Network, Network, Network!

The concept of networking is drilled into our minds as college students approaching graduation. Networking is the single most powerful marketing tool for an individual or organization. Build connections and relationships with successful business professionals in your destined industry who can put you in contact with the right people to make your dream job a reality. Education, skills, and experience can only get you so far. Networking is key – it is all about who you know; better yet, who knows you.

The power of networking is so critical during your job search. I landed my summer internship by networking with family friends in my hometown. I applied for the position and fortunately knew someone that worked for the company who was able to put a good word in for me and helped me obtain the internship. I made so many valuable connections by networking with colleagues at company meetings, lunches and various other events. As graduation is approaching, I am reaching out to my current connections as well as building new ones.

In my social media marketing course at HPU, my professor instructed us to complete a social audit about our LinkedIn. This audit showed all of our connections by drawing out a diagram of how everyone was connected with one another. It was amazing to see how many people I was connected with and to see the mutual connections with others. My audit showed I had over 50,000 bridges of networking opportunities! This was an eye opener to me, emphasizing the importance of having a strong LinkedIn profile and fostering those connections and relationships.

High Point University’s Career and Internship Services office provides ample networking opportunities for students throughout the academic year. The Career and Internship Expo is typically held once a semester to encourage HPU students to network with representatives from companies across North Carolina. Representatives from various organizations visit HPU throughout the year and host a night in order to meet with students specifically interested in working for that company. There are even courses set up by the Office of Career and Internship Services that teach students how to network! As a student who has attended some of these networking events, I encourage students to take advantage of these opportunities while they have the chance.

Get yourself out there and network with professionals in your industry! Networking is vital and the perfect opportunity to market yourself and make yourself known. Remember, your net worth is only as good as your network!