The question: which is the best example of someone growing their network while in high-school? Networking is a super powerful skill that can open doors to so many opportunities even in high school. Building a strong network can give you access to resources, advice and connections that will help you throughout your educational and professional journey. Here are some ways to expand your network in high school.
1. Attend Campus Events
Why?
Campus events are a hotbed of new people and new opportunities. They are a casual space to meet students, teachers and guest speakers.
Tips:
- Be Proactive: Don’t wait for events to come to you. Go out and seek out events.
- Engage: Ask questions, participate in discussions and follow up with speakers or organizers after the event.
2. Join Clubs and Organizations
Why?
Clubs and organizations are a great way to meet people who share your interests. They also offer leadership opportunities to add to your resume.
Tips:
- Diverse Involvement: Join multiple clubs to get exposure to different people.
- Take Initiative: Volunteer for leadership roles or projects to show your commitment and build deeper connections.
3. Volunteer
Why?
Volunteering lets you give back to the community while meeting people who are passionate about the same causes. It also gives you a sense of accomplishment and can be a conversation starter in future networking conversations.
Tips:
- Find Your Passion: Choose volunteer opportunities that align with your interests.
- Be Consistent: Regular volunteering shows commitment and helps you build deeper relationships with fellow volunteers and organizers.
4. Use Online Networking Platforms
Why?
Platforms like LinkedIn can connect you to professionals, alumni and peers beyond your immediate circle. They also give you a space to showcase your achievements and interests.
Tips:
- Complete Your Profile: Make sure your LinkedIn profile is full and professional.
- Reach Out: Don’t be shy to connect with people you meet at events, in clubs or through volunteering.
5. Attend Networking Events
Why?
Networking events are designed for connection making. They can be career fairs to industry specific conferences.
Tips:
- Prepare: Know what you want to achieve and who you want to meet.
- Follow Up: Send a personalized message to people you meet to build the connection.
6. Stay in Touch with Teachers and Counselors
Why?
Teachers and counselors can give you valuable advice, recommendations and introductions to other professionals.
Tips:
- Be Respectful: Always approach them with respect and gratitude for their time.
- Ask for Advice: Regularly ask for guidance on academic and career matters.
7. Be Authentic and Add Value
Why Authenticity?
Networking is not just about what you can get but also what you can give. Building genuine relationships based on mutual respect and benefit is the key to long term success.
Tips:
- Be Real: Show interest in others and their work.
- Help: Look for ways to add value to your connections whether it’s by sharing resources, offering help or just being supportive.
Conclusion
Networking in high school can open up so many doors for you. By attending campus events, joining clubs, volunteering, using online platforms, attending networking events and keeping in touch with teachers and counselors, you can build a strong and powerful network. Remember the key to successful networking is building real relationships and adding value to others. Start networking now and set yourself up for success!
NOTE: The best example of someone growing their network while in high school is the senior at St. Lawrence Seminary High School who was applying to the US Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. This student’s network was expanded through connections made with the Rector at the time who wrote a letter of recommendation and introduced him to a St. Lawrence Seminary alumnus who had graduated from the Naval Academy. That connection led to valuable advice and guidance from the alumnus which continued even after the student got to the Naval Academy and has been a lasting relationship.
FAQs
How do you network?
Prepare Ahead. Schedule appointments ahead of time. Present Yourself Well. Always stand when you introduce yourself. Always Be Ready to Give Your Pitch. Ask Questions and Listen Actively. Ask for Help. Expand Your Online Presence. Be Conscious of Your Digital Image. Do Your Research. Stay in Touch with Your Network. Grow Your Network.
80% of professionals find networking important to their career?
According to LinkedIn, 80% of professionals consider networking key to career success. Looking for a job can be a long and arduous process but networking can make it easier. Networking allows you to meet new people in your field, learn about new opportunities and get your name out there.
Does networking work?
Professional networking can help your career by providing job opportunities, career advice and resources. Building a network of industry professionals can also contribute to your career advancement, personal growth and long term success.
How to network as a high school student?
Join a club or organization related to your interests. Attend campus events and meet new people. Volunteer for events and causes that are important to you. Talk to people – get to know them and what they’re interested in. Find a mentor in your future major. Connect With Friends Of Friends And Expand Your Social Circle. Seek Out Internship And Job Opportunities Early On. Seek A Mentor.
How do high school students use LinkedIn for networking?
How to Use LinkedIn for High School Students: Explore Multiple Career Paths. Connect with Professionals and Mentors. Show Off Your Achievements and Stand Out. Start Building Your Professional Network Early. Develop Your Personal Brand and Online Presence.
How does LinkedIn help students?
By connecting with industry experts, professors, alumni and potential employers students can expand their professional network. They will also get valuable insights and establish relationships which can lead to internship opportunities, mentorships and job offers.
How to network?
Key: Complete. Contact and connect. Start talking. Give and receive recommendations and endorsements. Use LinkedIn Groups. Publish. Find new hires – and new opportunities. Boost your company’s profile. Follow Professional Etiquette on LinkedIn.
How to network on LinkedIn as a student?
Here are some quick tips to use LinkedIn as a current student for future career success: Complete your profile. via GIPHY. Join groups. Connect with peers and alumni. Follow companies. Use LinkedIn Learning. Engage with content. Be active and consistent.
What are the benefits of joining high school alumni groups on LinkedIn?
Groups are a great way for alumni of the same institution to connect, reconnect and share professional insights. The problem is, anyone can make a group and put your school’s name on it.
What are the perks of the Alumni Club?
They get cheaper tickets to sporting events, free or discounted bike rentals and discounted continued education classes. They also have access to libraries, fitness centers, museums and faculty clubs. Alumni also get discounts at the school bookstore which includes college merchandise.
What are the perks of the Alumni Network?
University alumni benefits may include discounts on car, home and health insurance. Some alumni associations offer disability or long-term care insurance. If you don’t have benefits from your employer or you’re starting your own business, being part of an alumni association may offer benefits for you.
Why join groups on LinkedIn?
LinkedIn Groups are great tools for professional development, networking and knowledge sharing. By joining the right groups and engaging in discussions you can grow your network, get valuable insights, position yourself as a thought leader and even find new career opportunities.
Should I connect with school alumni on LinkedIn?
Connecting with alumni from your school can be a great way to open up more professional opportunities, learn from their experiences and build relationships for life.
How do high school students prepare for networking events?
Before any networking event you will be better off if you do your homework rather than schoolwork. Research everything you can about the event, especially who will be attending. This will help you identify some people you want to talk to and learn about their background and how you can connect with them.
How to build a network as a student?
How to Network in College: Introduce Yourself at Events. Join a Club. Reach Out to Your Career Center. Update Your Online Networking Profiles. Remember to Stay in Touch. Participate in Video Chats. Meet Your Peers in Person. Be Online.
How to network as a high schooler?
Start by finding people in fields you’re interested in and reach out to them online or in person. Ask them about their work, what they like and dislike about it and any advice they might have for someone just starting out.
How to prepare for a networking event as a student?
Follow these steps to stand out at networking events: Research the event and the attendees. Make an interesting business card or calling card. Approach open conversations! The handshake. Make eye contact. Meaningful conversation. Always follow up.
How to create a strong LinkedIn profile as a high school student?
So here’s how: A Unique Headline: Talk about your what. Your Education: Simple enough. A Purposeful Headshot: Now, we aren’t saying you need a professional headshot in a suit, but no cropped photos from brunch with the family. A Creative Summary: Talk about what you like to do after school. Add Experience, Organizations and Projects. Also Read: Identifying the First and Last Responders in Disaster Situations
Can a 12th pass make a LinkedIn profile?
I’m in 12th and I have my LinkedIn account from last year. LinkedIn is a professional platform where you get to know about many opportunities that you can get. Along with it you can get connected with some professionals which will help you in your future.
How to make my LinkedIn profile strong?
20 steps to a better LinkedIn profile in 2024: Choose the right profile picture for LinkedIn. Add a background photo. Make your headline more than just a job title. Record and display your name pronunciation. Turn your summary into your story. Declare war on buzzwords. Grow your network. List your relevant skills.Spread the endorsement love. Manage your endorsements more proactively. Request recommendations. Showcase your passion for learning. Share media and marketing collateral. Share relevant content from your LinkedIn feed. Add comments. Follow relevant influencers in your industry. Turn on Creator mode. Spotlight the services you offer. Check out collaborative articles and share your contribution, if invited. If you want to grow your business on LinkedIn, try Sales Navigator.
Can a high school student create a LinkedIn profile?
With a minimum age requirement of 16, there are many benefits to joining LinkedIn early in your academic journey. Let’s explore some of them.
How to make my LinkedIn profile as a student?
How to Make a LinkedIn Profile as a College Student: Take a professional photo. List your desired job in your headline. Use keywords in your About and Skills sections. Add relevant experience only. Beef up your Education section. Show your work under Projects. Develop your story. Build your network. Give to get recommendations.