Networking for graduates

Networking for Graduates

I run an 'Introduction to Networking' course as part of our Graduate Development programme. The issues we considered when building the course was what levels of networking are required from our Graduates, what activities can they participate in and how are they expected to network e.g. Face to Face, Linkedin, Cold Calling etc? In my organisation Graduates are not expected to network professionaly with external third parties/clients until they are fully qualified. I work in a heavily regulated industry where legislation prevents them from doing so. Our industry guidelines even prevent them from using Linkedin with external contacts until fully qualified. This has presented a unique challenge – how do we build our Graduate networking skills which are a vital part of their job role going forwards without breaking legislative requirements? We have resolved this by encouraging Graduates to network internally and develop their skills in this way. At the end of our 'Introduction to Newtorking' course we ask them to note 1 item that they need to develop knowledge of within the organisation/sector and ask them to identify and locate 3 individuals within the organisation who can help them. We also ask them to build a personal internal networking plan. Graduates then review their progress with the Trainer at a formal event following course attendance. I hope this helps.

2 Responses

russlater says:

May 20, 2013 at 6:59 am

at the risk of sounding facetious…..

our suggestions can only be 'novel' if we know what you are currently doing…..what methodologies are you presently suggesting?
User deleted says:

May 29, 2013 at 10:41 am

Networking for Graduates

I run an 'Introduction to Networking' course as part of our Graduate Development programme. The issues we considered when building the course was what levels of networking are required from our Graduates, what activities can they participate in and how are they expected to network e.g. Face to Face, Linkedin, Cold Calling etc? In my organisation Graduates are not expected to network professionaly with external third parties/clients until they are fully qualified. I work in a heavily regulated industry where legislation prevents them from doing so. Our industry guidelines even prevent them from using Linkedin with external contacts until fully qualified. This has presented a unique challenge – how do we build our Graduate networking skills which are a vital part of their job role going forwards without breaking legislative requirements? We have resolved this by encouraging Graduates to network internally and develop their skills in this way. At the end of our 'Introduction to Newtorking' course we ask them to note 1 item that they need to develop knowledge of within the organisation/sector and ask them to identify and locate 3 individuals within the organisation who can help them. We also ask them to build a personal internal networking plan. Graduates then review their progress with the Trainer at a formal event following course attendance. I hope this helps.