Networking: College Grad Edition

Blog Three Networking: College Grad Edition

College Grads! You did it! You graduated! But now, you’re looking around thinking -what is the next step? How do you get your foot in the door and make the most out of networking? Well, we have your step by step guide to making the most of your networking!

Step 1-Make Business Card: You never know when you might run into a future boss in a coffee shop, Grocery Store, or even at the Bar! Make sure you always carry business cards with you wherever you go with all the CORRECT and up to date information.

Step 2- Meeting New People: Stay professional when meeting someone for the first time. Example: saying “Hello Mr. Smith” instead of “Hey Dave how’s it going?”

Step 3-Watch your body language: When you are looking to talk to someone or even waiting to break into a conversation, be mindful of your body language when you are just standing around. Don’t cross your arms or be sitting on your phone texting; look inviting and open to new conversations!

Step 4-Making those connections: Sometimes you just click with someone. That is great, until someone else is waiting to connect with the same person. Be mindful of others waiting around you and don’t hog someone’s entire time. As networking is about you making those connections with individuals, it is also about helping others make those meaning connections as well.

Step 5- BE YOURSELF AND BE AUTHENTIC: This might be the most important step of all. As you want to put your best foot forward, you also want to be true to yourself. Don’t lie or exaggerate things you have accomplished or done. Be yourself and be real. It can be difficult when you are trying to network on your own so be prepared to maybe step out of your shell and be outgoing! You can always go to your first networking event with someone else who works in your office, a friend looking to do the same thing, etc..

Finals Steps: Once you receive business cards from individuals you connected with, sometime within the next 48 hours, connect with them on LinkedIn! You don’t want them to forget they talked to you when you connect 3 months later J Always dress appropriately and don’t forget to smile!! You’re now ready to nail it!