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What is best way to go about networking with other people?

I'm a senior in high school and college in quickly approaching. I always hear that networking is one of the most essential steps when it comes to finding the right job/internships for you and connecting with people who can get you onto the right path of your chosen career. #Spring25

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Thank you comment icon Step out of your comfort zone Meet people Give out business cards Practice your 1 minute elevator speech Have a good LinkedIn profile. (College counselors can help with that) Jordan
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Jen’s Answer

It’s wonderful you are starting to think about networking at this point! One way is to reach out to professionals in your desired field and ask to set up an informational interview. You can come prepared with some questions you have about the field/their work and your goals and interests. Be sure to follow up with a thank you note/message and share your gratitude and how you were able to apply their advice.
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Heather’s Answer

Hi, Ella! I used to think that networking was just trading business cards or selling other people stuff. Once I realized it was my opportunity to build community and a support network it's made a huge difference for me. A few things that have worked really well for me are:

1. Connect with the people you meet. Get your LinkedIn set up and connect with professionals you meet throughout your college experience. I like to leave a note when we connect saying where I met them so I don't forget. Something simple like "I really enjoyed your presentation in my class on X. The thing I learned/resonated with was Y." This will help if you end up meeting lots of professionals so you don't wonder where you actually met someone.

2. Cultivate your network. It's not about collecting business cards or connections on LinkedIn. You have to do the work to stay in touch and stay relevant for your connections so they can remember who you are and be more likely to support you if you're looking for referrals for internships or jobs. It could be as simple as commenting on their posts or sending a note if they cross your mind. It doesn't have to be a ton of work and I prioritize the people I want to build meaningful relationships with or people in the spaces I am hoping to get into. (If you meet people who could be hiring managers for your career or folks who are in your industry you'd probably prioritize staying in touch with them as a college student.)

3. Put yourself out there. Whether that's attending networking events, going to recruiting/career fairs, or joining fun things like clubs or community experiences there are SO many ways to build a network that aren't traditional networking. Sometimes volunteering in the community can put you shoulder to shoulder with the CEO of a company in town or someone who could become a future mentor. If meeting folks in person isn't an option you could post on LinkedIn and start talking about what you're learning or things you've observed. Starting new conversations and building relationships online is possible and I've had some cool opportunities open up for me just by posting online and commenting on others posts.

No matter what your approach, networking is absolutely powerful and can make a huge difference throughout your career. Good luck to you!
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Jason’s Answer

Hey Ella,

There is no simple recipe to good networking. Especially in college. I think a big part of it is to immerse yourself and focus on getting to know others. You're going to join different clubs and groups. working with those folks to host events and meetings are akin to how networking works in the post graduation world. You'll find some type of commonality with others be it a shared hobby or some type of project. This will allow you both to work together and get to know each other both in a working capacity and outside of work. Take the time to get to know people, have lunch together, study together, go to events together. Networking is all about building relationships and sharing moments
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joshua’s Answer

Networking becomes much easier when you choose a college path and career that truly interests you. Throughout my journey, I've built connections just by being passionate about my field. Some of my most valuable mentors and connections appeared when I least expected it, drawn by my enthusiasm. I truly believe in loving what you do, at least most of the time.

I've also found that offering help to those who are struggling can lead to amazing networking opportunities.

Remember to be friendly, approachable, genuine, and honest.
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