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As students enter the workforce, networking is increasingly seen as the gateway to job opportunities.
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By Emily McLaughlin
While college does offer some really amazing learning opportunities, it’s the connections that make students thrive after college. In today’s job market, success is often dependent not just on what you know but who you know.
I’m sure many of you have tried to secure a job on campus or an internship outside of the University of Tampa (UTampa) community, and they ask you about your experiences. While experience is not everything, networking and connections help students even get considered.
Wendy Kaufman from WUSF NPR interviewed Matt Youngquist, the president of Career Horizons, who said at least 70% to 80% of jobs are not even published.
“And yet most people — they are spending 70 or 80 percent of their time surfing the net versus getting out there, talking to employers, taking some chances [and] realizing that the vast majority of hiring is friends and acquaintances hiring other trusted friends and acquaintances,” Youngquist said.
Many jobs are filled through referrals before the public even sees the posting of the jobs. Employees trust recommendations more than random applications.
Hiring is not just about qualifications; it’s about trust. Imagine if a hiring manager at a Tampa marketing firm has 120 applications to look through with similar cover letters, résumés, and degrees. Then one of the higher employees comes into the office and says, “Hey, I used to work with Richard. They never miss a deadline, handle big client campaigns well, and are great to work with.”
Now, instead of the employer having to review 120 applications to prove someone can be reliable for the job, they have a trusted employee who vouches for an applicant with real experience. This way, it also lowers the risk of making a bad hire.
If someone is willing to put their reputation on the line for a candidate, that recommendation shows they are worth hiring.
For those wondering where to even start with networking, LinkedIn has become such a hot spot for getting those connections. It has been reported through LinkedIn stats that over one billion people use LinkedIn across 200 different countries. Imagine all the networking that can be done.
No matter if you’re looking for a job or internship, a tip from Youngquist is to make at least 100 new contacts a month. Making these contacts can be done by making phone calls, sending emails, or even showing up at the company’s doors and presenting yourself to them right on the spot.
Another great way to start getting these connections is by asking your academic advisor, professors, or even friends who have had an internship or job for help. Career fairs are another great way to physically meet employers face-to-face. UTampa Career Services Events are hosted throughout the year for students, alumni, employers, and community partners.
I know putting yourself out there can be scary at times. Especially when it’s something you are not used to. But ever since I started my time here at UTampa, the motto I have always gone by has been being comfortable with getting uncomfortable, which will be exactly how you get the job or internship you want.