To all the collegiettes who are looking for jobs or internships right now, this process is STRESSFUL. The applications, the interviews, and the desperation to make yourself stand out among so many others can be super difficult, but as I’ve learned through my own current job hunting, networking is something that will help to move this situation along faster and more smoothly!
Networking basically refers to how you present yourself to a potential employer and the connections that you make within the field you’re trying to enter. This is a time to show businesses why you would be a fantastic asset to their team and to show them all of the awesome skills and qualities you have! If you’re like me and feel weird talking so much about yourself, this is totally normal!
Believe it or not, there is a right and a wrong way to network yourself in the professional world, but once you have practiced doing so the RIGHT way, I promise, so many more opportunities will come knocking. Here are my rules for networking the right way:
1) Appearance
Having a clean and professional appearance when networking is incredibly important! Although a networking event will not initially be an interview, the person whom you’re speaking to will be looking at ways in which you will present yourself in the workplace. Conservative is always the safest route to take when attending a networking event and a knee length dress with a cute blazer or cardigan and some killer pumps is always my go-to choice! You could also always do a pantsuit or a skirt with a cute blouse and blazer. Keep makeup neutral and don’t be afraid to add a statement necklace or earrings to give your outfit a pop.
2) Be prepared!
I can’t emphasize this one enough! If you are going to a networking meeting with an individual employer or to an event where there are dozens of businesses to talk to, make sure you know what the company is about and what they do! Potential employers will be more interested in you if they can have a real conversation with you about the company, as this will make you stand out. You can even go as far as mentioning one of their latest projects!
Also, don’t forget about resumes! I always say to overprint copies of your resume if you’re going to a larger event! You don’t want to be caught in a situation where you’re speaking with a great company and are unable to give them a copy of your resume. Business cards are great too because they provide a little insight into what you may be looking for and are a little bit more personalized than copies of a resume Be confident, be yourself!: These employers want to get to know YOU and what you’re looking for in a professional career. Be friendly, be outgoing and share what you’re doing right now, whether that be studies, internships, teams (HC!), or other jobs!
3) ALWAYS follow up!
Employers will always appreciate a thank you note or e-mail after a networking meeting or event! This will not only show your appreciation for them taking time out of their schedules to meet with you, but that you truly are interested in that particular field. The more effort you make in contacting these employers, the more you’re going to stand out among other applicants! Don’t even be afraid to connect with them on LinkedIn so that they can see updates in your professional life.
4) Reach out to your contacts
With those you connect with on LinkedIn or through other professional sources, don’t be afraid to reach out to them through e-mail! The e-mail should be short, but very specific. Talk about who you are, what you’re looking for and if they would be willing to meet to discuss further about the company and field that they are employed through. Face-to-face meetings are always the most ideal, but phone calls and video chats work as well! Over my spring break, I connected with the founder of a PR firm, who agreed to meet with me at their office and I learned SO much about the field and their company. Making connections and creating professional relationships is a sure way to make the job application process a little bit easier!
I hope these tips help! Remember that networking isn’t considered official interviewing, but always has the potential to turn into real professional opportunities. Good luck in your job seeking, collegiettes!