Networking is connecting with people to expand your community and build relationships. It can be with people you know and those you want to meet to gather information about careers and job opportunities.
Meet new people, expand your network
Networking can happen in Career Exploration & Education workshops, events, industry panels and fairs (check the CLNx), through Backpack to Briefcase, by talking to alumni and by joining professional associations.
You can also connect with family, friends, peers, professors, past or current employers, neighbours, etc. to see if they know someone working in the field that you are interested in exploring. Ask for referrals to conduct informational interviews.
Here are a few more tips on expanding your network:
- Create a profile on LinkedIn and use social media to connect with U of T alumni, companies and people in your industry.
- Participate in mentorship programs.
- Join and become active in your industry’s professional associations (many have student membership rates). Attend the events, and consider volunteering.
- If you have graduated from U of T, participate in alumni events.
Don’t be shy about networking. If you are respectful and polite, most people are happy to help!
Use your network
Ask for referrals and update your network on your progress. Continue using social media and in-person networking even after you have secured a job. Maintain these connections. Fostering relationships throughout your career ensures you always have an available network to share information and leads.
Track your network
Every time you make a new contact, keep track of their contact information and record how you met them. If you connect with them on LinkedIn, you can record this information in their profile notes. Regularly update them on your progress and request new contacts.
Need help?
Sign up for our Making Connections and LinkedIn through the CLNx or set up an appointment with a career educator to discuss your networking strategy.
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Associated Programs
Identities @ Work
Discuss, unpack, challenge and reflect on questions about work and identities.
Learn more about Identities @ WorkIn The Field
Learn about different careers in an industry by visiting an organization’s workplace.
Learn more about In The FieldJob Shadowing Program
Through a short-term placement, you can connect with diverse individuals, explore potential career paths, deepen understanding of your interests, values, and skills, and gain first-hand insight into a day in the life of a role.
Learn more about Job Shadowing ProgramCareer Workshops
We offer workshops to support you with career exploration, further education and the job search!
Learn more about Career WorkshopsFlexible Futures Programming for Graduate Students
Flexible Futures Programming for Graduate Students offers a wide range of career-related programs, workshops, customized sessions and consultations year-round for graduate students and post docs.
Learn more about Flexible Futures Programming for Graduate Students -
Associated Services
U of T Hub on Ten Thousand Coffees
Alumni volunteers share career advice to help students and younger alumni succeed in their careers. Learn more about U of T Hub on Ten Thousand CoffeesCareer Navigator
Career Navigator is an online tool that connects you to a strong network of U of T alumni who share stories of what is possible with a University of Toronto degree. Learn more about Career NavigatorCareer fairs
Career fairs gather many employers in one space so that you can meet and speak with recruiters, hiring managers and employees from Canada's top employers and global organizations. Learn more about Career fairsIndustry Spotlights
Industry Spotlights invite employer representatives working in industry specific careers to participate in a panel discussion and speed networking activity where they meet with students and recent graduates. Learn more about Industry Spotlights