This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Clark chapter.
For those of us who are about to graduate, finding a job and determining your career path can be super overwhelming! Luckily, there is one way to get a leg up on the competitive work environment: networking. Knowing how to network and leveraging your network is vital to finding career success and satisfaction. Here are 4 ways to master the art of networking!
- Change the way you think about networking. A lot of people feel that networking means schmoozing people and social climbing, but in reality it is a process of building and maintaining professional friendships. The more you see networking as a positive opportunity as opposed to a chore, you will be in the best mind frame to be successful.
- Find common interests. It is easier to build relationships and connect to people if you can relate on some level with a common interest. When you are going to a networking event, be prepared to discuss things that aren’t on your resume as well.
- Embrace what makes you unique. Accepting your differences can help you reframe them as advantages. Each of us has had our own experiences and it’s just a matter of showing people how you can bring your unique perspective to the table.
- Designate time to network. It is important to create time dedicated specifically for networking and to follow through. Some ways to do this are by attending events, setting up meetings, and checking in with people in your network.
- Practice ethical networking. Networking is a two-way street, and it is a lot easier if you are focused on lifting up other members of your network. At the end of the day if you are beneficial to other people, they are more likely to want to help you out in the future.
Hopefully these tips help you start your career off on the right foot and help you make the most out of networking. Congratulations and best of luck to the Clark class of 2017 in your future careers!