Getting the Most Out of Networking

Springtime for many college students means searching for or finalizing that coveted summer internship. Once you’ve, hopefully, been successful in this search, the journey is far from over! Networking constantly, and networking well, is an absolute must for those looking to establish themselves as a prominent figure in their field. 

Here are some easy ways to make the most out of networking:

1. Keep Your Head Up: Just because someone is not interested in connecting or does not make time for you should never be taken personally. Many professionals are simply just caught at a bad time or are extremely busy and this is no slight to you. 

2. More Is Better: When it comes to networking, there is never such a thing as too much. Set goals for yourself and get in the habit of making frequent connections. If you take it upon yourself to reach out and connect with one person every day of the week, you can easily see your connections soar into the hundreds by the years’ end!

3. Two-Way Street: Remember, you want to make your connection valuable for the other party as well. You want something from them (that’s why you are making the connection, after all) but remember to show what you have to offer them as well! Let the other person speak instead of you running the conversation and see what they are working on. Offering advice or assistance in their projects can be extremely beneficial to both parties!

4.Always Be Prepared: Some of the best networking opportunities could come when you least expect it. Try to always keep a business card handy when you are out!        

5. Diversify: Go beyond your industry; you do not need to network exclusively in your field. Down the road, you might need the assistance of someone in a different field!

6. Follow Up: Maintain your relationships! Following up and keeping in touch with the connections you make is important. If you connect with 100 people and never keep in touch or follow up, all of your hard work could have been for naught!

Remember, it isn’t enough to just make the attempt to network with other professionals, but rather to know how to network well to maximize your opportunities and connections.

This guest blog post was written by PRowl Public Relations staff member Chris Krochak