Wondering how to find a job after graduation? One thing most college students don’t realize is that some of the most successful professionals in the career fields they are interested in all have one very distinct similarity. Most of them received these positions because of networking.

Only about 5 percent of people obtain jobs through the open job market, consisting of help-wanted ads on the Internet and in-print publications, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Another 24 percent obtain jobs through contacting companies directly – the cold-contact method of job-hunting. Twenty-three percent obtain jobs through means such as employment agencies, college career service offices and executive search firms. The remaining 48 percent, nearly half of all job hunters, obtain their jobs through networking.

This golden, networked circle of contacts can open doors to more than just job opportunities. Networking can introduce students to careers they didn’t even know existed.

“Since I am graduating in May, I have been keeping my eyes and ears wide open to possible networking opportunities,” says Morgan O’Dell, junior in psychology. “I have heard of so many people being offered jobs based on who they know.”

Letting people know your interests and what sort of career you are searching for is a great way to start networking.

Another good place to begin is by letting your friends and family know that you are looking for in a job and seeing if they know of anyone in a similar career. Who you know and who they know can open doors you didn’t even know existed.

“When I first started college, a family friend found out that I was interested in the health field and called me to see if I was interested in dietetics,” said Nicole Berkeley, senior in dietetics. “After talking to her a few times, I discovered my new career and can’t wait to begin.”

Although networking may sound easy, there are still a few mistakes that are commonly made. Caroline Levchuck, of Yahoo! HotJobs, outlines the four common mistakes people make when trying to network. For your own benefit, try to follow these helpful guidelines.

1. An office gathering isn’t a party. The purpose of this networking event is to help you advance professionally. It may be a social event, but it’s a professional one.

2. Do your homework. Do a little research on the company. A little knowledge goes a long way and if you are educated on the company, it’s easier to start a conversation and keep it going.

3. Pitch in. Prepare what’s called an “elevator pitch.” An elevator pitch is brief; brief enough to share during an elevator ride. In your pitch, give a three-minute summary of who you are, your experience and abilities.

4. Quality not quantity. If you focus on the quality, not quantity, of your connections at networking events you’ll get better results by making a few good connections than by handing out dozens of business cards indiscriminately.

Taking the time to build up a network will be worth it when your dream comes along. Never be afraid of letting people know that you are looking for work because those connections made today could be great references in the future.