Networking can help you:

• Learn about careers and industries

• Meet professionals working in your field

• Discover internships and job opportunities

• Build confidence speaking with employers

• Learn about company cultures

• Expand your professional network

• Develop long-term professional relationships

💡 EECS Tip

Networking is about building relationships, not collecting business cards. Focus on learning, listening, and making genuine connections.

If Networking Feels Intimidating

If the word networking makes you picture walking into a crowded room and introducing yourself to dozens of strangers, you're not alone.

The good news is that successful networking rarely looks like that.

Networking is simply building professional relationships over time. Some of the strongest professional connections begin with one meaningful conversation.

You don't have to be the loudest person in the room. You don't need a perfect elevator pitch. You don't have to collect dozens of business cards.

Instead, focus on:

• Being genuinely curious.

• Asking thoughtful questions.

• Listening carefully.

• Following up after conversations.

• Building one relationship at a time.

Many successful professionals identify as introverts. They often excel at networking because they ask good questions, listen well, and build authentic relationships.

Small Steps Count

If you're just getting started, try one small goal.

For example:

• Introduce yourself to one employer at a career fair.

• Ask one guest speaker a question after class.

• Connect with one classmate or instructor on LinkedIn.

• Schedule one informational interview.

• Attend one campus networking event.

Small, consistent conversations often lead to meaningful professional relationships.

🧠 Remember: Networking isn't about impressing people. It's about learning from them.

Networking opportunities are everywhere. Consider building connections through:

• Career fairs

• Employer information sessions

• Campus events

• Student organizations

• Faculty and instructors

• Alumni

• Internships and work-based learning experiences

• Volunteer opportunities

• Professional associations

• LinkedIn

• Friends, family, and coworkers

Many students already have a network—they just haven't thought about it that way.

An elevator pitch is a brief introduction that helps others quickly understand who you are and what you're interested in professionally.

A good elevator pitch typically includes:

• Your name

• What you're studying or your career goal

• Your interests or strengths

• What you're hoping to learn or accomplish

Example

"Hi, my name is Sarah. I'm studying Information Technology at Pima Community College. I'm interested in cybersecurity and enjoy solving technical problems. I'm currently looking for internship opportunities where I can continue developing my technical skills while learning from professionals in the field."

When networking:

• Introduce yourself with confidence.

• Ask thoughtful questions.

• Listen more than you speak.

• Be curious and interested in others.

• Exchange contact information when appropriate.

• Thank people for their time.

• Follow up after meaningful conversations.

Professional relationships are built over time through consistent, respectful communication.

An informational interview is a conversation with someone working in a career or industry that interests you.

The purpose is to learn about their experiences, gain career advice, and better understand the profession.

Consider asking questions such as:

• What does a typical day look like?

• What do you enjoy most about your work?

• What skills are most important in this field?

• What advice would you give someone just starting out?

• Are there professional organizations or resources you recommend?

Remember, an informational interview is about learning, not asking for a job.

Career fairs are a great opportunity to meet multiple employers in one location.

Before the Career Fair

• Research participating employers.

• Update your résumé.

• Practice your elevator pitch.

• Dress professionally.

• Prepare questions to ask employers.

During the Career Fair

• Introduce yourself confidently.

• Ask thoughtful questions.

• Show interest in the organization.

• Collect business cards or contact information when appropriate.

After the Career Fair

• Connect with employers on LinkedIn.

• Send a thank-you email if appropriate.

• Apply for opportunities that interest you.

• Continue building the relationship.

Networking doesn't end after one conversation.

Continue growing your professional network by:

• Staying active on LinkedIn

• Attending employer events

• Joining professional organizations

• Participating in internships and work-based learning

• Volunteering

• Keeping in touch with mentors, classmates, faculty, and colleagues

Building a professional network is an ongoing process that can support you throughout your career.