“Connecting with others is the first step to unlocking new opportunities.” If you’ve ever heard this phrase, you already know the immense power networking can have on your professional growth.
This is especially true if you’re pursuing a university degree because building relationships with professionals in your desired industry can open doors that might otherwise remain closed.
But how do you network effectively? And what role does digital networking play in today’s world?
In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know to make networking a true springboard for your career.
What Is Networking, and Why Is It Important?
Networking is the process of building and maintaining professional relationships with people who can add value to your career.
In other words, it’s not just about meeting people—it’s about forming meaningful connections with professionals who share your interests, expertise, or career goals.
And what is the point of all this?
Well, networking serves multiple purposes:
- Access to job opportunities
Some positions are never publicly advertised, as many companies prefer to hire through referrals and direct contacts. A strong network increases your chances of landing these hidden opportunities.
- Learning from experienced professionals
Surrounding yourself with seasoned experts allows you to gain insights, receive valuable advice, and improve your skills through knowledge exchange.
- Increasing your visibility in the industry
The more people associate your name with a particular field, the more likely they are to recommend you for projects or roles. This is particularly useful during career transitions, whether you are changing jobs, launching a business, or seeking growth opportunities.
That’s why we recommend starting to network at university. Because the connections you make now can evolve into future collaborations, mentorships, or job offers.
How to Network at University: Practical Tips to Get Started
Your college years are the perfect time to start building your professional network. But how do you do it? Here are some tips to help you maximize the opportunities available to you:
1. Attend Events and Conferences
Universities often host talks, workshops, and networking events with industry professionals. Attending these events will allow you to meet influential people in your field and learn from their experiences.
2. Build Relationships with Professors and Peers
Professors are not only educators, they also have connections in the professional world. Engage in class discussions, ask questions, and show genuine interest in their expertise. And don’t overlook your classmates! They could be your future business partners or collaborators.
3. Join Student Organizations and Clubs
Getting involved in university clubs or associations expands your social circle and connects you with like-minded individuals. In addition, many of these groups invite guest speakers from the industry, providing additional networking opportunities.
4. Start Using LinkedIn Early
LinkedIn is more than just an online resume, it’s a powerful digital networking tool. Don’t wait until graduation to set up your profile. Start connecting with professors, classmates, and industry professionals. Share insightful content, engage with posts, and participate in discussions to increase your visibility.
5. Keep In Touch
Networking isn’t just about making initial contacts, it’s about nurturing them over time. Stay in touch with people you meet at events or during internships. A simple message to check in or share relevant information can help keep you on their radar.
As you can see, university is an ideal environment to start networking without pressure. Make the most of it, and you’ll see how these connections can shape your future career.
Digital Networking: How to Use Online Tools for Professional Growth
As mentioned earlier, LinkedIn is a great platform for digital networking, but it’s not the only one.
You can also participate in forums and specialized communities like Reddit, Discord, or Slack.
These platforms are ideal for networking, as they have groups of professionals from different sectors that share knowledge, answer questions, and discuss industry trends. Joining these spaces and actively participating in the conversations will allow you to meet people in your sector and learn from their experiences.
Another option for digital networking that has gained popularity in recent years is webinars and online conferences. During these events, you will have the opportunity to interact with the speakers in real-time. So take advantage of question turns and connect with attendees after the event through their social networks.
Content creation platforms also play a critical role in digital networking, as having a blog, YouTube channel, or even a TikTok or Instagram account related to your industry can boost your credibility and attract valuable connections.
In addition, following professionals you admire, commenting thoughtfully on their posts, and contributing valuable insights to discussions can increase your visibility and generate opportunities to connect with experts in your industry.
Finally, don’t underestimate the potential of e-mails. If you read an interesting article by someone you admire or attend an online event, send them a message expressing your interest in their work or mentioning a specific point that caught your attention.
Networking is an investment in your future, and college is the perfect place to start.
At CIS University, you’ll receive a high-quality education and access to networking events, industry conferences, and opportunities to connect with professionals and students worldwide.
Here, networking is part of everyday life. So, if you want to boost your career and surround yourself with a global community supporting your growth, we’re waiting for you.
