Networking is an excellent opportunity to learn from those with more experience than yourself. It’s a process of expanding your network and building bridges for the different milieu and areas of work you are interested in.
Why networking?
Networking is a necessity in today's business world. By sharing industry seniors’ experience, you can better understand specific career paths, uncovering hidden opportunities, and meeting inspiring mentors. Sometimes, you will have the chance to get to know someone who can help you break into the dream field and get an informational interview.
If you have an interview coming up, make sure to check out our guide on how to ace it! )
What questions to ask?
Creating a conversational atmosphere while networking can be challenging. That’s why we are here to help.
Below is a list of simple yet powerful open-ended questions to ask during any networking events. By asking thoughtful networking questions, you can learn a lot about the person in front of you. A good question can be a game-changer and might help you land on places from internal staff.
Step 1: Get to know them
Can you walk me through your career journey and how you ended up at ______ company?
What energizes you outside of work? What’s your favourite way to unwind after a busy day?
Are you a member of any professional orders or associations?
If you could do things all over again, would you choose the same path for yourself?
Step 2: Get to know their field
What trends do you see developing over the next few years?
What skills have you found essential for success in this position?
What does a typical day in your job look like?
Could you tell me about one of the main challenges you face in this position？
Step 3: Get to know their organization
What do you think are the most important qualities that your company is looking for in new recruits?
What kind of training or supervision did you have when you were starting out?
What kind of professional development opportunities are available within the company?
Step 4: Wrap-up the conversation
What’s your preferred method for keeping in touch?
What’s next for you in your career?
What are your plans for the next few years?
Do you know anyone else that would be helpful for me to talk to?
Asking the right questions is one part of successful networking. The other part of the equation is listening. Smile, nod, making constant eye contact to show that you are attentively listening to the person in front of you and demonstrate an interest in the subject they are referring to. Good manners make you more likable. In addition, make sure to follow up with the person you were talking with after the event.
We hope you all make the most of every networking event, find the right person to talk to, and have a meaningful career in the future.
Best wishes from the UBC BizChina team
Author & Editor: Jingyu Hu, Zi Yuan
Thanks for reading. If you'd enjoyed this one, you’ll love being a free UBC BizChina member. We’ll be sharing tips like these, club updates and even job opportunities! Join 1000+ other students/professionals and sign up for free membership here!✨
Join our members' exclusive LinkedIn Networking Group!
⬇️Follow our social media platforms below for more opportunities! ⬇️
Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | CampusBase | Website
Email：chinaforum.ubc@gmail.com
Comentários