How to Network
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Networking is one of the most powerful career-building tools.
Building your network is about establishing connections with people, typically in a field or an organisation you want to be a part of. These connections could be UC alumni and graduates, industry leaders, professors, friends and whānau. Building your network early sets you ahead for future opportunities.
Here are 5 simple steps to networking at uni:
- Learn how to introduce yourself best using a Professional Pitch
- Get involved on campus How to make the most of Careers Fairs & Events (PDF 373KB)
- Refine your online presence: How to use LinkedIn for Networking & Top tips for sensible social networking (PDF 698KB)
- Be open to new connections: Top 10 Tips on approaching recruitment companies (PDF 521KB)
- Maintain your networks: The DO’s and DON’Ts of networking
Networking Strategies
Career Fairs and Expos 2022
- Law Recruitment Evening | Wednesday 2 March 2022
- Business and Arts Career Fair | Wednesday 22 March 2022
- STEM Career Fair | Thursday 12 May 2022
- Volunteering Expo | Wednesday 3 August 2022
Quick Tips: How to make the most of Careers Fairs & Events (PDF 373KB)
Employers on Campus
The UC Careers team host over 100+ employers on campus for recruitment presentations, info evenings, coffee chats, competitions and more (in-person and online). Join events for the opportunity to grow your network, meet new contacts and learn strategies to get the job you want right on campus.
Keep an eye out on the Careers Events page
Networking in Ōtautahi Christchurch
Want to build stronger connections in the region? Ōtautahi Christchurch has a vast array of business meetups to help students and professionals get connected. Check out the latest events around the city:
An informational interview is a secret tool everyone should have in their pocket.
It's a great way to gain insider information on employment trends, skills required by employers, as well as confirm whether it is an area of work you are interested in or not. It’s also an opportunity to network (not to mention a much-needed morale boost). It’s up to you to ask the questions at an informational interview so be prepared.
LinkedIn is a fast-growing professional network. Your LinkedIn profile can evolve as you learn new skills, achieve new accomplishments and enter new phases of your career. You can also use LinkedIn to identify opportunities by networking.
Top tips for LinkedIn networking: Add people you know and the industry leaders that inspire you. It's also worth getting in touch with UC alumni who work in the companies you're interested in. Connect and follow company profiles on LinkedIn so you're updated with the latest insights.
- Start by taking the LinkedIn tutorial to build your profile
- Tips on How to set up a LinkedIn profile (PDF 354KB)
- Developing your LinkedIn profile (265 KB)
- LinkedIn Cheat Sheet
- Quick tips: How to network on LinkedIn
- Book a one-on-one LinkedIn appointment
- Our team can help you take a professional photo for your LinkedIn. Email us to set up a time for your photo
There's power in your personal networks. Ask your friends, whānau, lecturers, neighbours and former colleagues for introductions and referrals. If you are going to ask your personal networks for a favour, be specific about what you are looking for to enable them to help you more efficiently. The more you help them to understand what it is you need, the more likely it is that you will receive their help.
As well as leveraging off your networks to assist with your job search, you should equally be prepared to return the favour!
Tutorial: How to ask my network for help