6 Tips for Networking in Online Classes

Networking can play a critical role in career success, and college is arguably one of the best places where people can connect with other likeminded individuals.

But what about students pursuing an online education? Does that limit networking opportunities?

You may think so, but being an online student does not actually limit your networking capabilities. You can find multiple networking opportunities through the internet, but it is different than face-to-face interaction.

When in an online program, it can be more difficult to recognize these social exchange opportunities, but there are a few steps you can take to make the most of your digital interactions. Here are a few.

1. Set up a strong LinkedIn profile

These days, it is essential to have a professional LinkedIn profile. It is also important to make connections with other students in your program. If you don’t have one, a basic LinkedIn membership is absolutely free.

Once you are signed up, construct your profile. Don’t worry if it is not full of glowing recommendations or past positions with Fortune 500 companies. Your resume is not as important as the connections you are going to make.

Use the search function to connect with your classmates. Join your university groups. Participate in discussions your classmates are engaged in. These connections will last beyond college. As you grow in your future career, so will they, and you will have a LinkedIn history to fall back on.

2. Put your best foot forward in group projects

Most college programs encourage group work, whether it be via email, phone calls or discussion boards. Take advantage of these moments. Demonstrate to your classmates that you are a great performer by reliably producing high quality work.

Additionally, don’t forget to be courteous. Get to know the people you are working with. Learn their names and their interests, and make sure you are putting them in the best position to succeed.

3. Dive into discussion boards

School can be challenging. It is often easy to focus on work and responsibilities while completely ignoring your classmates. That strategy, although common, is not necessarily the most effective way for you (or your classmates) to succeed.

Discussion boards exist to foster communication between classmates. Your first thought might be to take some time and reach out to the students, and in many cases, that might be beneficial for you; however, don’t stop there. Discussion boards are also great venues for seeing course curriculum through other perspectives. They may also be used for getting feedback on your work.

Discussion boards are a tool. Use them to facilitate your own success.

4. Maximize access to faculty

Discussion boards are tools, and instructors are resources. They are connected to the world outside of your school, and in many cases, they can serve as an avenue to potential career opportunities. Reach out. Connect with them on LinkedIn. Build a working relationship with your instructors.

They can offer you advice on interviewing, recommend you to colleagues who are looking for candidates with your skillsets and many of them understand what it is like to be in your position.

5. Reach out to alumni

College students rarely realize the leverage an alumni network can provide. Alumni, like your instructors, have the ability to connect you with the people and positions to start or transition into a career. They are some of the most experienced people you can add to your network.

You are paying tuition and attending classes to become an alumni. Reach out to them. Introduce yourself, tell them why you have contacted them and build the connection from there.

6. Join the discussion on university social pages

LinkedIn can be a powerful tool, but don’t discount Facebook, Google Plus, or other social media pages dedicated to your university. Several schools have started hosting alumni chats on Twitter where former graduates offer advice and resources for those looking for jobs.

Social media is not usually associated with career opportunities, but it is becoming a major hub for alumni, instructor and student networking, so don’t discount its effectiveness.

Networking can play a critical role in career success, and college is a time to capitalize on these opportunities. Make sure you are using every resource available to you. Get your LinkedIn page up to date, figure out who to connect with and start reaching out to the people around you.