It’s WHO you know: Career Networking Strategies For College Students

By: John Swartz, JobQuestU.com

College life is filled with class schedules, GPAs, homework, and those pesky final exams. However, it’s important to look beyond the textbooks and understand that the purpose of college is to begin building a professional foundation so that a quality job or graduate school is secured upon graduation.

Increased competition and lack of professional experience are frustrating job-seeking college seniors. A high GPA is simply not enough to grab an employer’s attention. Today’s career-minded student must understand the art of networking. Afterall, it’s not necessarily what you know, it’s who you know.

Networking needs to start freshman year – not right before college graduation. As author Harvey McKay says, it’s important to “dig your well BEFORE you’re thirsty.”

Consider these 5 networking strategies:

1. Others come first
Networking begins by building quality relationships and putting others first. Being courteous and thoughtful to professors, guidance counselors, and fellow students will create likeability – an underrated trait that employers covet.

2. Participate
Simply joining a club or fraternity is not enough. Become involved and make a difference – big or small. It will get noticed and respect will be earned.

3. After hours
Many college professionals offer “office hours” beyond the classroom. Get noticed and build a relationship with that professor, counselor, coach, or club leader. If attending a seminar or guest lecture, stick around after the presentation while 99% of the other students hit the exits.

4. Business cards
Business cards are inexpensive “miniature billboards” that leave a professional impression. Remember that collecting is more important than distributing. A business card collector is in charge of when to next initiate contact.

5. Consistency
It’s important not to abandon those relationships that have been created throughout the college experience. New classes and activities will be distracting, but consistently staying in touch will maintain that quality relationship.

John Swartz is a career development author and founder of JobQuest U, a career coaching service for college students. Learn more at JobQuestU.com or call 866.670.4JQU (4578).