The Power of Networking During Your Graduate Journey
One of the biggest advantages to pursuing a graduate degree is the increased opportunity to network within a chosen field. However, networking doesn’t always come naturally! Read on to learn some top networking tips from Travis Robinson, an alum student from MBA program at UAlbany.
What is networking? Why is it important?
Networking to me is simply the process of building relationships. In addition, I do believe networking can be more rewarding when it is done genuinely to connect with people. Now, whether it be through job referrals, industry knowledge, or mentorship, networking can open doors that might otherwise remain closed.
One of the greatest advantages of pursuing a graduate degree is the opportunity to build meaningful connections within your chosen field like in the classrooms and at university gatherings and events. This is because networking is not just about exchanging business cards or adding contacts on LinkedIn, it is about connecting through shared interests that can lead to career opportunities, mentorship, and industry insights. While it may not come naturally to everyone, developing strong networking skills can have a lasting impact on professional growth.
Personally, networking has played a crucial role in my MBA journey. Conversations with professors, alumni, and industry professionals have provided valuable insights into events happening at the University and career paths which give me the eyes to search specific areas for opportunities. Lastly, to create these connections and to keep the relationships, it would be best advised to engage in meaningful discussions and staying connected. Personally, I can say that through this, I am able to expand my knowledge and professional circle, which will benefit my career long-term.
What are your top tips to develop and strengthen networking skills?
- To strengthen your networking skills, it is important to start by being genuine and engaged. Networking is not just about what you can gain, it is more about fostering real relationships. You should ask thoughtful questions, listen actively, and show genuine interest in others’ experiences.
- Secondly, you can enhance networking skills by utilizing UAlbany’s resources such as career fairs, guest lectures, and networking events hosted at the school. UAlbany offers networking opportunities through our very own program, UCAN (UAlbany Career Advisory Network), through development workshops and alumni networking sessions. At these events you are exposed to an array of audiences and people from different spaces, but it is important to get yourself out.
Lastly, remember to always follow up and stay connected. It is important after meeting someone, that you send a follow-up email or connect on LinkedIn with a personalized message. Maintaining relationships over time is key to making networking efforts truly valuable.
Where would you recommend students start networking in graduate school?
Here at UAlbany you are provided a multitude of opportunities to connect with industry professionals and peers. I will say that some of the first sets of connections in graduate school will start with professors, peers and faculty who may have extensive industry experience and connections. Some of the in-class interactions with classmates can sometimes be overlooked with you not realizing that those same fellow mates are going to end up in some great space later, hence the reason why building and keeping the connection pure with everyone from the beginning is important. Moreover, alumni networks can also provide insights into potential career paths and job opportunities.
Lastly, graduate students can find more networking starts in spaces like in the different organizations on campus or leadership groups which can introduce you to like-minded peers and professionals. For these, check out MyInvolvement at UAlbany.