Parents Education Corner: Networking & Mentorship: Who Do You Know?
Parents and guardians, you often hear that when it comes to career and social opportunities, it's not just what you know, but who you know.
Understanding Networking
Networking is defined as "the action or process of interacting with others to exchange information and develop professional or social contacts” (Oxford Languages). It's about connecting with people to share advice, offer support, and build a community. The purpose of networking is to expand your reach, access new opportunities, and gain knowledge. This can involve attending industry events, joining professional organizations, or connecting with others on social media and online forums.
Many students already possess foundational networking skills. Think about how they plan events, parties, or outings. Someone takes the lead, consults with others, makes inquiries, and collaborates. Through this process, the group reaches a consensus. These are all elements of effective networking.
As the new school year begins, encourage your children and young adults to network intentionally. They can do this by joining clubs that align with their interests, updating their LinkedIn profiles, and participating in activities that foster interpersonal relationships. These actions will help them build valuable connections for their future.
The Role of Mentorship
As parents, you are inherently mentors. When you share your experiences and professional insights, you're offering valuable guidance. You never know who might be listening, and it could even be your own child. Your wisdom can significantly impact their understanding of the professional world and help them navigate their own paths.
Who do you know in your network that is in a career field that your child is interested in? Who do you know that is or wants to be a mentor? Who can you mentor? Who do you know?
"The delicate balance of mentoring someone is not creating them in your own image, but giving them the opportunity to create themselves."- Steven Spielberg.
"A mentor is someone who allows you to see the hope inside yourself." by Oprah Winfrey.
“What makes networking work is that it sets up win-win situations in which all parties involved get to take something home. Networking is a sharing process. Until you understand that, you won't have much of a network.” - Earl G. Graves, Sr.
