Unlocking Success: The Importance of Networking in Higher Education and Beyond

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The importance of networking in higher education and beyond
Networking is one of the most practical tools a student or graduate can use. Many job openings and internships are filled through personal contacts, so the people you know often matter as much as the grades you earn.

Networking is one of the most practical tools a student or graduate can use. Many job openings and internships are filled through personal contacts, so the people you know often matter as much as the grades you earn.

Start with simple steps. Attend campus events, career fairs, and talks by visiting professionals. Join a student chapter of a professional association in your field. Ask for short informational interviews with people whose work interests you. Keep your LinkedIn profile complete and current, and use it to follow up after you meet someone.

Follow-up is where most networking fails. Send a short thank-you note after a conversation, and check in a few times a year. Mentors are especially useful. One or two experienced people who know your goals can point you toward opportunities you would never find on a job board.

For online students, forums and virtual events can fill the same role as campus meetups. Our guide to networking best practices covers the basics, and the piece on optimizing your LinkedIn profile explains how to present yourself well. You can also read about using alumni networks in a job search and the return on investment for different master’s programs.

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