Despite its frightening appearance, networking is really just about establishing genuine human connections. Although striking up a conversation with someone you've never met can often feel intimidating, it's also one of the most beneficial abilities to advance your career. The connections you make can lead to many opportunities, such as an interview, a job, or a mentor who can offer you career guidance.
Say YES!
The first step of good networking is just showing up. We understand that networking can be intimidating, so making the time and effort to attend events is essential to gaining experience, making connections, and reducing your fear going forward. Whatever it takes to get there, do it. You can even convince yourself you'll only be there for thirty minutes or bring a friend.
Talk to the first person you meet.
If you’re at a networking event and are worried about finding someone to chat to, strike up a discussion with the first person you see. It will smooth your transition into the situation and save you from worrying too much about it. Just say "hello" to begin.
It’s just a conversation.
Remember that everyone you meet, whether they are the CEO or an intern, is a fellow human being if you are anxious about stepping into a networking environment. Remember that you are speaking with someone else, and be real in your communication. Tell them what you think is great about them, if you know who they are. While you truly listen, ask them about their work. The dialogue will become more relatable as a result.
Nobody is noticing you.
To put it another way, if you are feeling self-conscious while standing by yourself, keep in mind that other people are preoccupied with themselves and aren't passing judgment on you. Avoid obsessing over what other people may be thinking about you.
Use your LinkedIn for meaningful connections.
Start your LinkedIn profile during your undergraduate years, not after. Your career is what you're working on today, not tomorrow. Contrary to popular belief, you don't need to connect with a large number of individuals on LinkedIn to appear well-connected. The purpose of adding people to your LinkedIn network is to establish some kind of relationship with each person there. This way, when you connect with someone, you gain access to their whole network of connections as well.
Remind them of who you are.
To ensure that people will remember you, make an effort to get in touch with them as soon as you meet them. Always send an invitation with a note that identifies you and serves as a reminder of who you are. Your relationship will become stronger and more meaningful as a result.
Keep in touch.
LinkedIn helps you maintain relationships in addition to creating new ones. Send a message to someone you met at an event a year ago if you haven't spoken to them in a long time to maintain your relationship. Reach out to us more than simply when you need something. Giving a brief update on your professional activities is acceptable, and attending college is a necessary component of that work.
Make connections anywhere you can.
Recall that these are just interpersonal relationships. When you can be yourself and find something in common with someone, you will have the most fruitful encounters. Feel free to try asking your inspiring lecturer for advice outside of the classroom if you have one.
Find ways to help others.
The process of networking is two-way. Help others in their professional lives if you can; it's not only the human thing to do, but you never know when they might need your assistance later on. One can never be sure who knows someone who can assist you as well.
““I grew close to a few of my writing professors in college just because I wanted to hang out with them. Over pizza and beer, I had a conversation with a professor about passion projects. I also made a mentor who I still stay in touch with every month.””