Sep 18, 2014 03:24 PM EDT By Russell Westerholm, UniversityHerald Reporter

With employers sometimes wading through a flood of resumes, the best way to secure a job is not to wait for someone to pick yours out but to stay on the employer's radar.

According to USA Today, a new poll from Syracuse University suggests that networking is the best way for its recent college graduates to secure a job. After initial contact with a potential employer, even one without any listings posted, it is important to maintain a rapport.

Eva Zymaris, a graduate from Syracuse's S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, said networking is how she got a job with her current employer.

"Networking is the most important thing any student can do. You never have enough contacts," Zymaris told USA Today. "If I wanted that job, I had to make that personal contact."

Of course, extracurricular activities and internships look great on a resume because employers still want a candidate with some experience, even if the position is entry level. The trick is to get those potential employers to look at your resume because there are plenty of recent grads with similar qualifications.

For Syracuse students, the alumni association is a useful resource, as the poll showed nearly a quarter of the respondents had received jobs from networking. One of Syracuse's most wealthy sources for networking is the alumni association, whose members will at least be able to provide a reference or set up a meet-up.

"Some industries are set up with process-oriented programs, such as the financial industry," Daniel Klamm, Syracuse' alumni relations overseer in New York City, told USA Today. "But overall, our alumni base is incredibly useful for students, regardless of program."

While the study may be confined to Syracuse's student body, the advice applies to any college graduates. Tap into your alumni association, email that professor who told you they had useful connections, but be sure your networking is complimenting your job search.

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