My name is Kelly Manzo Montes and as a first-generation Latinx graduate student at Michigan State University, I’ve learned firsthand just how crucial networking can be in shaping your career. Throughout my journey, I’ve leveraged my connections to unlock opportunities I never thought possible. I’ve had the honor of working with scholars and young professionals, helping them discover the right career paths by tapping into the power of networking. I’m passionate about sharing how building and nurturing relationships can open doors and set you on the path to achieving your career aspirations.
In today's competitive job market, landing a career that aligns with your skills and passions requires more than just academic achievements and a polished resume. Networking is one of the most effective tools you can use to unlock job opportunities, career advice and mentorship. For students, especially those preparing to enter or re-enter the workforce, mastering the art of networking can be an absolute game-changer!
Why is Networking Important?
Networking provides a support system of professionals who can guide you toward the next steps in your career. Whether through informational interviews, industry conferences, LinkedIn, or career fairs, each interaction holds potential. It’s about creating genuine connections that can lead to:
- Access to Hidden Job Markets: Not all jobs are posted online. Often times, companies rely on internal recommendations to fill roles. Networking gives you insider access to opportunities that you may not find on typical job boards.
- Mentorship and Career Guidance: Connecting with experienced professionals in your field offers valuable insights. They can provide advice on career paths, offer feedback on your resume, or prepare you for interviews.
- Expanding Your Skill Set: Networking isn’t just about landing a job. It’s also a way to learn. Conversations with others can expose you to new skills, certifications, or emerging trends within your industry.
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Building Confidence: Regularly engaging with others in your field can help build your confidence as a professional. Each interaction improves your ability to articulate your value and refine your personal brand.
Key Networking Tips
- Start Early: Networking is most effective when it's done consistently over time, not just when you're job hunting. A great way to start building your network before you need it is by attending career events, joining professional organizations, and interacting with alumni. Maintaining strong connections will give you a reliable network for the future.
- Leverage LinkedIn: Optimize your LinkedIn profile and actively use the platform to engage with industry experts, potential employers and peers. Join groups related to your field, comment on or share posts and reach out to people for virtual coffees or informational interviews.
- Be Authentic: Networking isn’t just about getting what you want. It's about building meaningful relationships. Approach each interaction with genuine interest in the person’s experiences and insights. Ask thoughtful questions and listen more than you talk.
- Maintain Relationships: Networking doesn’t end after one conversation. Follow up with people you meet and keep in touch. Simple gestures, like sending a thank-you note after a meeting or congratulating someone on a work anniversary, can go a long way in sustaining relationships.
- Give Back: Networking is a two-way street. Offer help when you can, whether by sharing a useful article, providing feedback or connecting others with one another. Being known as someone who adds value will naturally attract people to you.
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Attend Industry Specific Events: Conferences, webinars, and job fairs provide a unique opportunity to meet potential employers and peers in person. Make sure to follow up with the connections you make and stay engaged by sharing your takeaways on platforms like LinkedIn.
My Personal Networking Journey
Upon finishing my early college program after high school, I had my sights set on attending Michigan State University – my dream university. This vision fueled my ambitions and I was determined to become a Spartan. However, when I first applied, I wasn’t accepted. The disappointment was overwhelming, but deep down, I knew I couldn’t just accept that outcome. I refused to let my dream slip away and let that be the end of what could’ve been.
During a previous summer internship, I had learned about the immense power of networking. I understood that connections could open doors, so I decided to put those lessons to the test. I reached out to my high school teachers and college professors, asking for their advice and support. What happened next was nothing short of extraordinary. These incredible people didn’t just offer words of encouragement, they advocated for me. They encouraged me to set up calls and meetings with MSU and they emphasized to the school why I deserved a place at MSU. I think my teachers knew how badly I wanted this and how determined I was to make a successful career possible for myself.
A few weeks later, I received a letter that completely changed my life. I had been awarded a full-ride scholarship to MSU. In that moment, the true power of networking became crystal clear. It wasn’t just about knowing people, it was about the relationships, the support and the opportunities that stem from them. That experience shaped my belief that your network can be the key to unlocking dreams you never imagined possible.
Now, I make it my mission to pay it forward. I encourage others to leverage their connections and to help one another, just as I was helped. Sometimes, the people you connect with are the very ones who change your life.
The Long-Term Benefits of Networking
The beauty of networking is that its benefits are long-term. Relationships built today could turn into opportunities tomorrow. As you progress in your career, your network evolves with you. Some of the people you connect with now may become future colleagues, business partners, or mentors. It’s important to nurture these relationships over time, to ensure they remain strong. Whether it’s through staying in touch, offering help when needed or simply celebrating each other’s successes, those initial connections can grow into lifelong partnerships.
As students preparing to enter a competitive job market, embracing the power of networking will give you a significant advantage. Start small, be consistent, and remember that networking is an investment in your future.
