Networking. It’s a loaded word that can cause some to recoil in distaste, potentially even in fear. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Armed with some ideas from us at the Haskayne CUS, we hope you will quickly find that there is nothing that needs to be scary about networking, and it can even be something exciting that will not only broaden your career horizons, but help you create lasting relationships with human beings. After all, it’s not about the destination, it’s the friends you make along the way.
As a Haskayne student, you are surrounded by opportunities to get involved and make connections. Haskayne clubs, including the CUS, regularly host networking events, hands on workshops, and casual socials that make it easy to meet people who share your interests. Following club social media accounts and checking the boards in Scurfield Hall can help you stay in the loop so you do not miss out. On top of that, many companies come directly to campus to host information sessions and networking events, with updates often shared through the Hello Haskayne portal on D2L, making it easier than ever to get face time with potential employers.
We all know them. They are the ones who prowl around networking events, exclusively hunting for potential employers or connections they deem high value. A few seconds into a conversation, if you do not meet their standard, their eyes glaze over, they lose interest, and quickly find an excuse to leave and talk to someone else. It is understandable, and even encouraged, to attend these kinds of events with a goal in mind, but it is important to remember that networking is not only about jobs or career advancement.
When you give people a chance, talk to everyone, and take the time to learn their story, you may find you have a lot in common and can build genuinely strong relationships. The relationships you build can help your career in the long run. You never know who will receive a big promotion or land an important role in the future and be in a position to lend a helping hand, even if they do not seem especially impressive right now. When you approach networking with the goal of making friends and treat people with kindness, you are far less likely to walk away feeling disappointed.
It is easy to forget, but everyone you meet at these events has a life outside of school, work, and their career. It is great to talk about business and stay focused on your professional goals, but taking the time to get to know people on a personal level can lead to even greater rewards. You may discover shared interests, hobbies, or experiences that grow into a genuine friendship. From a more practical perspective, finding common ground can also help you stand out to a potential employer and make you appear more authentic and employable in their eyes.
An elevator pitch is a short and clear introduction that explains who you are and what you do in a way that feels natural and confident. Having one prepared helps you make a strong first impression, especially in networking settings where conversations move quickly. A good elevator pitch should be flexible and conversational, not memorized word for word, while still covering the most important details about you. It should include:
Many people focus on immediate gain, whether that is a job posting or a new employment opportunity, because the appeal is strong. However, meaningful progress takes time, and before entering the business world, you need knowledge and skills that are often gained through experience. Having strong mentors who can share their expertise, offer guidance, and help prepare you for the future is invaluable, not only in business but in life. Haskayne offers resources to help connect you with potential mentors, such as the BMO mentorship program, but LinkedIn is also an effective way to find them. Reach out to people in fields you are interested in, those who share common ground such as an alma mater or club involvement, or even individuals whose career path you find interesting. The worst outcome is being ignored or told someone is busy, but the potential to build meaningful mentorship relationships on platforms like LinkedIn is significant.
The most important thing you can do is be involved with the Haskayne community. Get involved with your school, clubs, volunteering, and work, because every experience adds value. Networking is not a single event or a one time effort. It is an ongoing process of meeting people, building connections, and nurturing relationships that go beyond personal gain. At its core, networking is about creating a community, a meaningful web of people connected through shared experiences, trust, and one central point, you.
Stay ahead with more insights and strategies from our team. Explore our blog for resources that help you strengthen your skills, enhance your knowledge, and stay connected.
