Three Ways Students Can Network BEFORE Needing a Job

Students are busy. Their schedules are packed and they are constantly struggling to meet deadlines. Due to this hectic lifestyle, many times job searches, professional development training and networking is put on the back burner. While this is understandable, it is also a mistake. Students need to realize that they can’t just be focused on their immediate projects — they have to focus on finding internships and jobs. Networking is a big part of this. It is critical in today's competitive job market. However, many people don't realize that it doesn’t have to be a huge undertaking.

Here are three easy ways students can start networking before they need a job:

1) Connect with Previous Mentors 
​Your mentors are already invested in your journey. They care about your career, your well-being and your goals. Far too often people only reach out to mentors when they need something. While asking a favor is perfectly fine, it shouldn’t be the only time your mentor hears from you. Instead you should:

• Email them when you use a piece of advice they gave you. Let them know their ideas had a lasting impact on you.
• Like or comment on things they post. Show them you are invested in their journey as well. 
• Send them a card. This can be to say hello, during the holidays or even just to let them know you are thinking about them.

It is important to let your mentors know you value them at all times — not just when you are asking a favor. 

2) Engage in Social Media
Interact with people who are invested in the same topics you are. Even if you aren’t looking for a job at the moment, you never know who you might meet and what opportunities will present themselves down the road. There are numerous ways to connect with others over social media:

• Follow companies and experts. Comment on their articles and posts. Someone important might see your response and want to connect. 
• Join groups on LinkedIn. There are hundreds available. In the groups, you will be able to engage with people in similar fields you might not normally come in contact with.
• Have an opinion on your subject area. Write a blog or articles. Post them on your social media sites. Pose questions to your community. By doing this you open up an avenue for conversations to take place. It also positions you as an expert on your subject.

 
3) Attend Events
While social media is incredibly useful, it isn’t a substitute for connecting with people in person. There are so many ways to meet people with similar interests. You can:

• Sign up to speak at a conference or symposium. This way when you meet people during a reception, they already have a connection to you. 
• Attend panels and talks on your campus. Schools go above and bring in experts. Unfortunately many students don’t take advantage of this. 
• Got to a Meetup or an event in your community. Be brave enough to step outside your comfort zone and introduce yourself to someone new. 

During these events, have an elevator pitch ready. Be prepared to showcase what you are passionate about and what you are actively doing to pursue those passions. Remember, it is just as important to ask the other people what they do. Listen and engage. You never know what one small conversation can lead to.

Summary:
As a student it is easy to get overwhelmed and overlook opportunities. By taking some time to connect with mentors, engage on social media and attend events, you can easily expand your network. That way when you do need an internship or a job, opportunities will be much easier to find.