Social media makes building your networking easier – and harder. Websites designed solely for networking, such as LinkedIn and RallyPoint, make it convenient to add to your network, but they're also full of people in the same boat. The constant hustle for recruiters to make numbers can make it feel impossible to forge stronger bonds with people. 

Despite the time it takes to build a profile and connect with people – a social media network alone is not enough to make up for building relationships that can help your career progressions.

Why is Networking Important?

Developing relationships with people and growing your network can benefit you and your career path in many ways. By networking with people in your desired career field, you can gain information and advice about their successes and failures. You can keep up with new information and upcoming changes.

Connecting with new people also allows you to practice your social skills. You can work on your elevator pitch, introducing yourself, and see what works for you communication-wise. You'll learn to adapt quickly and interact with all kinds of people.

Your network can be crucial in getting you in touch with people who can further your career. For example, your network may get your resume or email in front of the right person, or it can help you find out about a job opening in advance, giving you a head start on applying. Thanks to your network, you may also have more opportunities to get noticed. By attending social events or networking events, you can continue expanding your network.  

Veteran-Centered Networking Groups

If you are looking for ways to expand your current network, consider these veteran-affiliated networking groups. They all share a common thread of serving the veteran community and can help you find new people to add to your network.

Team RWB

Team Red, White & Blue is a health and wellness-based community, but that doesn't mean it can't help grow your professional network. Team RWB shares the desire for connection through social and physical activity. They also work together for community service and connect with local community members and organizations. This is one of the strengths of the Team RWB network; it can help connect you with the local community and grow your network.

Team Rubicon

Well known for disaster response, Team Rubicon is another excellent organization for growing your professional network. Veterans have an opportunity to use their leadership skills and experience as a volunteer with Team Rubicon -- and to, in turn, use that for resume-building and career growth. Team Rubicon also has a fellowship program that helps veterans better lead in their communities by assisting them to discover their strengths and work with other veterans.

Student Veterans of America

The non-profit organization, Student Veterans of America, works to advocate for, provide resources, and build a network to help student veterans. Over 750,000 student veterans are in the SVA network, spanning 50 states, three countries, and 1,500 on-campus chapters.

Women Veterans Network 

Since 2017, the Women Veterans Network has provided a space for women veterans to find community. Before the development of WoVeN, women veterans often struggled to find each other. With WoVeN's help, veterans of all service branches and eras can find each other and create powerful community groups.

Join a strong community of military veterans and their family members by connecting with other students at GGU.