You have probably already heard about the importance of networking during graduate school. In fact, you may even be sick of hearing it. If you are a prospective graduate student, however, there is no getting away from the necessity of networking. If you are not sure what networking entails, or if you feel that you are too shy to get your information out there, it is time for you to start working on the very valuable skills you'll need to make connections in your field while earning your graduate degree.
Why is networking so important during graduate school? That is because this stage of higher education is all about finding opportunities to further your goals. Whether you are hoping for an internship, funding opportunities to support your research, or a great job after graduation, you won't get what you want unless you are willing to come out of your shell and ask for it. Of course, networking is a bit more subtle than that, and in fact you probably already have experience networking even if you don't realize it.
One tip to help students who feel awkward about networking is to think of it as normal, friendly social interactions. In fact, that is all networking is. It is not about bragging to influential people about your achievements in the hopes that they will pull strings for you. Rather, it is about making friends and social contacts who just might be able to help you further your goals in some way, large or small.
You should be prepared in advance for any networking opportunities you may encounter. After all, you may run into someone whose work interests you anywhere you go, even if you are not expecting it. Therefore, it is a good idea for graduate students to be prepared with something to say in the way of introduction. This doesn't mean rehearsing a speech. Simply get comfortable introducing yourself and stating your academic interests and goals in a friendly, natural way.
As a graduate student, it never hurts to have a business card to exchange contact information. After all, at a networking event, academic conference, or other function, it can be hard to remember everyone you have met. By providing a business card to someone who you think will be an important contact, he or she will have your information handy. You can have business cards made inexpensively, or even make them yourself.
Part of being a successful networker is diversifying your interests and experiences. Get involved in as many different aspects of graduate school life as you can, and you'll meet faculty, students, and other influential people you would never have encountered otherwise. Even joining the gym can lead to valuable contacts.
Successful networking takes confidence, and confidence comes with practice. If you are shy about putting yourself out there, simply persevere. In time, it will seem completely natural to you to introduce yourself to strangers.