In the midst of writing essays, running to and from classes, studying for tests and finding time for a power-nap, students might not think about finding time for networking.
Networking is the building of informal relationships with people who could help create career or business opportunities.
According to the Wall Street Journal, 94 percent of new job finders cited networking as their primary mode of job hunting.
Networking is about making contacts, building relationships and job searching, said Tess McKinley, assistant director of the Career Services Center.
Here are some questions and answers about networking.
When do students need to start?
McKinley suggested students begin networking early in their education. It helps build relationships that can become stronger over the years.
Where are the best places to search for opportunities to network?
Technology works with students who want to find networking opportunities. McKinley said www.careerbuilder.com, www.monstertrak.com, www.usajobs.com and www.internships.com are good Web sites to start from.
Communication Professor Carl Kell said students should begin networking within their major first because those professors can train students in skills that are specific to their major.
Who are the best people to network with over the years?
Being involved in various organizations can build the amount of people in someone’s network.
Engineering Professor Stacy Wilson said joining a professional society or local organizations that pertain to one’s major is a good way to establish professional contact.
“It builds a great relationship with people that know about the things you need to learn,” she said. “It is a great thing to know people in different areas of the country in the same field you are pursuing.”
How can students efficiently network during college?
Internships and summer jobs introduce students to people who are already in the career world.
Making a good, lasting impression can cause an individual to stand out and remind the employer of positive work ethic. It can also create good references when applying for jobs.
How can students make impressions when building relationships?
Apply a good work ethic and goals to any job, which can help with determination and drive, said Linda Rippy, political science office associate.
“Give it 100 percent every time, and go at it like it is a real job,” she said.
The Career Services Center advises students to discover BKKC. BKKC:
Be clear about employment goals
Know who you are,
Know what you want and
Communicate with contacts.
“Learn to listen,” McKinley said. After all, it is not all about you.”
Why is it so important that students network while in college?
Experience is important, but who you know is also vital.
Kyle McCafferty, a senior from New Albany, Ind., credits networking with giving him more opportunities while in college.
“I work for WKU-PBS because broadcasting is all networking,” he said. “Networking through this program has given me the chance to travel to different places to film different events, like the football games in Ohio. It has opened so many doors.”
For more information about how to network or career options available for certain majors, contact the Career Services Center at wku.edu/CareerServ/ or attend WKU Career Expo on Nov. 1.
Reach Jill Erwin at diversions@chherald.com.
.