Networking, networking, networking. This word has been thrown at me since Day 1 at Rutgers, and in the first few months I wasn't really sure what it meant. Sure, having connections is always a plus. But I've come to realize that networking is more than having connections. As Rutgers students, we have the opportunity to meet many, many diverse people as well as get involved in one (or more) of the different groups, organizations, and activities available. Networking is crucial; it's widening your reach, meeting new people, and staying connected with alumni and influential people who might someday land you an internship or even a job.
On Wednesday, I went to a Speed Networking event sponsored by Career Services. Networking was, well, networking, meeting people. Speed referred to part one of the event: spending three minutes conversing with a Rutgers alumna. To be honest, I was a little nervous even before I got there (since I'm not exactly an outgoing person). When I walked into the multipurpose room, I was overwhelmed by the rows upon rows of chairs, one alumna paired with one student. Everyone there was dressed really professionally, and it was a little intimidating. I think I talked to about 20 different Rutgers alumna, each working in different fields, such as business, life sciences, banking, law, and many more.
The second half of the event was more casual as we students mingled with the adults. I realized, as I munched on an ice cream sandwich, that this event allowed us students to network as much as it did the adults. As a student at Rutgers as well as part of the Douglass community, I saw then that I had a host of opportunities to connect with alumni, pair with older students for mentoring, and receive support from an extensive web of connections. It is comparatively difficult for people no longer affiliated with these groups to have the same chances to meet people.
To help you readers out with networking in the future, here are some tips:
1. Dress professionally.
First impressions are definitely important. The last thing you want to do is show a potential employer that you are sloppy, couldn't care less, disorganized, and, more often than not, a dilatory person who is never on time.
Guys: Suit up with a nice (ironed) shirt, tie, and jacket. Dress pants and black shoes are highly suggested.
Girls: Dress pants or a knee-length skirt work equally well. Find a blouse or jacket over a button-up shirt to match. And if you wear heels, make sure they're not too high because you will most likely be standing for a long time and that will hurt. Trust me.
2. Be honest.
Liars don't get anywhere.
3. Talk about something that sets yourself apart.
Showcase your abilities and your future aspirations in a creative way. Answer the questions, of course, but if you're doing something unique, let them know! I want to study pre-med and English...no, that's not weird at all.
4. Be confident.
What do you want to do in the future? Some freshmen know what they hope to do, some juniors have not yet finalized their majors. It's okay. You think you want to study Environmental Policy? Say that confidently. Who knows, maybe you'll meet someone or even secure yourself an internship with someone who works in that field.
5. Ask questions.
Your goal is to get information and learn. If you don't know something or want to know more, ask! On Wednesday, during the 3-minute networking time, I talked to an alum whose work sounded really interesting—it integrated psychology, spending time with children, and helping with the healing process. Right after the first session was over, I went to find her so I could talk more about how I could possibly get involved.
6. Say thank you.
Be polite, of course! And when the however-many minutes are up, smile, thank them for their time, and shake hands firmly.
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