Though networking might seem like a faraway concept, you don’t have to wait until graduation to get a head start on your future career.
The relationships you build during your time in college can lead to internships, mentorships, jobs right out of college, and more. Every connection is a chance to help shape your future.
As a student living in Hillcrest’s private BYUI housing, you’re in the perfect position and place to start networking. And, with the right approach, you might just make a key connection for your future success.
Prepare Adequately
Preparation is a crucial skill that will benefit you in college, after, and throughout your whole professional life. Making sure you are always properly prepared helps you feel confident, earn respect, show that you care, and leave a lasting impression on others.
Before turning up to a networking event or meeting new professionals in your career field, make sure you take time to:
- Do your research whenever possible.
- Have an on-hand paper resume.
- Have contact information ready, such as carrying business cards.
- Practice your pitch ahead of time.
Perfect Your Pitch
Your elevator pitch is a short introduction that explains who you are, what you bring to the table, and what you are pursuing. It should be short, clear, and engaging. You will want to keep it between 30 and 60 seconds.
A strong networking pitch includes:
- Your name and area of study.
- Relevant skills, expertise, or achievements.
- Your main goal, such as a job opportunity or a mentorship.
- A call to action, like scheduling a call.
Practicing your pitch ahead of time helps you sound polished and shows that you are passionate about your goals. Professionals recognize when students put effort into things beforehand, and it might just be what you need to set yourself apart. Being prepared to give your pitch at any time can also benefit you in the case of an unexpected conversation or opportunity.
Present Yourself Well
How you present yourself plays a major role in successful networking. Your attire, body language, and demeanor all contribute to the impression you leave on others.
To present yourself well, remember to:
- Wear appropriate, clean, and professional clothing.
- Stand when introducing yourself.
- Make eye contact.
- Offer a firm handshake.
- Smile and maintain good posture.
A confident introduction and positive attitude can make you more memorable and approachable. When you present yourself well, others are more likely to engage in conversation and take an interest in what you have to say.
Polish Your Communication Skills
Conversations are a vital part of networking. While they can feel intimidating at first, taking the initiative to start talking to someone helps foster connections and can build up your confidence over time.
There are many places where private BYUI housing students can get started and practice, such as at campus events, career fairs, or during professors' office hours.
When you have these conversations, remember to strive for productive dialogue and work toward genuine relationships instead of simply exchanging information. Approaching conversations with curiosity and authenticity helps create meaningful conversations that can last beyond college.
Some of the more important elements to keep in mind when you’re doing this include:
- Being approachable: Smile, maintain eye contact, and make it apparent that you are interested in having a conversation.
- Asking questions: Show interest in their experiences and career path, and ask industry- and career-focused questions.
- Remain engaged: Actively listen and respond thoughtfully when appropriate.
- Ask for advice: People appreciate sharing their knowledge, and asking for advice could even open the door for some crucial insight that will help you later on.
- Keep an open mind: Even if you go into a conversation with a goal or hope, try to be open to any outcome, suggestion, or word of advice that comes your way. You might be surprised by the guidance a professional can offer you, even if it’s not what you expect.
Pursue Digital Networking
While networking often involves attending in-person events, digital networking is becoming increasingly important as well. Digital platforms offer powerful tools to build and maintain professional connections over time.
You can strengthen your network digitally by:
- Creating and maintaining professional social media profiles.
- Connecting with classmates, professors, and professionals in your potential career.
- Joining online communities related to your field.
- Engaging with posts and sharing relevant information.
- Attending virtual events and webinars.
The trick to this is being consistent with your efforts. Like any other type of networking, the more you put into it, the more you’ll get out of it.
Why College Networking Matters
While you’re still in college, you might wonder why you should put time and effort into networking, especially when academics take up a good chunk of your time. But even though it takes commitment, networking during this stage of life can pay off.
When balanced properly with your academics, it can offer many benefits, helping you to:
- Discover Career Opportunities: Many opportunities are found through personal connections instead of on job boards. By developing these connections, you may open the door for more career options.
- Develop Mentor Relationships: A mentor can be invaluable at the start of your career. By finding these mentors during college, you have the chance to receive guidance from a professional and potentially meet more people in your field through them.
- Gain Industry Insights: Speaking with professionals gives you a better understanding of your chosen career. You can learn about trends, expectations, and career paths from people who have experience.
Contact Us Today
During your time as a Hillcrest private BYUI housing student, you get to work toward your professional goals and experience the benefits of community in a place that feels like home.
Reach out today to schedule a tour so you can take a step toward the future you are working toward.