Networking Guide for Kelley International Students
Building Strong Professional Relationships
Networking is an essential skill for career growth, especially for international students preparing for internships, leadership roles, or full-time opportunities.
At Kelley, you will hear it often: building relationships with recruiters, professionals, alumni, mentors, and peers is just as important as building your resume.
Networking is not just about attending events or sending out messages or your resume, it is about creating and maintaining genuine connections that support your personal and professional growth.
And no, it is not just another task to check off, it is a mindset. You do not have to be perfect. Just take the first step, send your first three emails today!
Do not wait. Start now! The more professionals who know your skills and strengths, the more opportunities you will unlock. Many positions are filled before they are advertised, and studies show that 82% of jobs are secured through networking.
Below are practical tips to help you network effectively as an international student.
1. Start Early and Show Genuine Interest
It is never too soon to begin making connections. While many students focus on job interviews, the most successful candidates are those who start building relationships early.
- Attend Networking Events: Whether it is a career fair, information session, or alumni chat, take every opportunity to introduce yourself to recruiters or professionals in your field.
- Focus on Relationships, Not Just Offers: Instead of focusing solely on landing a job or internship, use the opportunity to learn more about the company’s culture and future opportunities. Ask thoughtful questions about the role, company values, and industry trends. Be ready to engage in casual conversation!
- For Freshmen and Sophomores: While early networking might seem daunting, making informal connections now lays a foundation for the future. Show interest in the company’s work, and offer to stay in touch for future opportunities.
2. Maintain Regular Contact
Building a relationship takes time, so aim for consistent, meaningful communication rather than sporadic updates.
- Send Follow-Up Emails: After events or casual meetings, follow up with a thank-you email that references something specific from your conversation. This helps recruiters remember you and shows genuine interest. Have you heard about the Excel spreadsheet our students maintain? It is a great way to track who you have met and when to follow up.
- Update Your Contacts: Keep recruiters or professionals you have met updated on your progress, whether it is an internship, leadership role, or academic achievement. For example, let them know when you have gained new skills or are exploring different career paths.
3. Showcase Growth and Flexibility
Recruiters are looking for candidates who can demonstrate both growth and adaptability. Over time, show how you are evolving professionally and personally.
- Highlight New Skills or Experiences: If you have completed a course in data analysis, taken on a leadership role, or developed a technical skill relevant to your target industry, be sure to mention it.
- Be Open to Different Roles: If your career interests evolve, communicate that with your network. For example, if you are moving from marketing to finance, explain how your background provides transferable skills and why you are excited about the new direction.
4. Leverage Both In-Person and Virtual Events
Networking is no longer limited to in-person interactions. Virtual events, webinars, and exploratory programs mean you can connect with recruiters across the world, no matter where you are.
- Attend In-Person Events: Make eye contact, introduce yourself with confidence, and come prepared with thoughtful questions. A strong first impression can lead to lasting connections. Avoid opening with “Do you hire international students?”, instead, lead with your strengths, enthusiasm, and interest in the company or role. Also, be ready to carry on casual conversation. Small talk helps build rapport and shows your communication skills. Ask: “What do you enjoy most about working at your company?”, “I noticed you studied marketing too—how did you get into your current role?” A little curiosity and friendliness can go a long way!
- Be Engaged Virtually: During virtual events, participate actively in Q&A sessions or discussions. Ask insightful questions and mention something specific about the company to show you have done your research.
5. Balance Professionalism with a Personal Touch
While being professional is key, recruiters also appreciate getting to know you as a person. Strive to balance your professional image with your unique personality.
- Show Enthusiasm and Authenticity: When following up with recruiters, include personal anecdotes that show your passion for the industry or why you resonate with the company’s culture. For example, “I loved our conversation about sustainable business practices, and I am eager to learn more about your work in this area.”
- Build Genuine Connections: People remember those who are not only competent but also approachable and personable. Make sure to be friendly and authentic while maintaining professionalism.
6. Be Mindful of Transitions in Your Network
Kelley alums, mentors, and recruiters often transition to new roles, and this can open new doors for you.
- Stay in Touch: If you hear that a recruiter or mentor has moved to a new company, reach out to congratulate them and express your interest in staying connected.
- Follow Their Career: These transitions might lead to new opportunities at firms you had not previously considered, so keep your network alive and active.
7. Use Kelley Resources to Your Advantage
- Student Organizations: Join industry specific organizations, clubs, or workshops to meet peers with similar career interests and connect with professionals and alumni. These groups offer valuable networking opportunities and hands-on experiences.
- Recruitment starts early, so be sure to watch for application deadlines!
- Can not find a club or organization that fits your interests? Start one!
8. Be Proactive and Stay Patient
Networking is a long-term strategy. Be proactive about reaching out to professionals, but also be patient. Success does not happen overnight. Building a network takes time, but the relationships you develop now will pay off in the long run.
Common Networking No-Nos
1. Only Reaching Out When You Need Something
Networking is about relationships, not transactions. Do not wait until you need a job to connect, maintain regular, sincere communication even when you are not asking for anything.
2. Using Generic Messages
Avoid copying and pasting the same message to multiple contacts. Personalize your outreach by referencing something specific you admire about the person, their company, or a past conversation.
3. Being Too Formal or Too Casual
Overly formal messages can feel cold, while overly casual language can seem unprofessional. Aim for a respectful, friendly tone, like a professional conversation with a mentor.
4. Not Doing Your Research
Before attending a networking event or reaching out to a professional, make sure you understand their company, role, or industry. Asking questions you could have answered with a simple Google search can hurt your credibility.
5. Giving Up After One Interaction
Networking takes time. If a professional does not respond right away, do not be discouraged. Wait a week and follow up politely. Persistence, without being pushy, shows genuine interest.
In Summary:
Networking as an international student at Kelley is about making genuine connections and maintaining consistent communication. Start early, attend events, update your network on your progress, and be open to new opportunities. Whether in-person or virtual, ensure your interactions are professional, authentic, and thoughtful. By doing so, you will build relationships that will support your long-term career goals.
Please check our additional resources under the Resources, Networking and Job Search tab.
Questions? Schedule an appointment with a Career Coach.
