Networking as the Foundation for Career Planning
Starting your studies at HAMK presents an exciting opportunity, but it also comes with challenges, especially when it comes to building your career path. One key factor in successfully navigating this journey is Networking. Whether you’re aiming to integrate into the Finnish job market or seeking opportunities in your field, networking plays a vital role, and its significance cannot be overstated. It’s more than just attending events; it’s about forming genuine connections through interactions with classmates, professors, and industry professionals. Understanding and leveraging the power of networking can make a significant difference in your career development. Therefore, this blog is aiming to guide you through Networking as a HAMK student.
What is Networking?
Networking refers to the process of creating and maintaining connections -whether it is with friends, business contacts, or social acquaintances. It’s all about meeting new people and building relationships. Through networks, you can access information, tips, special contacts, opportunities, and platforms to show your expertise. You might also receive different kinds of support. Therefore, it is important to consider what kind of networks you should build up or get involved in. Remember, no single network can fulfill all your needs; each network serves different purposes and holds different values.
From a career development point of view, it is important to build and develop your professional networks all the time, because it promotes your integration in professional societies and the labour market. It is long-term work, and your professional profile will get more attention and visibility as you get connected.
Networking in Finland!
In the Finnish labour market, most of the jobs are hidden, meaning that a lot of jobs are not even advertised. Therefore, Networking is vital in Finland. By connecting with the right people, you can gain recommendations and references that may lead you to job opportunities.
Tips for Networking
Networking is often more about who you know than what you know. It might seem daunting, but it’s just about connecting with people in your daily life. By engaging in genuine conversations, your network will naturally grow. Here are some tips to get started at HAMK:
Reach Out to Existing Connections: Start with your inner circle—friends, classmates, teachers, and school contacts. These relationships can become valuable networks after graduation, so don’t hesitate to ask for introductions.
Pursue Hobbies and Interests: Join clubs or groups related to your interests to meet like-minded people. These connections can lead to opportunities within local companies. In your free time, you can start searching for activities that you can do. Each campus area has plenty of opportunities for you to do some activities of your interests. You can, for example, do some volunteer work, join a language study group, a sports club or a religious group. Find out more about the possibilities at HAMK´s hobbies and leisure time activities by campus webpages.
Build Your Online Presence: Use platforms like Tiitus and LinkedIn to connect with companies and professionals.
Tiitus is a recruiting platform designed specifically for HAMK students. It’s a growing network that connects you with companies eager to hire HAMK talents. By registering on Tiitus, you gain direct access to job opportunities, training placements, projects, and thesis opportunities. The platform also integrates listings from major Finnish recruitment services, like TE Services. To get started, create a profile that highlights your skills, talents, and projects. You can find more instructions on using Tiitus here.
LinkedIn is another crucial tool for expanding your professional network globally. It allows you to build a professional profile and engage with the wider community in your field. While LinkedIn offers a broader range of opportunities beyond HAMK, it’s invaluable for strengthening relationships that could lead to future career opportunities. Start by connecting with people you know, then gradually expand to their connections and professionals in your desired field.
Attend Job Fairs and Professional Events: Participate in job fairs and events organized by HAMK or other service providers. These are great opportunities to network, even if you’re not actively job hunting. Come prepared with resumes and business cards to make a strong impression. HAMK organizes field specific job fairs every year for all students. There are also job fairs organized by different European, national and regional service providers. Be active and follow different social media channels for more information on those events.
Engage in Campus Activities: Be active in events organized by HAMK, HAMKO, and local communities. These events offer a chance to connect with peers, professionals, and the local culture. Whether it’s sports, cultural activities, or business events, participation can lead to valuable encounters.
HAMK organizes a variety of courses, sports, and free-time activities, along with company-related events. You can explore courses offered by Design Factory, Entrepreneurial University, Gaming Academy, and RUN-EU here. For sports-related services, check out HAMK Moves’ activities here.
HAMK also offers programs like the Friendship Programme, which pairs you with a local Finn—either a Finnish family, student, or company representative. This program provides valuable insights into Finnish culture and daily life, and for those planning to stay in Finland long-term, it can also serve as a gateway to the Finnish labor market. The program is organized once a year.
HAMKO, the student union, actively organizes student events and free-time activities. Annually, HAMKO hosts events like Alkupamaus (celebrating the start of the academic year), Café Appro (a café tour), Hämeenlinnan Appro (in collaboration with student associations HIOP ry and HÄTÄ ry), and Loppurysäys (celebrating the end of the academic year). Follow HAMKO’s social media or visit their event webpage for more information.
Additionally, check the local municipal event calendar for events like market days, music festivals, and sports matches in the Häme region, Valkeakoski, or Tampere. Whether you’re interested in history, art, sports, music, or festivals, you’ll find something that suits your interests.
Business-related activities are also available through organizations like Business Parkki Hämeenlinna, Business Parkki Riihimäki, International House Tampere, and Business Finland. Explore the activities that interest you—each could lead to unexpected and valuable experiences.
Student Associations and Networking: Student associations play a crucial role as they offer a platform to connect, engage, and network with peers, faculty, and professionals in their respective fields. At HAMK, several student associations provide a diverse range of opportunities for students to build connections and enhance their networking skills.
Student associations such as FAMKO, Evo, Forssa, Hämeenlinna, Lepaa, Mustiala, Riihimäki, and Valkeakoski are not only integral parts of the HAMK community but also serve as valuable networking hubs. By actively participating in the events, activities, and social media channels of these associations, you can significantly expand your professional and social networks.
Visit the Career Services Office: For personalized career support, visit the HAMK Career Services. They offer guidance on job searching, CV building, and networking opportunities. The office also hosts workshops and mentoring programs to help you succeed in the Finnish job market.
Networking is an essential tool for shaping your career path during your time at HAMK and beyond. By actively engaging in networking activities—whether through classes, hobbies, online platforms, student associations, the international friendship program, or events—you are investing in your future. Building meaningful connections can open doors to hidden job opportunities, provide insights into the Finnish labor market, and create lasting professional relationships. As you continue your studies, remember that every interaction is an opportunity to grow your network and, ultimately, your career. Take advantage of the resources and opportunities available at HAMK and start building your network today.