A successful career in the aviation and hospitality industries requires more than just being technically proficient and performing well in your position in the cutthroat world of today. Developing a solid professional network is one of the most important factors for job advancement. The correct contacts can lead to beneficial chances and direction whether your professional goal is to work as cabin crew, manage a hotel, or operate an airline. At Jettwings Group of Institutes, one of the top management colleges in Guwahati, students' career development process includes networking as a crucial component. Here, we provide helpful advice on creating a professional network and laying the groundwork for sustained success in the hotel and aviation sectors.
1. Get Started Early: Develop Connections While Studying
CDay one is when networking starts. You are already surrounded by aspiring aviation and hospitality professionals as a student at Jettwings, just like one of the top management colleges in Guwahati. Any one of the top management colleges in Guwahati will invite guest speakers, and along with teachers, and fellow students – are all possible contacts that could help you advance in your profession.
● Create Study Teams: Working together with peers on assignments and projects benefits academic performance and fosters the development of long-lasting professional ties that go beyond Jettwings.
● Interact with the Teachers: Your instructors are professionals in their domains. Developing a good relationship with them can result in future referrals, industry insights, and mentorship opportunities.
Tip: Build connections all through your time at Jettwings; don't only concentrate on them in your last semester or right before you graduate.
2. Go to conferences and events in the industry
There are many different industry events, conferences, and trade exhibits that the aviation and hospitality sectors are recognized for organizing. These are great occasions to expand your network, network with professionals, and gain knowledge from leaders in the field.
● Aviation and Hospitality Fairs: Professionals from airlines, hotels, travel agencies, and hospitality businesses get together at several aviation fairs or tourism expos. You may network with recruiters, HR managers, and business leaders by going to these events.
● Workshops & Webinars: Register for workshops or webinars on subjects linked to aviation or hospitality. These meetings offer a forum for networking with like-minded people in addition to being instructive.
Tip: Do not simply show up unprepared; do some homework on the companies and speakers in advance. Approach networking with a purpose and follow up afterward.
3. Use Social Media and LinkedIn to Expand Your Network
For professional networking, LinkedIn is the preferred choice, particularly in fields like aviation and hospitality where experts frequently exchange ideas, employment opportunities, and career guidance.
● Build a Powerful LinkedIn Profile: Your virtual business card is your LinkedIn profile. Make sure it showcases your Jettwings education, certifications, internships, and any related work experience. Maintain a current and professional profile.
● Join Trade Associations: Join groups on LinkedIn for the aviation and hospitality industries to network and share opportunities with other professionals in the field. Participate in conversations to establish your presence.
● Follow Leaders, Hotels, and Airlines: Staying up to date on news, job openings, and industry trends requires you to follow pertinent businesses and prominent figures in the field. Get recognized by mentors or employers by leaving insightful comments on topics.
Tip: Always make your connection requests on LinkedIn more intimate. Tell them how you found them and why you would like to get in touch, whether it's for collaboration, industry guidance, or mentorship.
4. Take Part in Industry Projects and Internships
Not only may internships help you obtain work experience, but they also give you the chance to network with influential people in the field. When you have the chance, interact with your management and coworkers whether you are an intern at a hotel, airline, or travel agency.
● Take Initiative and Pose Questions: An internship might function as a prolonged interview, so consistently exhibit your eagerness to acquire knowledge and make a contribution. Show a sincere interest in the field and seek guidance from experts on future directions and professional development.
● Make Contact with Other Interns: Although it's important to network with more experienced professionals, don't undervalue the influence of your fellow interns. These colleagues might hold influential positions in the future and provide reciprocal support as your careers develop.
Tip: Maintain communication with your bosses and coworkers even after your internship has ended. A brief note to stay in touch or to let them know how your career is going can make a big difference.
5. Look for Industry Experts and Mentors
Locating a mentor in the aviation or hospitality sector can provide you with invaluable advice, understanding, and assistance. Students frequently have access to specialists at Jettwings who can act as mentors during their academic journey.
● Choose a Mentor: A mentor might be a professional you met at an event, a guest lecturer, or one of your teachers. Mentors can assist you negotiate industry obstacles, offer career guidance, and connect you with people in their network.
● Engage in Alumni Networks: Professionals who have excelled in a variety of aviation and hospitality jobs are part of the vibrant alumni network at Jettwings. Interact with the alumnus community to obtain advice and possible career opportunities.
Tip: Show consideration for a mentor's time. Be clear about the kind of assistance you require when contacting someone, and never forget to thank them for their time and counsel.
6. Offer Your Time to Events and Projects
One of the best ways to broaden your network and obtain practical experience in the aviation and hospitality industries is by volunteering. Several industry gatherings need extra workers to assist with planning and administration; this could be your first opportunity to network with industry experts.
● Airline Events and Fairs: At employment fairs or promotional events, pitch your services to airlines, airports, or travel agencies. You'll have the opportunity to network with professionals in a casual setting, which frequently results in deeper discussions.
● Hospitality Conferences: Volunteers are needed for a variety of jobs at hospitality conferences and travel conventions, including visitor registration, logistics, and customer service. These encounters give participants important exposure to business professionals.
Tip: When volunteering, always act personable and professionally. Someone in a position to offer you a job or other chances might notice your hard work and dedication.
7. Keep Abreast of Developments and Trends in the Industry
You need to keep up with news, trends, and developing technology in the aviation and hospitality sectors if you want to be regarded seriously in these fields. Being aware of developments in your field enables you to have insightful discussions with experts, demonstrating your knowledge and forward-thinking nature.
● Go through Trade Publications: Check out publications and newsletters related to aviation and hospitality.
● Follow Social Media Influencers in the Industry: On social media sites like LinkedIn and Twitter, a lot of influential people in the hotel and airline industries discuss trends and observations. You can remain up to date on significant developments by adhering to them.
Tip: When networking, make use of current advancements or industry trends. It distinguishes you from others by demonstrating your engagement and knowledge.
8. Preserve and Grow Your Network
Creating a network and keeping it that way are two different things. Maintaining regular communication with your connections can help you to grow your relationships. This doesn't imply hounding them for favors all the time; rather, it means being genuinely interested in their job and lending a helping hand when needed.
● Follow Up After Meetings: Send a customized message to any new professional you meet, whether it's at an event or via an internship. A small gesture like saying "thank you" can go a long way.
● Provide Assistance: The process of networking is two-way. Don't only think about what other people can do for you; whenever you can, lend a hand or share your expertise. Whether it's offering comments or providing a job lead, being helpful improves your relationships with colleagues.
Tip: Update your LinkedIn profile and other professional sites frequently with industry-related articles or noteworthy events. By doing this, you maintain your network visibility and let people know how far you've come.
In Summary
It takes time, effort, and consistency to develop a professional network in the aviation and hospitality sectors. Students who enroll in one of the top management colleges in Guwahati, just like Jettwings, can position themselves for long-term success by keeping these tips in mind. Creating and maintaining contacts is only one aspect of networking; other goals include fostering relationships, remaining educated, and persistently pursuing personal and professional development.