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aking professional con- nections is very similar to, if a little more formal than, making connections in a class or via social media. If you're uncomfortable with connecting in person, consider how its similar to connecting virtually. If youre uncomfortable with both, read on for some net- working tips. The key to get from awkward to comfortable while network- ing is planning and practice. But it's hard to practice talking to recruiters - the stakes feel too high! Start by connecting with your peers, your class- mates or other attendees at recruiting events. At any event, you can ask other attendees the reason
How to Boost Your Visibility Through Networking
why they are there and what interests they have. Network- ing with peers is great. Peer mentoring is hugely beneficial and feels like less risk since peers don't have the power to reject you for employment. You don't have to make last- ing connections with every- one you meet. Talk to a lot of people. Find those that have things in common with you. Build offthose similarities to forge stronger, more meaning- ful connections with them.
Why is networking important?
The why of networking and making connections is probably obvious to you. The more connections you make, the more people you know and the more resources you have available to you when you want to learn more, collabo- rate on research and/or look for a job. But the how can be a little trickier. The secret is: you already know how to make connections. If you have worked on a group project, joined a study group, played a team sport or commented in an online community, you've been forming connec- ions. Forming profession- al connections is fundamentally the same thing.
How should I network with a recruiter?
Approach recruiters like the people they are. You already know why they are there to recruit, and you should already know what they're recruiting for. So, you can tailor your con- versation to help them learn more about you. Tell them a little about your goals, your background and the positions at that organization you've already looked at and are interest- ed in. Ask if the position(s) seems like a good fit, or if there are other positions they might recommend for you. Ask about the next step on how to apply and if you can reach out to them at a later ime. Ask about things that arent available on the organiza-
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