In a comment to my post on networking “Gabriel Monge-Franco” asked:
“What if you’re new to the field/industry — a recent college graduate who knows nobody perhaps — then what? How do you start networking?”
In this note I will be covering some starters for recent college graduates, where they can start networking.
Internship: Most graduates have option to attend internships. Whether paid or volunteer – the internships offer a great chance to come in contact with people in your area of choice. I will advise students to chose internships not on the basis of earning potential but on the basis of networking potential. A sound network developed during the internship will go a long way in your career to become foundation of your professional network.
Networking with senior batches: A batch which has passed from your college a year before you will also be ideal target for initial networking. Usually they have first hand information about various companies and their employment procedures. And they will be a good start point in finding a contact in that company.
Networking through your faculty: Your college faculty will normally have good contacts in industry and other academic institutions. They may lead you to right contacts in some situations.
Online Professional Networking: You can use websites like www.linkedin.com, www.xing.com and like to start your online professional networking. Even social networking sites like www.orkut.com or www.facebook.com also have a lot of potential for professional networking.
I would invite other readers to share their experience on networking while in college.
I don’t think enough students know the value of internships yet. An internship will not only give you experience, but also the opportunity to network and even get a few bucks in the process.