College isn’t just about academics; it’s also an excellent time to consider your long-term job goals. Networking can give you a head start when you start trying locate a job after graduation. According to one survey, networking was helpful in the job search for 78 percent of recent college graduates. Here are a few ideas on how you can start building your professional network while you’re still in school.
Networking is beneficial because it allows you to form relationships with people who can assist you in achieving your goals. Starting to create a professional network while still in college is an excellent idea. Making an account on the website LinkedIn, which allows you to search for and connect with people, is a terrific place to start. Attendees include employers, recruiters, industry experts, and job seekers.
LinkedIn is also good tool used to connect with alumni, who will sometimes use their network to connect you with other professionals and offer career advice. Professors are included in this category. If you have a strong interest in a subject, don’t be hesitant to contact professors that specialize in that area. One of them may turn out to be the person you seek career advice from, perhaps altering your life’s trajectory.
Consider an internship to increase your experience and visibility in your chosen field. You’ll meet individuals who could offer further opportunities even if it doesn’t lead to a job. Your coworkers may be able to make recommendations for future jobs. Participating in campus groups and events is another way to meet people. Sports, clubs, honor societies, fraternities and sororities, and other organizations, for example, can help you meet new people and build friendships with classmates, mentors, counselors, coaches, and other professionals. Volunteering and working part-time are two more excellent ways to meet individuals in the business world.
Make it a point to regularly attend networking and professional events, whether in person or online. This allows you to meet others who have similar interests to you and talk about difficulties in your field of study. Make sure you’re well attired, participate in the discourse, and ask questions to demonstrate your interest.
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