Who's in your network?

So we all know about social networking and the value of connecting with important people online. This is great, but in reality, nothing can really replace the one-on-one interaction of real networking. Social networking sites can only aid in the connections, but it's not the same as meeting someone in person.

Recently, a very respected Tweeter, Valerie Simon, posted a blog about how she's networking for the T3PR conference this week. She's talks about how she's researching what attendees are saying and how social networking is helping her prepare and will help her keep in touch with the people she meets. (more can be read here: Integrating Social and Real-Life Networking)

The point of my blog is to expand on Valerie's advice by adding how students and recent graduates can find useful networking opportunities and how social media can help them find valuable and useful connections.

Where can you find opportunities?
There are many discussions available on Twitter weekly that act as a catalyst to connecting mentors with mentees. For instance, during the first HAPPO discussion, I connected with several recruiting managers and senior vice presidents at prominent PR agencies. From there, I set up phone informational interviews, which allowed me to create a more personable relationship with the people I met. Participating in discussions like PR 2.0 Chat, PRStudChat and HAPPO are the easiest way to make connections and learn what real PR professionals are practicing and discussing.

As a recent graduate from Penn State, I got a one-year free with the Penn State Alumni Association. There are chapters across the nation that hold networking events weekly, monthly and annually. These are great opportunities to meet people at a variety of companies. Plus, since they are from the same Alma Mater, they will be more than willing to do whatever they can to help you.

In addition, there are several more formal clubs such as PRSSA, PRSA and the Social Media Club that offer opportunities to meet PR professionals. In addition, there are an endless number of conferences and workshops offered through PRSSA and PRSA that Valerie's advice can directly help with. Research speakers and attendees, connect with them on social media and meet them at the conference to build long-lasting relationships.