Ever heard the old adage. "it's not what you know, it's who you know?" An anonymous yet inspirational quote about networking, personal social networks are in fact key sources of labor and information in a rapidly growing, global economy.

The dazzling stream of available technology enables workers to connect to diverse, far-flung networks that can help them leverage their own careers. Known as a kind of "invisible work," creating social networks can empower workers if they are successful at maintaining them, and can also help them take on their jobs effectively.

However, as the global economy continues to become even more global, the competition in the job market continues to grow as well. A graduate college student must not only be qualified for a job, he or she must exceed expectation. Rather than simply knowing the right people, gaining real world experience is also a critical step. It's what you know and who you know that often makes the difference,

College student internships are a great way to build an impressive resume, as well as give students the opportunity to make valuable industry contacts. The people you meet along the way during your college career may be essential in helping you land that ideal job upon graduation.

Many other opportunities to gain work experience can even be found on your college or university campus. By utilizing resources at school, you may find a campus job in your own field of study. That valuable experience may one day land you a position in the career field that you love.

By keeping in mind the social aspect of making good contacts while gaining real world experience, you can be well on your way to landing that dream job. My advice to you? Get in there and mingle.

"Floating Network" courtesy WebWizzard via Flickr Creative Commons