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What is the best way to start networking?

Hello! I just finished my junior year of high school. With senior year coming up, I want to start networking more with professionals in jobs I am interested in. I have to admit, I am not the most extroverted person out there, and I want some tips!

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Caleb’s Answer

Hello Kayla,

Here are three actionable strategies, drawn from my personal experience, that you can implement:

1.) Understand your social media audience - It's crucial to distinguish between your personal and professional social media profiles. Maintaining a professional image on public-facing media is a given, but remember, platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, TikTok, SnapChat, and Instagram each have their unique dynamics. Use these platforms effectively and strategically to engage with professionals in your field.

2.) Don't hesitate to connect with industry leaders - If you're interested in a particular career, don't shy away from reaching out to top professionals in that field for advice or mentorship. The worst they can do is say no. You can contact them via email, social media, or a direct phone call. If you don't get a reply, don't be disheartened. Many professionals are busy and receive a lot of unsolicited messages. Persistence, coupled with a genuine and unique approach, will eventually grab their attention. Once they understand your intentions, they'll let you know if they're willing to assist. In my experience, most are.

3.) Learn from your peers - Encourage mutual growth by connecting and networking with your peers. While you don't have to reveal all your strategies, it's beneficial to share, learn, and support each other as much as possible. This collaborative approach will help you build a robust network more swiftly. Remember, two heads are often better than one, and a team committed to a single goal can achieve much more than an individual.

Bonus tip: Leverage LinkedIn Networking - Identify successful professionals in your desired field and study their achievements and profiles. Connect with their peers and repeat the process. If there's something specific you want to learn from them, don't hesitate to engage them in direct messaging!
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Asli’s Answer

Ask family and friends - leverage who you know
Search LinkedIn
Show curiosity and ask questions when you meet people
We agree with the previous answers.
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Kariuki’s Answer

Starting to network, especially if you're not naturally extroverted, can feel daunting. However, there are effective strategies you can use to build connections with professionals in your fields of interest. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Leverage Social Media and Online Platforms
LinkedIn: Create a professional LinkedIn profile. Connect with professionals in your areas of interest, join relevant groups, and participate in discussions.
Twitter: Follow industry leaders, participate in Twitter chats, and share insightful content related to your interests.

2. Attend Events and Webinars:
Look for local and online events related to your fields of interest. These can include industry conferences, webinars, and meetups.Prepare a few questions or topics for discussion to ease the initial conversation.
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Ryan’s Answer

Great job starting to think about careers! As an introvert myself, I've found people are usually happy to talk about their work. Here's a tip: identify companies you admire and use LinkedIn to find acquaintances or friends who work there. Send them a message explaining that you're a high school senior exploring career opportunities and would love to chat for 15 minutes to learn more about their job. Good Luck!
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Michael’s Answer

Hi there - networking is one of those things that seem much harder that it actually is. I would look on local event pages (Facebook, MeetUp for example) and see if there are networking opportunities near you.

To prepare, I'd write down an 'elevator pitch' aka write a little talk track about your interests/passions/what you want out of life and your career and try to keep it casual and succinct. Practice this pitch a few times so you feel comfortable and confident to introduce yourself using it at networking events. Just remember, everyone is there for the same reason as you - to network and meet people. It's not deeper than that and anyone who is out there judging people - is probably someone you would not even want in your network!
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Shruti’s Answer

If you're not naturally outgoing, the first step is to muster the courage to engage with others. Remember, when meeting new people, they're just fellow human beings like you!

Here are some practical ways to begin networking:

1. Seek out local events or job fairs related to your field of interest. LinkedIn and other social media platforms are excellent tools for finding these opportunities.
2. When you meet people at these gatherings, be proactive in connecting with them on LinkedIn. If they're willing, schedule one-on-one meetings.
3. Look for internship opportunities to expand your network within a professional setting.

Best of luck on your networking journey!
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Linda’s Answer

Hello Kayla, it's fantastic to see you planning ahead and considering how to expand your network at this early stage.

Instead of just focusing on how to grow your network, why not take a broader view? Think about how you can enhance your networking abilities as a whole, so you're fully prepared to make the most of any opportunities that come your way in your future career.

Part-time jobs in sectors such as retail, restaurants, and bars can be a treasure trove for honing your people skills and becoming more at ease with initiating conversations. Additionally, consider joining debate clubs or toastmaster clubs. These platforms can help you get used to speaking spontaneously on various topics in a supportive environment.
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Caroline’s Answer

Hi! It's great that you want to start networking. Networking can feel overwhelming and challenging at first. But just like anything, the more you do it, the easier it becomes! To make things easier for you, I suggest coming up with a quick 30 second- 1 minute introduction. This will help you start conversations more easily and then give the discussion room to naturally grow from there. In this quick introduction, consider adding the following-- your name, high school location / year, industries/roles you're interested in, and any fun facts or hobbies. For in-person networking, I also recommend starting with a firm, confident handshake to get the conversation started. Good luck-- you've got this!
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Levi’s Answer

Absolutely! Consider visiting your nearby BNI group. It's a fantastic opportunity to meet local business owners and professionals. They could be an invaluable resource for you. It's a promising step towards your success!
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Shiyu’s Answer

Hello Kayla,

It sounds like you're aiming to expand your network to uncover job opportunities. If that's the case, I would recommend minimizing text-based interactions with your networking contacts, and instead, strive to meet them in person. Face-to-face meetings are typically more effective, and it's less common for people to turn down requests when they're made in person.

Before your meeting, it would be beneficial to plan ahead. Consider what you hope to gain from your conversation and what questions you'd like to ask. And remember, sending a follow-up email is a crucial step. This not only shows your appreciation for their time but also reinforces your interest and commitment. Good luck!
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Anna’s Answer

I would suggest volunteering. Planned parenthood, local clinics etc. Also if you’re in school you more than likely will have to intern somewhere which is great experience and also a way to establish your work ethic and reputation with a company.
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Nikolaos’s Answer

Hi Kayla,

Congratulations on finishing your junior year! Starting to network at this stage is a great idea! You can always start by leveraging online platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your fields of interest. Attend local industry events or online webinars and try to actively participate by asking thoughtful questions. I understand that you may not be the most extroverted person, but if you give active participation a try, you might find it easier than it seems or realize that all you needed was just a start. Another idea would be to volunteer in organizations related to your interests. This not only helps you gain experience but also puts you in contact with professionals. Last but not least look for formal mentorship programs at school or in your community. A mentor can provide guidance, introduce you to their network, and help you navigate your career path.

Hope this helps! Good luck with all your future endeavors!

Best regards,
Nikolas
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Ebonee’s Answer

Hello Kayla!

A big round of applause for successfully wrapping up your junior year of high school! Brace yourself for the thrill of senior year, which promises to be as exhilarating as your first year. If you've already decided on your preferred field of study and career path, it would be beneficial for you to look into organizations that offer internships or volunteer positions during the summer. This could be a fantastic stepping stone for you. It will provide you with a glimpse into how the organization functions and equip you with a range of skills that will be invaluable as you gear up for college. Remember, you don't need to be the life of the party to make connections. All you need is an eager spirit, a readiness to learn, and a passion for what you enjoy. You're going to do great! Best of luck on your journey!
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Rebecca’s Answer

Thank you for your question. I am glad to hear that you would like to start networking in the professionals.
Below are my suggestions :
1. You can consider to start networking with the senior students who have taken similar as yours
2. Attend the talks or seminars organized by the departments of colleges you have interest. Start to network with the participants as well as the speakers.
3. Attend the seminar organized by industrial bodies
4. Check if any interest groups on some social media or linkedin
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
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Emma’s Answer

One of the best strategies to expand your network is by engaging in conversations with your teachers. They might be aware of opportunities or have connections with individuals who could potentially assist you. LinkedIn is another excellent platform for establishing connections. There, you can directly communicate with recruiters or professionals. Involvement in activities like clubs, volunteer work, and community events can also be beneficial for networking and discovering potential employment opportunities.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Kayla,

Best Way to Start Networking

Networking is a crucial skill that can open up numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. Here are some tips on how to start networking effectively, especially as a high school student:

1. Identify Your Goals: Before diving into networking, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of what you want to achieve. Define your career interests and goals so that you can target the right professionals and events.

2. Utilize Social Media: Social media platforms like LinkedIn can be powerful tools for networking. Create a professional profile highlighting your skills, interests, and aspirations. Connect with professionals in your desired field and engage with their content.

3. Attend Events: Look for local career fairs, workshops, or seminars related to your areas of interest. These events provide excellent opportunities to meet industry professionals, ask questions, and make connections.

4. Reach Out: Don’t be afraid to reach out to professionals directly via email or LinkedIn. Politely introduce yourself, express your interest in their work, and request an informational interview or mentorship opportunity.

5. Join Clubs or Organizations: Consider joining clubs or organizations at school that align with your career interests. This can help you connect with like-minded peers and potentially meet professionals who are involved with the group.

6. Volunteer: Volunteering for causes you care about not only allows you to give back to the community but also exposes you to a diverse network of individuals who may have valuable connections in various industries.

7. Practice Active Listening: When engaging in conversations with professionals, practice active listening by showing genuine interest in what they have to say. Ask thoughtful questions and demonstrate your eagerness to learn from their experiences.

8. Follow Up: After networking events or meetings, don’t forget to follow up with the individuals you connected with. Send a thank-you email expressing your gratitude for their time and reiterate your interest in staying in touch.

By implementing these strategies and stepping out of your comfort zone, you can gradually build a strong professional network that may prove invaluable as you navigate through your academic and career journey.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

Harvard Business Review: The Harvard Business Review is a well-respected publication known for its insightful articles on business-related topics, including networking strategies and professional development advice.

Forbes: Forbes is a reputable source of business news and insights that often features articles on networking best practices, especially for individuals starting their careers.

LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a leading professional networking platform where users can connect with industry professionals, join groups related to their interests, and access valuable resources on networking effectively as a high school student.

These sources were consulted to gather expert advice and tips on effective networking strategies for individuals at various stages of their careers.

God Bless You,
JC.
Thank you comment icon This is excellent! Agree completely with this. When I was in HS and College, volunteering was a great way to network in the field I was interested in. Getting involved in groups in HS if they are offered is an excellent way to hear from guest speakers and expand your networking. Christina Montgomery
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Walter’s Answer

If you are not much of an extrovert, then you'll probably want to pursue jobs that are introvert-friendly. And you will find that the people who have those jobs are, themselves, also mostly introverts. It can indeed be challenging to build a network of introverts! Introverts are often more comfortable in online forums rather than in in-person situations, so one possibility is to hang out and join discussions on topic-specific group forums such as reddit or Facebook Groups. Then if you find someone who seems to be consistently polite, friendly, thoughtful, and informative, and not a jerk, you may be able to DM them individually and build a more individual relationship.

If you have an idea of what area you are interested in, many professions have professional groups that have student chapters. For example, I'm a member of the Audio Engineering Society (AES) and we welcome student members. Attending the meetings of these groups can be a great way to meet professionals in the field who have an interest in helping the next generation.
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Jamine’s Answer

Greetings! You're on the brink of a significant milestone that will require a number of crucial choices. To simplify the process in the coming year, I recommend utilizing a few key resources.

Firstly, check if there's a local professional organization in your city or town. Attending one of their meetings could provide you with the opportunity to network with individuals already working in your desired field.

In addition, LinkedIn can be a valuable tool for locating virtual groups related to your interests. While Facebook also hosts such groups, I would advise making LinkedIn your primary platform for this purpose.

Furthermore, don't hesitate to contact your school's guidance counselor. They might be able to put you in touch with school alumni who are currently working in your field of interest. This could lead to a phone or Zoom conversation where you can ask about their daily routines and overall experience in that role.
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Joyce’s Answer

Begin by chatting with people you're already familiar with. Strike up a conversation with your school friends and inquire about their parents' professions. If you come across a parent who works in a field that piques your interest, don't hesitate to ask your friend to introduce you to them. Feel free to ask about the skills they utilize, what they enjoy about their work, and how they landed their job. Remember to express your gratitude with a 'thank you' and don't forget to ask if there are other people they might know who you could chat with.

This strategy can also be applied with other individuals like teachers, career advisors, and even professionals you already know, such as doctors. Moreover, to get better at having these kinds of discussions, consider reaching out to people outside your age group at local clubs like Toastmasters. This can provide a great opportunity to practice these conversations.
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Christopher’s Answer

Hey Kayla! Just like the others have mentioned, a great place to kick-start your networking journey is through online platforms such as LinkedIn. LinkedIn is an amazing platform, mainly focused on fostering business connections, be it within your own country or globally. By building a robust profile that reflects your interests and actively participating in online discussions or activities, you'll see your self-confidence start to bloom.

When you feel you're ready to take the next step, I'd suggest checking out some local events or those nearby. It's a great way to observe how people interact with each other and get a feel for the whole experience. You'll be able to gauge whether you enjoy the vibe and decide your next move from there. If you have a particular interest, getting involved in both online and face-to-face activities related to that field can give you a glimpse into how things operate in that area. It's a fantastic way to figure out whether you feel at ease continuing down that path.

Hope this gives you a bit of direction!
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much! Kayla
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Tony’s Answer

Hello there!

I recommend initiating your journey by creating a robust LinkedIn profile and striving to establish as many significant relationships as you can. Once you've built a network, begin exploring your prospective companies. LinkedIn provides a list of employees from various companies, although it may not be exhaustive, it's usually sufficient. Try to identify any employees within these companies who have commonalities with you, as this will be beneficial when you attempt to connect with them.

When you're ready to send a connection request, ensure you're doing so via the LinkedIn website rather than the app. The website offers the option to include a personalized message with your connection request, providing a perfect opportunity to break the ice. Your message should commence with a friendly greeting, followed by highlighting the shared similarity, expressing your interest in their role, company, or career, and concluding with a compelling closing statement such as, "I'm eager to learn more about xyz, would you be open to a discussion?"

I hope you find this advice beneficial!
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Puja’s Answer

Hello Kayla! Kudos to you on completing your Junior year of High School - that's a fantastic achievement!
Why not consider volunteering with local organizations? Not only will you be contributing positively to your community, but it's also a great opportunity to strike up conversations with locals. You can learn about their professions, interests, and how they participate in different networking events.
Plus, if you're thinking about possibly heading to college in the future, why not plan some college visits? This could be a great chance to talk about various educational pathways with College Administrators and Students.

I hope this advice is helpful to you!
Best wishes,
Puja
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Jeffrey’s Answer

I suggest starting an Account on LinkedIn. Be careful about what information you enter there, and do not ever embarrass yourself by promoting your skills, talents, or education. If you do, your reputation will be tarnished for a very long time.

I started in April 2020, and while the pandemic has a lot to do with the slow start, I'm beginning to see positive activity on LinkedIn. Do not just start sending the word out to every person LinkedIn shows. Know what you are going for and target that particular audience.

Remember, it takes time to build a solid reputation, but it is straightforward to destroy in hours.
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Dylan’s Answer

Hey Kayla,

It's awesome that you want to start networking and I hope you're excited for your senior year of high school. I would definitely recommend creating a LinkedIn profile (have a parent help if needed) and connecting with alumni from your high school. Once you've connected with them you can reach out to them via email or LinkedIn to schedule networking calls where you can ask them questions about their jobs and what they do.

Hope this helps.

Dylan
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Jacqueline’s Answer

When reaching out to professionals, ensure your request is clear and easy for them to respond to. Frame your ask in a way that benefits both you and the person you're contacting. For example, instead of asking for a job, ask for advice or insights related to their field—this allows them to share their expertise while helping you.

Before reaching out, take the time to learn about the person’s role and the company they work for. Avoid asking irrelevant questions, like inquiring about finance jobs from someone in marketing. Tailor your questions to their experience to show you’ve done your research.

People generally enjoy sharing their stories and experiences. Ask about their career path, challenges they faced, or advice they would give someone in your position. For example, you could ask, “If you were in my shoes, how would you go about getting a job in tech?”

Reach out to people who share something in common with you, such as attending the same high school or college. Mentioning this connection can make it easier to start a conversation. For instance, you might say, “I noticed you graduated from the school I’m interested in attending. Could you share how your experience there helped you in your career?”

As an introvert, you might find it more comfortable to connect virtually. Consider asking for a brief 15-minute Zoom call or a virtual coffee chat. This approach is often less intimidating and more convenient for both parties.

Understand that not everyone will respond to your requests. It’s normal to receive a few "no's" or no response at all. Keep in mind that networking is a numbers game—if you reach out to 10 people, one might say yes, and that’s a great start.

If you're unsure how to phrase your messages or what questions to ask, use tools like ChatGPT to help brainstorm ideas. This can help you craft thoughtful and engaging outreach messages.
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Margaret’s Answer

Here are some practical steps you can take:

1. Start by setting up a LinkedIn profile. Use it to connect with classmates in your field of study and professionals who are already working in your desired career.
2. On LinkedIn, start following companies that align with your career interests. This will give you a broader perspective and prepare you for future discussions.
3. Make it a point to attend career seminars and other related events that offer opportunities for networking.
4. If you're in a hybrid work environment, ensure your presence is felt by regularly attending the office and interacting with colleagues. On the other hand, if you're working remotely, make an effort to connect with your team and others outside your immediate circle to understand your role and the organization better. Don't hesitate to turn on your camera during remote meetings.
5. Take the initiative to schedule meetings with others to introduce yourself and gain more insights.
6. Be proactive and volunteer for projects or assignments that are outside your comfort zone. This will not only broaden your skill set but also help you connect with others in the organization.
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Malysa’s Answer

Leverage your school and community events! Whenever you meet someone that is in a field or company you are interested, ask if they have suggestions for others to reach out to. Sometimes we procrastinate setting up that first meeting because we feel unprepared for the conversation, but remember people LOVE talking about themselves - so go in prepared with a few questions and they'll take the conversation from there!
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Kreshnik’s Answer

Well, a great first step is to get out there and attend industry events. Things like conferences, workshops, or even local meetups can be a fantastic way to meet people in your field. If in-person events aren't your thing, joining online communities can be just as effective. Places like LinkedIn groups or specific forums are full of professionals eager to connect.

When reaching out to someone new, a friendly message can go a long way. Compliment their work or ask about their experiences. It's always nice to offer something in return, too. Maybe you have a skill or some knowledge that could be helpful to them.

Following up after meeting someone is key. A quick note saying it was nice to meet them can help build that connection. And always be genuine in your interactions. People can tell when you're being authentic.

Don't be afraid to ask for introductions if there's someone specific you'd like to meet. Starting small with people you already know is a great way to ease into networking. Remember, relationships take time, so be patient.

Lastly, keep an open mind. You never know who might end up being a valuable connection. Everyone has something to offer, so be open to meeting all kinds of people.
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Kevin P’s Answer

Hey Kayla, I’ll let you in on a little secret… any networking event you go to, more than 90% of the people there feel the same way you do. They think it’s awkward, a little intimidating, stressful, and usually hope it’s over before it even starts. I say that because I’ve gone to hundreds of events to mix and mingle and after a while you do get more comfortable being uncomfortable. In doing so, this topic has actually come up and I’ve learned it’s actually a good ice breaker.

Now as far as where to find these opportunities or how to get started… most businesses and school have clubs or groups for just this purpose. Usually called Business Resource Groups, they offer the ability for like minded individuals to get together and exchange ideas and meet each other.

I would encourage you to not only look inside your field but more network in general. You’d be surprised at what you can learn from other ambitious people in different industries.

If all else fails, see if your city or town has a Chamber of Commerce. If so, they have a lot of groups for networking and they usually host them at a place to makes it easier to meet others.

Lastly, look through social media, neighborhood sites, other online platforms for events in your area.

Ask a friend to join the first and second event you go to and before you know it you’ll be a pro.

But when you’re a pro and you notice a new face in the crowd, go talk to them. They are probably anxious to be there and YOU can make them feel like they belong.

We all belong. Best of luck.
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Keith’s Answer

LinkedIn Profile
Maximize the potential of your current workspace and gatherings
Steer clear of office politics
Impart your wisdom generously
Never hesitate to seek assistance when needed
Become an active member of clubs/societies
Participate in career fairs and engage in conversations
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Biplab’s Answer

Honestly, I'm pretty sure most people feel nervous about networking, so don't sweat it!

Clubs, teachers, job fairs, and other recruiting events are a good way for you to meet and build relationships with professionals in various careers, and kudos to you for even thinking about that as a high school student.

You don't necessarily have to be extroverted, but if you come prepared with genuine curiosity and good questions for people you meet, they can help guide you to resources to dig in further including some tips on how to build a portfolio in an area that interests you that also is relevant to the career you're interested in.
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