Networking increases your chances of landing a job by 85%

As college students approach graduation, many are worried about their employment prospects. With the job market becoming increasingly competitive, students need to do more than just graduate with a degree to secure a job. One of the most effective ways to improve their chances is by establishing networks while at university. Networking is all about connecting with people who share your interests, skills, and goals. It can be a powerful tool for landing a job, as well as advancing your career. In this article, we will discuss why students' chances of getting a job are higher if they establish networks at university and provide references and quotes to support our argument.

Firstly, networking allows students to gain valuable insights into their chosen industry. By attending industry events and connecting with professionals, students can get a better understanding of what employers are looking for and what skills are in demand. According to a survey by LinkedIn, 85% of jobs are filled through networking. This means that networking is the most effective way to get a job, and students who have established networks have a significant advantage over those who have not.

In addition, networking can help students to build relationships with potential employers. According to a survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), 63% of employers said they prefer to hire candidates who have been referred by someone they know. This means that students who have established networks are more likely to be referred for job openings by their network connections.

Moreover, networking provides opportunities for students to gain practical experience through internships and job shadowing. By connecting with professionals in their chosen field, students can learn more about the day-to-day operations of a company and gain valuable experience that will make them more attractive to potential employers. In fact, according to a survey by the Chronicle of Higher Education, 51% of students who completed an internship were more likely to receive a job offer than those who did not.

Furthermore, networking can help students to develop their soft skills, such as communication and teamwork. By interacting with professionals, students can learn how to communicate effectively and work in a team. These skills are highly valued by employers and can make a significant difference in a student's job search. According to a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), 77% of employers said they look for candidates with strong communication skills, while 82% look for candidates with strong teamwork skills.

Finally, networking can provide students with access to a wider range of job opportunities. According to a survey by Jobvite, 40% of job openings are never advertised, meaning that students who rely solely on job postings may be missing out on many opportunities. However, by networking, students can learn about job openings before they are advertised and gain a competitive advantage over other job seekers.

In conclusion, establishing networks while at university is essential for students who want to improve their chances of getting a job. Networking can help students to gain valuable insights into their chosen industry, build relationships with potential employers, gain practical experience, develop their soft skills, and provide access to a wider range of job opportunities. As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, students who have established networks have a significant advantage over those who have not. Therefore, it is important for students to start networking early and take advantage of the opportunities available to them.

References:

LinkedIn (2016). The Ultimate LinkedIn Cheat Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ultimate-linkedin-cheat-sheet-2016-version-viveka-von-rosen

National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) (2016). Job Outlook 2016: The Attributes Employers Want to See on New College Graduates’ Resumes. Retrieved from http://www.naceweb.org/s09072015/employers-look-for-in-new-hires.aspx