Five quick networking tips from employers

Learning how to approach a stranger and strike up a conversation, especially about your career goals and journey, takes a bit of practice. Yep, the best way to get good at networking is to get out there and give it a go, and another go and another go.

The AUT Employability and Careers service runs a range of events where students can network. Here are 5 simple tips from employers who attended recent events and networked with students.

1: Be present

Start as you mean to continue and look the person in the eye when introducing yourself.

G2 Studio Project Manager Daryl Elenzano says he is most impressed with someone who is genuine in their approach.

“The most impressive students are those who make strong eye contact and listen intently, taking a moment to pause before responding. Beyond coherent answers, their ability to genuinely listen is a standout quality.”

2: Plan your introduction – it is more than hello!

That’s your elevator pitch. Learn a few lines about yourself, your motivations, study and career goals. If you’ve got past work experience, include that in your intro as well. But don’t over-practice this. While you want to have something to say, you don’t want to sound like a well-oiled AI machine.
“If you are too scripted, you make it hard for the other person to start a conversation, so make sure you are not delivering a one-way scripted pitch,” says Korn Ferry Associate Consultant Matt McCreanor.

He suggests you ask questions of the person you’ve approached and weave in questions about the industry. Don’t just talk about yourself.

3: Past work experience is valuable

Mention work experience in a way that shows you know the skills and knowledge you have gained from that work (which is what you should be doing in your CV as well, just saying).

Talk about your work achievements from your home countries with confidence, advises Four Points by Sheraton Human Resources Manager Lauren Purse.

“All work experience is valuable, no matter where it was or how long ago because it forms part of your journey.”

4: Mention a highlight – it can be work or study-focused

Students who have at least one clear achievement from their studies or work (or a relevant project) are interesting, adds Daryl.

“It’s helpful when you can quantify their accomplishments, as it shows you are actively reflecting on their successes.”

5: Don’t say ‘I’ll take any job’!

Whoa, okay, that is good advice! You might be thinking you'll take anything but as Matt points out, you are giving the wrong impression.

“You know, while it may be true, it doesn't give an employer any sense that you are overly motivated or have any career direction. Talk instead about specific role titles, services or departments you are interested in. For example, ‘After graduation, I would like to gain a few years’ experience through a graduate program in either audit or assurance to provide myself with a grounded foundation in financial services.’ This shows a plan and a focus on skills you’d like to develop," says Matt.

All these tips encourage you to think about what you have to offer. If you’re not sure what your main achievements are or what you really want to do for a career, make an appointment to see a careers specialist at Employability and Careers. Book in through elab.aut.ac.nz

We also run workshops on how to develop your introduction (elevator pitch), how to network, and how to think about your personal brand and career values.