7 Tips for Attending Networking Events

Students sometimes avoid networking events because they feel they won’t benefit from them or they’re worried they lack the confidence to strike up a conversation with a stranger. In fact, networking is hugely valuable, especially if you want to find an internship or you’re nearing graduation and need to start thinking about your career. To make the most of the next networking event on campus, there are a few things you need to do.

1. Know Who Will Be Attending

Prepare for the networking event by finding out who will be there. Research the companies to be able to ask insightful questions. This will help you make a memorable impression.

2. Wear Professional Clothing

Find out if there’s a dress code. If the networking event is taking place on campus, students will typically wear professional but casual outfits. Make sure you have at least one outfit that meets these requirements in your wardrobe.

3. Bring Your Resume

Have a way to give potential employers your contact details and a way to find out more about you. Printing out a few copies of your up-to-date resume is ideal. If you’re already working or have your own business, you may prefer to bring business cards.

4. Have Real Conversations

If you see someone you’d like to talk to, strike up a conversation. Ask questions to learn more about the company and work — make sure the questions you ask are not things you could find out yourself by researching online. To start conversations, you may like to have a few questions in mind. Once the conversation is flowing, though, go wherever it naturally takes you.

5. Know When to End the Conversation

Avoid talking to the same person for too long, as you need to take advantage of the chance to talk with as many attendees as possible. Limit yourself to no more than 15 to 20 minutes with each person. If other people are waiting to talk to the person or you want to cut the conversation short, wait for a natural break to thank the person and move on.

6. Relax and Be Yourself

Don’t feel like you need to try hard to impress people at networking events. Let your personality shine through. It will soon become obvious if you’re the right fit for the company culture.

7. Stay in Touch

If you make a connection you feel could be a good contact for the future, follow up within 24 hours of the networking event. Send an email or a message on LinkedIn that briefly summarizes your conversation and perhaps arrange a date to meet in the future.

You will be able to network all the time at university — not just during dedicated networking events — including in your student housing. Foundry Mack offers Queens off-campus housing with a range of community amenities to make networking easy, such as an outdoor recreation area, BBQs, and a lounge area. Whenever you need time on your own, you’ll have your private bedroom or a whole apartment to yourself. Apply for a lease now.