Networking is the process of making personal and professional connections and building relationships. It is as simle as people talking to each other, sharing ideas, information, potential resources, job, or internship leads, and more. It isn’t always about trying to work towards an employment goal.
Why Network?
Networking is about building relationships that can help you learn, grow, and discover opportunities. Strong professional networks can help you:
- Learn about industries, careers, and workplace trends
- Gain insights into organizations and future job opportunities
- Connect with mentors, collaborators, and future colleagues
- Receive referrals, recommendations, and introductions
- Expand your professional visibility and confidence
- Build relationships before you need them
Who Should I Network With?
Networking isn’t limited to recruiters or hiring managers. Consider connecting with:
- Alumni working in careers that interest you
- Faculty, staff, and administrators
- Classmates and student organization members
- Supervisors, coworkers, and professional mentors
- Recruiters and industry professionals
- Community leaders, entrepreneurs, and business owners
Where Can I Network?
Networking opportunities exist in more places than you might think.
- On Campus
- Career fairs and employer events
- Student organizations
- Workshops and guest speaker events
- Alumni programs and mentoring opportunities
- Professional Settings
- Conferences and industry events
- Professional associations
- Chamber of Commerce events
- Employer information sessions
- Everyday Spaces
- Work and volunteer experiences
- Community events
- Family and friends
- Social and recreational activities
The best networking opportunities often come from conversations you weren’t expecting.
Know Your Goal
Before attending an event, identify:
- Industries, companies, or roles that interest you
- 2 – 3 questions you want answered
Research Ahead of Time
Learn about the employers, alumni, or professionals you hope to meet.
- Review LinkedIn profiles and company websites
- Identify alumni attendees if available
Prepare Your Introduction
Develop a brief introduction (often referred to as an elevator pitch), but be sure it is appropriate for the kind of event and networking goals you have. This means your introduction may change depending on the context.
- Who you are (major, class year, or current role)
- What you’re doing (relevant experiences, projects, or interests)
- What makes you unique (skills, strengths, or accomplishments)
- Where you’re headed (career interests, goals, or opportunities you’re seeking)
Bring Your Materials
Make sure you have whatever is appropriate for the event you are attending:
- An updated resume
- A polished LinkedIn profile
- Portfolio materials
Leverage Your Network
Ask staff, faculty, friends, family, alumni, and mentors for introductions and recommendations on who to connect with.
Start the Conversation
Introduce yourself and ask if they have a few minutes to chat. Most professionals are happy to share their experiences and advice.
Ask Thoughtful Questions
Use open-ended questions to learn about their career path, organization, and industry.
- What do you enjoy most about your role?
- How did you get started in this field?
- What advice would you give someone entering the industry?
Listen and Be Present
Focus on the conversation, show genuine interest, and avoid thinking about your next question while they are speaking.
Be Respectful of Their Time
Keep the conversation focused and concise, especially at busy networking events.
Follow Up
Send a thank-you email or LinkedIn connection request within 24 – 48 hours to continue building the relationship.
Additional Resources
Connect with CPP alumni mentors to learn about career paths, industries, and professional experiences from individuals who have been where you are today.
Gain advice, guidance, and networking opportunities that can help you explore careers, build confidence, and prepare for internships and future employment.
LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional networking platform. It can be used to explore career paths, build your professional brand, expand your network, and discover internships and job opportunities.
Getting Started
- Complete your profile with a professional photo, headline, About section, and relevant experiences
- Customize your LinkedIn URL so it matches your name and is easy to share
- Highlight your skills by adding technical and transferable skills that align with your career interests
- Show your work by including projects, portfolios, presentations, or other relevant accomplishments
- Build your network by connecting with classmates, staff, faculty, alumni, and professionals in your field
- Engage regularly by sharing updates, commenting on industry topics, and following organizations of interest
- Request recommendations from supervisors, professors, and colleagues who can speak to your strengths
- Join LinkedIn Groups and follow organizations to stay informed and expand your professional community
Why it Matters
Students who actively use LinkedIn are more likely to:
- Build meaningful professional connections
- Learn about career paths and industries
- Increase visibility with recruiters and employers
- Discover internships and employment opportunities
Follow the CPP Career Center on LinkedIn for career tips, employer updates, and upcoming events.
Whether you’re attending a networking event, career fair, employer panel, or informational interview, a strong elevator pitch helps you make a memorable first impression.
What to Include
A strong elevator pitch typically includes:
- Who you are (major, class year, or current role)
- What you’re doing (relevant experiences, projects, or interests)
- What makes you unique (skills, strengths, or accomplishments)
- Where you’re headed (career interests, goals, or opportunities you’re seeking)
Remember, if you’re speaking with different employers or industries, tailor your pitch to match the audience.
Simple Formula: Present + Past + Future
Present: Who are you today?
Past: What experiences or skills have prepared you?
Future: What opportunities are you pursuing?
Practice Your Delivery
Your pitch should sound natural, not memorized.
- Practice with friends, family, classmates, or Career Center team members
- Focus on confidence and conversation rather than perfection
- Be prepared to adapt your pitch based on who you’re speaking with
Example:
“Hi, I’m Bonita, a recent English graduate interested in journalism and media. Over the past two years, I’ve worked as a freelance writer for several lifestyle publications while building experience in social media and digital analytics. I’m currently seeking opportunities in entertainment, travel, or news reporting where I can continue growing as a storyteller.”
