Networking is about the exchange of information. It can also involve informal interactions, such as chatting with your colleagues, sharing ideas and resources, and collaborating on projects. There are tons of ways you might already be networking, or can get started:

• Attend Career Fairs
• Schedule an Informational Interview – it’s a great way to expand your network and gain insights into your chosen field.
• Go to an employer information session.
• Create a LinkedIn Profile – LinkedIn is a great tool to search for and connect with employers in your field of interest.
• Join a club or student organization – build relationships with your peers and fellow organization members by browsing Engage or visiting the UM CaneFest.

Here is a quick guide to get you started.

Start with Who You Know

As much as it might be scary, you’re actually networking all the time. With friends, family, classmates, professors, faculty, and community members alike. Let people know you are open to connecting.

Networking is about building a relationship.

• Cultivate Friendships: Take the time to get to know people. Find out what your shared interests are, what do you like to do/ talk about? Helps to know something about your contact to avoid any awkward silences.
• You don’t know who knows who: Anyone can assist you in various ways, so treat every relationship as a potential source of support.
• Stay in Touch: Send personalized messages expressing your interest and updating them on your professional journey. This demonstrates genuine care and keeps your connections alive.
• Offer Before You Ask: Networking is a two-way street. Consider the needs of others, how can you help them as well.

Find New Connections

Connect with Alumni

Alumni, your greatest resource, and the easiest to group to find some common ground amongst. They were once in your shoes, took the same classes, and were involved in the same campus activities you did.

Exclusive to our University of Miami community, Cane2Cane (C2C) is a social network where ‘Canes receive help navigating from college to career. Students can join C2C to seek mentorship and advice from UM alumni, faculty/staff, and friends of the U across 60+ industries worldwide. The “Community” page allows you to filter mentors by various categories, including location, industries, help/discussion topics, and more!

Use Social Media Platforms

LinkedIn, a professional networking powerhouse, is ideal for connecting with colleagues, alumni, and industry leaders. Regularly sharing industry insights, commenting on posts, and participating in relevant groups can significantly enhance your visibility and engagement.

• Create a LinkedIn profile to get started.
• Go to the “University of Miami” LinkedIn page, select the Alumni tab to find alumni by majors, job, or organizations of interest. Tips on finding alumni in LinkedIn.
• Look at alumni career paths, see what groups they are in, and research organization’s pages.

Social media, beyond LinkedIn, offers additional avenues for engagement. Participate in industry-specific forums, discussion groups, and even X/Twitter chats related to your field. Share your insights, ask questions, and connect with professionals who share your interests.

Professional Associations

Find new contacts by researching organizations, industries, professional associations, and conference that are related to the work you are potentially interested. Here’s a list of a few professional organizations that may interest you. Many professional associations have discounted rates for students. Industry professionals are often impressed and willing to mentor proactive students who join, participate, or volunteer for these associations.