A crucial part of getting yourself started in the Public Relations industry is to make connections. For any major, making a network of people that could potentially help you succeed in your field is vital.

In my last blog, I recommended online platforms to get your name printed and start making pieces for your portfolio. Without a network or connections, who are you going to be able to show all that work?

LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a social networking platform that allows users to make connections within their fields, jobs and businesses. Most college students probably don’t even think about making a LinkedIn profile.

This tool can help make connections with people who may have jobs in the major or field you wish to practice.

As William Arruda, Contributor for Forbes, wrote “LinkedIn makes networking easy. It allows you to manage all your contacts in one place and is replete with tools that help you stay in touch so you can stay visible and available to hiring managers at all levels.”

Reaching out and asking questions to gain inside knowledge is not a bad idea.

Find A Mentor

Finding a mentor is also another crucial step in finding your dream job or career. A mentor could be anyone- a parent, family member, friends or even a professor!

For college students, going to one of your professors would be a key ingredient. Chances are your professor has already had much experience in the field and are clearly very knowledgeable about the work.

Having even more than one mentor may be an excellent choice for you. It is always a good idea to get a second opinion.

Speak to Alumni

Some Universities have a strong connection with their alumni and it would not be a bad idea at all to contact them.

Alumni enjoy hearing from current students at the university and would have some great advice to provide students to help them succeed.

Visit the Career Development Center

As Heather Harder, writer for PRSSA, wrote “Scope out what your campus career center offers, and you will likely discover resources you never knew existed.” The career center offers practice interviews, resume reviews, job leads, free head shots and more.

Your career center may also put on a career/job fair at some point during the semester, this would be another great way to make connections.

You would be able to discuss with the individuals at the fair how to get started and talk specifics with people who are currently involved with the field.

Start Now

Don’t wait until your senior year to start looking for internships and getting connected. Start thinking of ways to connect to leaders in your field or major.

Having a network of people behind you and showing you the ropes of your future career or job will benefit you in the long wrong.

Never forget that you are in competition with your other colleagues and having information and a network of people behind you will give you an advantage when going up against them for jobs in the future.