No small amount of importance has been placed on networking, especially for students who are uncomfortable in this endeavour. Vancouver Island is small compared to Vancouver, Ottawa, or any major city in the US. Camosun does a great job gathering employers looking to hire freshly minted graduates, but as a student I would argue that these events, while good, aren’t the best option available.
Economically, employers who are networking are choice-makers: they get to decide who they hire, if anyone, and on what terms. Students who try to maximize their odds of employment usually do so by applying to as many places that fit their criteria as possible, accepting the best option, if a choice is available. Statistically, however, job hiring does not work like this. Almost 40 percent of hires are made through an employee-referral program.
So where is the best place to network? School. Students who work at various co-ops can give you information and resources to ace an interview, and their recommendation is statistically proven to be more valid than what is on your LinkedIn. This leg up will allow you to cinch higher-paying employment, or even connect with businesses that aren’t hiring, and it extends throughout your career!
Camosun Business Study Group is focused on students helping students to succeed both in and outside of the classroom. For news and events, follow them at facebook.com/cambussg.