3 Networking Tips To Try When You’re Still In College

Are you in college? If so, your professors might have told you that networking is going to be very important for your career. It's true that making connections and meeting others in your industry is essential, and the truth is that you don't have to wait until you graduate to get started. In fact, you shouldn't. These are a few networking tips that you can try while you're still in college so that you can help get your career off to a good start.

1. Start Branding Yourself Online Now

Even if you haven't graduated yet, you can still begin branding yourself online right now. Consider purchasing a domain name with your first and last name or the name that you want to use professionally in the URL, and build a website or blog that showcases your skills, education and experience. Also, consider joining professional social networking sites so that you can meet others in your industry, watch out for potential job postings and more.

2. Don't Underestimate Your Professors and Classmates

You may not want to spend any more time with your professors than necessary, and you may have never taken steps to really become too friendly with your classmates, either. However, your professors may be able to provide you with valuable feedback and information that can help you with your future and may be able to introduce you to other industry professionals. Likewise, your classmates might find out about jobs in the industry or might start their own businesses. Communicating with others from your school can be a positive step for your future.

3. Attend Optional Functions Whenever Possible

Even though you might have never thought about attending the various conferences, speeches and other functions that you might have found out about in school, it can be a good idea to do so. You just might be able to learn something, and you can meet other students and industry professionals. This type of networking can help you score jobs later, can provide you with valuable connections and can help you get involved in your industry.

As you can see, you do not have to wait until you graduate to get started with networking. Instead, you can get started right now. These are just three of many ways that you can branch out and start meeting people from your industry while you're still in school. Once you do graduate, you might just find out that these connections can help you find a job or otherwise excel in your new career. For more information, visit websites like http://www.ict.edu/.


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