Careers and Employability Adviser, Beth McGrath, blogs about the power of networking and making the most of March 2026 Enhancement Week
Whether you’re in first year, final year, or anywhere in between, it’s never too early to start thinking about your future career. Small steps now — like joining events, exploring LinkedIn, or practising conversations — can build the confidence and connections that will support you long after graduation.
When many people imagine starting their career, they picture a simple process: find a vacancy, apply, and wait. But today’s graduate labour market works differently, and opportunities often come from places you might not expect.
To understand why networking matters, take a look at the “hidden job market” iceberg:
Only around 25% of job opportunities are publicly advertised. The other 75% exist beneath the surface — through internal hiring, referrals, and professional conversations. Networking isn’t about having the “right contacts”; it’s about showing up, being curious, and starting real conversations.
And you can begin practising those skills right now!
More Students Are Networking — And You Can Too
According to GTI (Cibyl), 75% of students are already using LinkedIn for career research and networking. Students across the UK are connecting with employers, exploring industries, and starting conversations that help them understand their future possibilities.
If networking feels new to you, that’s completely okay — now is the perfect time to get involved, and we’re here to help you get started.
Join a Real‑World Networking Event — With Free Lunch!
You’re invited to a supportive networking event hosted by Carlisle Ambassadors, giving you the chance to meet local professionals in a friendly environment: Carlisle Ambassadors Networking Event
Thursday, 26th March 2026
🕚 11am–3pm
📍 Carlisle Racecourse
🍽️ Free lunch included
You can read more about the event on the Carlisle Ambassadors webpage
but please sign up using this form
This event is free, but spaces are limited — so be sure to save your place early. We can arrange transport from Carlisle‑based campuses or Carlisle train station. Simply make sure you can reach your pick‑up point by 10am, and indicate your choice on the form
Feeling Nervous? Start with Our Networking Skills Session
If the idea of networking feels a bit daunting, you’re not alone — which is why we’re offering a short, friendly session to help you prepare.
Enhancement Week: Networking Skills Session
📅 Monday 23rd March
🕐 1:00–1:30pm
💻 Online
👉 Sign up via My Career Enriched or Blackboard
In this session you’ll:
- practise simple conversation starters
- meet other students attending the event
- build confidence before stepping into the networking space
It’s the perfect warm‑up before the Carlisle Racecourse event.
And don’t forget, there are lots of other employability enhancing workshops happening during Enhancement Week such as:
- Navigate your career path: what to do if you don’t know what you want to do
- Mindset- the Secret Weapon to Career Success
- Finding Your Freelance Feet
Want More Personal Support? Book a 1:1 Careers Appointment
Your Career Adviser is here to help you prepare for your future, including:
- building a strong LinkedIn profile
- exploring job ideas
- practising networking approaches
- improving your CV or applications
👉 Book via: mycareerenriched.cumbria.ac.uk
We Look Forward to Seeing You There!
This is your chance to build confidence, make new connections, and explore opportunities that go far beyond advertised job roles.
Start with one conversation — and see where it leads.
