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  3. Dos and Don'ts of Networking

Dos and Don'ts of Networking

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What’s next? Preparing for the event. Have a quick look below for a couple of key dos and don’ts for networking at events.

Advice for networking in person

Do

  1. Have an introduction of yourself in your back pocket – prepare and practise this before the event to ease any nerves
    1. Include your name, university, course and something to spur conversation, such as what you’re looking to do in your career, or what you’re looking to get out of the event
  2. Ask questions about the person you’re talking to, as well as about roles and the business – this will help build a stronger connection with the employer representative, make you more memorable and lead to more benefits down the line
    1. Don’t underestimate the value of having a good conversation with employer representatives at the event and then solidifying the new network connection with a personalised LinkedIn message!

Don't

  • Go in unprepared
    • Make sure you make an excellent first impression by being informed about the employer you’re speaking to
    • Use the event page of the event you’re attending and the programme to find out who’s attending and then research the firms so you know who they are and what they do
    • We also recommend preparing a couple of questions so you can make the most of your conversation
  • Drag out conversations - long term outcomes (like a job) won’t come out of the first interaction
    • An initial conversation is a great starter, but if you’d like to discuss something in more detail, follow-up after the event and see if they’re available for a coffee or virtual chat
    • Keeping your conversations concise will also help you meet more people during the networking sessions, and show consideration for other members at the event

Advice for networking virtually

Do

  • Have an introduction of yourself in your back pocket – prepare and practise this before the event to ease any nerves
    • Include your name, university, course and something to spur conversation, such as what you’re looking to do in your career, or what you’re looking to get out of the event
  • Ask questions about the person you’re talking to, as well as about roles and the business – this will help build a stronger connection with the employer representative, make you more memorable and lead to more benefits down the line
    • Don’t underestimate the value of having a good conversation with employer representatives at the event and then solidifying the new network connection with a personalised LinkedIn message!
  • Turn your camera on – it's so much easier to have a valuable conversation with someone when you can see them, and equally a more uneasy experience when speaking to someone with their camera off whilst you're sharing your video.
    • Turning on your camera helps employers put a face to a name, giving you a better first impression as your show your enthusiasm and initiative
    • If you're struggling to find a good background to use, try exploring virtual backgrounds!
  • When networking in a group, consider the needs of others by making sure you allow room for other people to ask questions too
    • If you've already spoken but have other points or questions, utilise the chat! By giving space to other people, it also helps make a great first impression with employers as you'll be seen as a collaborative and considerate team player
    • Equally, however, if it's quiet in the chat and on-screen and you have another question, ask away!
  • Find a quiet space – to ensure a smooth conversation with no distractions, make sure you're not in a noisy environment. If this isn't possible, try to use a headset with a good microphone so you can be heard clearly

Don't

  • Go in unprepared
    • Make sure you make an excellent first impression by being informed about the employer you’re speaking to
    • Use the event page of the event you’re attending and the programme to find out who’s attending and then research the firms so you know who they are and what they do
    • We also recommend preparing a couple of questions so you can make the most of your conversation
  • Drag out conversations - long term outcomes (like a job) won’t come out of the first interaction
    • An initial conversation is a great starter, but if you’d like to discuss something in more detail, follow-up after the event and see if they’re available for a coffee or virtual chat
    • Keeping your conversations concise will also help you meet more people during the networking sessions, and show consideration for other members at the event
  • Feel intimidated – this can be tricky, especially if it's your first time networking, but just remember that employers want to hear from you as much as you want to hear from them

For more guidance on networking, take a look atthis careers advice article.

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