Job & Internship Toolkit ➜ Networking 

Networking

Networking is Important To Your Career Success

But what is networking, exactly? It is building a professional network to support you throughout your career journey.

Networking Defined: To build contacts and develop long-term professional relationships.

  • These connections help expand your job opportunities.
  • People hire people! Networking is integral in the job search. It truly is about “who you know”.
  • There’s a hidden job market. Not all positions are posted online, instead filled internally or via networking.
  • Internal referrals (formal or informal) boost your chances of getting a job.
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      Building & Maintaining Connections


      Where & How to Connect


      Student Clubs

      Build relationships with your peers, fellow organization members and club executive boards. Find groups to join by browsing engageSC or visiting the USC Involvement Fair.
      engageSC

      Campus Events

      Reach out to other students attending campus events. Peers at the same events may have similar interests. Locate events on Handshake or the USC Events Calendar.
      USC Events Calendar

      Professors

      Professors are more than just an academic resource. They can offer research opportunities, connections to other faculty members or employers, and give invaluable advice.
      Viterbi Faculty Directory

      Alumni

      Connect with the Trojan Family on campus or through Viterbi Link. Alumni have been in your shoes and can provide advice on personal, academic and professional development.
      Viterbi Link

      Workshops

      Peers attending campus workshops likely have the same questions as you do. Use each other as resources to collaborate and exchange ideas. Find workshops on Handshake.
      Explore Workshops

      Career Fairs

      Career fairs offer a traditional means of connecting with a wide range of recruiters. Remember to bring copies of your resume, dress professionally and prepare your elevator pitch in advance.
      Career & Internship Expo

      Informational Interview Guide


      Have Questions - Book an advising session with VCC

      Book an advising session with a VCC Career Advisor or view the online workshops!

      Published on April 15th, 2020Last updated on May 22nd, 2024