Laura Bevans is a Career Zone Employability and Careers Consultant based at on Penryn Campus, working with students across both Devon and Cornwall.
In today’s competitive job market, the power of networking cannot be overstated. For students and recent graduates, establishing meaningful connections can be hugely impactful in launching a successful career.
However, the word ‘networking’ can often be intimidating and have somewhat a stigma attached. Cue misconceptions of agenda-led conversations with refined ‘elevator pitches’ and images of schmoozing. But don’t let the word intimidate you. Think of networking as an umbrella term for making connections, building valuable relationships and having meaningful, authentic conversations.
As a University of Exeter student you have the opportunity to attend a wealth of networking and special interest events including careers fairs, employer networking events, alumni panels, special events, workshops and more. Events are really valuable for exploring job opportunities, keeping up to date with the latest industry news, meeting like-minded people and building new contacts, developing specialist knowledge and more.
‘As a University of Exeter student you have the opportunity to attend a wealth of networking and special interest events including careers fairs, employer networking events, alumni panels, special events, workshops and more.’
So what does it take to be good at networking, and how do we weave networking best practice into what we do? Whether you’re attending an event or exploring societies and special interest groups, here are some essential tips to help you navigate the networking jungle and make lasting impressions.
Research. Use the event registration page or website in advance of the event to identify any key information you would like to take away and to find out who’s due to attend, getting an idea of the people that you might like to speak to.
Impactful introductions. Prepare and practice your introduction (elevator pitch) to introduce who you are, your skills and your career aspirations. Consider referencing key research projects as part of your course, employability schemes, work experience or volunteering, to demonstrate your values, motivation and alignment with industries/opportunities that interest you.
Be genuine and authentic. Be friendly and genuine, you don’t always need to give it the hard sell. Show interest in others and be open to sharing your own experiences. Authentic connections are more likely to lead to meaningful relationships.
‘Think of networking as an umbrella term for making connections, building valuable relationships and having meaningful, authentic conversations.’
It’s not all about meeting potential employers. Don’t rate the success of a networking opportunity on how many potential job offers you get. Meeting people with industry insight, expertise and connections shouldn’t be undervalued – think about all of those recommendations & potential collaborators as well.
Collaboration is key. Don’t be afraid to share knowledge and information – collaboration is a real strength, adds value to a conversation and demonstrates a sought-after skill in practice.
Utilise online platforms. Actively engage with content, follow event accounts and hashtags, join groups, engage with speakers and find out what people are talking about, on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok. Ensure your profiles are up to date, professional and showcase your skills and experiences.
Less can be more. Don’t worry if you only made a couple of contacts at an event – it’s better to have fewer conversations with more value, than lots of conversations with none.
Build and nurture relationships. It’s not just about gaining new LinkedIn connections, TikTok followers or business cards, it’s about building relationships. Connect & get in touch with people you meet, following up on any conversations or actions.
For me, the most important takeaway from attending an event is that you feel like you’ve gained something. Be it a job opportunity, knowledge or advice, inspiration and ideas, contacts or even a new friend.
‘For me, the most important takeaway from attending an event is that you feel like you’ve gained something. Be it a job opportunity, knowledge or advice, inspiration and ideas, contacts or even a new friend.’
Networking is a lifelong skill that evolves with your career. By starting now and through developing consistency, you will build your confidence in not only understanding what you can gain but what you can contribute too.
Leverage the opportunities that are available to you throughout your studies. Attend alumni events, join relevant societies, reach out to Alumni and engage with the Career Zone to attend skills sessions and evolve your networking skills as you go.
Put your networking skills into practice at the Part Time Jobs Fair, Wednesday 31 January 2024, 10:30am – 2:20pm at Social Street on Penryn Campus. Find out more about our Careers Fairs here.
Keep up to date with the latest events and workshops from the Career Zone on Instagram at @uoecornwallcareerzone (Cornwall) and @uoecareerzone (Devon).