Developing your professional network during your studies: the keys to success
When you're a student, you often think that professional networking is a concern that will come later, once you've graduated. Yet developing your network right from graduate school is a major asset to boost your professional insertion!
Far too many people underestimate the importance of building a network right from their student days, yet it can be a real lever for the future. Whether you're looking for an internship, a student job or even your first job, having a good network can make all the difference.
In this article, we give you all the keys to creating, maintaining and developing your professional network effectively while you're a student. Whether you're a student on campus or on a work-study program, these tips will help you lay the foundations for a solid network for the future.
Why develop your network during higher education?
Graduate studies are an ideal time to start building a professional network. Contrary to what you might think, a good network isn't just built in the working world.
From your very first years at university or school, you're in contact with students, teachers, professional speakers, and even former graduates who can literally open doors for you. When you take your first steps into the world of work, you'll have, a head start on other students in your class who haven't taken the time to build their professional network.
- Easier access to internship and job offers : many opportunities are never published on traditional platforms and are shared directly via the network.
- Have valuable advice : professionals or former students can help you better understand recruiters' expectations and guide you in your choices.
- Discover new sectors: talking to professionals from different fields can help you refine your project and find the path that suits you best.
- Gain visibility : by being active on platforms like LinkedIn, you increase your chances of being spotted by recruiters even before you finish your studies.
How do I create a professional network as a student?
If you think developing a network is only for experienced professionals, think again!
In reality, it's simply a matter of forging links with the people you meet, basically it's these human connections that, over time, can open doors and bring you valuable opportunities.
Your university or school is much more than a place of learning: it's also an ideal space for making professional connections. Every person you meet could, tomorrow, be a key contact in your career.
Your professional teachers and lecturers
Your teachers and lecturers aren't just teachers, they're also experts with a solid network. Take advantage of their knowledge and contacts by asking questions after class, participating actively and discussing your career plans. A motivated and involved student always leaves a good impression, and they may later recommend you for an internship or job.
Your classmates: An underestimated network
The students around you today will be working in a variety of companies tomorrow. Being a good group player, showing team spirit and keeping in touch via LinkedIn can open up future opportunities for you. An old classmate who remembers you as a serious and nice student will be more inclined to help you if you approach him or her later.
LinkedIn is an essential platform for students wishing to develop their professional network, find opportunities and make themselves visible to recruiters.
- Create your profile and optimize it: add a professional photo, describe your academic background and highlight your skills.
- Add contacts : starts with your classmates, teachers, and professionals you meet at events.
- Interact with publications : comment, share and publish content related to your learning sector (super important)!
Maintaining your network throughout your studies
Building a network is great. Maintaining it is even better! A professional network must be dynamic to be truly useful.
Staying in touch with your connections
A simple addition to LinkedIn isn't enough to build a lasting professional relationship. Remember to interact regularly with your network:
- Asking questions or seeking advice on career choices.
- Sharing your experiences (internship, university project, thesis...) to show your evolution.
- Commenting on their publications
Participate in events and conferences
Universities and schools often organize meetings with professionals. If you go along, you can talk to recruiters, entrepreneurs or former students who are already working. These exchanges can lead to internship or job opportunities.
Propose your help and share your knowledge
The professional network works both ways. Even if you're a student, you can also help others by sharing resources, advice or connecting students with professionals you already know. A student you've helped today could be a key contact for you tomorrow!
Stand out from the crowd to attract the attention of professionals
It's not enough to have a good network, you also need to be visible and make professionals want to recommend or recruit you!
Working on his personal branding
Even as a student, you can already take care of your professional image online.
- Update your LinkedIn profile with your experiences (even a student job or university project can be valued).
- Write a summary highlighting your aspirations and skills.
- Share content related to your area of learning.
Speaking out on professional networks
How do you get noticed by recruiters or professionals in your industry?
- By sharing articles and thoughts about your field of study.
- Publish your own experiences: an outstanding internship, an academic achievement, a conference you attended.
Asking for recommendations
If you've already completed an internship, or even a student job related to your studies, don't hesitate to ask your employer for a recommendation. Recommendations on LinkedIn or on your CV can (vraiiiment) make the difference in your job search.
Developing your professional network as soon as you graduate gives you a head start when it comes to entering the world of work. Whether through your campus, student associations, professional platforms like LinkedIn or specialized events, every interaction can be valuable.
So, start building your network today, exchanging with other students and professionals, and seizing every opportunity that comes your way. A solid network is a real springboard to a successful career!