As social beings, we tend to find comfort in building relationships and finding meaningful connections with people. Throughout our lifetime, we are going to come across people in many different circumstances and situations. Some of these encounters could potentially lead to amazing opportunities for you in the future if you view them as networking opportunities. Networking, in the professional sense, is establishing connections with professionals who have expertise in their industry.
For many who have succeeded in their career, their success can sometimes be largely been contributed by the strong networking channels that they have created over time. Networking allows you to build relationships with people who can help you get to where you want to go. Although the importance of networking might not be taught in school, it is important for students to take the initiative to talk to professionals in their desired field and create opportunities for themselves after graduating. Read on to find out how networking can benefit students in the long run.
1. Opens Up More Job Opportunities
Throughout your university life, you are most likely imagining what life would be like once you graduate from school and start working. However, finding the right job opportunities and securing a position is not always easy. A hiring manager could receive hundreds of applications for any job opening. How will you, as a recent graduate, stand out from your peers?
Meeting new people can increase the chances of you being introduced or recommended to a suitable job opening. Build good relationships with the right people, and it can make all the difference. These meaningful connections with others working in your preferred field give you the opportunity to keep up to date about which companies are hiring, what these companies expect from candidates, and what it really takes to secure a job in the industry you want. They may also be able to give you tips on future employment opportunities before they are announced to the public, which gives you an advantage over the many who will be applying for these coveted positions.
Take advice from these experienced individuals to find out what you can do to boost your resume. Discussing your work with new connections offers a unique perspective. Netwroking can help you build a strong foundation for a supportive relationship that you can depend on throughout your professional years.
2. Keeps You Ahead of the Competition
Statistically, we see an increase in the number of those who are attaining higher educational qualifications. The number of degree holders in Singapore is only increasing. Amidst this crowd, how you can ensure that you remain ahead and stand out from your peers during the job hunt?
Networking can help you learn about the latest industry developments or business techniques. This exchange of information is at the heart of networking. Having this information could benefit you greatly during job interviews when potential employees ask you about your familiarity and knowledge of the industry. The wider your network, the more knowledge you have access to, to aid you in your subsequent job hunt.
3. Builds Confidence
Communicating with industry professionals can help to build up your communication skills and teaches you how to interact with other professionals. Especially for those who are shy or introverted, networking is a great way to boost your confidence. It will also be really useful for job interviews, as you will feel less jittery when speaking to your potential employer since you already have practice speaking to an industry professional.
Networking can also teach you how to succeed in making lasting connections, and this would help you excel in client communication in the future. The more effectively you network, the more self-confidence you build over time.
Tips for Networking
You might be wondering – as a student, how can you go about networking? Attend more networking events and start with events organised for students first. Don’t be afraid to make the first move. Confidence can go a long way. Reach out to professionals on LinkedIn and interact with them online first. It also shows that you are willing to take initiative.
Do your homework on their industry or field so that you can ask them thoughtful questions during your first meeting. Also, ensure that you have your CV/resume and portfolio ready for anyone who asks for it. If you are too busy to get your resume done, you can always rely on inkmypaper’s professional resume writing services, proofreading services or grammar check services to help you.
Find out more about our services that can assist you in your networking journey today.
