Never in history has higher education been as accessible to the general population as it is today. But do we go to college just to get knowledge and the coveted diploma? Nowadays, networking takes on special significance, the foundations of which are laid just in the student years. What it is and why it is so important for students, you will learn in this article.
What is networking
The literal translation of “networking” is “a network that works,” that is, it helps a particular individual to adapt better and faster in society socially and professionally. It is important to note that the main rule of networking is the principle of mutual assistance. As is most often the case with “new fashionable” words – they are new only in sound. Networking, or in other words “connection”, has always existed and will always exist. A wide circle of friends and acquaintances can help you find a good job, get your child into a strong school, or obtain the necessary documents.
Benefits for students
It is at the student age that it is easiest to make and keep many acquaintances, which can be useful later on, in your adult life. Do not limit your communication only to classes, but expand your geography of acquaintances. It’s no secret that many of those who did poorly at university ended up having good (if not brilliant) careers, thanks to helpful connections and friendships. It is also important to be interesting and open to new interlocutors, genuinely interested in communication. Networking is the art of combining great friendships with their tangible benefits. So we recommend you to spend more time in different student parties, organizations where you can get networking. You may say: ‘Well, I need to write my essay first’. That’s a great decision but you also need to understand that sometimes you must choose what is more important for you.
How to Work on Networking
The college years are the best time to educate and expand the “network that works. Here are a few ways to expand and strengthen your networking:
- All kinds of student organizations, including international ones – just join them and participate in various events. If you’re in the process of finding a job, don’t hesitate to remind people you know unobtrusively.
- volunteer work – find something you like to do and don’t spare time for, then you will enjoy helping your neighbors (no need to go to a cat shelter if you like dogs – find something you like, because volunteering is not a job);
- networking in the campus. There are a lot of students who are seeking help with subjects. For example, you can provide help with finance homework, another student can be a professional essay editor.
The main rule of networking is not to forget old contacts. Acquaintances will disappear from your memory if you don’t remind yourself. Do not wait for the initiative from others, focus on the fact that you work for yourself.
Tips for introverts
For the withdrawn and intemperate people, networking can be a real challenge.
If you are an introvert, remember that:
- quality is often more important than quantity;
- you should value and develop the contacts you already have;
- you need to be an active user of the powerful weapon of our time – social networks.
Invest in your future – develop networking!
