Networking with Students
"Networking isn’t just for grown-ups in suits. It’s a way to help students find their spark."
When I stepped away from education in 2018 I spent years focusing on building strong networks with professionals. Over time I realized we were missing a key group; our kids. Not in the sense that we need to set students up with a LinkedIn account or prep them for interviews at 10. They were missing the opportunity to learn about the power of curiosity, listening, and asking meaningful questions from professionals in the very industries they may one day work in.
When we teach young people how to intentionally connect with others they are empowered to see themselves as valuable, interesting, and capable. The benefit is two-fold though. When professionals show up for students it strengthens businesses, boosts morale, and can ignite ideas leading to needed innovation.
In this episode I share stories, tips, and a whole lot of honesty about what it looks like to talk to kids without it seeming awkward. Pro tip: snacks and company swag go a long way. I also share ways to connect with schools and youth organizations, and questions to ask the students to spark an impactful conversation.
If you've ever wondered how to give back in a meaningful way, or if you’re just wanting to find purposeful ways to share your time and experience with students, this episode is your nudge. Stop overthinking it and just start showing up, even if that means you start with a conversation with a teen in your family. Whether you realize it or not, your story and presence could be the spark that changes a student’s life…and maybe even yours.
Take the time to invest in today’s students. After all, they are tomorrows leaders.
Take a listen to the episode of One Spark Stories podcast where I go deeper into how you can help.
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Notable Moments:
00:00 – Why teaching kids to network matters
01:10 – Connection starts with listening, not lecturing
02:45 – 5 curiosity-building questions to ask students
04:40 – What’s in it for professionals and businesses
06:00 – Practical, non-creepy ways to connect with youth
08:35 – Embrace the weird: students’ career dreams and slime collections
10:19 – You don’t need credentials to make an impact
11:08 – How to take action today in your community
