As we all know, networking is a crucial aspect of job searching in today's world. It's especially true when you're in the field of network engineering, where having connections and a network of professionals can make a massive difference. New Zealand is a great place to start your networking journey, as the country is home to many excellent network engineering roles. Here are some tips for networking your way to a network engineering job in New Zealand. 1. Attend networking events: Attending networking events is one of the most effective ways to meet people in your field. These events can be job fairs, conferences, or even meetups specific to network engineering. By attending these events, you'll have the opportunity to meet people in the industry, gain new connections and learn about job openings. Additionally, attending industry events will keep you up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the field of network engineering. 2. Connect with people online: In today's digital age, social media is an excellent tool for networking. LinkedIn is the most popular social media platform that's specifically designed for professional networking. It's a great place to connect with others in your field, follow companies, and showcase your skills and experience. Follow pages and groups related to network engineering, and start engaging with like-minded individuals. 3. Join a professional association: Joining a professional association related to network engineering is an excellent way to expand your network. They may host events and provide training and development opportunities. Associations such as the InternetNZ or the New Zealand Telecommunications Forum are examples of excellent professional associations that can help you make valuable connections and stay up to date with the latest in the industry. 4. Cold-email professionals: If you come across someone in your field that you'd like to connect with, whether on LinkedIn or through an industry website, don't be afraid to reach out to them. Sending a polite email introducing yourself and asking if they'd like to grab coffee or have a quick chat is an excellent way to make connections. Many people in the industry will be happy to connect and share their expertise, especially if they're passionate about networking. 5. Utilize your college's alumni network: If you're a recent graduate or even an alumni of a local college, reach out to your college's alumni network for connections. The alumni network can put you in touch with people who have gone through the same program as you, and most likely some of them have landed careers in networking engineering. They may even be able to offer advice, mentorship, or introductions to companies and contacts within the industry. In conclusion, networking is a critical aspect of job searching for a network engineer in New Zealand. By attending networking events, connecting with people online, joining professional associations, cold-emailing professionals, and utilizing college alumni networks, you can build valuable relationships and find new opportunities that may lead to the ultimate goal of securing the best network engineering job in New Zealand.