College isn’t just about academics: it’s also a great time to start thinking about your professional goals. Networking can assist you locate work after graduation throughout your formative years of higher school. According to one research, networking was a significant aspect of their job search for 78 percent of recent college graduates. While you’re still in school, here’s how you can start building your professional network.
When it comes to landing a job, we’ve all heard the cliché, “It’s not what you know, but who you know.” Networking is crucial because it allows you to develop relationships with people who can assist you in achieving your goals. Building a professional network while still in college is preferable. Creating a LinkedIn account, which allows you to search for and connect with people, is a terrific place to start. Employers, recruiters, industry specialists, and other career-oriented persons are among them.
LinkedIn also makes it easier to connect with alumni, who are often willing to connect you with other professionals and offer career advice. The same can be said about professors. If you have a specific interest in a subject, don’t be hesitant to contact professors who specialize in that discipline. One of them could turn out to be an individual you turn to to provide insight on your career path, changing the course of your life.
To get your name out there in your chosen field, consider participating in an internship. Even if it doesn’t result in a job, you’ll meet people who can introduce you to other prospects. Your peers might be able to refer you for future job openings. Getting involved on campus is another approach to make contacts. Participating in sports, clubs, honor societies, fraternities, sororities, and other organizations, for example, allows you to meet a wide range of individuals and form relationships with peers, mentors, counselors, coaches, and other professionals. Other wonderful ways to meet individuals in the business world include volunteering and taking on a part-time job.
Make a point of attending networking and professional events, whether in person or online. This allows you to meet others who share your interests and talk about difficulties in your field of study. Make sure you look the part, talk to people, and ask questions. Send a follow-up email to a professional with whom you’ve established contact.
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