5 Career Networking Tips for Millennials

Career networking is an important skill for millennials who want to advance their careers, find new opportunities and learn from others. Networking can help you build relationships with people who can offer you advice, support, referrals or recommendations.

However, networking can also be challenging, especially if you are not sure how to approach it or what to say.

Start with your existing contacts

You already have a network of people who know you and your abilities, such as family, friends, classmates, teachers or mentors. You can reach out to them and ask them for advice, information or feedback on your career goals. You can also let them know that you are looking for new opportunities and ask them to keep you in mind if they hear of any openings or contacts that might be helpful for you.

Find both online and offline networking opportunities

You can use online platforms, such as LinkedIn, Twitter or Facebook, to connect with professionals in your field of interest, join groups or communities, follow influencers or organizations, or share your work or insights.

You can also attend offline events, such as workshops, seminars, conferences or meetups, where you can meet people face-to-face and exchange business cards or contact details.

Create a great first impression

Whether you are networking online or offline, you want to make a positive and memorable impression on the people you meet. You can do this by having a clear and concise introduction that summarizes who you are, what you do and what you are looking for.

You can also prepare an elevator pitch that highlights your skills, achievements and value proposition. You should also dress appropriately for the occasion, be polite and respectful, and smile and make eye contact.

Remember, it’s a mutual connection

Networking is not just about asking for favors or selling yourself. It’s also about building trust and rapport with the people you meet. You should show genuine interest in them and their work, ask open-ended questions, listen actively and attentively, and offer your help or support if possible.

You should also avoid being pushy or aggressive, talking too much or too little, or making unrealistic or inappropriate requests.

Follow up with your contacts

After meeting someone new, you should follow up with them within 24 hours to thank them for their time and express your interest in staying in touch. You can also remind them of something you discussed or shared during your conversation, or send them something useful or relevant that they might appreciate.

You should also keep in touch with your contacts regularly by updating them on your progress, sharing news or articles, congratulating them on their achievements, or inviting them to events or opportunities.

Push yourself out of your comfort zone

Networking can be intimidating or uncomfortable for some people, especially if they are introverted or shy. However, networking is a skill that can be learned and improved with practice. You should challenge yourself to network more often and with different types of people.

You can also prepare yourself mentally and emotionally by setting realistic goals, doing your research beforehand, having a positive attitude and mindset, and rewarding yourself for your efforts.

Take a mentor’s guidance!

A mentor is someone who has more experience or knowledge than you in a certain field or area and who can offer you guidance, feedback and support. A mentor can help you improve your networking skills by introducing you to their network, giving you tips and advice on how to network effectively.