How can you build a professional network in computer hardware through hackathons?

2 Prepare your pitch and portfolio

Before you attend a hackathon, you need to prepare your pitch and portfolio. Your pitch is a short and catchy introduction of yourself and your project idea. Your portfolio is a collection of your previous projects, achievements, and skills. You will use your pitch and portfolio to impress and persuade potential teammates, mentors, judges, and employers. Make sure your pitch and portfolio highlight your computer hardware knowledge, experience, and passion. Include links to your online profiles, such as LinkedIn, GitHub, or personal website. Practice your pitch and portfolio with a friend or a mentor, and get feedback on how to improve them.

3 Be proactive and friendly

At the hackathon, you need to be proactive and friendly. Don't be shy or passive, but reach out to other participants, mentors, judges, and employers. Introduce yourself with your pitch, ask questions, offer help, and exchange contacts. Show your enthusiasm, curiosity, and willingness to learn and collaborate. Be respectful, polite, and positive. Avoid being arrogant, rude, or negative. Remember that you are not only there to compete, but also to connect. Networking is not only about quantity, but also about quality. Focus on building genuine and meaningful relationships with people who share your interest in computer hardware.

4 Work on your project and presentation

During the hackathon, you need to work on your project and presentation. Your project is the main product of your hackathon experience, and your presentation is the main showcase of your project. You need to work hard and smart on both, as they will demonstrate your computer hardware skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Work well with your teammates, communicate clearly, divide tasks, and support each other. Use the available resources, such as tools, materials, mentors, and workshops. Test your project, fix any bugs, and document your process. Prepare your presentation, rehearse it, and make it engaging and informative.

5 Follow up and stay in touch

After the hackathon, you need to follow up and stay in touch. Don't let your network fade away, but maintain and nurture it. Send thank-you notes, feedback, and compliments to your teammates, mentors, judges, and employers. Congratulate the winners, acknowledge the organizers, and celebrate your achievements. Share your project, presentation, and portfolio on social media, and tag the people and organizations involved. Connect with your network on LinkedIn, GitHub, or other platforms. Keep an eye on any opportunities, such as jobs, internships, events, or collaborations. Reach out to your network regularly, and offer value, support, and referrals.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?