People kick around the word networking, but what does that mean, especially to college students? Why is it that some students walk out of college with a job offer and some can't seem to find an opportunity?

The answer more often than not will fall to a single key skill: networking. It's about building the professional network that sets the stage for success while in college. How does one even begin to network when still struggling with classes, exams, and a social life?

This guide will help you understand the importance of networking and also walk you through how to build a strong professional network while being a student in college.

Why do college students need networking?

Ever thought of why some students happen to be acquainted with almost everybody and that job was available to them before you even start thinking about it? Indeed, research firm LinkedIn estimates that some 85% of all jobs are filled via networking.

So, it isn't something 'nice' to do: Building a professional network is quite crucial for one's career advancement. Networking opens up invisible job markets and opportunities for mentoring or learning from the experiences others have.

It further helps in matters relating to internships, collaborations on projects, and even with advice on a career choice that resonates with one's interest.

The Foundations of Networking: Start Early and Be Genuine

It's not something that would be catapulted by some fancy event or a nicely put together LinkedIn profile; rather, it comes from curiosity and the desire to interact with people. College will be great soil for this kind of substantial relationship that may bear fruits in professional networks.

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you build a good professional network while in college:

1.Start with Your Existing Network

It's already in place; you simply need to realize that. Professors, classmates, alumni, and even family friends can be your first pool of a network.

You can start with the following:

• Utilizing Your Professors: Make sure to get to know professors and utilize their office hours. Most professors have full professional networks; therefore, they are able to connect you to industry professionals, recommend you for an internship, or even write strong letters of recommendation.
• Campus Organizations and Clubs: One should join student organizations in areas of interest and be active members. Events, workshops, and guest speakers are a few ways such groups can help students network with similar peers and professionals.
• Follow up on all your high school contacts. You never know who might be employed by businesses that you might like to work for. Sometimes it's keeping in touch with old friends that opens unforeseen doors.

2. Attend Workshops, Conferences, and Networking Events

Have you ever realized the number of networking opportunities that you could be missing out on? Most colleges host career fairs, workshops, and networking events. Events like these are definitely a great opportunity to get connected with your future mentors, employers, and collaborators.

The following are just ways to do so:

• Be Prepared: Research some of the speakers and the companies they represent. Prepare a few talking points or questions in advance to illustrate your knowledge and interest.
• Craft Your Killer Elevator Pitch: Most of the time when you meet a new person, you'll get a few seconds. Create a really short, attention-grabbing statement that can introduce who you are, what you do, and what you're looking for.
• Follow Up after the Event: According to Harvard Business Review, most people will not do this. Send a customized email or connect on LinkedIn and thank them for having a tete-a-tete with you, suggesting further engagements.

3. Use Social Media Strategically

It is not all about selfies and memes; social media can be a great networking tool. Be it LinkedIn, Twitter or even Instagram-all of these sites will work in connecting you with pros in your field. Here's how to do it:

• Create a complete profile on LinkedIn. It should have a professional headshot, a compelling headline, and a summary. It must contain your education, skills, experiences, and volunteer work.
   
• Converse via Twitter and LinkedIn: Follow individuals, companies, and industry thought leaders. Create comments on their posts, share relevant discussion content, and converse. Over time, this can help you become more visible to your industry.
   
• Join professional groups: Most industries have a Facebook, LinkedIn, or specialty forum in which professionals congregate to share trends, discuss job openings, and more. These may be some great networking opportunities that one could use.

4. Find a Mentor

Think of them as an individual who can lead you through all those intricacies in the field that you have chosen. Having a mentor changes your life. The mentors will be able to advise you, share experiences, and further your career path. Here's how to find one:

• Identify Potential Mentors: These could be your professors, alumni, or any other professional whom you meet at some networking event. A good mentor would be one who has experience in the particular field and is eager to invest his time in your growth.
   
• Build a relationship: Do not just ask him or her to be your mentor out of the blue. First, develop a relationship through talking with them, taking interest in their endeavors, or asking them questions about any specific issues.
   
• Formalizing the Mentorship: Once the rapport has been developed, you can then ask formally whether they would be open to becoming your mentor. Make sure you say what you want out of the mentorship and how often you wish to meet.

5. Collaborate on Projects

Nothing bonds people as much as working together on projects. This could be a class project, a research project, or a startup idea. It might involve your classmates, professors, or even professionals beyond campus-what a great way to expand your network.

• Join or initiate research projects. Many professors seek out eager students to help them with research. It is a good way to work closely with faculty and get to know other students in your field.
   
• Volunteer for Campus Events: Volunteering helps you meet people outside of your immediate social circle, and the teamwork often leads to deeper connections.
   
• Start a Peer Study Group: Starting a peer study group does not only contribute to better academic performance but helps build a strong rapport among the members of the group that may be developed into professional relationships.

6. Develop Soft Skills

What's the use of networking if you can't communicate? Soft skills like good communication, active listening, empathy, and collaboration go hand-in-hand with effective networking. Here's how you work on them:

• Take courses on public speaking. So many colleges have courses or workshops on how to do public speaking. Being able to present confidently makes a big difference in networking.
• Practice Active Listening: Networking is not just about talking; it’s about listening. Show genuine interest in others' stories and experiences, and ask insightful questions. People are more likely to remember you if they feel heard and understood.

7. Create Your Personal Brand

Ever stopped to think about what makes you unique in your chosen field? Your personal brand is how you show up to the world. It's made up by your skills, values, and unique attributes.

• Make a Personal Website or Blog: Share your projects, achievements, and thoughts on industry trends. This could serve as a kind of digital portfolio and bring in similar-minded professionals.
   
• Be consistent across all platforms. This means having your social media profiles, LinkedIn, resume, and other sites all represent who you are and what you're seeking.

Networking can be intimidating for college students, but this is building for your future. It is not about the numbers in your contact list but about such relationships that will help you grow as a person and a professional.

Keep in mind, that the best time to start networking was yesterday, but the second-best time is today. Take the leap forward, reach the reward of growing your network and opportunities await you.
 

Join the Discussion!

What’s your biggest challenge when it comes to networking as a college student? Is it the lack of time, fear of rejection, or something else? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below! Engaging with your peers might provide new insights or even new networking opportunities!