Networking
It simply starts with genuinely engaging with people — those you already know, and leading to others — to learn about their careers and to share your hopes and goals in a professional way. The goal with networking is to build relationships.
Personal contacts and networking are consistently the largest source for learning about the first jobs of new Virginia Tech graduates, after the undergraduate degree.
We ask each academic year’s seniors; 18% – 45% of new grads got their jobs through networking contacts and referrals (this varies by year and by undergraduate college and major).
Before you get hired, people need to get to know you. Networking is a way of getting to know people, and getting people to know you. Real networking is relationship-building, not just making online connections with people who don’t know you.
Online Networking
When you think of networking, you might immediately think of LinkedIn. Right now, LinkedIn is the primary tool online tool for professional networking.
Check out this Ultimate Guide to LinkedIn for Students
A professional photo is typically included on a LinkedIn profile. Don’t have one? Make an appointment today with our iris Photo Booth.
