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Shared by Molly Stolp

August, 2024

Networking isn’t just for professionals; it’s a valuable skill that high school students can benefit from as well. Building a strong network can open doors to new opportunities, provide guidance, and help you achieve your academic and career goals. Here are some essential do’s and don’ts of networking for high school students, using InspireWI.org as a helpful resource.

Do Start Early

• Engage in School Activities: Join clubs, sports teams, and other extracurricular activities to meet peers with similar interests. These activities are great for building connections and developing teamwork skills.
• Attend Events: Participate in school events, community activities, and career fairs. These are excellent opportunities to meet new people and expand your network. Check out events listed on InspireWI.org to find opportunities in your area.

Do Be Genuine

• Be Yourself: Authenticity is key in networking. People are more likely to remember and support you if you are genuine and sincere in your interactions.
• Show Interest in Others: Ask questions and show interest in the people you meet. Networking is a two-way street, and showing genuine curiosity can help build stronger connections.

Do Use Online Resources

• Leverage InspireWI.org: Utilize the resources available on InspireWI.org to explore career paths, find mentorship opportunities, and connect with professionals in various fields.
• Create a LinkedIn Profile: As you start building your network, consider creating a LinkedIn profile. It’s a professional platform that can help you connect with mentors, teachers, and professionals.

Do Follow Up

• Stay in Touch: After meeting someone, follow up with a thank-you email or message. This helps keep the connection alive and shows that you value the relationship.
• Maintain Relationships: Networking is not just about making new connections but also about maintaining existing ones. Regularly check in with your contacts and offer your help if possible.

Do Seek Mentors

• Find a Mentor: Having a mentor can provide valuable guidance and support as you navigate your academic and career journey. InspireWI.org can help you find mentors in various fields who are willing to share their experiences and advice.

Don’t Be Shy

• Take Initiative: Don’t wait for others to approach you. Take the initiative to introduce yourself and start conversations. Being proactive can help you make more connections.
• Overcome Fear: Networking can be intimidating, but don’t let fear hold you back. Remember, everyone was once in your shoes and is likely willing to help.

Don’t Be Pushy

• Avoid Aggressiveness: While being proactive is important, avoid being overly aggressive or pushy. Respect others’ time and boundaries.
• Don’t Ask for Favors Immediately: Build a relationship first before asking for any favors or help. Networking is about mutual support, not just taking.

Don’t Forget to Listen

• Active Listening: Pay attention to what others are saying and show that you are interested. Active listening can help you learn more and build stronger connections.
• Avoid Interrupting: Let others speak and avoid interrupting them. Showing respect in conversations is crucial for building positive relationships.

Don’t Limit Yourself

• Expand Your Horizons: Don’t limit your network to just your school or immediate community. Look for opportunities to connect with people from different backgrounds and industries.
• Explore Diverse Interests: Join different clubs, attend various events, and explore a range of interests. This can help you meet a wider variety of people and discover new opportunities.

Don’t Forget to Give Back

• Offer Help: Networking is a two-way street. Offer your help and support to others in your network whenever possible.
• Share Opportunities: If you come across opportunities that might benefit someone in your network, share them. Helping others can strengthen your connections and build goodwill.

Networking is a valuable skill that can benefit high school students in many ways. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can build a strong network that supports your academic and career goals. Utilize resources like InspireWI.org to explore opportunities, find mentors, and connect with professionals. Remember, networking is about building genuine relationships and supporting each other on your journey.