To many, networking can seem daunting. On one hand, there are the personal pressures of not feeling confident enough about what you have to offer. On the other hand, the social connotations around networking can make it seem like it’s reserved for a privileged few. But what does it really mean to ‘network’?
Whether you’re a university student starting a career search or a creative mind kickstarting a freelance career, here’s a guide on networking and doing it well!
1. Ask yourself: why am I networking
Before reaching out to potential connections, it’s important to have a goal in mind. Who are we trying to reach? Why are we trying to reach out to them? Understanding our intentions is key to a good networking mindset.
2. Take courage: learn how to sell yourself
Everyone has valuable skills, even if they don’t realize it. Personally, as a first-generation immigrant and creative attempting to break into the voiceover field for the first time, it was easy to feel demotivated. Everyone else seemed to have it figured out. What could I possibly offer that they didn’t already have? As it turns out, a lot of things. While it may sound cliché, no one will ever complete a task or job the same exact way, and no mind will ever think the same thoughts. Take advantage of this. Tap into the ‘you’ that has the potential to keep learning and growing. And if you’re really feeling lost, it’s never too late to pick up new skills.
3. Understand that networking is for everyone
Networking is not for a select few. Everyone can network at any skill and experience level. It is important to keep our limits in mind (the chances of Bill Gates replying to an email about the next big technological breakthrough are probably not great) but don’t be afraid to swing big (Microsoft might be hosting a panel at a local tech convention).
4. Think of the long-term
Make connections that last. Connections are anywhere and everywhere. People say “the world is smaller than you think”. It turns out this is actually true most of the time! Networking isn’t always done in fancy suit-and-tie events. Often, networking can start with the same people we see on the day-to-day: friends, the people we play video games with, etc. Just remember to be respectful!
5. Remember: these are people too
No one likes to be used. Networking is not supposed to turn people into an opportunity machine. I make sure to get to know the people I network with, and not just for what they can offer me.
Networking at UBC
The UBC Career Centre hosts several networking events, community outreach programs, and workshops that are open to all UBC community members. Additionally, job-specific websites, such as LinkedIn and Indeed, frequently feature similar resources online. Just remember to approach these events with cautious optimism. Always do background research first to make sure that the event is hosted by a reputable source!
