5 answers
Adam’s Answer
- Dont make the mistake of networking just to get a job/career. Networking is really making connections that you can call on potentially for the rest of your life for many different interactions. Some connections may be short-lived or not work out for the long term, that's ok. Once you have established a connection with someone dont just think of it as a means to an end. Get to know that person as an individual (not just a part of your "network"), as in time you may be able to share things that are outside the initial contact reason/s. Finally on this point, put effort into keeping in touch with those folks that you connected with as I have people from all of my previous roles that I am in contact with sometimes once a year and sometimes only at longer intervals. There will be times when they may want to lean on you as part of their network !!!
- Dont limit "networking" to only events where there are career fairs or student open days. Once you get Whilst it may seem intimidating, be prepared to talk to people who are in an industry/company that you may want to work for in the future. This may mean contacting the company and asking to talk to their recruitment department or Human Resources team. it may not lead to an instant job but will give you valuable contacts that can guide you on your journey and is true "networking". Give it a go and dont be put off if get some people who dont engage you as each company and individual are unique.
- Talk to your extended existing network around you as sometimes this is overlooked in the goal of formally looking to network for a job. As examples sometimes by just talking with some of these existing relationships, it can lead you to more quickly grow part of your network. (family, friends, school careers advisor, local store keepers that you have talked to as a kid, sporting coaches/colleagues etc). It is likely you will have many networks over time, so consider doing a map on paper or computer that shows linkages rather than keeping it all in your headspace. Put you in the center and then draw a line to each person, and a line to those who you have met via them and so on. You never know where one network link will lead to in your life. Good luck, hope these help....
Jillian’s Answer
- Have a solid resume and LinkedIn profile - ask someone in your desired field to look over them or go over them with someone at your career center
- Have a list of companies that you definitely want to talk to and do some research about them so once you meet the recruiters you have talking points to bring up
- Have an anecdote on hand about yourself and why you think you'll be a good fit for the company
Bonus: Dress the part and be confident! You've got this! Good Luck!
Carolyn’s Answer
Informational Interviews can be a very powerful networking tool!Talking to someone about their career, their advice, and their job (without the expectation of anything other than advice in return) can build very strong networks. And, people will often think of you for future opportunities they think you will be interested in. Ask someone for an information interview that you are genuinely interested in their work and you are acquainted with or that you can be introduced to by a friend, family member, or peer.
Mark’s Answer
Networking can be tricky, especially without focus and a plan. If you are indeed going to a career fair, you must be the best version of yourself. Jillians' responses were spot on. I would add that you might have a list of qualifying questions to compare companies at the fair. Benefits, dress code, bonus plans, health plans, and corporate culture are a few great questions to ask to define where you would like to work. Remember, these companies at job fairs have jobs to fill, so be ready with your "elevator pitch" about yourself. Good luck!
Manhal’s Answer
Pretty good question, So usually must be build strong knowledge regarding the technologies to be someone confidant all of I talking about it came by stude-self and then you can catch some of the certification like CCNA R&S track after get all of I mentioned to it you join the market and get good position.