Networking & Communication

Career success depends not only on what you know, but also on how you express it — and who you connect with. Whether you're navigating conversations at the Career Fair or drafting a professional email, strong communication and networking skills are essential.

CSO supports you through programs, tools, and personalized guidance to help you grow in both areas.

Communication Skills: Why They Matter

Employers across industries consistently rank communication as one of the top 3 employability skills. At different career stages, you'll use:

Verbal communication in interviews, meetings, presentations
Non-verbal communication in body language, facial expressions, tone
Written communication in emails, resumes, LinkedIn messages
Interpersonal communication in teamwork, conflict resolution, and feedback

Tip: Review job descriptions in your field — you'll often find "excellent communication skills" as a core requirement.

Strengthen Your Communication

Practice through CSO Activities:

Mock Interviews with advisors and industry experts
Workshops on professional communication and storytelling
Peer and alumni mentorship to get real-world perspective
Career Fair interactions — real but low-risk practice grounds
Panel Q&As and Networking Nights — polish public speaking and confidence

Use AI as a Practice Tool (Ethically)

Polish Your Outreach:

"Here's my draft email to request an informational interview with a LUMS alum working in investment banking. Please rate it for clarity, tone, and professionalism, and suggest improvements."

Refine Professional Communication:

"Rephrase this paragraph so it sounds concise, confident, and professional-without losing warmth."

Ace Your Networking Conversations:

"Generate 8 practice questions I might be asked in an informational interview with a McKinsey consultant, along with tips on how to answer in a clear, professional, and authentic way."

Explore more on the AI & Career Prep page.

Networking: Building Meaningful Professional Relationships

Networking is about relationship-building, not self-promotion. The goal? To connect with people who can offer insight, support, and opportunities — and to offer the same in return.

80% of job opportunities are never publicly advertised — they're found through networks.

Where to Start Networking

LUMS-Supported Platforms:

Alumni Mentorship Program: Get paired with LUMS graduates who've been where you are and want to help.
Networking Nights: Join sector-specific events with alumni and employers.
Career Fair & Recruitment Drives: Engage directly with recruiters and alumni employees.
Mock Interviews with Industry Experts: Sharpen both your pitch and relationship-building.

Other Opportunities:

Faculty members
Internship colleagues or supervisors
Student society seniors and guests
Online communities like LinkedIn or field-specific forums

How to Network (Even if you're Introverted)

Start with curiosity: Ask people about their journey, challenges, and advice.
Be authentic: You don't need a polished elevator pitch. Just introduce yourself genuinely.
Follow up: After a conversation, thank them and connect on LinkedIn.
Stay in touch: Send an occasional update, article, or thank-you message.

Networking isn't just about who you know — it's about who knows you and thinks well of you.

AI Support for Networking Practice

Tools like ChatGPT can support you in strengthening your communication, identify pathways for networking and much more. Click here to access relevant prompts to ease your networking journey!