A Student at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, as part of Heather Nelson’s Service Learning class.

What is Network?

By networking, you can gain the recognition you deserve and develop contacts that will help you succeed in the future. As you transition into adulthood you tend to realize how you will find your next job or come across opportunities that will help in the future. Networking plays a role in giving you the chance to connect with future employers and obtain knowledge from experienced professionals.

How to Build Network

  • Job Fairs
  • Keynote Speakers
  • LinkedIn

Whether you are networking with strangers, guests, friends, family, or business professionals, you can start networking at any time. It is imperative that everyone attends job fairs when looking for a job. They offer many opportunities to put yourself out there and make those connections. When you attend those job fairs, you get a better understanding of the company and the kinds of candidates they are looking for. You will be able to prepare yourself and gain a better understanding of what they are looking for this way.

Other resources include connecting with professionals on LinkedIn. The simplest way to impress these professionals is to send a direct message introducing yourself.

Creating a LinkedIn and Resume

LinkedIn is a very useful account to have. It helps you gain exposure and connect with professionals. As well as staying connected with companies and professionals. A resume can display your highlights, work experiences, accomplishments, and education. By creating one you stand out over the other candidates. It also helps employers see what position you would best fit it.

Why Is It Important to Start Networking?

Networking has a lot of benefits that come with it. You will be given many opportunities to get your name out and build connections. A professional in your desired field can provide you with advice you can apply to your future career. Building connections can be useful and allow you to get advice from experienced professionals. Having a conversation can provide you with useful advice. Professionals in your desired field can offer opportunities and even refer you to a colleague.

Benefits of Networking

  • Practice Effective Communication and Professional skills
  • Seeking job opportunities
  • Internships
  • Referrals
  • Build connections and relationships

Networking allows you to seek professional help to get yourself prepared for your future career. You also enhance your communication skills by communicating your idea to future bosses. Not only does networking help you interact but allows you to have the opportunities to find a potential job. This also plays a role in the search of internships. An internship can be helpful in providing you with experience in something you are interested in pursuing. It can help see if you want to keep pursuing it in your future.

Another benefit are referrals, which are most important in networking. This helps you stand out and get job opportunities. When seeking these referrals, it builds self-confidence. Having a positive attitude can lead you to be successful. Being confident can be factors in building connections and relationship with acquaintances.

Develop Life-Long Relationships

With networking you meet many people who share the same interest as you. These relationships can lead to you being referred to their bosses and landing a job. Building that connection and friendships can allow you to meet their connections as well and build even more connections. It allows you to work with many individuals who in the future become references. Along with the experience, networking opportunities, and building connections, it allows you to enhance your life skills.

References

Indeed.com

#Networking, #Connections, #Networking101, #OmahaSkillsConnection

About Omaha Skills Connection

Omaha Skills Connection is a 501c3 non-profit organization located in Omaha, Nebraska established as a result of the post pandemic era to help bridge the skills gap between education, technology and today’s workforce. Omaha needs an educated, flexible and dynamic workforce in today’s knowledge-based economy. OSC connects talent to opportunity, modernizing employee development for today’s workforce.