Networking is one of the most talked about strategies in finding a job which can also be used for finding internships. It is said that up to 85% of jobs are never advertised and we can assume that there are also many internships that are never advertised as well. Networking helps us to uncover those hidden possibilities.
Here are Ten Tips for Networking that everyone should know.
1. Prepare an "Elevator Speech"
An "elevator speech" gives you an opportunity to provide the most important information about you to everyone you come in contact with. You want a succinct personal introduction on your most important skills, accomplishments, and assets. You will include your college, major, and any relevant facts about your academic interests and motivations in this initial conversation. Previous experience as well as volunteer and co-curricular pursuits can also be included. You will also want to include your areas of interest and what type of career you are looking to gain experience in.2. Contact People You Already Know
Begin your internship search by contacting friends, family, faculty, and former employers. These connections might know of existing opportunities or know of people currently working in the career field that is of interest to you. Faculty are a good source to consider when looking for internships since they usually know of other students who have had similar interests to yours and who may have completed internships in the field.3. Do Informational Interviews
Informational interviews are a great way to connect with alumni from your college as well as connecting with professionals currently working in the field. Be sure to prepare a list of questions and ask about any entry level opportunities that the employer might have available. At the end of the interview, you can ask the interviewer if they know of anyone else in the field that you should be talking to.4. Attend Career Fairs
Career fairs are a way to meet many employers in one day and provides an opportunity to distribute your resume. Be sure to have your "elevator speech" prepared and be ready to follow up with a thank you note to each interviewer you've spoken to directly.5. Keep Active In Your Search
Although you may be just visiting a friend or attending a neighborhood party, take these opportunities to speak with people about areas of interest to you and your interest in finding an internship. These are great opportunities to meet new people in a casual and informal environment and letting them know that you are seeking to find an internship in business, government, art, etc...6. Join Professional Associations
Professional associations can provide a new list of contacts for networking. Most associations hold annual conferences where you can learn more about the field as well meet those already working in the field. Associations also provide an opportunity to read publications and trade journals that professionals in the field are currently reading. Many associations offer discount student memberships. For example, the American Management Association offers students an annual membership for $95 versus $225 for professionals.
