The Power of Networking: How it Can Change Your Career Journey

Learn to be fully present with others and embrace the art of listening and learning.

There is power in human connection. It fosters creativity, new inventions, and discoveries. Look at all the marvelous discoveries and inventions around you right now; electricity, cell phones, cars, etc. None of these inventions would have happened without the interaction of people.

Interacting and talking with others allows us to understand one another and ourselves. It is truly amazing to sit back and appreciate our ability to talk, problem-solve, and debate with other people. We often forget the importance of these interactions. We get so caught up in our daily tasks that we can forget everyone else around us. Other people become obsolete.

Reflecting on my career path, I am grateful for the transformative power of networking. It has been an incredible catalyst for self-discovery and has led me to discover passions I never knew I had! When I took a leap of faith and started networking, little did I know it would lead me on a path of university recruiting, where I have found true fulfillment in helping students succeed in today's dynamic world. Networking can be scary, full of unknowns, but let me tell you, it is absolutely worth it!

Gone are the days of relying solely on job boards. The world of job seeking has transformed, and now, "who you know" plays a crucial role in landing that dream opportunity and getting your foot in the door. Building meaningful connections enables you to tap into hidden opportunities, gain industry insights, and showcase your unique value.

So, where do we even start in this world where we are so connected with people yet disconnected? Here are five tips that might help you start unlocking the power of networking.

Be Genuine:

Networking starts with authentic connections. Approach conversations with a genuine interest in others' experiences and aspirations. Listen actively, and remember, it's not just about you; it's about building meaningful relationships.

Attend Events and Conferences:

Hint hint: this is how I landed my dream job. Industry events and conferences are goldmines for networking opportunities. Why? Because you are around PEOPLE! Be bold, introduce yourself to new faces, exchange business cards, and follow up afterward to nurture those connections.

Leverage Social Media:

It's there! Use it! In today's digital age, social platforms are incredible networking tools. Engage with industry professionals, join relevant LinkedIn groups, and contribute to discussions to expand your network. My only warning is don't stay only behind the screen! See number two again: the value of in-person will always trump social media.

Seek Informal Interviews:

So important!!! Reach out to professionals you admire for a conversation. This can sound super intimidating, but simply ask to learn more about what they do and how they got there. Nine times out of ten, they will be willing to share with you! Start with searching for alums from your university you admire. This makes a connection easier because you already have a commonality.

Join Groups:

This is one of the most powerful ways to meet and connect with people. You never know who you might meet that will be essential in opening a door of discovery for you. These groups can be things such as an alum group, a young professionals group, etc. These supportive environments offer a setting to connect with like-minded individuals. Engage actively in discussions, share your expertise, and learn from others' experiences.

Remember, networking is not about collecting contacts but building meaningful connections that can help individuals grow personally and professionally. Embrace the power of networking. Together we can unlock doors to exciting opportunities and create a supportive community for everyone to thrive.