The Business Co-op Corner

"Be Positively Delusional!"

Chandler Holyoak's Tips on Networking for Students

Written by: Khadija Ehsan, Program and Communications Support Intern

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Be Positively 'Delusional'!

As students, the business world will involve facing certain challenges. And no, I'm not just talking about the notorious ACC 311 or FIN 301 classes that we all have to power through. I'm referring to something far more universal: networking. If you're like me, you're already imagining a room full of suits and ties, endless handshaking, and nervous butterflies. Not to worry because Chandler Holyoak, Employer and Community Partner Outreach Specialist for the School of Business’ Careers and Work Integrated Learning (CWIL) team and master networker, is here to share words of wisdom to help you navigate this often intimidating activity.

Prepare Questions

To avoid awkward conversations and aimless interactions, it’s smart to go into networking events armed with a plan. Come prepared with a few generic questions such as, “what did you find most challenging in your career progression?”, or you can opt for something as simple as “Hi, I’m Chandler, what brings you here today?” or “how was your weekend?” Delving into more personal topics in a professional way, such as their life outside of work, can help cultivate stronger bonds.

Do Your Research

If there are certain companies you know will be in attendance, then try to conduct your own research ahead of time. Explore the company’s website or LinkedIn profile to see if there are any big projects they are working on or anything relevant in the news that you should be aware of. It’s all about being prepared to make those connections count.

Set a Goal

It’s a good idea to enter any networking event with a specific objective in mind. Whether it’s making sure you introduce yourself to a sought-after employer, or setting a goal of meeting at least three people. Setting goals helps ensure that you walk away from networking events feeling like you’ve achieved something, no matter how big or small.

Be Personable

Employers are trying to figure out if you are the right fit for their company. Are you able to hold a conversation or be someone they enjoy working with? From their perspective, hiring a student involves a degree of risk, as they’re trying to access your coachability - your ability to listen, learn, and ask questions. But remember, networking doesn’t only revolve around seeking job opportunities, it can simply be casual conversation. It’s also a two way street, so networking can help you figure out which employers or organizations are the right fit for you.

Show That You Care

"You don't have to be the best, but you do have to care." Chandler considers this his most important tip, especially for students at the beginning of their careers. Employers understand that you may not have the most experience, but they want to see if you genuinely care about them and the organization. By preparing beforehand and being respectfully persistent, companies take note of your efforts to build connections with them and will be more inclined to pursue a professional relationship with you.

Be Positively 'Delusional'!

People tend to be very pessimistic, but when you’re going into a conversation, why not have the best-case scenario in mind? Tell yourself, if I go and talk to this person, they’ll be impressed and offer me a job. Who knows, it could actually work out that way! There’s no harm in giving yourself a pep talk or doing a little power pose in the mirror. Confidence, in a way, is like a trick of the mind, so fake it till you make it!

It’s important to understand that you are not inconveniencing employers, as they are there to have a conversation with you. And remember, imposter syndrome is completely normal.
“Everybody feels it, it’s how I feel all the time. Nobody is expecting the world out of you. The mere fact that you’re there and able to have a conversation with a complete stranger is a lot more than you take credit for.”

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