How to start networking (even if it makes you nervous)

If the word ‘networking’ makes you picture a room full of strangers and awkward small talk, you’re not alone. Plenty of students find networking a bit daunting. The good news is that networking is really about building relationships, and some preparation can make the whole process feel far more manageable. 

Why networking is important 

The connections you make can be influential in your career journey, leading to opportunities you might otherwise miss. Your network can also share insights into different roles and industries, help you learn about the recruitment process and support you as you explore new areas of work. 

Networking doesn’t always mean meeting strangers either. Your network already includes friends, classmates, tutors, lecturers and family members, as well as people you’ve worked with in previous roles. 

Ways to network 

There are plenty of ways to connect with people, so you can choose what feels most comfortable for you. 

• LinkedIn: connect with people in roles, organisations or industries you’re interested in and use the UTS LinkedIn Alumni tool to find graduates from your degree. 

• University events: check the Events section of UTS CareerHub for industry events, panels and careers fairs. 

• Professional associations: many offer free or reduced student memberships, giving you access to events with people working in your field (we’ve collated a bunch for different industries for you to explore). 

• Student clubs and societies: ActivateUTS’s clubs and societies often host events with industry and sponsor organisations and offer an easy way to find groups related to your faculty or interests. 

• Employer events: many businesses and government departments run events where you can learn about their work and opportunities. Check organisations’ careers websites, LinkedIn pages and social media to find upcoming events. 

Start with your purpose 

Before you reach out to anyone, think about who you want to meet, why you’re connecting with them and what you’re hoping to learn from the conversation. Then write down 3 to 4 questions you’d like to ask, such as how they got started in their career. Research the industry, organisation or person beforehand to help you plan thoughtful questions. 

Prepare your elevator pitch 

An elevator pitch (also called a professional introduction) is a short way to introduce yourself to someone who doesn’t know you. Aim for 30 to 90 seconds and cover: 

• who you are, including what you’re studying and any relevant experience 

• what you do and why, focusing on a couple of key skills or motivations 

• what you’d like to achieve from the conversation. 

Tailor your pitch to each situation and practise it out loud so it feels natural. 

Networking when you feel anxious 

Feeling nervous is completely normal. Like making new friends, networking can feel a little vulnerable at first. These strategies can help: 

• Prepare a bank of open-ended questions so you always have something to ask. 

• Focus on actively listening, as people tend to remember how you made them feel more than what you talked about. 

• Start small by reconnecting with people you know or reaching out online before attending a large event. 

• If attending a networking event feels like too much, try reaching out on LinkedIn for an informational interview. This is a relaxed 20 to 30-minute chat with someone working in a role or industry that interests you. 

• Jot down notes on your phone between conversations so you don’t have to rely on memory. 

Smiling, facing the person you’re speaking with and maintaining appropriate eye contact can also help you come across as friendly and approachable, even if you feel nervous inside. 

Get to know people before asking about jobs 

If you’re networking to support your job search, ask about the person’s role, industry and career journey before asking about opportunities in their organisation. People are more likely to recommend someone they’ve built a genuine connection with. Networking is also reciprocal, so always make sure to show interest and thank people for their time. 

Follow up and stay connected 

At the end of a conversation, ask if you can connect on LinkedIn or swap email addresses. Consider sending a follow-up message shortly after an event or informational interview mentioning something you discussed and genuinely thanking them for their time. 

Need a hand getting started? 

Read the UTS Careers – Networking Guide for reach-out templates and example questions, or book a free 15-minute express appointment with one of our Peer Career Advisors to talk through your next steps. 

Featured image courtesy of Unsplash