It’s never too early to build a network in your field, and the sooner your start, the better off you’ll be. Though networking offers many advantages, gaining confidence through mentorship is reason enough to pursue your own network.
Georgia State has tips and resources to help you get started with this valuable task. Take this as a sign to get started!
Building Your Network
A network is a web of individuals you know professionally. With that mindset, adding just a few key members to your network can expand your web drastically.
Compile your resources so that your contacts have a place to reference your scholastic and professional experiences. LinkedIn profiles are a great way to share these facts about yourself in an accessible place. You can add a resume, headshot and make connections with any classmates or colleagues you already know.
Georgia State has an extensive list of networking opportunities for students who pursue them. Using the University Career Services Event calendar, find dates for upcoming career fairs, talks with employers and virtual interviewing courses. These free events provide a wide scope of opportunities to hone your job search skills and connect with individuals who work in your desired field.
Last, don’t be shy about asking for assistance. Many industry professionals got where they are because of mentors who helped them. In the same way, they look to impart wisdom to younger professionals. When you meet someone who you look up to, consider asking them to mentor you as you pursue the next steps in your career.
If you’re having trouble meeting a mentor organically, look for one with Georgia State’s Student Alumni Association. The University has a robust network of successful alumni who are ready to help students navigate their career aspirations and build relationships.
Sustaining Your Network
Keep in mind that networking has more benefits than simply getting a job – meeting individuals who work in your industry can lead to professional growth and learning opportunities. Think of networking as a continuous effort, seeking individuals with varying experiences and strengths. With a diverse network, you’ll always have connections who can offer professional advice.
In order to properly sustain your network, it’s important to keep your online presence up to date. Updating your LinkedIn with new opportunities and promotions, as well as connecting online with the professionals you meet, will continually keep you top-of-mind for building relationships.
Revising your resume on a regular basis will keep you prepared when opportunity knocks. VMock is a career assistant that uses AI to review resumes and advise students on how to improve. Georgia State students can use this service for free using their University ID, so be sure to take advantage of the resource.
Take Time to Express Gratitude
In your journey to grow and deepen connections within your network, much of the communication will be online. It’s in your best interest to push past the screen and seek personal relationships with real support. To do this, don’t forget about the value of little gestures.
In conversations with mentors or other contacts, put in the effort to remember personal details and ask about them when you meet again. In the same way, if a connection goes out of their way to help you in your career, express your gratitude directly. Whether it be a handwritten letter or dedicated email, showing your appreciation with a genuine gesture is never a bad idea.