Networking tips:
broaden your network starting today
These tips were kindly provided by John Hennenfent
John Hennenfent works as a Research Officer in the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia. In this role, he provides research and analytical support to the Opposition caucus on a broad range of matters, while focusing on justice and economic development issues. He holds a J.D. from Georgetown and a Master's in Economic Law from Sciences Po.
01
before meeting potential contacts
Be well-dressed. This does not mean 'fancy,' but rather clean and put together. This will help build confidence with those around you.
Get some kind of job, even if you are overqualified for it. Having a job will help you find the job a better job/the job you want.
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Having a job during the academic year if you can is a good idea.
Get yourself into a positive mindset going in. Think about what is positive about yourself and the advantage you would be to any organization.
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02
making professional contacts and finding internships
When meeting a potential connection, do not be shy to ask for their contact information. I ask for Linkedin or an email address. Get their information and say you'll be in touch, rather than have them take yours and leave it up to them. In the next few days, send them an email or invitation to connect on Linkedin (be sure to include a note in your Linkedin invitation). Say something like, 'Glad to meet you,' and then if it is logical, you can suggest getting a coffee in the next few weeks.
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If you are looking for a job, tell people you know that you are looking for a job. People often have leads that they can share if they know you're looking for something.
03
feeling comfortable at networking events
Think the best about other people when you meet them. Smile, be gracious, and people will want to talk to you.
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Generally, ask for a person's contact information after you've been talking for a few minutes, not right away. Someone will be more open to continuing the conversation through a follow-up if you've had a conversation, rather just shaking hands and getting their info. If you are in a rush, that's different, and its ok to say so and get their info to follow up later.
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Be interested in other people and curious about different professions. There are so many jobs and industries out there, many of which you have never heard of. So be open to talking to a range of people and asking them about what they do.