It’s often said that it’s not what you know, but who you know. While this may only be partially true, it is important that students develop professional networks early in their college careers and continue to build them throughout their career. This post will identify strategies that students, educators, and employers can use to support students in this task.

The Value of Networks

Professional networks can be helpful for students for a variety of reasons. For career advancement, networks can help identify access to opportunities through referrals or insider knowledge shared within networks. Students can also learn about different roles in a business and they can learn what employers are looking for in job candidates. The right person can serve as a mentor to a student as they navigate professional decision-making. Networks can also provide opportunities to learn about advancements in particular industries. And the process of developing a network can build confidence and support personal growth and development.

Tips for Students

Students should build their network from the first year, not just during the job search. Consider the following steps to create and develop your professional network.

• Work on your pitch: Identify your goals and experiences. Be able to articulate your interests and what sets you apart from others, by drawing on your past successes. This is often referred to as an “elevator speech,” which is short synopsis you could share with someone in the time it takes to ride in an elevator.
• Engage on LinkedIn: Keep your profile current and connect with others. LinkedIn is one of the most popular social networking platforms for professional contacts. Share projects, experiences, and other professional items on your profile. Don’t be afraid to reach out to professors or administrators at your school to invite them to join your LinkedIn network.
• Attend campus events: Utilize career fairs, guest lectures, and networking nights to meet professionals. For instance, the West Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountant (WVSCPA) hosts an annual event in Wheeling for college students. Dress professionally and be prepared to share your elevator speech. Keep a record of people you meet and record something memorable about them. Following an introduction, don’t be afraid to ask for an informational interview and be sure to send a thank-you note or email after meeting someone to maintain the relationship.

Tips for Educators

Educators can support students throughout the process. The following are some examples of ways to help:

• Provide opportunities for networking: Invite alumni to class to serve as guest speakers and create space for them to interact and exchange contact information with students. Or, host a networking event on campus by inviting local businesses to attend. Often businesses are interested in bringing a team of their staff to meet with students. Workplace tours can be a good way to immerse students in a networking opportunity.
• Integrate networking into coursework: Include assignments that require informational interviews or LinkedIn profile creation. Host workshops on networking strategies, personal branding, and digital presence. Provide opportunities for students to practice meeting others through role-play scenarios.
• Model professional behavior: Demonstrate how to introduce oneself, follow up, and use connections ethically. Use your own LinkedIn profile as an example of how to share information and make connections. Invite students to engage with you on LinkedIn.

Tips for Employers

Employers can also contribute to student networks. The following are some ideas for doing so:

• Offer workplace tours, micro-internships or job shadowing: These opportunities help students gain exposure to your business, meet your employees, and learn more about future employment. Invite students to your workplace to explore roles, ask questions, and meet employees in a low-pressure setting. If travel is a barrier, host virtual webinars or Q&A sessions with your team to reach students remotely.
• Participate in university events: Join panel discussions, mock interviews, or mentorship programs at local higher education institutions. Connect with student clubs tied to your industry. For instance, Wesbanco employees support the West Liberty University Investment Club. Encourage staff, especially alumni of local colleges, to informally mentor or speak to classes, helping normalize relationship-building with professionals.
• Be transparent and approachable: Help demystify the job market with honest insights, practical advice, and helpful tips. Talk openly with students about your own career path, including challenges and lessons learned. This authenticity makes networking feel more approachable and helps students to get to you know you.

By supporting students as they develop their networks, the Wheeling community can develop an ecosystem that nurtures, fosters, and develops future employees.