Networking 101

We can all agree that mastering professional networking is necessary for career success, particularly for college students looking to land an internship or launch their job search. 

• 85% of jobs are filled through networking (LinkedIn 2016)

• 70% of professionals in 2016 had a connection to the company (LinkedIn 2017)

• 80% of professionals consider networking vital to their career (LinkedIn 2017) 

While most of us understand the NEED to network, the greater challenge is learning to network WELL.

Checking off a to-do list that includes memorizing a 30-second introduction, perfecting an elevator pitch, and attending countless business networking events with the sole purpose of getting a job may not be the best strategy for building genuine connections with the right people. 

On top of that, we as a society have been connecting less and less. Research indicates that people’s professional and personal networks have been shrinking by 16% (by more than 200 people) since the pandemic (Harvard Business Review 2021). The implication here is that now more than ever, students need a thoughtful networking strategy to thrive in today’s business world.  

Here at Ripple Central, we believe that the goal of networking is to establish an opportunity for people to want to know more about you. Every conversation in any business or social environment is an opportunity to make an impression that could result in true opportunities, but also genuine, lasting relationships.

As Michael Port, networking expert and author of numerous bestselling books puts it, networking is about “developing deeper relationships with people you already know.” The bottom line is, there are no shortcuts when it comes to meaningful networking.

Here are four actionable strategies for college students looking to up their networking game. 

Know where to Fish

A big problem college students face when it comes to networking is WHERE they do it. Organized networking events attract the same kind of people looking to do the same kinds of things, which can make it difficult for you to find the right company.  

Instead, go with a more niche approach by targeting industry and company-specific events, workshops, and professional training. You should also leverage online platforms like LinkedIn to find opportunities to meet other professionals who work in fields you’re interested in. 

Differentiate yourself

The ordinary approach at networking events is to talk about your resume, your experiences,  and what you offer, which is the expected, yet largely impersonal and mundane approach. While there is a time and place to discuss your credentials, it’s better to first show recruiters and professionals that you have a good understanding of the industry at hand and that you understand their business. 

While you don’t want to come across as a “know-it-all,” demonstrating your knowledge and expertise shows professionals that you’ve taken the time to understand their industry, which sets you apart from other networkers. It also helps professionals understand how they can benefit from what you have to offer, both personally and professionally. 

Never stop learning 

Take the time to learn about your dream job or dream company. Attending informational sessions and conferences are good ways to understand more about the careers you’re interested in and to understand a company’s culture. You should also reach out to recent graduates and alumni who are in positions you’re interested in to understand their day-to-day work routines. 

And in line with differentiation, it never hurts to keep up with the latest trends in an industry you’re looking to break into. Reading business magazines, publications, and articles will give you valuable insights and knowledge that will help you stand out in any networking opportunity and demonstrate your unique value proposition. 

Connection is Key 

Lastly, before you put your knowledge and experience on the table, you need to find a way to connect with the people around you. Diving right into business-talk can turn people off and make them feel you are insincere. 

Instead, learn more about who they are and what they do, and maybe they’ll be interested in knowing about you as well.  Here are a few questions to get you started.

• What brings you to this event/conference/training?

• What do you love most about what you do?

• What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Networking can be difficult

Creating meaningful relationships takes courage, practice and commitment. It’s a skill that’s especially important to grasp early on. That’s why we created the Pond Community where we practice connection together.

When you become a member, you get ongoing content and coaching from hand-picked guest experts, live Q&A and group coaching led by Steve Harper, free passes to virtual 8 Minute Ripple™ networking events, member-only moderated forums and directory, and endless tools and resources to support your learning.

Our mission is to help you develop, grow and strengthen more actionable, mutually beneficial personal and professional networks. We offer the training, tools and a community that can help you grow the key relationships you can rely on for your success.

Join us alongside other members who stand to become some of the critical and influential people you need in your life and business.