Building a Green Network

By: Kethaki Nair

Job hunting has required me to rediscover many skills that I thought I would never have to use outside the college application process. There’s the how-to-blow-my-own-trumpet-as-loud-as-possible skill, especially useful while writing cover-letters and resumes. In case you’re not sure what I am talking about think back to what it was like writing you ‘personal statement’ for college. Then there’s the need to summarize yourself for the, ‘Describe yourself in three words’ interview question, strikingly similar to the 100-word ‘essay’. I could go on.

So if you successfully navigated yourself through the college application process you should be well prepared for job-hunting, except for one thing- networking. Networking is an essential part of job-hunting, and for me it was new and intimidating. As in most other industries building a green network is essential for anyone planning to enter the field. It can help direct you to relevant information and connect you to people who could help you find a job.

As a student it is difficult to build a network. The two things that I have found are very useful are: clarity and starting early. It is important to be able convey your interests and aspirations clearly. This can help people remember you as opportunities come up. Starting early is also essential; networking can be a time-consuming process. The best resources are friends and family who can introduce you to people working in green industries. Most introductions happen via e-mail and are followed by a phone conversation. Other useful resources are your school’s alumni network and professional networking services like Experience Connections. Both can help you broaden your network and give you the opportunity to add a personal touch to your application.

Connections are important. So if you know somebody who knows somebody who may know somebody working in the green field, call them! Learn from their experiences and let them know what you are looking for.