business fraternities, accounting club, women in business, etc. Utilize those organizations as a way to meet people in your major that you can use as a connection even after graduation. As for professional organizations, some offer student memberships at a discount. This is a great way for you to network professionally and use the services they offer while you're still in college. Having a business card is also a great thing to give to anyone you meet, include your email, phone number, linkedin profile, etc.
If you don't already, I'd definitely consider making a linkedin account as it can provide you will a way to connect with business professionals, fellow students, alumni of the university, and past/current professors. It will also provide you with a news source to stay up-to-date on the latest stories within the business industry, and can be a great conversation starts. The internships and job shadowing opportunities you involve yourself in will also allow for you to network with business professional that you can later use to help with your job search after college. Overall, the best advice I could give you is to leverage social media to your advantage, reach out to people you know/don't know, and join/get involved in whatever you have the time for in order to grow your network.
Great Question! I think it's important to get involved and join organizations both in the college setting, but also through the professional setting too. Look into different organizations the business department offers in general and for your major specifically. For example, my business department had many organizations to get involved in, such as business fraternities, accounting club, women in business, etc. Utilize those organizations as a way to meet people in your major that you can use as a connection even after graduation. As for professional organizations, some offer student memberships at a discount. This is a great way for you to network professionally and use the services they offer while you're still in college. Having a business card is also a great thing to give to anyone you meet, include your email, phone number, linkedin profile, etc.
If you don't already, I'd definitely consider making a linkedin account as it can provide you will a way to connect with business professionals, fellow students, alumni of the university, and past/current professors. It will also provide you with a news source to stay up-to-date on the latest stories within the business industry, and can be a great conversation starts. The internships and job shadowing opportunities you involve yourself in will also allow for you to network with business professional that you can later use to help with your job search after college. Overall, the best advice I could give you is to leverage social media to your advantage, reach out to people you know/don't know, and join/get involved in whatever you have the time for in order to grow your network.
Updated
Jeremy’s Answer
Hi Addy!
Great question. While some of this can be a little tricky these days due to COVID, I think there a few great steps you can still take to begin networking early:
1) Create a LinkedIn profile if you haven't already. It's a great way to connect with other professionals as well as read/see about what other people are working on. However, be careful -- LinkedIn is so bogged down with people like yourself trying to network that it can quickly become impersonal. Whenever you connect with someone try to send a personal message, or even better, if they have a publicly available email write them an email. Most professionals I know are much more likely to respond to a personalized email sent directly to them than to a LinkedIn connection request or even a LinkedIn DM.
2) Create business cards to hand over in face-to-face interactions. Many times this is something your business school or university will help you with or do on your behalf through their career services office. It's just as good for them as it is for you to land a good career after you graduate. I know while I was in my MBA program we all had 500 business cards printed for us at no expense to ourselves.
3) Always ask for business cards or other ways to follow up with professionals you meet whom you want to continue a relationship with.
4) If there is someone in an industry you're passionate about, want to learn more about or have aspirations of pursuing after you graduate ask if they would be open to mentorship relationship. This is a more intimate 1-on-1 type of networking where an industry professional will sign up to talk with you regularly, answer questions and train you about the industry. This type of relationship can be especially powerful when you begin trying to apply for jobs in that industry.
Great question. While some of this can be a little tricky these days due to COVID, I think there a few great steps you can still take to begin networking early:
1) Create a LinkedIn profile if you haven't already. It's a great way to connect with other professionals as well as read/see about what other people are working on. However, be careful -- LinkedIn is so bogged down with people like yourself trying to network that it can quickly become impersonal. Whenever you connect with someone try to send a personal message, or even better, if they have a publicly available email write them an email. Most professionals I know are much more likely to respond to a personalized email sent directly to them than to a LinkedIn connection request or even a LinkedIn DM.
2) Create business cards to hand over in face-to-face interactions. Many times this is something your business school or university will help you with or do on your behalf through their career services office. It's just as good for them as it is for you to land a good career after you graduate. I know while I was in my MBA program we all had 500 business cards printed for us at no expense to ourselves.
3) Always ask for business cards or other ways to follow up with professionals you meet whom you want to continue a relationship with.
4) If there is someone in an industry you're passionate about, want to learn more about or have aspirations of pursuing after you graduate ask if they would be open to mentorship relationship. This is a more intimate 1-on-1 type of networking where an industry professional will sign up to talk with you regularly, answer questions and train you about the industry. This type of relationship can be especially powerful when you begin trying to apply for jobs in that industry.
Updated
Catherine’s Answer
Hi Addy. I agree with the advice to create a LinkedIn. I would also try to remember a small detail about each person you talk to. I have even heard of people writing these down in a notebook somewhere. When you speak to them again, you can bring up the detail and make them feel more appreciated and make it feel more genuine!
Updated
Simeon’s Answer
I'd say keep it focused on don't stretch yourself too thin. Remember to not just make new contacts, but to check in and keep up with the contacts you get along with the best. You want to cultivate connections with people that you share great chemistry with. You'll make eighty percent of your career progress using just twenty percent of your professional contacts, so be sure to heavily invest in your best contacts!
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Jennifer’s Answer
As mentioned in every response above I would absolutely advise that you Create a LinkedIn profile. It's a great way to connect with professionals in the Industry of your choice and even if you don’t connect right away it’s a great way to see what articles they are reposting, what news interests them and what projects they are working on. From here you can narrow down those people you may wish to reach out to. This is exactly what LinkedIn is for so don’t be hesitant to reach out, tell someone you found their profile and work experience inspiring and ask for advise or mentorship. Best of Luck!
Updated
Ahsan’s Answer
Learn some games such as golf, tennis, squash where many senior executives I've seen playing. Have an idea of some of the most luxurious items such as the details of some watches, cars, places; they usually help as a conversation starter/ ice breaker for unsolicited conversations.
For known people, you can definitely learn to read the people you meet via their publicly available information on social media, Linkedin, websites, articles. Learn if the person's business is there, what is the vision/mission of it?
Never say no to events offered to you, even if they appear irrelevant / boring to you, because your purpose will be to connect with more people, meet them.
For known people, you can definitely learn to read the people you meet via their publicly available information on social media, Linkedin, websites, articles. Learn if the person's business is there, what is the vision/mission of it?
Never say no to events offered to you, even if they appear irrelevant / boring to you, because your purpose will be to connect with more people, meet them.
Updated
Shawn’s Answer
Hi Addy, my best advice would be to just put yourself out there. As difficult or as uncomfortable as it maybe, it is where I have found my success. I am naturally not an outgoing person, but the more you do it, the more comfortable it becomes.
A couple of suggestions:
1. Attend as many career fairs and networking events as possible.
2. Strike up conversations with people and get to know them (where they from, their interests, what their plans are after college).
3. Once connections are build, you can capitalize on those situations to find the career that is best suited for you.
A couple of suggestions:
1. Attend as many career fairs and networking events as possible.
2. Strike up conversations with people and get to know them (where they from, their interests, what their plans are after college).
3. Once connections are build, you can capitalize on those situations to find the career that is best suited for you.
Updated
Andrea’s Answer
As you build your network, pay attention to the individuals with which conversation flows naturally and the relationship doesn't seem forced. Ask those people to introduce you to others! They can help connect you to likeminded people and people who they have learned from.
Don't shy away from setting up time with people or adding recurring reminders to reach out to specific people so you don't lose touch. Even just 15 minutes every few months can make a difference in sustaining a relationship. Best of luck!
Don't shy away from setting up time with people or adding recurring reminders to reach out to specific people so you don't lose touch. Even just 15 minutes every few months can make a difference in sustaining a relationship. Best of luck!
Updated
Dhimant’s Answer
Take full advantage of the events your university organizes and actively engage in the business clubs within your institution. These activities will open up a wealth of opportunities to mingle with fellow students, business professionals, and influential figures. If the chance arises, don't hesitate to host a networking event yourself. After each event, make an effort to build and nurture relationships. Arrange meet-ups and always be ready to lend a hand if you're able to assist others in any way.
Updated
Jamie’s Answer
Hi Addy,
This is a great question and something I struggled with as well. It can be difficult if you are more introverted but the more you practice, the more you improve! Networking amongst your peers is a great way to start, as it is less intimidating and gives you experience you can leverage for future networking opportunities. Someone mentioned a Professional Business Fraternity already, but I also found this to be an efficient way to expand my network and learn important skills. Outside of an organization like that, there should be other clubs that your school for business students you can join! Whether it is an entrepreneurship club, a stock trading/investing/portfolio management club, or a marketing group, there will be student groups with your same interests! They can tell you about the classes they've taken to harness their skills, the companies they've worked at, and even offer you a connection into anywhere they've worked (can help you "get a foot in the door"). They can also review resumes, tell you about internships or help with your job search, and even provide an introduction to further expand your network. Getting involved in a student group of equally driven and career-focused students gives you the ability to learn from, and be supported by, like-minded peers (and you make friends along the way!).
Professors can also be a great resource. Business instructors will have backgrounds at a variety of companies and may offer similar benefits to your peers (offering a resume review, introduction to a new connection, or information to help you learn about their career field). They may even know of specialized groups, clubs, or programs that match your interests!
If you do not already have a "foot in the door" for a company you are interested in working at, emails and LinkedIn can be an effective resource for reaching out to current employees (especially LinkedIn, since emails can get lost in busy inboxes). Try to start with alumni if you can! That's an easy conversation starter, but any other similarity you have can be helpful to begin that connection. I recommend leveraging LinkedIn to learn more about them. When you are reaching out, I also recommend you have a specific outcome in mind (such as getting on a phone call to discuss their career at XYZ company and your interest in working there). If you are able to chat with them, I usually send a Thank You message after. You can follow-up with them in the future, and having a Thank You note tailored to your conversation in their inbox will help them remember what you talked about.
Finally, networking is about getting to know each other. Ask them questions about their life, their career path, their interests outside of work or school, as well as talking about yourself and your career goals. You may have a lot in common which can be a great way to form a genuine connection, professionally and personally. Hope this helps and best of luck!
This is a great question and something I struggled with as well. It can be difficult if you are more introverted but the more you practice, the more you improve! Networking amongst your peers is a great way to start, as it is less intimidating and gives you experience you can leverage for future networking opportunities. Someone mentioned a Professional Business Fraternity already, but I also found this to be an efficient way to expand my network and learn important skills. Outside of an organization like that, there should be other clubs that your school for business students you can join! Whether it is an entrepreneurship club, a stock trading/investing/portfolio management club, or a marketing group, there will be student groups with your same interests! They can tell you about the classes they've taken to harness their skills, the companies they've worked at, and even offer you a connection into anywhere they've worked (can help you "get a foot in the door"). They can also review resumes, tell you about internships or help with your job search, and even provide an introduction to further expand your network. Getting involved in a student group of equally driven and career-focused students gives you the ability to learn from, and be supported by, like-minded peers (and you make friends along the way!).
Professors can also be a great resource. Business instructors will have backgrounds at a variety of companies and may offer similar benefits to your peers (offering a resume review, introduction to a new connection, or information to help you learn about their career field). They may even know of specialized groups, clubs, or programs that match your interests!
If you do not already have a "foot in the door" for a company you are interested in working at, emails and LinkedIn can be an effective resource for reaching out to current employees (especially LinkedIn, since emails can get lost in busy inboxes). Try to start with alumni if you can! That's an easy conversation starter, but any other similarity you have can be helpful to begin that connection. I recommend leveraging LinkedIn to learn more about them. When you are reaching out, I also recommend you have a specific outcome in mind (such as getting on a phone call to discuss their career at XYZ company and your interest in working there). If you are able to chat with them, I usually send a Thank You message after. You can follow-up with them in the future, and having a Thank You note tailored to your conversation in their inbox will help them remember what you talked about.
Finally, networking is about getting to know each other. Ask them questions about their life, their career path, their interests outside of work or school, as well as talking about yourself and your career goals. You may have a lot in common which can be a great way to form a genuine connection, professionally and personally. Hope this helps and best of luck!
Updated
Kirk J.’s Answer
I like that you're thinking this way already, Addy. Networking is one of the most important career skills you'll acquire, because it is the key that opens the doors to 80% of the opportunities you'll have in your lifetime. Here is what I consider to be the best advice I've received in this area: Start to see networking as something you maintain a focus on, not just when you're considering a job change.
The time to invest in networking is at least 6 months before changing a job, preferable on an ongoing basis.
Here are some practical steps to try:
- Make a list of the top 5 companies you may want to work at
- List the job titles that would be on the team you're interested in
- Connect with a few people at each company by expressing your desire to learn about their company, and the team that they work on. Explain that you want to learn more about what it takes to be successful in those roles, and what skills you'd need.
- Over the next months, connect occasionally with someone and ask for 10 min of their time to ask 2-3 questions about this topic
- Stay in touch with the people you connect with so you learn from them, and they stay engaged in your story
- When it comes time to apply, you'll either have learned a lot or you may also have someone willing to put your resume on the desk of the hiring manager
Take the pressure off yourself by remembering that job interviews are largely a different skill than doing the job. Don't expect yourself to be great at it without practice, same with networking. But once you figure it out, you'll learn to open doors faster and more consistently.
The time to invest in networking is at least 6 months before changing a job, preferable on an ongoing basis.
Here are some practical steps to try:
- Make a list of the top 5 companies you may want to work at
- List the job titles that would be on the team you're interested in
- Connect with a few people at each company by expressing your desire to learn about their company, and the team that they work on. Explain that you want to learn more about what it takes to be successful in those roles, and what skills you'd need.
- Over the next months, connect occasionally with someone and ask for 10 min of their time to ask 2-3 questions about this topic
- Stay in touch with the people you connect with so you learn from them, and they stay engaged in your story
- When it comes time to apply, you'll either have learned a lot or you may also have someone willing to put your resume on the desk of the hiring manager
Take the pressure off yourself by remembering that job interviews are largely a different skill than doing the job. Don't expect yourself to be great at it without practice, same with networking. But once you figure it out, you'll learn to open doors faster and more consistently.
Updated
Adrian’s Answer
As a business student, networking is crucial for creating professional relationships and opportunities. There are various ways to network effectively, including attending industry events, joining professional organizations, using social media to connect with professionals in the field, reaching out to alumni, offering to help others, being prepared, and following up after meetings. Networking is about building relationships and learning from others in the industry, and not just about personal gain. By following these tips, business students can establish strong networks that can help them succeed in their careers.
Updated
Miranda N.’s Answer
You're going to do a LOT of group projects in business school (both in undergraduate, and if you choose to pursue a further degree, graduate). Make note of the folks who are good partners in these projects--the ones who turn their work in on time, who help the other group members, who lead you to an A--and be one yourself. Keep in touch with these people as you get close to graduating, and offer to serve as references for each other. Several classmates and I did this in our first year post-grad and it helped us all land secure jobs. We also wrote references for each other on LinkedIn and have kept in touch that way. These folks will also come in handy when your future job starts hiring--why not have the folks you know you already work well with interview to work with you again?
This is a great strategy if networking events aren't your comfort zone (they certainly weren't for me!), as strong relationships with your classmates will often lead to introductions to their network.
This is a great strategy if networking events aren't your comfort zone (they certainly weren't for me!), as strong relationships with your classmates will often lead to introductions to their network.
Updated
Jeff’s Answer
Hey Addy, great question.
There's a lot of great advice in the earlier replies here as well. I'll add to the conversation with some things that I do and have had success with. Hopefully, they'll help you, too.
You'll want to identify who the names are in the space you want to be active in. When you look up the industry you're interested in, who is authoring articles, podcasts, or interviews about the subject or field you're interested in? Do you see the same name, or group of names, showing up in your research? Start making a list of them. Then start looking for their social media handles. Where are they actively posting professional content? Is it a blog or certain social media platforms? Do you have an account there? Create an account, fill in your professional background, and express that you're there to learn and engage with industry leaders about the areas you are passionate about. Then look for the posts, or comments, and where you find something meaningful to you, share why that is. Why it resonates with you, how you can apply what you just read into your daily life, or how others could apply that to theirs. If they use hashtags, include that in your posts to help with discoverability.
Find where the conversations are happening and jump in. Be engaged with the content. Be active where your industry leaders are active. Reciprocate the engagement when others reply to your comments (as long as it's healthy and positive). When you've had a few exchanges and as you're building a connection with people, ask if you can connect on LinkedIn. Share your profile link. Your network will grow and your thought leadership reputation will begin to grow. Take your time, be patient, and be sincere.
I hope this message finds you well and I wish you all the success in your digital networking. . See, you're on your way already
There's a lot of great advice in the earlier replies here as well. I'll add to the conversation with some things that I do and have had success with. Hopefully, they'll help you, too.
You'll want to identify who the names are in the space you want to be active in. When you look up the industry you're interested in, who is authoring articles, podcasts, or interviews about the subject or field you're interested in? Do you see the same name, or group of names, showing up in your research? Start making a list of them. Then start looking for their social media handles. Where are they actively posting professional content? Is it a blog or certain social media platforms? Do you have an account there? Create an account, fill in your professional background, and express that you're there to learn and engage with industry leaders about the areas you are passionate about. Then look for the posts, or comments, and where you find something meaningful to you, share why that is. Why it resonates with you, how you can apply what you just read into your daily life, or how others could apply that to theirs. If they use hashtags, include that in your posts to help with discoverability.
Find where the conversations are happening and jump in. Be engaged with the content. Be active where your industry leaders are active. Reciprocate the engagement when others reply to your comments (as long as it's healthy and positive). When you've had a few exchanges and as you're building a connection with people, ask if you can connect on LinkedIn. Share your profile link. Your network will grow and your thought leadership reputation will begin to grow. Take your time, be patient, and be sincere.
I hope this message finds you well and I wish you all the success in your digital networking. . See, you're on your way already
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