Networking strategies

An important first step to networking is to determine who is in your network. It is a good idea to compile a list of folks you know who you may want to reach out to. Consider who you know personally and come into contact with regularly. The following list may help you to get started:

It’s easiest to start reaching out to the contacts you know well (e.g., friends or family). You may be surprised by how many people know, and any of these folks may be able to refer you to contacts in your chosen field (McCormick, Salganik & Zheng, 2010). You can ask the folks you know well to help you by critiquing your networking approach.

Once you feel comfortable speaking with your closest contacts, move on to your acquaintances (e.g., classmates, parents of friends). Alumni of the University of Waterloo can be valuable contacts who are often very receptive to helping current students. Look for alumni on LinkedIn or speak with your professors to learn about getting in touch with alumni from your discipline who now work in your field of interest.

Tip: Ensure everyone in your network knows what you can do and what you are looking for. Even if they have no immediate leads for you, they will be in a better position to act on your behalf when potential opportunities do arise.

Did you know that networking is a little bit like exercise? You know you can exercise to improve your health, but until you find an exercise plan that works for you, it can be challenging to stick with it. Networking is similar. A plan of networking that works for some doesn’t work for others.  

Below are some networking strategies to consider. As you review these tips, reflect on what works with your personal style, comfort level, connections and sense of security. 

Connect with associations: 

Associations related to your field may also be helpful in linking you with useful contacts: 

• Joining associations will increase the likelihood of their assisting you (Zabel, 2008) 

• As a member, you will receive valuable industry information and have the opportunity to network with other association members, some of whom may be in a position to hire 

• Being active in an association (e.g., working on a committee) allows you to demonstrate your skills  

• Associations aren’t only open to professionals in the field: many are open to the public, and most encourage students to join by offering reduced membership fees 

Connect with professionals through referrals: 

It can be helpful to initiate contact with your referrals and researched leads with a networking email or LinkedIn message with the goal of setting up a phone, virtual or in-person meeting. 

Open yourself to others through events and opportunities: 

• Attend conferences 

• Join campus clubs 

• Volunteer to work with an organization in your field 

• Join online listservs/discussion groups 

• Attend job/career fairs 

Engaging with others as you go: 

Beyond having a planned approach to networking, don’t underestimate the value of speaking with people you meet everywhere to add to your contact list. When you are at an event, you might give yourself a goal of talking to at least two new people.