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Is it possible to get a good job in Computer Science without a strong network?
I know how important networking is in getting the best jobs out there with a CS degree, however, I'm not the best at talking to or keeping up with people. #computer-science #job-search #career #network #networking #job
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9 answers
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Eileen,
I think I can relate to your concern. Being very introverted, networking doesn't come naturally! However, having a good network is very essential to career development and advancement in my experience. I have absolutely gotten where I am in my career through my network. Be curious and ask questions. I think most people are happy to help. A network relationship should be reciprocal - maybe you can help someone with a task while learning something new. Building a network takes time, so get started as early as possible. LinkedIn is a good place to build from, but I also have a lot of professional contacts on Facebook. This means that I need to present myself professionally on social media.
I think I can relate to your concern. Being very introverted, networking doesn't come naturally! However, having a good network is very essential to career development and advancement in my experience. I have absolutely gotten where I am in my career through my network. Be curious and ask questions. I think most people are happy to help. A network relationship should be reciprocal - maybe you can help someone with a task while learning something new. Building a network takes time, so get started as early as possible. LinkedIn is a good place to build from, but I also have a lot of professional contacts on Facebook. This means that I need to present myself professionally on social media.
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Stuart’s Answer
Many people in development would rather keep to themselves (or small groups) and code, so don't let that get you down. At school, you can build networks with classmates, professors, TA etc. Make yourself known to your professor and he/she may be able to recommend you to companies. A lot of companies arrange hack-a-thons also make campus visits to meet students, so keep an eye out for that. In addition, you can search for local meetups where there are technical presentations and a good place to meet people
Updated
George’s Answer
Hey Eileen,
A strong network is a bonus even when you already have a job in Computer Science. Having said that, your focus should be building a network organically in college through friendships, joining a computer research lab, computing groups and focusing on internships. If you're proficient in a technology, there are several groups online you could join to get and give advice. Focus on that and keep your eyes peeled for opportunities and your network will grow.
A strong network is a bonus even when you already have a job in Computer Science. Having said that, your focus should be building a network organically in college through friendships, joining a computer research lab, computing groups and focusing on internships. If you're proficient in a technology, there are several groups online you could join to get and give advice. Focus on that and keep your eyes peeled for opportunities and your network will grow.
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Jessica’s Answer
Completely possible!
I think it's fair to say that many people in computer science prefer speaking with the machine over actual humans. It is not a career in sales or communication which require you to be client facing all the time. As long as you have the required skills like in programming, data, or IT, you are good to go.
You can be an individual contributor in a project, or collaborate in a bigger team by chipping away smaller tasks / tickets assigned to you.
It helps if you are good at explaining or teaching the topic. But the bottom-line is to be respectful to others and stay friendly. You don't have to be a social butterfly in this field to get a decent job!
I think it's fair to say that many people in computer science prefer speaking with the machine over actual humans. It is not a career in sales or communication which require you to be client facing all the time. As long as you have the required skills like in programming, data, or IT, you are good to go.
You can be an individual contributor in a project, or collaborate in a bigger team by chipping away smaller tasks / tickets assigned to you.
It helps if you are good at explaining or teaching the topic. But the bottom-line is to be respectful to others and stay friendly. You don't have to be a social butterfly in this field to get a decent job!
Updated
CARL’s Answer
Hi Eileen, the answer to your question is that there's more than one way to build your career. Some people have the luck of being able to build a strong network early in their careers for many reasons and some don't,
Don't worry about that. As other's have said that will happen organically over time. The best advice I can give is to be willing to learn as much as possible. Don't be afraid to fail!
Good Luck!
Don't worry about that. As other's have said that will happen organically over time. The best advice I can give is to be willing to learn as much as possible. Don't be afraid to fail!
Good Luck!
Your advice was so helpful!
Madhavi
Updated
Cyndi’s Answer
Hi Eileen,
I think it's definitely an added benefit if you have a good and strong network no matter which career you are in.
I would recommend building a strong LinkedIn profile and try reaching out or following people that aligns with your interest/career progression.
Your school should also have some resources or student-hosted clubs that might host events to connect with industry professionals, and you should definitely check that out.
Even if you are not networking with industry professionals, it's always nice to have friends/fellow students that have the same interest as you, so you could discuss and keep each other updated with the latest and newest in the industry.
Also, the world is changing everyday especially in Tech, so it will also be useful to keep yourself up-to-date with the latest industry news and offerings.
Good luck!
Keep an eye out on news about the industry
Build a strong LinkedIn profile and start networking/following people that has a similar interest as you
Reach out to your school's career center for resources and information on student-hosted clubs
I think it's definitely an added benefit if you have a good and strong network no matter which career you are in.
I would recommend building a strong LinkedIn profile and try reaching out or following people that aligns with your interest/career progression.
Your school should also have some resources or student-hosted clubs that might host events to connect with industry professionals, and you should definitely check that out.
Even if you are not networking with industry professionals, it's always nice to have friends/fellow students that have the same interest as you, so you could discuss and keep each other updated with the latest and newest in the industry.
Also, the world is changing everyday especially in Tech, so it will also be useful to keep yourself up-to-date with the latest industry news and offerings.
Good luck!
Cyndi recommends the following next steps:
You rock! This advice is very helpful.
Maddi
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Akshata’s Answer
Hi Eileen,
I would agree with Rebecca's answer. Technology industry does have a lot of jobs and are looking for lots of talented people to come and contribute towards innovation. Since it's also comes with brain storm ideas with your team-mates, giving presentations about the new features etc. I would say it's good to work on it. Communication and speaking skills can always be improved. You have already taken the first step by posting this question. That shows your are willing to improve and work towards achieving your goal. :)
You can start by joining programs like Toastmasters Youth Leadership program or any such programs that your school might offer. A lot of them are sponsored. These are some great platform to improve communication skills as well as network. Most companies have graduate development programs and Employee resource groups that helps new joinees/interns who are fresh out of school. Applying for internships at such companies can be a good start too. Good luck!
Research on programs/workshops that can help you improve your networking skills.
Join one that interests you the most.
Try networking on job platforms like LinkedIn since it gives you time to think before you respond.
Research and apply for internships.
I would agree with Rebecca's answer. Technology industry does have a lot of jobs and are looking for lots of talented people to come and contribute towards innovation. Since it's also comes with brain storm ideas with your team-mates, giving presentations about the new features etc. I would say it's good to work on it. Communication and speaking skills can always be improved. You have already taken the first step by posting this question. That shows your are willing to improve and work towards achieving your goal. :)
You can start by joining programs like Toastmasters Youth Leadership program or any such programs that your school might offer. A lot of them are sponsored. These are some great platform to improve communication skills as well as network. Most companies have graduate development programs and Employee resource groups that helps new joinees/interns who are fresh out of school. Applying for internships at such companies can be a good start too. Good luck!
Akshata recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Information Technology is widely used in all industries, organizations, etc. There is high demand on the resources nowadays. It is one of the competitive edge for the organizations to gain large market share and increase their profit margin.
I believe all organizations are keen to look for high talent professional to join their corporates. I am not sure the reason you are anxious to look for a good job in IT. The prestiges technology companies post their vacancies online from time to time. On the other hand, you can also consider some startup as well. They are creative, you can move your career forward faster if you don't mind to take some risk.
Having said that, I would encourage your to establish good network with your classmates, colleagues, and friends in IT all the time. You can exchange the views and information in the industry. They are your precious resources .
Hope this helps! Good Luck1
I believe all organizations are keen to look for high talent professional to join their corporates. I am not sure the reason you are anxious to look for a good job in IT. The prestiges technology companies post their vacancies online from time to time. On the other hand, you can also consider some startup as well. They are creative, you can move your career forward faster if you don't mind to take some risk.
Having said that, I would encourage your to establish good network with your classmates, colleagues, and friends in IT all the time. You can exchange the views and information in the industry. They are your precious resources .
Hope this helps! Good Luck1
Updated
Leo’s Answer
Yes! At least to start with, and you will be able to build a network as you progress through your career.
From my experience, there's lots of opportunities for people to start a career in computer science. Lots of companies have career pages on their website that you can apply directly to. Make sure to attend the career/job fairs at your school or community as it's a great way to meet employers and see what opportunities. Build up your resume by making sure you really learn about different technologies and problem solving skills from your school projects and assignments. Apply for internships as they provide more real-world experience of how to work as a team to build software.
Once you land your first job, you'll quickly meet people who are more senior and can help you build your network. Or more importantly, learn more about what you like about computer science and where your career wants to go, and then seek out people who can help you.
From my experience, there's lots of opportunities for people to start a career in computer science. Lots of companies have career pages on their website that you can apply directly to. Make sure to attend the career/job fairs at your school or community as it's a great way to meet employers and see what opportunities. Build up your resume by making sure you really learn about different technologies and problem solving skills from your school projects and assignments. Apply for internships as they provide more real-world experience of how to work as a team to build software.
Once you land your first job, you'll quickly meet people who are more senior and can help you build your network. Or more importantly, learn more about what you like about computer science and where your career wants to go, and then seek out people who can help you.