Networking Basics

Networking is the buzzword of business school and you will learn to both love and loathe the word. As I started business school I knew networking was something I had to do, but I still was not clear on what networking really meant. As I progressed through my first year of business school I realized networking was simply meeting new people and trying to build relationships with them. I also realized that the Pepperdine network is in effect throughout the LA area and is a huge asset in your search for an internship. My first two internship offers were both through Pepperdine MBA alums I met through my networking efforts. After a year of networking events I have five suggestions to keep in mind as you build your own network:

1) Be the first to introduce yourself

Whether you are at a networking event, a conference or simply a mixer, remember that everyone is there with the intent to meet new people. If you are standing near someone, do not ignore them, you never know who they are or what company they work for! Smile, introduce yourself and shake their hand.

2) Ask engaging questions

Now that you have introduced yourself the fun begins! Ask engaging questions and listen to the answers. Even if you think you have nothing in common with the person you are speaking with, they may be best friends with someone you want to know.

3) Bring business cards

Sounds obvious but it is an easy thing to forget, and nothing makes you look unorganized like showing up to an event without your business cards. Pay for the business cards that Pepperdine offers. People are consistently impressed with the quality of the school's business cards. When you have finished getting to know the person you have been speaking with, offer them your card and express interest in meeting up with them soon.

4) Follow up!

Within 1-2 days of meeting someone and getting their business card, follow up with them. Email them a short, personalized message.

5) Its not all about you, what can you bring to them?

As business school students we use networking as a tool in our hunt for an internship and a job. Just remember that as you meet people, think less of what they can do for you, and more about what you can do for them. This will make people more at ease and more likely to actually help you in the long run…and isn’t that what networking is really about?