As you head into to finals and then off for winter break we wanted to offer you some tips on networking and internships by your fellow peer Brittany Waser ’12.
Through my internship search and summer job search I have found that one of the most valuable tips I have received is the importance of networking. Students dread networking and keeping in contact with employers ( I know I did!), especially when the end goal of a job seems far off. Often intimidating and easily ignored, networking can be the key to unlocking a seemingly unattainable summer position. This is how I went about securing my job at a hospital and my summer internship at a residential treatment center:
- Always have a 30 second “elevator pitch” prepared where you can sell yourself to any contacts you make. Leave them wanting to meet or help you. Use their name when speaking to them!
- Know what you want when speaking to possible future employers. Research your target. Don’t be indecisive!
- Ask specific questions about what a person’s job entails. Thoughtful questions ie- what types of people have been successful in the position you are looking to fill.
- Have a firm handshake.
- Don’t stop speaking to someone if they reveal they don’t have a current job opening for you – they may have an opening in the future that they could have you in mind for.
- Make friends with the secretary (treat them with respect). Address them on the way in and use their name! – always be friendly and start your interview behavior from the second you park your car, and not just when you make contact with a potential employer ( you never know who you may run into in the hallway).
- ALWAYS write a thank you note to contacts made or interviewers in a timely manner – handwritten ones are ESSENTIAL. Email is for lazy people.
- After an internship or externship experience, continue to keep in contact via email with the employer throughout the year, even if you don’t see the point at the time. Ask them questions or for their advice, the more often your name pops up in front of them, the higher the chances of you getting what you want.
- Persistence is key, and although it may feel uncomfortable, it will be rewarded. You never know what is out there until you ask. Market yourself to the person interviewing, the board, anyone that can help – leave them with the impression that you really WANT the job! You are tenacious and won’t stop until you succeed! Most people like that quality.
- If you are ultimately turned down for an internship or summer job position, ask if you can volunteer your services informally for the organization in any capacity. State that you would like to stay involved in any way possible (this is especially true for smaller, non-profit organizations), and organizations will likely consider you for positions in the future.
Best of luck with your networking! And remember, despite how awkward you may feel interacting with business professionals; you have nothing to lose and a lot to gain – namely, a job! If you have any questions or want more advice, book an appointment at the CDC to chat with a counselor or peer.
-Brittany Waser ’12