What exactly does the word “Networking” mean? I’m sure you hear this word around campus, in your classes, and pretty much anywhere you may be meeting new people. By definition, networking means “the action or process of interacting with others to exchange information and develop professional or social contacts”.
So I’m sure you’re wondering, where do I get started with networking. Here are some simple ways to get yourself out there:
- Hint, hint…visit the Pitt Career Center. We always have events going on, that can be found in Handshake. And we are literally here to help you start meeting employers and alumni! It is never too early to start networking. Get started by meeting with our Alumni in Residence.
- Start utilizing LinkedIn and other social medias to research companies and connect with recruiters, alumni, and people who are doing what you want to do. Not sure where to get started with LinkedIn? Here is a helpful resource.
- Start getting involved on campus! You can find a full list of organizations and club on the Student Organization Resource Center.
- Start chatting with your professors, faculty, and staff members that you meet with around campus. You never know who they can connect you with, and what advice they can offer you!
- Utilize the people you already know! Family, friends, employers, and your fellow students. Share with these people your interests, and make sure they all know what you are doing. Use your holidays home to catch up with these people!
- Volunteer! Volunteering allows you to meet people who are also passionate about doing the same things you are.
- Attend local networking events. No matter where you live or where you are from there are tons of events happening! You can always look for young professional organizations, such as the Pittsburgh Young Professionals.
Don’t be afraid to ask someone to get coffee or have a phone call to learn more about their experiences and build a strong network. I guarantee that you are networking more than you think, so be intentional and by the time you graduate I am sure you will have 20+ individuals you can reach out to to help you find a job!
Now that you are prepared and know some tips for networking, attend our Engineering & Technology Networking Night on October 12th at 5:00-7:00 p.m. There will be professionals from a ton of great companies such as: Google, MSA, Sarcos Technology and Robotics, Lanxess, Bayer, Eaton, Williams, CBM, Wabtec, DICK’S Sporting Goods, SMS group, and BNY Mellon.
