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.
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