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Get your students to understand the importance of networking

Marina Álvaro

4 min read
February 8, 2024

Attention Career Coaches: Tired of Repeating the Networking Mantra to Your Students? Let Us Help Get the Message Across!

When it comes to achieving your dream job, networking is a necessity.

For students with aspirations to join a specific company – which is very much the methodology we adhere to here at CareerOS. forging connections with current employees can be a game-changing strategy.

In this blog, we'll delve into the reasons why students should proactively network with employees from their target companies. Whether it's expediting visa sponsorship, securing future job opportunities, or broadening horizons, these connections are the keys to success.

"Dear Student,

Are you considering launching your career abroad? Exciting opportunities await, but here's the catch: securing that visa sponsorship can feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack.

We've got a game-changing tip for you: NETWORK like your passport depends on it!

Networking Helps You Navigate the Immigration Maze:

Picture this: complex immigration paperwork, fierce competition, and countless hurdles. Landing a job overseas can be a saga. Networking can be your golden ticket! Connections within the company can become your champions. They might slide your name past the initial screening process, giving you a VIP seat at the initial interview table. In essence, networking empowers you with influential advocates who can expedite your application through the hiring process, ultimately increasing your chances of securing that coveted role abroad.

Networking Can Help with Future Career Moves:

Your career is a long journey, and sometimes, the job you aspire to have isn't your final destination – even that dream job. Networking with employees of your desired company can extend its benefits beyond your immediate job search. These connections can be instrumental in helping you secure your next job after the one you're targeting now. They might even introduce you to opportunities you wouldn't have discovered otherwise. It's a proactive way to ensure your career keeps evolving.

Networking Can Broaden Your Horizons:

Networking isn't just about landing a job; it's also about personal and professional growth. Building connections with employees from diverse backgrounds can broaden your horizons in numerous ways. By engaging with employees, you gain access to different perspectives, experiences, and ideas. This exposure can help you become a more adaptable and culturally aware professional. Additionally, networking can open doors to various departments and roles within the company, allowing you to explore your interests and discover hidden talents.

Not every connection takes you to your dream job:

Moreover, Connecting with employees can lead to mentorship opportunities. Seasoned professionals often appreciate the chance to guide and inspire the next generation of talent. These mentorships can be invaluable in helping you navigate your career path and make informed decisions.

Here are our tips for Effective Networking with Company Employees:

Now that you understand the importance of networking with employees of your desired company, here are some practical tips to help you get started:

  • Leverage social media: Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals. Build a strong profile, join industry groups, and aim for virtual coffee chats with 1-2 company employees. If available to your school, CareerOS can suggest guides you each step 1-4.
  • Leverage alumni networks: If you have access to an alumni network, take advantage of it. Alumni often have a strong affinity for their alma mater and are willing to help fellow graduates.
  • Schedule informational interviews: Request interview coaching via your school career advisors to get a feel for the interview process in a certain company.
  • Use available best practices: If available to your school, leverage the prescriptive CareerOS networking emails and LinkedIn messages approaches.

Start today.

Remember, networking is a two-way street, so be sure to offer your own insights and assistance when you can.

Over time, you'll find that your professional network will grow and evolve, becoming an invaluable asset throughout your career journey.

Your Career Team"

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