Networking Tips That Actually Work: How to Grow Your Career

You might be wondering — can’t I just submit my resume and let my experience speak for itself?

Here’s the truth: networking is still a major way people get hired. Not because people are skipping the job boards, but because recommendations and personal connections still carry serious weight. Whether it’s a mentor making a call on your behalf or someone in your network sending you a job lead before it’s even posted, these “unofficial” paths often lead to the best opportunities.

For military-affiliated students, networking can be especially powerful — not just for getting your foot in the door, but for translating your service experience into civilian terms and building relationships in unfamiliar industries.

Tip 1: Start With Who You Know (You Already Have a Network)

Think you don’t know anyone? Think again.

Your network isn’t just made up of professionals in suits — it’s your classmates, professors, former commanders, supervisors, co-workers, friends, and even family members. Anyone who’s willing to help you learn or connect with others is part of your network.

For students:

• Talk to your professors, many of them have worked in the field and can introduce you to industry contacts.
• Join student organizations and honor societies. They’re full of people who are motivated and well-connected.
• Attend campus events and workshops (yes, even virtual ones). These are networking goldmines in disguise.
• Take advantage of Bellevue University’s accelerated cohort programs. Whether you’re pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree, these programs allow you to move through your major alongside the same group of students. That built-in community can naturally evolve into a strong professional network.
• Participate in internship or practicum experiences when available. Not only do they offer real-world training, but they also connect you directly with industry professionals who can offer guidance, mentorship, and even job leads down the road.

For military-affiliated professionals:

• Tap into your military network, both active-duty and veteran communities. They want to help you succeed.
• Reach out to former unit members or leaders. A simple message like, “I’m exploring career paths in [industry] and would love to hear about your experience,” can go a long way.

One resource Bellevue University offers students and alumni is free access to Handshake, an online job platform that provides the opportunity to directly message employers and recruiters — something unique compared to other platforms like ZipRecruiter or Indeed. Students can reach out to employers with questions or interest, and employers often message students who match their criteria. In addition, Bellevue University Career Services hosts 6–8 virtual workshops each term, with event details and registration available through Handshake.

Career Services is a department dedicated to supporting students and alumni throughout their career journey — during coursework, after graduation, and beyond. Our services never expire. We encourage students to explore our online resources on the Career Services webpage, as well as the tools available in Handshake’s resource center.

– Terra Beethe, Career Coach, Career Services, Bellevue University

Tip 2: Learn the Art of the Informational Interview

An informational interview isn’t a job interview — it’s a conversation. And it’s one of the most underrated ways to network effectively. Reach out to someone in a role or company that interests you and ask if they’d be willing to talk for 15–20 minutes about what they do. Most people are flattered to be asked and genuinely enjoy sharing their story.

How to do it:

• Be clear and polite in your message. Mention how you found them and why you’d like to talk.
• Come prepared with a few thoughtful questions.
• Don’t ask for a job. Ask for insight.
• Follow up with a thank-you email and, if appropriate, connect on LinkedIn.

Not sure what to ask? Try:

• What does a typical day look like in your role?
• How did you get started in this field?
• What advice would you give someone entering this industry?

Tip 3: LinkedIn Is Your Friend (When You Use It Right)

If your LinkedIn profile is just a digital resume… you’re missing out. LinkedIn is a powerful networking platform, but only if you use it to engage.

How to level up your LinkedIn networking:

• Optimize your profile with a friendly photo, compelling headline, and summary that tells your story (especially important for transitioning service members).
• Connect with people you meet in classes, at events, or through informational interviews.
• Follow companies and thought leaders in your field.
• Share articles, comment on posts, and engage with content; this builds visibility and credibility over time.
• Post about your goals or milestones; you’d be surprised how often that leads to new conversations.

Read more about how to network on LinkedIn

Tip 4: Translate Military Experience Into Civilian Language

This one’s especially for our military-affiliated students, because we know how challenging it can be to talk about your service in a way that employers and civilians understand. Networking conversations are a perfect time to practice translating your leadership, logistics, or operations experience into relatable terms.

For example:

• “Led a 12-person team responsible for maintaining equipment valued at $5 million” becomes → “Managed and led a 12-member high-performing team, ensuring efficient operations and maintenance of technical equipment valued at $5 million.“
• “Completed multiple deployments in high-stress environments” becomes → “Excelled in dynamic, fast-paced environments requiring strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.”

For more military-specific networking tips, check out this article, “Networking Strategies for a Successful Military Transition.”

According to Stan Hawkins, an Air Force veteran and Belleuve University’s Director of Government Operations, his advice for those transitioning out of the military is to “Reach out to your military network and have open and frank conversations with trusted friends and service members that have transitioned within the last 1 to 3 years. The insight gained from those conversations can help you avoid pitfalls and make your journey back to civilian life more manageable.”

If you’re unsure how to phrase something, Bellevue’s Military Veteran Services Center is staffed with career advisors, who are also veterans, who have been in your shoes and can help you translate your military skills into meaningful civilian work.

Tip 5: Give Before You Ask

One of the most powerful principles in networking? Be a giver.

Networking works best when it’s a two-way street — even if you’re just starting out. You may not have a job to offer, but you can still offer something valuable: curiosity, gratitude, or sharing an article that made you think of someone.

Small ways to give:

• Share a relevant job posting with someone in your network.
• Recommend a great book or podcast you found helpful.
• Introduce two people who might benefit from knowing each other.
• Show up consistently and engage — even just liking or commenting on someone’s post shows you’re paying attention.

Giving should always be authentic. “If your motivation is something other than giving back, it will come across that you’re not there to give back,” said Stan Hawkins, Director of Bellevue University’s Government and Military Operations, who served as an intelligence analyst for the Air Force for 20 years. “The right activity is one where a person wants to give back to a population or a person important to them.”

When you focus on building authentic relationships instead of transactional ones, the results follow.

Tip 6: Practice Your Elevator Pitch (But Don’t Sound Like a Robot)

Whether you’re heading into a career fair, a networking event, or just chatting with someone on the bus, it’s helpful to have a quick, confident intro in your back pocket. A good elevator pitch is short (about 30 seconds), natural, and gives a clear picture of who you are and what you’re aiming for.

Example for a student:

• “Hi, I’m Alex, a business administration student at Bellevue University. I’m really interested in marketing strategy, and I’m currently looking for internship opportunities where I can apply what I’ve learned about consumer behavior and digital campaigns.”

Example for a transitioning service member:

• “I recently completed my service in the U.S. Navy, where I specialized in logistics and operations. I’m now pursuing my degree in supply chain management and looking to connect with professionals in that field.”

Practice it until it feels like you, not a script.

Tip 7: Attend Networking Events, Even When It’s Uncomfortable

We get it. Walking into a room (or Zoom) full of strangers can be intimidating. But these spaces are designed for making connections, and most people are there for the same reason: to meet someone new. Look for events like:

• Career fairs (virtual and in-person)
• Industry-specific meetups or conferences
• Military networking events and transition assistance programs
• Bellevue University events, webinars, and alumni mixers

Pro tip: Set a small goal for each event — like introducing yourself to three people or following up with one person you meet. It makes the experience more manageable and gives you a clear win.

Tip 8: Follow Up (This Is Where the Magic Happens)

You’ve made a great first impression; don’t let it go to waste. Send a follow-up message within 24–48 hours. It doesn’t have to be long or formal, just thoughtful and appreciative.

Example:

• “Hi Jamie, it was great meeting you at the networking event last night. I really appreciated your insights on project management careers — especially the tip about certifications. I’d love to stay in touch and learn more about your experience down the road.”

Bonus Tip: Use Bellevue University Resources

You don’t have to do this alone. At Bellevue University, we offer tools and support to help you network like a pro:

• Career Services: Provides comprehensive support to assist students and alumni in their career development journey. Services include career exploration and planning, résumé writing, networking, and job search strategies. Career Services also connects students and alumni with employers through semi-annual virtual career fairs, employer events, a micro-internship program, and the Handshake online job platform.
• Military Veteran Services Center: Dedicated support for military-affiliated students and veterans.
• Online communities: From LinkedIn groups to alumni networks, you’re part of something bigger here.

The most successful networkers aren’t smooth talkers or extroverts — they’re curious, generous, and consistent.

So whether you’re on campus, on base, online, or somewhere in between — start building your network today. Ask good questions, follow up, and don’t wait until you need a job to connect with people.

Because the truth is, your next big opportunity could come from a single conversation. And you’re more ready than you think.