🤝 Networking & Making Connections
Build Relationships That Accelerate Your Career
Networking isn’t about collecting business cards—it’s about building genuine relationships that create mutual value. Research shows that 85% of jobs are filled through networking, and professionals with strong networks earn up to 10% more than those without. Start building your connections today.
Why Networking Matters at Illinois Tech
85%
of all jobs are filled through networking, not job boards
70%
of professionals found their current job through their network
10%
higher salary earned by professionals with strong networks
Smart Networking Strategies
🎓 On Campus
- Attend campus events: Career fairs, workshops, speaker series
- Join student organizations: Professional clubs in your field
- Build professor relationships: Office hours aren’t just for grades
- Work on campus: Research assistantships, student jobs
- Join academic competitions: Hackathons, case competitions
💻 Online
- Optimize LinkedIn: Professional photo, detailed experience, active engagement
- Join industry groups: LinkedIn groups, Slack communities
- Engage meaningfully: Comment, share insights, ask questions
- Personalize connection requests: Mention shared interests or how you met
- Follow up consistently: Stay visible without being pushy
🌟 At Events
- Lead with curiosity: Ask about interests, not just “Where do you work?”
- Focus on giving: How can you help them? Share resources
- Be a good listener: Don’t monopolize conversations
- Take notes after: Jot down details to reference later
- Follow up within 24 hours: Personalized message referencing your conversation
🎯 Beyond Work
- Join fitness groups: CrossFit, running clubs, intramural sports
- Volunteer locally: Community organizations, nonprofits
- Take special interest classes: Photography, cooking, art
- Attend social gatherings: Accept invitations outside your usual circle
- Diversify your network: Connect with people in different fields
Change Your Networking Mindset
❌ Instead of thinking:
- “I need to collect contacts”
- “What can they do for me?”
- “I’m bothering them”
- “I need to attend formal events”
- “Only ‘networking events’ count”
✅ Think this way:
- “I’m building genuine relationships”
- “How can I help them?”
- “Most people enjoy helping”
- “Every interaction is an opportunity”
- “My entire community is my network”
Remember: “The currency of real networking is not greed but generosity.” Focus on quality over quantity, and build relationships based on mutual respect and genuine interest.
Essential Networking Resources
Ready to Build Your Network?
Meet with a career coach to develop your networking strategy, practice your introduction, and identify the right events and connections for your career goals.
Career Services | McCormick Tribune Campus Center, Suite 106
Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Phone: (312) 567-6800
