Are you a student already thinking about your next steps? Professional networking is one of the best ways to build a community in your chosen field and land your first job. That being said, networking can awkward and intimidating at the start. To help you, we’ve come up with some of the best networking tips for students.
In this article, we’ll offer you some insider tips to empower you to get out there and build your network. You’ll not only learn the benefits of networking but also valuable graduate networking tips.
Networking Tips for Students: What is Professional Networking?
As a student or recent graduate, you’re most likely new to professional networking. Many people find the prospect of networking events daunting and a little embarrassing. It’s tough to build genuine connections with people without it coming across as transactional. Especially if you really need something from them: a job.
However, stick with it. It will be worth it in the long run. The main goal of professional networking is to foster long-lasting relationships with employers and professionals in the same industry. This is usually done by attending networking events for students or by networking online.
There are many advantages of building a community of people in your field, let’s take a look.
Benefits of Networking Events for Students
Perhaps the most obvious benefit of networking events for graduates is finding a job. Many job seekers leverage networking events to tap into a community of employers in their sector. While networking is an essential job-seeking tool for professionals at every stage of their career, it’s particularly useful for students.
As a student or recent graduate, you probably don’t have much on your CV. This can be tricky when applying for jobs. Your relatively blank CV may be overlooked by employers who don’t have a good idea of who you are and what your career goals are. Networking events give you an opportunity to introduce yourself to professionals in your field and really sell yourself.
That’s not all. Networking events are also a fantastic opportunity for students to develop key professional skills. These skills, such as communication and personal branding, are valuable competencies that you will need throughout your whole career.
Lastly, professional networking is the perfect opportunity to gain industry knowledge from experts in the field. Speaking to key players in the industry will give you the chance to ask questions, listen, and learn from the best.
Put simply, networking events for graduates help you build a network of like-minded professionals who you can lean on for advice, career opportunities, and recommendations.
Top Networking Tips for Students
Now you know the benefits, let’s look at the best networking tips for students. Here are 4 ways to make the most of professional networking and get ahead in your career.
1. Quality Over Quantity
Enthusiasm is great. So is putting yourself out there. However, we recommend being selective with the networking events you sign up for. Attending countless networking events just for the sake of it will not only be exhausting but may actually work against you.
If you only attend networking events held by companies you want to work for, you have more time to focus on quality connections. Narrow down your search and invest more time and energy into building connections with the right people. By having a small pool of professionals on your radar, it will be much easier to connect. For instance, you could follow them on professional networking platforms or reach out and offer to buy them a coffee in exchange for 15 minutes of their time. You never know what could come of it.
2. Do Your Research
Recently graduated? You probably thought homework was a thing of the past. It’s not. When it comes to professional networking, research is key.
As a student or recent graduate, you don’t have much relevant work experience to do the talking for you. As a result, you need your passion for the industry (and company) to really shine through. Before you attend any graduate networking events or reach out online, make sure you know the following information.
The company background. Get to know its history, vision and values, and its strengths and weaknesses. This information will drive your conversation and maybe even give you the opportunity to show the employer how you can help the company.
Get to know the industry landscape too. Who are the leaders? What are the biggest industry trends? This knowledge will give you a competitive edge and ensure there are no awkward silences as you build relationships.
3. Work on Your Personal Branding
Personal branding is key for students and graduates. Since you are new to the workforce, you haven’t had the opportunity to build a reputation yet. So, how do you get your name out there? The simple answer is by investing in your personal brand.
Your personal brand is all about getting yourself out there and becoming visible. It allows you to promote your values, skills, and career goals as well as showcase who you are and why you are a good fit for a company or industry. At this early stage of your career, it is what makes you stand out from the crowd.
Before you start networking, we recommend learning how to use personal branding to your advantage. It will help you to prepare a perfect elevator pitch.
4. Don’t Forget to Follow Up
Don’t get too caught up in results. Someone may not have opportunities for you right now, but who knows what the future holds. Sometimes the fruits of your labour take time.
The goal of networking should be to foster long-term relationships. The best way to do this is by nurturing them. Exchange contact information with the people you speak to and make sure you follow up. This could be by sending them a quick email, a message on LinkedIn, or a phone call. The more time and energy you put into maintaining the relationships you have started to build, the stronger your community will be. Keep in touch.
Final Thoughts
Looking for your next opportunity? Be sure to also check out our dedicated Student and Graduate Jobs Board for fantastic opportunities in your area.
Our website has a wealth of valuable resources for graduate jobseekers, including CV writing tips and advice on writing an impactful cover letter. Contact us if you have specific questions or sign up for the free Developing a Student email newsletter using the form below.
