Networking: The Student’s Secret Weapon
Getting a second degree (or finishing your first) can be a great tactic during a recession. You make yourself more employable and sit out the worst of a lackluster job market.
But there’s another secret recession-buster that works especially well for students-networking. Creating a strong network of “who you know” is one of the best ways to find a great job more quickly. And students are in a unique position to start creating a great network that you can rely on throughout your professional life.
Fellow students
Your fellow students today are going to be potential colleagues, co-workers, and sources of referrals tomorrow. Make a point of making LinkedIn or Facebook connections with any students you get to know as you’re pursuing your degree.
Instructors and professors
Don’t be afraid to let your professors know that you’ll be looking for a position with a terrific company, and to ask them for references or referrals. Don’t assume they’ll automatically think of you when they hear about a position-let them know you’re looking (and remind them every once in awhile).
Also, you’d be surprised at how much free career advice instructors and professors will give you if you come looking for it. (Most students don’t.) Swallow your shyness and ask what advice they’d give a budding professional in your field. Most professors will give you a wealth of information, and be impressed by your initiative.
Your school’s career center
Sure, everyone knows about this one, but be sure you’re leveraging it to its fullest. Make friends with some of the folks behind the counter, and show up regularly to keep your name and face fresh in their minds.
Be sure you aggressively apply for internships-these are one of the best ways to build a relationship with a company and gain solid, real-world experience. Internships are a low-risk way for an employer to work with you, and you may find after graduation that you’re a very attractive candidate as a permanent hire. If you can work multiple internships over the course of getting your degree, you’ll be that much better off when it comes time to look for a full-time position.
Last but not least
Create a networking plan for your college career. Don’t think of it as a self-serving activity, but just as a way to cultivate relationships with different people in your field.
Schedule time at least a couple of times a year to connect with each person in your network. Don’t just leave it to Facebook or email-try to get coffee and catch up face-to-face with as many people as you can.
With an impending recession and tight job market, “who you know” can make all the difference to help you stand out in a sea of eager candidates.
