What is networking?

My definition of networking is the building of relationships with people in many different fields.

What is the most important relationship you have built?

The most important relationship I built was with a Duke Energy employee that I met through my high school guidance counselor.  She aided me into getting into Duke and worked with me very closely on this. All seniors in my high school are supposed to survey a company and I chose to survey Duke Energy.  My guidance counselor put me in contact with a parent who worked there, whom I shadowed.  She gave me many necessary tips crucial to building a strong network. She told me to always write thank you cards to anyone who helps you, keep in regular contact with every important person you meet, and do not be afraid to ask people for help in finding hiring opportunities.

Why is networking so important?

Networking is essential since it puts your name in the minds of people who have the power or ability to help you. When you have established a good contact with an individual and they get a notice saying that someone is looking for a college student with certain credentials, if you are a close match they will think of you and put in a great word for you.

Do you have any advice about networking?

The biggest piece of advice I could give to anyone trying to build their own network is to keep in regular contact with those who have helped you and important people you meet. Send them an email every few months or so just to see how things are going. I usually send "Happy Holidays" emails and I know people who have set calendar events for themselves so that at designated periods they look through their contacts and decide which ones they should to check on.