Stay Connected: Tips on Networking on Social Media and In-Person
Series 1: Sharing Our Stories: Advice from the NMRC Youth Council
The NMRC Youth Advisory Council developed the Youth Insights: NMRC Youth Advisory Council’s Advice Colum to provide young people a platform to share their experiences and insights on mentoring. This advice column creates an opportunity for peer-to-peer knowledge-sharing and a space for offering recommendations for mentees, mentors, and practitioners from the youth. By leveraging the experiences and perspectives of young people, the NMRC Youth Advisory Council seeks to promote a culture of mentorship that is informed, inclusive, and responsive to the needs and aspirations of young people.
If you’re interested in reading more blogs in this series or accessing additional resources created by young people, click here.
What are some tips for networking in-person and online?
a. I am a generally shy individual, so when faced with my first opportunity to network, I tended to stick with the people I knew and didn’t put myself out there to connect with others. For me, that shyness was something I knew I could overcome by changing my mindset about the concept of networking itself. Rather than solely viewing it as a means to achieve professional success, I chose to see it as a way to meet new people without the pretense of “using them” in the future. When meeting someone in person, it’s always beneficial to present the best version of yourself, whether it be in how you are dressed, your demeanor, or your attitude. This is the impression that will be associated with your name going forward, and will tend to define future interactions. You should also always allow your passion to shine through in your intent rather than through a list of achievements when attempting to impress someone. Rather than focus the conversation on a recent accolade, discuss your professional goals for the future and make an effort to understand the experiences or expertise of the individual you are talking to. LinkedIn has been the most beneficial resource for online networking to create professional connections without the added stress of in-person interactions. It is a great platform to keep up with connections’ professional lives while also being able to update your network about your recent undertakings. – Kamal
b. Networking can be difficult and can seem overwhelming! However, networking can begin with a simple and easy effort, such as re-connecting with people you already know and expanding your network through those existing connections. There are so many ways to connect with others that are not as intimidating as they seem! For example, simply updating your LinkedIn and connecting with groups online can put you out there. You could find an internship that will benefit your academic and professional success and connect you with others in your desired industry. Networking can seem intimidating, but once you meet new people and form natural connections, you will realize that networking is just social connection in a professional context. –Emma
c. Networking is an immensely important skill that proves to be valuable in many situations. Practicing to build a network will prove to be beneficial in the long run! In person, it is super important to be straightforward and confident when introducing and connecting with someone. Your confidence will show your interest in adding the person into your network! Always remember to exchange contact information, whether that be through phone, email or even a business card as it is super important to stay in touch with the person. Online networking is a little bit different, but can still prove to be very effective in building your network! Make sure to create and personalize your online profiles to make you stand out on the platform! Here you could add skills, relevant coursework, work or intern experience and anything else that provides value to your profile! Another way to connect with people online is through virtual webinars, where you can always connect with the speaker(s), or even the participants in the webinars. Joining online communities and groups is also a great way to connect with people that follow up with your skill set and interests online! To build a genuine connection, always be authentic and respectful! In my own experience, personal emails work the best, here I personally express my interest to the person in my field which details my experience and how I can relate to them. A passionate and genuine email has always worked in my case to connect to people and ask for things such as volunteering or possible internships, or even just a call to learn more about their experiences! -Aaryan
How do you maintain relationships with those you have networked with?
a. The easiest way to maintain relationships with those in your network is through social platforms, such as LinkedIn. It’s important to keep up to date on the position/changes in the professional lives of your network so you don’t incorrectly assume anything when reaching out to them. It’s always good to periodically check in with connections like past mentors just to let them know how you are doing. Don’t only reach out to someone when you need their help since it may come across as ingenuine. If you communicate consistently with someone, then they will be much more likely to refer you to opportunities they find. Also, when you find openings or opportunities that may be a great fit for people in your network, pass along that information. Sharing knowledge and information with those in your network allows those you connect with to be more receptive to you and reciprocate knowledge sharing or opportunities with you; in this way, the relationship is a two-way street. -Kamal