4 Simple Ways To Becoming Empowered In Your Networking Journey
Growing up, I had a picture-perfect example of what good networking looked like: my mom. She could make connections anywhere—at the grocery store, on a plane, at the farmer’s market—you name it. Still, as I went through college and began to navigate post-grad life, I found networking to be downright scary.
Everyone makes networking seem simple: talk to strangers, make a good impression, and hope it leads somewhere. Easy enough, right? Not really.
When you’re a college student or even a recent graduate, many of us fall into a newbie rut where you feel like you don’t know anything and have nothing to offer in return.
I’ve found myself comparing my own experiences to working professionals and thinking:
“I’m not good enough”
But here’s what I often forget and you’re probably forgetting, too: they were once in your shoes.
Networking over the last few years and especially online throughout the pandemic, I’ve learned a few things I wish someone would have told me when I first began networking. In an effort to make your experience more empowering rather than anxiety-inducing and intimidating, here are four tips to help you get started on your own networking journey:
1. Reach Out To People You Already Know
One of the easiest ways to network is to start with connections you already have. You’d be amazed by the diverse connections your professors, peers, and even family have. The thing about networking is that it builds trust, and that sense of trust can make you stand out from other job candidates in your field. Each industry is a little different, but who you know can make a big difference. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for connections; it means you have initiative.
2. It’s Okay To Message People On LinkedIn
This used to be one of my biggest networking fears. I always worried people would find it weird that a total stranger was reaching out to them with questions. I’m here to debunk that and tell you it’s not weird; LinkedIn was literally created to make networking easier. Just think, if someone reached out to you asking for advice on something you’ve done, wouldn’t you want to offer your expertise? Professionals on LinkedIn are the same way, and your message doesn’t have to be complicated. Try something like this:
“Hi James, I’m a recent graduate of American University and am interested in Creative Writing. I’d love to chat with you sometime about your experience working for The Modern Publishing House. Thank you!”
And if it’s any consolation, I’ve messaged people from huge companies I really admire, and a few times, I’ve gotten responses back. At the end of the day, people are people—connect with them!
Networking eBook:
Easy Hacks to Make Networking Painless and Effortless
3. Have Reasonable Expectations
Don’t go into every networking opportunity thinking you’re going to strike gold. Sometimes you’ll get a question answered, sometimes you’ll click with someone and find yourself with a few new open doors, and other times, you might get professionally ghosted and never hear from them again.
As long as you’re being professional and putting your best foot forward, all of these outcomes are totally okay. You win some, you lose some, and what matters most is that you keep learning and remain open to possibilities. You never know where your connections could lead. Keep reaching out and stay committed to putting yourself out there.
4. Remember Your Why
Why did you choose your current career path? What made you want to get involved in your chosen field? If you get overwhelmed and feel out of your depth while networking, remind yourself why you want to do what you want to do, and communicate those thoughts to who you’re speaking with.
People love to hear others talk about what they’re passionate about, and authenticity makes a huge difference to potential employers. Ask questions on things you’re genuinely curious about, not just things you think they want to hear. Ultimately, that’s what makes the difference between just networking and making real connections.
Remember...
It’s easy to look up to others who have done and are doing everything you’re dreaming about and only focus on the huge, intimidating gap between where you are and where you want to go. But I challenge you to take baby steps and know it’s okay to reach out and learn from others.
Networking is a learning curve like anything else, and it’s going to take some time to get the hang of it. But in my experience, people are almost always willing to help and provide advice where they can. Just start with one simple connection and go from there!
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Meet The Writer!
Hello! My name is Lea Rose and I am an avid writer with a love for all things international. I recently graduated from UNC Charlotte with degrees in Communication Studies as well as Dance Performance and hope to be a full time travel writer one day. My writing primarily focuses on the ways places and experience shape us as individuals. Please feel free to check out my blog or connect with me through LinkedIn or Instagram @writtenworldblog.
