How to network: Tips from Capital One recruiters

For some of us, the word networking brings up some nerves. But chatting with recruiters doesn’t have to feel like a stiff, rehearsed chore. To help take the pressure off, Capital One recruiters Alix, Shaelyn and Erin are pulling back the curtain on what it actually takes to make a great impression. 

Whether you’re stopping by a busy career fair or logging into a final interview, these quick insider tips will help you skip the awkward small talk and build real, stress-free connections.

Myth #1: You need to have your entire career path figured out right now.

The reality: Recruiters don’t expect you to have a 10-year plan. In fact, honesty about how you’re exploring and learning can actually be an advantage.

Alix, a Student & Grad analyst recruiter, says that when you build genuine rapport, you get insights you won’t find anywhere else. “I met someone at Comic-Con whose curiosity stuck with me because they were asking such great questions. We still stay in touch, and I share opportunities with them whenever I think they’d be a good fit.”

The fix: Use conversations to learn more about opportunities that might be for you. If you’re still exploring, say so. Treat the recruiter as an ally who can help you learn what fits your skills and interests.

Pro-tip: After an event, send a brief, personalized follow-up note about something unique you connected on. It keeps the thread going.

Myth #2: Networking is just a way to land a job.

The reality: Networking is about relationship-building that helps you both now and later.

Shaelyn, a recruiter for Capital One’s tech student programs, meets many strong coders, but the ones she remembers are those who show why they’re curious about tech. “Shift your mindset from thinking about what the recruiter can do for you to what you can learn from them.” 

The fix: Shaelyn suggests leading with what first sparked your interest in the field. Whether it was a first robotics meet-up, a late-night AI project or a campus hackathon, share the story behind your interest.

Pro-tip: When meeting recruiters on campus, open with a 15-second intro and one unique question. Practice out loud—career fairs are loud, and recruiters notice who’s prepared!

Myth #3: You should wait until your junior or senior year to start exploring opportunities.

The reality: You don’t need to wait until you’re close to graduation to start looking around. Starting early simply gives you more room to explore different paths and sets you up for a smoother journey later on. 

Erin, a Student & Grad recruitment manager for our analyst programs, has one piece of advice she wishes she’d followed: Get to your career center during your first year. “You’ll hear about early career programs and internships sooner, and you’ll meet employers before peak deadlines hit.”

The fix: Don’t wait for the perfect time. Capital One offers both on-campus and virtual programming—like interview-prep sessions and coffee chats—to make it easy for every student to take that first step.

Pro-tip: Treat networking as a habit. Block 30 minutes a week to message two alumni or attend a virtual event. Consistency beats intensity every time.

Ready to make your move? At Capital One, we're built on a culture of support and growth. Now that you’ve busted the myths, it’s time to take action. Explore Student and Grad opportunities and upcoming events to start building your network today!