Networking might not come naturally to the majority of us, which is a problem since well over 70% of people in the U.S. obtain their positions based on people they know. We cannot ignore this fact and need to be proactive despite the challenges we may face with networking, especially during the continuing pandemic.
At FirstGen Ahead, new students completed a visual representation of what their network looks like now and were asked to create a visual representation of what they want their network to look like a year from now. They were also asked to strategize or plan for expanding and deepening their existing network.
Students approached this task in different ways. Some students identified categories of networks such as “work” or “church” connections, while other students named specific individuals within their network. Some students focused on the type of support they received through different people in their network (informational, emotional, etc.), while others observed through this exercise what kinds of supports they most need and are missing.
Having an awareness of personal networks is key to strengthening what is currently available and developing what is needed going forward. Further dialogue with coaches on network maps will provide additional insight and make sure networking – and the skills needed to network – is on the priority list while students are in college and working in their chosen careers.
