My Pre-College Networking Moves… Cold Emails
“Your network is your networth.” This phrase seems to be constantly following me, whether it be from business-minded friends to YouTube videos and podcasts. It seems to pop up anytime someone talks about business success, and the more I hear it, the more I realize how true it is.
But what does this phrase really mean? Yes, it is possibly one of the most spoken phrases in the business world, but I realized that no one really explains how it works and why it’s so important. Networking is a skill that you build up over time by consistently meeting new people and forming meaningful connections. I used to believe that this action started once you reached college, meeting classmates, chatting in the library, or joining clubs. But, truth is, we’re all subconsciously looking for connections way before that. In many ways, it’s a part of our human instincts to climb the “social ladder.” Networking simply just gives that instinct structure and purpose.
According to the Oxford dictionary, networking is the action or process of interacting with others to exchange information and develop professional or social contacts. This can be as simple as a chat over coffee to something as daunting as introducing yourself to a room full of strangers. Nevertheless, these interactions are essential in any industry, especially in business.
One way I’ve personally started building my network is through cold emailing. It’s a surprisingly effective skill once you learn how to do it well. I’ve emailed professors, business owners, and even internships that I thought were way out of my league. Many people avoid cold emailing because they fear rejection, which is a valid concern. But the reality is that rejection is part of the process, and each “no” gets you closer to the right “yes.”
To make cold emailing work for you, here are a few key steps:
Find the right people to contact by searching LinkedIn, company websites, or your school’s alumni network. Look for people whose work genuinely interests you.
Create a short, clear subject line that lets them know why you’re reaching out, such as “Business Student Interested in [Their Field]” or “Seeking Advice on [Topic].”
Keep your message concise and personal. Start by introducing yourself and explaining what caught your attention about their work. Then, clearly state what you’re hoping for, whether it’s advice, a quick call, or information about opportunities.
Follow up politely if you don’t hear back in a week or two. Sometimes people simply miss the first message.
Cold emailing has taught me that opportunities often come from simply starting a conversation. It’s one of the fastest ways to expand your network, build relationships, and create possibilities you didn’t know existed.
