How to Network
I hear a lot in this forum that real estate is a very network dependent industry to get positions and simply applying won't always cut it. Curious how you all network whether it's linkedin stalking or cold emails, both of those feel very forced. Also curious if the real estate development associations like NAIOP are worth it for students or recent graduates. I'm a student but I'm going to be apply for places in a different area than where I got to college.
Those things you mention are not necessarily forced. It's no different from any other kinda networking discussed on any WSO forum. Helps to target alumni or other people you have a commonality with or mutual contact but it's not specific to real estate. There's a reason you see "so n so's son" getting a job at this group or that group.
Lots of people in the industry had to network themselves and understand how it works. So they won't be put off if someone emails them and asks to get a cup of coffee. It helps if you have at least some tenuous connection with them, though. Alumni of your school, etc.
One thing I found is that you shouldn't read too much into someone's response or lack thereof. Some people you email will respond to you in ten minutes, and some will randomly respond after six weeks. Others will never respond, but when you somehow meet them later you'll find that they're really friendly and interested in talking to you but just missed or forgot your email for whatever reason. Many others you'll never hear from.
Networking doesn't proceed in a predictable way on a fixed timetable, so the key is to start early and do it often. It will pay dividends, but you can't predict how and when.
I think it is worth keeping a major point in mind..... CRE is actually a "small" industry and has to do business with each other as much as it "competes" with each other. Thus, it's naturally going to be a network driven type of industry.
This is relevant when comparing with fields like banking, accounting, or other "big" corp fields that students (with bus/fin orientations) look. A lot fewer firms have fixed tracks and progression lines. This is part of what makes this world fun! But it also makes it confusing to outsiders, especially students, as it is not clear where to "start" in this industry.
How to do it?? The answer is YES to all the things you point out and others have above. LinkedIn for sure, emailing people cold, meeting people at networking events/industry associations, focusing on alumni in the field all of it is a big yes.
Special point since you asked about NAIOP and organizations like that (ULI, ICSC, and others that may be big in your target markets). YES omg YES, you need to join as a student... Here is why...
1. It's super cheap (relative to "adult" rates)
2. You can get access to their private membership directory (with emails... better than LinkedIn)
3. You can approach people by email or in-person at meetings, and it is form of a "Warm" introduction (hi. I am member of XYZ can you help me), and thus much more likely to get responded to and get genuine assistance.
4. They often have programs for students/young industry people that offer mentorship, connections, and even internship placement sometime (some local chapters do this). All you do is join, and your "in"
Note, paying dues is one thing, actually being active and engaged is what matters... that takes time! HINT... join/volunteer for committees and even leadership roles... this gives you cred on a resume, raises your stature in the organization, and may let you meet high level people easily (the program committee would be best for this in particular). Believe or not, you can often do this as a student member, especially the volunteer part!
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