Help a Student - they will get you much more in return

People seeking opportunities to network in industry often focus on meeting decision makers and senior management. Building a CRM usually ignores those who are new to industry or perceived to be "without power." Students are generally never thought of as contributors.

However students are an excellent way for the average businessperson to make entry into certain markets (e.g. biotech, finance, accounting, engineering). They present a number of advantages: easy accessibility, knowledge of industry issues, connections via co-op programs to certain companies and alumni. There are also many opportunities to interact and meet students; colleges and universities are continually trying to build bridges to industry.

This is a win-win situation.

Students are appreciative of the opportunity to talk with an industry service provider and usually want one thing: a warm referral to an individual or company. The service provider can then turn a cold call to a prospect account into a request for an informational interview. This changes the perception of the caller from "salesperson" to "helper." In fact, very senior management often take the time to talk to those trying to help a student new to their industry.

In many cases, students end up being "information brokers" to the business person.. Inevitably they will be employed. Everyone remembers the person who helped them in the beginning. The goodwill generated guarantees great connections with their companies.