Networking, Networking, Networking

Written by: Kainaat Ijaz (President)

Phrases that students hear too often are; “Networking is key” and “Make sure you network.”

But what does that really mean? Let’s break down a few pivotal tips to ace networking in the coming school years.

1. Do Your Research

   
   

The majority of clubs at uOttawa, and particularly at Telfer always promote the theme of a panel or networking event a few weeks before. They usually post the keynote speakers and/or firms in attendance - as such, it's key that you do your research before you attend an event.

Potential research ideas include but aren’t limited to:

●       The Firms in Attendance: Research the firm’s goals/values/mission & their different lines of service.

It’s useful to approach a networking session with a firm when you already have an understanding of what team you’d like to learn more about, this allows you to tailor your questions accordingly and stand out while networking because you’re already aware of what you’re curious about.

●       The Firm Representatives in Attendance: Check out their LinkedIn profiles and see what their past experiences look like, this allows you to ask catered questions to their skill sets.

2. Connect Over LinkedIn

   
   

After the event is over, take the time to connect with the representatives/speaker(s) that were at the event. It’s useful to use the “add a note” feature when sending the connection request on LinkedIn.

Here are some sample message templates that can be used, however do tailor them accordingly or put your own creative spin on it as well!

“ Hi, it was great seeing you at (insert event name or location) yesterday. I was wondering if you'd be available sometime for a coffee chat, I would love to hear more about your experience in (insert their area of expertise).”

More often than not, professionals at such events are super kind and would be happy to get to know you further! It’s important to take such steps to stand out and to demonstrate your interest in the firm and their industry.

3. Preparing for Coffee Chats

After you’ve successfully connected with them on LinkedIn, consider sending a request for a coffee chat. Although coffee chats can seem really intimidating, it’s helpful to view them as a casual conversation that you would have with a friend - this helps take the pressure off!

As mentioned earlier, make sure to do research on the individual before your coffee chat and try to see if you both have any overlapping interests/experiences. This could be the university/program you’re enrolled in, maybe the city that they’re located in or any extracurriculars that you both participated in!

Below are some questions that you could ask during a coffee chat:

●       I was wondering what your journey of coming into ( insert their area of expertise) looks like?

●       What role has mentorship and/or leadership around you played in your professional development in this field?

●       What would you define as a key trait that you believe sets an individual in your industry apart and/or allows them to succeed in the long-run?

More often than not, firms are more interested in getting to know your personality and soft skills, leverage such conversations to stand out and create a genuine connection that will make you more memorable throughout a potential hiring process. Overall, use these networking opportunities to expand your network, get advice from seasoned professionals and to strengthen your communication skills!