The Iglu Guide | Blog
5 networking tips to get you in the door
The idea of networking is enough to make some students cringe. But when the time comes to look for a job, those professional connections made along the way can be invaluable. And honestly, it really doesn’t have to be awkward. After all, networking is not so different to how we all use social media – you’re establishing connections with all sorts of different people for all sorts of different reasons. They might be thought leaders, professors or experts in their field – or they might just be interesting people. The point is, making these connections can help fast track you to where you want to go. Here’s how networking can help get you to the top of the pile.
1. Network at networking events
When you attend networking events, it’s easy to float around without particularly engaging with anyone useful. But it’s not enough to just show up. Your efforts will reap greater rewards if you demonstrate good interpersonal skills, effective communication, show you can make personal connections and actively listen. Target the events that will benefit your professional interests, and by being intentional about your actions you can really make every conversation count. Focus your attention on connecting with the businesses you would really like to work for, or on connecting with professionals you actively admire. Introduce yourself, show genuine enthusiasm and interest, and be sure to follow up afterwards so that you’re not forgotten.
2. Tap into your natural network
If the idea of self-promotion and forced conversations are enough to put you off for good, try to reframe the whole idea of networking as just a natural part of your day. After all, it’s really just about talking to other people. If cold-calling professionals or attending specific networking events makes you feel anxious, focus on nurturing existing connections that might prove useful for the future. Without looking too far afield, you’ve probably got a natural networking circle already in place that’s made up of friends and family, college professionals and other university students. Former students now in the workplace often contact their old university professors for recommendations, so it’s always worth involving yourself in campus activities. Who knows where you’ll all end up one day?
3. Be open to new connections
Meeting new people can happen anywhere – at the bus stop, at the gym or through mutual friends. Even if you only have a sense of humour in common, by organically building a personal network you will naturally create opportunity. Trying to stand out from the crowd armed with a lonely CV can be challenging in a competitive market. But throw in a personal recommendation and you’re already one step ahead of the pack. Employers are busy people, and sifting through endless resumés is probably not their most favourite activity. They would much rather save time by using a personal referral from a trusted source. That’s where your networking connections play an important part, making the difference between interview and rejection.
4. Use resources
Check out the student careers centre to identify what career options would benefit from your skillset and interests. It will be packed with free guidance and resources on how create a resumé, how to write a cover letter, preparing for an interview and information on upcoming networking events or job fairs. Analyse what’s going on in your industry and plan for how you can build up your networking opportunities. You’ll also be able to find out about any internships available or relevant volunteer work that could help boost your resumé.
5. Get online
Social media is not for everyone, but in the business world there are some channels that actually count – think LinkedIn and Twitter, for starters. Create a profile that you’d be happy to share, and start following some thought leaders in your field of professional interest. Seek out any Facebook groups that might be helpful or use it as an opportunity to reconnect with old friends and tidy up your own social media presence. Employers have a nasty habit of looking up potential employees on social media which can produce some surprising results. Networking is all about investing in your future, so make sure you give it the time it needs. Most importantly, maintain those connections because opportunity often arises in unexpected ways.
