Networking is becoming increasing popular on the collegiate scene and many students are taking advantage of its valuable benefits. College students are networking at campus social events, volunteer/community activities, lectures, conferences and career fairs. College students can also branch out and start to build social and professional relationships with their business counterparts for ongoing success. Although it may appear that students have limited funds, limited time and limited resources, this article is designed to shatter those false theories and provide opportunities for college students to excel in their networking endeavors!

Listed below are tips and suggestions which are practical for college students who are networking and want to build relationships for academic and career advancement.

The Great Follow Up

College students are encouraged to follow up immediately after meeting professionals, business people and other college students at networking events. Follow ups can be in the form of email, phone calls or written correspondence. The follow up should not only be timely, but also professional and meaningful for both parties involved. In the follow-up make sure to include the reason for following up and the purpose of building a relationship.

On Campus Activities

College students should be very proactive in their networking objectives and initiate one-on-one gatherings. It is an excellent way to build relationships and develop their networking skills. Although college students tend to operate on limited funds, here are a few suggestions of how they can approach their business counterparts for success meetings.

Art / Cultural Shows On Campus

We recommend that college students invite professionals and colleagues to art, cultural and social activities on campus. Most of these events are free and if they are after hours, your business counterparts might not have to pay for parking. It is a great opportunity to show your business counterpart around the campus and inform them of various activities within the student body.

Lunch on Me

College students can also offer to meet up with their business counterparts on campus and have lunch at the cafeteria or at a nearby restaurant. Depending on the eating situation, students can use their student id card or meal plan to cover the meal expenses. Yes, if you are inviting someone to breakfast, lunch or dinner, it is your responsibility to pay. The other person may be courteous and pay for their half but do not always assume the latter. It is a sign of respect, etiquette and kindness.

Head of the Class

Another great way to build relationships, is to invite your business counterpart to sit in on one of your favorite classes or lectures/speeches. It would be a great learning experience and you can use that opportunity to introduce your counterpart to your professor, friends and other college/university staff. You can also use that opportunity to ask to be invited to social and business events of your business counterpart.

These are excellent ideas for building relationships, taking initiatives and moving towards your networking goals. College students should also remember to follow up in a timely manner, be punctual for all events and meetings and to be professional in their social and business dealings with their business counterparts.