I know. You read the title of this blog post and probably rolled your eyes. I’m sure many professors, guest speakers, parents, and anyone else concerned about your professional development has told you how important it is to network with people.
I was in a similar position, especially during COVID. I was getting really sick and tired of everyone basically saying the same thing to me; “Network, network, network.”
However, once things were able to “return back to normal,” I decided to really take this advice and do as I was told. Once I was allowed out of the house and able to socialize with people in person again, I began to network as much as possible.
Now, I’m sure when you hear the word “network,” you think of well-organized professional development events or conferences where you have to wear business attire and act all proper and professional. While these events certainly can’t hurt to attend, networking doesn’t always have to be this way. Honestly, anyone new that you meet, both in a casual and business setting, has joined your network, especially if you get their contact info.
Public relations is all about relationships and who you know (I’m sure you’ve heard that one before too). The more people you meet, from students to public relations professionals, only makes your network stronger and your list of opportunities longer.
Networking is how I got my job with Live Nation. Someone through Temple’s Music Business Club tipped me off to a hiring fair at the Mann Center, which was the stepping stone for me to work live events for almost a year at the time of this article being written.
Networking is also how I got my internship with Brian Communications, one of the largest public relations firms in the city. Christina Billie, our former president, let me know when Brian was hiring, and even put in a good word on my behalf to management.
Overall, it pays to put yourself out there and be a good person to people. Give people respect and kindness without expecting anything in return. Spread your passions and goals to anyone that’ll listen. You never know who will be able to hook you up with your next opportunity.
This blog post was written by Gavin Joyce, Vice President