How To Network In College For Better Job Prospects

So Dear, Let us talk about networking I know that word can sound scary It sounds like a fancy business thing But it is not

Really, networking is just making friends It is making friends with people who might help you find a job later.

I am not talking about using people I am talking about building real connections It is about helping each other.

You are in college This is the best time to start It is easier than you think,

Do not worry I will break it down for you.

Start With Who You Know

Your first network is right around you It is your classmates Your professors Your roommate.

These people will graduate and get jobs They will work at different companies In a few years they can refer you for a job.

Talk to the smart people in your class Form a study group Help each other out.

Go to your professor’s office hours, Yes really Ask a question about the lecture Talk about your career interests.

Professors know a lot of people in the industry They can give you great advice They can even connect you with former students.

Do not be shy Your professors want to help you.

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Join A Club Or A Team

This is the easiest way to meet people Join a club related to your major Or join something you just enjoy.

You will meet older students They have been through what you are going through They can give you tips on classes and teachers.

They will also graduate before you They can tell you about job openings at their company.

I joined a coding club in college A senior there told me about an internship I applied because of him I got that internship It was my first job.

It happened because I was in the club I was just hanging out with people who liked the same things.

Go To Events On Campus

Your college will have events There will be career fairs There will be guest speakers from companies There will be workshops.

Go to these events Even if you feel awkward,

Your goal is not to get a job on the spot Your goal is to practice talking to people.

Listen to a guest speaker After the talk, go up to them Say something simple.

You can say, Hi, I really enjoyed your talk I am a student in [your major I found your point about something they said very interesting

That is it Then, ask for their LinkedIn profile Or give them your LinkedIn profile.

Follow up with a message the next day Say it was nice to meet them.

Now you have a connection This is how it starts.

Use LinkedIn The Right Way

LinkedIn is not like other social media It is for your professional life.

Make a good profile Use a nice picture of yourself Not a selfie A picture where you are smiling.

Write a short bio about what you are studying and what you want to do,

Connect with everyone you meet Your classmates Your professors The people you meet at events.

When you connect always send a note Do not just click connect.

Write something like Hi Name, I am a student at Your College studying Your Major I really enjoyed your talk today I would like to connect with you.

This small note makes a big difference.

The Big Secret It Is About Giving Not Just Taking

This is the most important part Do not just ask for things.

If you see an article that reminds you of someone send it to them You can say Hi I saw this and thought of our conversation Hope you are well.

If you know a job opening that is good for a connection tell them Be helpful Be genuine People remember this

People want to help those who are kind and thoughtful

What To Do When You Are Nervous

It is okay to be nervous Everyone is

Just be honest You can start a conversation by saying, Hi I am a student here and I am a little nervous to talk to people But I wanted to introduce myself

People will appreciate your honesty They have been in your place.

Remember most people like to talk about themselves Ask them questions.

How did you get started in your career
What do you like most about your job
What advice do you have for a student like me

Then just listen

A Quick Summary Of Simple Steps

1. Talk to your professors after class.
2. Join one club this semester.
3. Go to one career fair. Talk to at least three people.
4. Create your LinkedIn profile this week.
5. Connect with five people you know.

You do not have to do everything at once Just start small

Networking is like planting seeds You plant many seeds now You water them by staying in touch Later they will grow into opportunities

You can do this pal I believe in you, Just be yourself Be curious Be kind Your future self will thank you for the friends you make now.