As a college student, working towards obtaining a degree is important to your future as you enter the career phase of your life. The job market is vast and can be quite difficult to navigate. One may ask, “How can I reach and connect with people?” There are multiple ways to build and maintain professional relationships to help in the transition from college to the “real world.” While it may be challenging, one of the most impactful tools for future employers, investors and collaborators in the job market is social networking. Social networking allows you the ability to build and maintain relationships with those who are interested and experienced in the field of study you chose to explore in college.

The first step is to find people who are in the same field as you are. For example, I want to enter the field of sports media, so I began speaking with the Marketing Department and Sports Information Department at my university. The first time I met with them, I immediately introduced myself. The power one has to simply say, “Hi, I’m…” and “How are you?” is the first step to creating connections. It is imperative to be authentic and give someone a great first impression. When I introduced myself and asked how they were, it turned into such a meaningful conversation. I asked those who were working in specific departments what their college major had been and why they chose their career. Hearing and understanding why these amazing people had chosen their careers made me more passionate about what I wanted to do. After my first initial meeting, I made sure to email each person I met with a ‘thank you’ and a follow-up to our discussions. This allowed me to gain more insight into my future career while also building meaningful professional relationships.

While real-life connections are valuable, one might not have the same opportunities to work and speak with their experienced peers in-person. The best option to find professional connections is through social media sites that are tailored for this purpose. Websites, such as LinkedIn, provide direct connections to companies, people and interest groups related to one’s career interests and specific job fields. For example, I began my search by looking up, “Graphic Design.” LinkedIn had a plethora of job listings, companies, posts and people. By using keywords, I was given access to a network of people directly in my field! Many experienced peers will gladly help in answering and explaining anything confusing about the job market. It is also an invaluable experience to connect with others so readily. The world is at one’s fingertips. The best advice I was given came from one of my best friends. She said, “No one will wait for you until you’re the one to start the conversation.” If I had not taken that leap of faith and interacted with others, I might not be in the position I am. Take those opportunities to talk to someone, you will never know where it can lead you.

With social media ever-growing, LinkedIn, Instagram, Gmail and Facebook are examples of popular platforms collegians can use to help find experienced workers within their field. As mentioned, LinkedIn is a powerful tool. Start messaging and exchanging emails, phone numbers and socials! From there, use other social media platforms. On YouTube, look for content creators or professionals. Once you find creators you enjoy, follow and message them. Do not be afraid to message someone about your passion, their passion and how you want to make a statement. So many people are more than willing to help!

The ability to communicate, work and thrive in your career is a collaborative experience. One can use social networking to benefit themselves now, building a network of connections that can be utilized immediately and in the future. Social networking can allow you to get into the job market faster by making connections and getting recommendations from your network. It can be nerve-wracking to reach out to a professional that you don’t know, but social networking is a tool that you will use well into your professional career, so do not be afraid to make an impact and ask for a connection!