University life is very busy with classes, internship searches, and midterms. During this period, young people find themselves forced to look for an internship, a student job, or a work-study program to support themselves or to gain experience that will enhance their resumes. Obviously, this process is not easy, and they must develop a network of contacts that will help them in their quest. It is therefore important to create, develop, and maintain a professional network. This is the key to gaining visibility, being offered more opportunities, and collaborating. These are undeniable advantages associated with networking, if it is carried out effectively and effectively.
The appeal of networking is well established, but young people may not know where to start or how to approach it. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to build and develop your professional network.
Creating a professional network
Students can begin building their networks by utilizing a number of media and tools that facilitate professional encounters. Among the tools to leverage is LinkedIn, in addition to school forums and alumni associations, known as Alumni. Meeting a professional in an informal exchange is generally stress-free and relaxed. It's an informal interview, but it can be decisive for a future career.
Generally, young students start to network when they are looking for an internship or when they are entering the professional world . This is when they realize the importance and usefulness of networking. Indeed, a good network of contacts can be effective in finding an internship, a student job or a stable job. You should not wait for the late trigger; rather, you should be proactive by activating a few levers in advance.
Networking for more opportunities
Networking is very important for a student, as it allows them to access every nook and cranny of the job market. Especially where the most interesting offers and opportunities are hidden and are only accessible through recommendations. It is also an effective way to meet several people, which allows them to understand the professions, career paths and useful experiences, in order to better work on their professional project .
Creating a professional network
To make contact, you need to be able to start a conversation and break the ice. For a student, it is recommended to contact professionals by adopting a research approach, preparing questions in advance and studying their profiles beforehand. This allows for a qualitative exchange, which will be appreciated by these professionals. This is not an opportunistic approach, because while the student must build their network, it is also an opportunity for these professionals to survey the generation that will be active in the job market in a few years. Without forgetting that the exchange will be as rewarding as it is pleasant for the other party, who can speak freely about their career path.
It's also important to keep the conversation flowing after you've started. For shy people, this can be a bit tricky, so you need to prepare by practicing your presentation pitch, for example. Afterward, the conversation will flow more naturally, and you shouldn't hesitate to take notes during the conversation. After the interview, it would be highly appreciated to send a message to the professional to thank them for their time and advice. This courtesy can pay off greatly and is a way to stay in touch in anticipation of future official meetings. It's advisable to keep a directory of people you've met to build your network slowly but surely. Don't hesitate to follow them on LinkedIn, which is a very effective professional network.
Where to start?
A student's networking will be easier and more effective by starting with their close circle, such as professors and school officials, before moving on to companies. Immediate networking can be a good gateway and a real vehicle for building one's network. Don't hesitate to use family, friends, professors, and other immediate contacts. These can put the young person in touch with good connections that can be useful in their career. Exploiting alumni, student associations, and junior enterprises can be a gold mine for sharing experiences among students. Indeed, former graduates, for example, can provide advice and tips for expanding one's network and taking advantage of all possible opportunities. The study period is the best time to develop one's professional network, as it is halfway between learning and practice.
It's also worth taking the opportunity to get a referral, which can open several doors and establish new professional contacts. It would be possible to get such a referral by using your contacts on LinkedIn, for example. To succeed, you must demonstrate professionalism in order to build a reliable and serious network.
Whether it's a first contact, an informal interview, or a formal meeting, it's imperative to adopt the right tone. Exchanges must be relevant and informative, especially since the contacts are active people with busy schedules. It's recommended to approach networking in a disinterested manner to avoid disappointment if the response is delayed or negative. It's best to discuss current events or the company's activities before discussing your career plan. Once contact is established, the student can then explain their search for an internship, a work-study program, or a job. Above all, avoid discussing it from the outset.
