College has, it seems, become the new high school, and most companies aren’t struggling to attract highly talented applicants. Now more than ever, it’s important to stand out and be more than just a résumé and transcript–and that means networking. Ask any adult whether or not the old adage “It’s not what you know: it’s who you know” is true, and chances are, they’ll tell you that it is. Here, I’ll touch on what networking means and offer some suggestions for college students looking to network with potential employers.

What is “Networking”?

“Networking” means taking the time to meet and connect with potential employers and other people in your field–potential coworkers and leads for prospective jobs. Networking is most effective when it takes place face-to-face, but social media and e-mail are also useful networking tools.

Why Networking Matters

It’s important to network not only with potential employers, but also with others in your field–potential coworkers and leads for prospective jobs. You never know where you’ll hear about a job posting, and you never know when a friend might be able to put in a good word for you at his or her company.

So many students have great grades. Who’s going to get hired–the person with the best grades who can’t express himself in writing or in conversation, or the person who’s charming and already knows someone at the company? Networking matters.

Where to Network in College

Networking can take place anywhere. Whether you’re at a coffee shop or a job fair, the potential to network exists. Here are some suggestions to get you started:

Job fairs - Get to know employers and businesses that visit campus at job fairs.

Join clubs - You never know who you might meet in clubs that interest you. And when clubs hold events and take trips, you never know who you might run across.

Attend events on and off campus - Attend as many events as you can, even events unrelated to your potential field. Potential employers and future coworkers like to have fun, too. In fact, networking can be easiest when it’s informal.

Volunteer - Seek out organizations in areas that interest you and volunter.

Social Media - Add people you meet on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and LinkedIn. Not only will they see you’ve added them, they’ll be able to contact you easily if they need to. Following companies on Twitter can be a great job-search strategy.

Networking Tips

Practice some icebreakers ahead of time. Figure out your “elevator pitch”–a quick sentence describing who you are, what you do, and what you want to do. Practice active and empathetic listening. Ask people questions. People love to talk about themselves. If a certain person has introduced you to several important people, keep that person around. Often to do people favors if the opportunity arises. When you give, you’re more likely to receive something in return. Share personal (but not too personal) stories. People connect with people, so be human. Be funny (but use good judgment). Don’t ramble on forever. Shake hands, remember people’s names (and use them). Don’t forget to smile!

The Bottom Line

Highly intelligent and accomplished students are often frustrated when their less-talented peers surpass them. Chances are, those less-talented peers were expert networkers. Don’t rest on your résumé and intellect. Network.

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Additional Resources: “Winning College Scholarships for High Schoolers” Video Course

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