2021 Was a Networking Adventure

The importance of networking is very real! When I first started our networking session, there was a small voice in the back of my head asking whether this was necessary, and I can now firmly say it 100% was. I previously held the view that networking was an opportunistic practice lacking in any sort of authenticity.

?I also imagine that some people would see it as a stranger simply begging for favors. I honestly, prefer my character to speak for itself, but how would I convey this, in a land where nothing was familiar and I had zero Canadian business contacts. This meant that I needed to commit wholeheartedly to a mindset shift and live outside my comfort zone.

?What I Learned:

??I think the most impactful thing, I learned was - everyone single one of them had a journey where, they moved from one role to the other, in order to develop their career and grow to where they wanted to be. It’s not necessarily a linear path. Starting as a social media intern doesn't mean that's where you'll stay; it’s only temporary.

?The Most Important Thing:

?Once you have the right attitude, and you’re passionate about the work you produce, opportunities will always find you. As well as the importance of personal branding. I think the most important or shocking thing I’ve learned was, as you continue to build up your network, you'll find that the connections are actually rooting for you. This matters because connecting with a person you barely know can be daunting and it’s reassuring that this type of support exists.

????????????I’ve networked with a number of speakers via LinkedIn, specifically Alex Wedderburn, Ashley Walsh, Jennifer Stoll, Amanda Lee, Caroline Berryman, and Emma Lauermeier.?These speakers really level with the students during the seminars and didn’t seem to mind helping us however they could, because they have been where I am right now. They were very open with their career advice, industry insights, and internship leads. ?

LinkedIn the Place of Wonder

?LinkedIn was a reoccurring recommendation, it was impossible to complete an entire lecture without hearing it. I didn’t attend any events to my current work, life balance schedule, but I did try to stay active on the platform. I’ve definitely used direct messaging, to keep in contact with my network. I’ve been using this method to query any internship opportunities, but I’ve also been making a special effort to engage with their LinkedIn content if any.

?Job Hunting Journey

?I used the following resources below for my job search and I’m still in the process of securing a suitable internship, but I’ve found Word of Mouth to be the most effective, because it establishes more trust, if you are recommended by another person. LinkedIn has also been an interesting platform, because the job search, which is normally a push strategy where the job searcher is applying for the opportunities, on LinkedIn there’s also a pull strategy where users will message directly to help determine your interest in their roles.

·????????W-O-M / Referrals

·????????LinkedIn

·????????GBC Careers

·????????Indeed

?Best Networking Tips

?I believe that Emma Lauermeier, shared the best networking tips and best practices, I found her journey to be very relatable, and I’m happy to share her insights below:

• Make a website to display your portfolio
• Post on Social Media
• Have your Cover Letter and Resume at the ready
• Set up Job Alerts on LinkedIn and Indeed
• Block a set amount of time dedicated to job searching
• Stay inspired and motivated

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Key Takeaway

?Overall, I’ve learned I have control in determining how much I’m willing to push my own limits, in order to truly achieve more.?Networking requires tact, strategy, and patience; and sitting passively won’t get you to where you want to be. It will feel much more gratifying when you make a plan and take charge, in order for it to it happen.?So start actively networking and discover exactly how far your efforts can take you!