By Claire Silfies
Like countless first-year students at Penn State, one of my earliest concerns was the necessity to have a strong network to thrive in communications. It is commonly said that 70% of people get their jobs through their network, but it can be difficult to know how to create this group of people who could help me in the future? After almost a year and a half, I’ve collected some tips that have helped me build a network.
Why do we need a network in communications?
Strong relationships with professionals in this field can open doors that you might not have known existed. Many professionals look to the people within their own networks when hiring for a position. If you have cultivated a stable relationship with someone looking for a new team member, they are already familiar with your solid work ethic. They also know that you are a go-getter by seeking them out in the first place. Furthermore, by asking pointed questions to the people in your network, they learn that you are inquisitive and a good listener. By implementing these strategies, those in your network will be happy to assist you on your career journey.
But the question remains, how do I find the people who are a good fit for my network?
Tip 1: Utilize Bellisario
The Bellisario College of Communications has so many resources for students to take advantage of. First, Bellisario is home to more than 33,000 alumni, most will be happy to talk with you about their career journey and help encourage you in yours. Bellisario also hosts the Ad/PR Network, with the contact information of each of the alumni board members right on the website. They put their information there for a reason – they want you to reach out. Bellisario also hosts speakers throughout the year. Go to these events and message the speakers afterward to tell them what you found interesting about their talk.
Tip 2: Cold LinkedIn DMing
Though it seems scary, this is a great way to learn about jobs you may be interested in and how to get there. Find someone (even better if they’re a PSU alum!) whose work aligns with your career goals and send them a DM asking to have a 15-30 minute phone call to chat about their career. Don’t DM asking for an internship, just ask to learn; this shows them you have genuine interest in the company and in how they achieved their current level of success. Demonstrating interest and good listening skills is the perfect way to include new people in your network.
Tip 3: Talk to your family/ friends
People often disclude their family and friends from their network, but oftentimes they are the people who are willing to help you the most. My dad works in marketing and has spent countless hours helping me through how to shape my resume, what skills the industry looks for, and is always willing to answer my late-night stress texts about internships. Even though my mom doesn’t have corporate ties, all of her time in community outreach has built her own social network and she is always willing to put me in contact with people that she thinks could help me. Look to your family and friends for ongoing support and networking help, you never know who has connections that could help you out.
After reading this, you might be saying to yourself “That’s great, but how am I supposed to stay in contact with these people?”
I initially struggled with how to continue conversations with my network after the initial meeting. The new contact frequently ended a conversation with, “send an email when you have some news!” But, did they actually want to hear back from me?
This leads me to my fourth and final tip:
Tip 4: Keep up with your network
Having a network is all about give and take. First, always send a thank you email after you’ve spoken with someone. Let them know exactly what you learned from talking with them. Then, STAY INTERESTED! If you see that someone in your network did something cool or got a promotion, email them about it, and then use that to work in telling them information about yourself. This shows that you care about their work as much as you want them to care about yours. Pay attention to what they post about and make sure to comment occasionally. Your interest in them keeps them interested in you too!
Happy Valley Comm 