Networking in Canada as an International Student: Here's What You Need to Know

Networking is the act of building mutually beneficial relationships with a common professional or personal interest. Networking starts off small but can grow over time as you expand your circle of contacts. It can advance your career, grow your skills, and give you job opportunities that help build long-term success.  

If you’re interested in working as an international student in Canada during or after your studies, networking is a vital part of your success. It provides important opportunities, skill development, and valuable experience for a successful career. The benefits of professional networking include:  

• Access to a larger potential job market  

• Cultural integration 

• Mentorship opportunities 

• Potential sponsors for permanent residency 

• Professional development (communication skills, industry knowledge, new experiences) 

• Improved confidence and growth 

As a newcomer, it’s a good idea to start networking as early as possible. Make it natural – when you meet someone new, ask them about themselves, show interest in their professional background, and ask them for advice or tips. You may even want to ask if you can connect with them on LinkedIn and continue to nurture that relationship there. 

Here are a few things you can do to network in college or university.  

1. Create a strong LinkedIn profile. Make sure it’s up to date with information about your experience, career goals, and a personal statement about you. Include a professional headshot where your face is clearly visible.  

2. Reach out to your existing network. This includes classmates, faculty members, even people you volunteer with. Connect with them in-person or via LinkedIn and other social media platforms. 

3. Take advantage of volunteering and other events in your field. Networking opportunities are everywhere. Look for volunteer events or panel discussions and mixers within your industry of interest. If you’re not sure where to find these events, talk to your Career Centre or use tools like Eventmobi and Meetup.  

4. Attend networking-specific events in Canada. Use online event tools like Eventmobi and Meetup  or social media platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn to find networking-specific events. 

5. Contact and connect with people you meet on social media. After you make a connection, reach out to them. This includes messaging them to say thank you for taking the time to chat with you and interacting with their social media posts on a regular basis. Remember that it’s a two-way street, so where possible, offer your skills and help where appropriate.  

6. Develop and maintain relationships. Ask for informational interviews if you meet someone with a professional background that’s within your interests. Take time to understand their history and information about the company. After the conversation, remember to thank them. 

1. Make use of social media. Check events and update your professional profile. 

2. Create an elevator pitch. This is designed to deliver key details, which can include who you are, your interests, career goals, and what makes you unique. It should be 30-60 seconds long, or if you are writing it out, 50 to 200 words. Here’s an elevator pitch template for networking: 

“Hi, I’m [NAME]. I am a student at [UNIVERSITY] in [DEPARTMENT], and I’m an aspiring [DREAM CAREER]. I’m interested in [RELATED INTEREST or PERSONAL INTEREST]. 

1. Be genuine, friendly, and prepared. Be yourself and smile! Nothing makes a bigger impact than words spoken from a heartfelt place. Prepare ahead of time. That includes researching the company or your field of interest. Finally, be natural. If you get flustered, don’t worry! This happens to everyone. Remember what makes you unique matters, and you have a lot to bring to the table.  

2. Follow up and thank your contacts. When you meet a new contact, ask if you can connect with them on social media or via email. Reach out in a timely fashion and thank them.  

3. Keep in touch. Interact with contacts on a regular basis.   

1. Look at professional associations in areas of interest. If you want a job in a certain field, there are usually professional associations that offer free events. This is a great opportunity to meet people in the industry you’re interested in.  

2. Sign up for industry event newsletters. Contact your Career Centre or do some research online to find local event newsletters you can sign up for. 

3. Go to your Career Centre. The Career Centre at your university or college is a free resource designed to help students. If you feel overwhelmed or aren’t sure where to start, don’t hesitate to book a free appointment with them.  

4. Use social media. These are all great resources for finding free events with lots of networking opportunities.

Networking in Canada as an international student is a great opportunity to meet new people, have new experiences, and get a better sense of your career interests and goals. Remember not to get discouraged! Like anything else, networking requires patience, work, and belief in yourself.   

If you’re looking for more information about being an international student in Canada, book an appointment with a student counsellor at IDP Canada today.