As graduation approaches in April, the job search can feel overwhelming, especially for international students navigating the US job market. The good news? Networking is your secret weapon. Building strong connections can open doors to opportunities you might not even know exist. Here’s how to make it work for you—fast, effectively, and without the stress!
Why Networking is Key
A staggering 80% of jobs are filled through networking. Many positions aren’t even posted online! As an international student, you may face additional hurdles, like visa sponsorships, but a solid network can help you bypass traditional barriers. Employers are more likely to take a chance on someone they’ve been personally introduced to.
Success Stories
Aditi came to the US from India for her MBA. Unsure of how to break into tech, she started attending every alumni event and tech conference she could. By sharing her story and skills with people in her network, she landed a referral for an interview at Google before any job listings were up. Takeaway: Don’t just apply—connect.
Similarly, Diego from Brazil made his mark by attending LinkedIn Local events in San Francisco. By consistently following up with contacts and offering value (he’d send relevant articles or ask for feedback on projects), he built a network that ultimately led to a job offer from a company that was expanding to Latin America. Takeaway: Networking is about giving, not just taking.
Pro Tips to Master Networking
- Leverage University Connections
Your university is a goldmine of potential contacts! Start with professors, career services, and alumni networks. Use platforms like Handshake and LinkedIn to find and connect with alumni in your industry. Alumni are often more than willing to help out fellow students, especially when you’re an international student seeking advice. - Attend Industry-Specific Events
Go to conferences, seminars, and webinars. Look up virtual and in-person networking events related to your field. Industry insiders frequently share hiring trends, and you can gain insider knowledge or even secure informational interviews. - Be Active on LinkedIn
LinkedIn isn’t just for job applications. It’s a powerful platform to share your thoughts, post your achievements, and connect with professionals. Create meaningful posts about your academic projects or industry news and tag companies or professionals you admire. Join groups relevant to your career and contribute to discussions. - Reach Out the Right Way
When messaging someone new, don’t just ask for a job. Instead, ask for advice or feedback. This opens the door for a genuine conversation, rather than coming across as transactional. People are more inclined to help if you ask for guidance first. - Follow Up (But Don’t Be Pushy)
After meeting someone, whether at a job fair or networking event, send a thoughtful follow-up message within 24-48 hours. Reference something specific you talked about to show you’re interested and attentive. Build rapport before asking for help. - Prepare an Elevator Pitch
You never know when you’ll meet someone who could help with your career. Be ready with a concise, 30-second pitch about who you are, your skills, and what you’re looking for.
The best time to start networking was yesterday. The second-best time? Now. Don’t wait until you’re a few weeks from graduation. Start building relationships today, so by the time April rolls around, you’ll have a robust network ready to help you land that dream job.
Remember, any connection could be a game-changer. Make the most of each opportunity, be genuine, and give value wherever you can. The job market may be competitive, but with the right network, your dream job is within reach.