Often we feel reluctant to get ourselves involved with extracurricular tasks, events or even to talk with our professors apart from our studies. This ultimately lands us in the maze of the same chapters of life, that barely does have success in it.
‘Networking’ usually refers to building connections, knowing people, and helping others or receiving services from people. Research shows that people with higher networking land much better jobs with higher salaries and promotions than people without networking. Having been connected to more people, both inside and outside your organization, who know the project you are working on with your ambitions and skills, the more the chances are for you to get that particular position you have been dreaming of.
Moreover, as you are building connections, you also get more scope to get valuable feedback on your project and gain tips on how to excel, which makes a way for you to grow and perform at a higher level.
Get involved in tasks other than your study that build up communication
Join clubs, communities, social works, seminars, and programs and be constantly engaged in that work, do not fall off while working in those areas, as staying connected for longer periods will help build stronger networks. For that, what is necessary is, building connections with like-minded people, talking to people whose interest in work aligns with you, maintaining strong bonds, and creating such an impression of value, kindness, and worth that will make them refer you to other people when needed.
Communicate with your professors more often
It is a significant part of student life to build a good connection with professors who would have you at the back of their minds for your value, passion, and dedication to a particular work. As they have students who might be currently working at a higher position right now or the positions that you are seeking might be easily achievable with recommendations from your professors. More job opportunities and connections are available to professors than anyone else.
Reach out the kind of people you want to work with
Oftentimes, connecting to people or getting involved in works that do not align with our interests, leads us to jobs that cause boredom or dissatisfaction. Hence it’s quite important to reach people who inspire you or those, within whom you see value. For instance, alumni of your department or friends from other departments who are working on a project of your interest.
Know how to ask for a favor
Everyone you know is willing to help you, if you know the right way to ask. Do not ask for favors that require all the work only on their part. Instead, be specific on your requests and show your value to them, which will make them interested to refer you when an opportunity arises. For instance, while asking someone to connect you with a specific person, do not directly ask to introduce you to that person rather say, “Would you be interested in introducing me to a certain person as I am working on this project and I have this value to offer that I know he will be interested in”
Show them interest and lead with value.
When you show them your interest in them it gives additional benefits of knowing their work more, having a good moment of conversation with them hence, to remember you. Ask them about their goals, what they are working with now, and their goals ahead. It allows you to give value (even if you don’t have any to give now). Next, send them some research, articles, videos, or journals that go well with their work, or connect them with someone from your network that you know will help them with their work. Show that you are interested in helping them.
Get on a call for a deeper connection and follow up with your value
Although this part is optional, it is highly recommended, as it helps build deeper connections. Especially at this age of time when no one actually can assume from behind the device about your manners, how you talk, or what kind of person you are face to face, going on a call with them really engraves your name on your memory. You can just dial their number or even have a Zoom call meeting with them. Next up is staying connected to them with the outcome of the work they helped you with. This step works with maintaining connections when you see a long gap between the meetings. You can just send them some of your work that you think will help them in their project or just simply give a follow-up on your ongoing progress.
Follow up with an ask
Now the step that comes is you ask favor of them. This step comes last as without a proper connection, you might get your work done by immediately asking for a favor, but that won’t be sustainable and last long. Hence, after building a strong connection there you go and ask for the job opportunity, any resource that you are seeking, or sharing your profile with someone who is seeking people with your potential to work.
With all these effective and invaluable tips, I hope you start working on your networking that takes you to heights and see jobs coming your way instead of running behind them. Remember, it’s who you know is more important than what you know.
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Writer
Alima Zaim
Intern, Content Writing Department
YSSE