Okay, so I’m finishing up my Bachelor’s in Marketing, fully online, from Arizona State University. It’s a legitimate program, not some diploma mill. I’m really proud of myself for getting it done while working full-time. But I’m starting to worry about job hunting.
Specifically, everyone says networking is key to landing a good marketing job. But how do you network effectively when you haven’t been physically present on a campus for four years? I haven’t been able to casually chat with professors after class, join campus clubs, or attend in-person career fairs.
So, is it significantly harder to network and build connections when your degree is online? Are employers going to see an online degree and automatically assume I don’t have the same networking opportunities as someone who went to a traditional brick-and-mortar school? What can I do to overcome this perceived disadvantage? I’m looking for concrete strategies here. Did anyone else go through something similar and find success?
Answer
Earning a degree online can present unique challenges when it comes to networking, but it doesn’t necessarily make it inherently "harder" than networking with an on-campus degree. It simply requires a more strategic and intentional approach. The perceived difficulty stems from the differences in the networking opportunities available in each learning environment.
Here’s a breakdown of the challenges and opportunities associated with networking with an online degree:
Challenges:
-
Reduced In-Person Interaction: The most significant hurdle is the lack of spontaneous, face-to-face interactions that naturally occur in a physical campus setting. On-campus students encounter classmates in lectures, study groups, campus events, and extracurricular activities, leading to organic relationship building. Online students miss out on these informal networking moments.
-
Limited Access to On-Campus Events: While some universities offer online students access to certain on-campus events, it’s often limited or impractical due to geographical constraints. Events like career fairs, guest speaker sessions, and alumni gatherings provide valuable networking opportunities for on-campus students.
-
Weaker Faculty Connections: Building rapport with professors can be more challenging online. While online instructors are often accessible through email and virtual office hours, the absence of casual conversations before and after class can make it harder to form strong mentor-mentee relationships. These relationships are crucial for letters of recommendation and career guidance.
-
Difficulty Joining Traditional Clubs and Organizations: Many student clubs and organizations are geared towards on-campus students, making it difficult for online learners to participate actively. This limits opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar interests and career goals.
- Overcoming Perceptions: While the stigma surrounding online education has diminished significantly, some individuals or organizations may still harbor outdated perceptions about the rigor or value of online degrees. This can create an initial barrier when networking with potential employers or industry professionals.
Opportunities and Strategies:
Despite the challenges, online learners can effectively network by leveraging available resources and adopting a proactive approach:
-
Leveraging Online Platforms: Online education is inherently digital, making it easier to connect with a vast network of individuals through online platforms like LinkedIn, industry-specific forums, and professional social media groups. Engage actively in these communities, share your insights, and participate in discussions.
-
Utilizing University’s Online Networking Resources: Many universities with online programs offer dedicated online networking platforms or virtual events specifically for their online student community. These resources provide a convenient way to connect with classmates, alumni, and faculty members.
-
Attending Virtual Career Fairs and Webinars: Online career fairs and webinars are becoming increasingly common and offer a valuable opportunity to network with employers and learn about job opportunities. Prepare thoughtful questions and follow up with recruiters after the event.
-
Proactively Reaching Out to Alumni: Most universities have an alumni directory that can be accessed online. Identify alumni working in your field of interest and reach out for informational interviews. This can provide valuable insights into the industry and potential career paths.
-
Building Relationships with Online Instructors: Actively participate in online discussions, attend virtual office hours, and seek feedback on your work. Demonstrate your engagement and interest in the subject matter to build a strong rapport with your instructors.
-
Participating in Online Communities and Professional Organizations: Join online communities and professional organizations related to your field of study. These groups offer opportunities to connect with industry professionals, share knowledge, and learn about industry trends.
-
Creating a Strong Online Presence: Develop a professional online presence by creating a compelling LinkedIn profile and showcasing your skills and experiences through a personal website or online portfolio. This makes it easier for potential employers and networking contacts to find you.
-
Attending Local Industry Events: Even if you’re studying online, try to attend local industry events, conferences, or workshops. This provides an opportunity to network with professionals in person and learn about job opportunities in your area.
-
Seeking Internships and Experiential Learning Opportunities: Internships and other experiential learning opportunities provide valuable networking experience and allow you to build relationships with professionals in your field.
-
Communicating Effectively: Online communication requires clear and concise writing skills. Proofread your emails and messages carefully to ensure they are professional and error-free.
- Being Proactive and Persistent: Networking is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people, follow up on leads, and nurture your relationships.
In conclusion, networking with an online degree requires a different set of strategies and a more proactive approach compared to networking with an on-campus degree. While the lack of in-person interaction presents challenges, online learners can overcome these obstacles by leveraging online platforms, utilizing university resources, and actively building relationships within their field. Ultimately, the success of networking depends on an individual’s initiative, communication skills, and dedication to building connections.
