Networking is about building connections with people who have common interests. As a student, you can often find people to start building your network in multiple ways.

• Join student organizations to start building community and find people with common interests. Explore TechConnect for a full list.
• Attend Explore events like the Mocktail Party through the University Career Center.
• Identify local business development events, such as Young Professionals or Chamber of Commerce groups, in your community.
• Set up your LinkedIn profile to expand your online network and digital presence. Learn more about building your LinkedIn profile here. 
• Build international professional connections and discover global opportunities with InterStride.
• Use the Contacts tab in CareerShift to help you identify individuals working within companies you are interested in for informational interviews and to connect with on LinkedIn.

• Identify skills needed for your desired career paths. The Search360 function in RedRaider GradStats can be helpful for this type of research. 
• Develop marketable skills through experiential learning in part time jobs, internships, research experiences, and leadership experiences through campus involvement.
• Consider exploring industry career certificates to boost your technical skillset.

The way you carry yourself and interact with those around you is part of your personal brand. While part of your brand connects to your natural strengths, your behaviors will have the biggest impact on how people remember you.

• Identify your strengths through the CliftonStrengths assessment. Learning more about your natural talents will help you capitalize on those to build your brand.
• Send thank you notes or emails to professors, advisors, or anyone who has made an impact on your experience at Texas Tech.
• Attend the Mocktail Party and Etiquette Dinner to learn more about professional etiquette in the job search.
• Register for professional development webinars. 
• Develop positive working relationships by maintaining a positive attitude, taking ownership of your actions, and following through on what you say you will do. 
• Be intentional with what you commit to. 

• Research employer and industry hiring trends through Hire Red Raiders.
• Identify companies who have hired students from your major through Red Raider GradStats. 
• Check out employer websites and learn more about their company culture.