5 Networking Tips for New Grads
Graduates of 2020: Congratulations! You not only finished a pivotal chapter in your educational career, but you have conquered this goal in uncharted waters. Now that you have submitted your final projects, closed your laptops and celebrated with your friends and family, it’s time to look towards the next chapter! That’s where we come in: as your staffing experts, the team here at NW Staffing Resources has composed a list of networking tips to assist you in your job search.
1. Be clear about your goals
What industry and position are you targeting? Do you have a specific company in mind that you’d like to learn more about? Do some research to gain an understanding of company culture and values. Make a list for yourself and be clear about your goals before you start networking.
2. Look to your circle
You mentors and teachers, friends, parents, aunts and uncles, and family friends are a great place to begin when you are starting your networking journey. These people already know you, have a stake in your development and want to help you succeed. Ask them for connections to colleagues or others within their network.
3. Be flexible
Flexibility is a life skill that will always serve you well. A job search provides many opportunities to practice flexibility. For example, when you land an interview be flexible regarding what works for your interviewer to meet with you. Whether that means you meet them at their office for socially-distanced coffee, or virtually during their lunch hour. Or perhaps you meet them for a walk in the park after work; remember they are taking time out of their day to invest in you.
4. Take advantage of temporary work
Temporary work can be a great option for a variety of reasons. For example, if you’re looking to earn money while you wait for your dream job to open up, or want to get your foot in the door within a specific industry. Working with a staffing agency to find temporary, freelance or project work is a great way to connect with and learn from people in your industry. Sound interesting? Start on our Job Seekers page →
5. Follow up
Send a thank you note. Thank the individual who connected you and thank the person who took the time to meet with you. Did they have any additional connections or leads for you? Make sure to put a reminder in your calendar to reach out to them again to follow up on that. As you keep the conversation going, you will stay front of mind.
If you are interested in learning more about networking and connecting to a job through NW Staffing, please contact us here!
