Networking for Introverts

Entry by Jennifer Weinmann, Student Employment Consultant for the IUPUI Office of Student Employment in Indianapolis, IN

As a Student Employment Consultant, one of the biggest issues I come across is students who are uncomfortable networking.  Whether it’s a part-time position, internship, or full-time position, networking is increasingly the best way to make connections that could land you a position.

If you’re like me, you may not consider yourself an extrovert…and that could mean anxiety at the thought of attending a networking event.  For those who shy away at the thought of meeting and greeting in a room of strangers, I’d like to suggest a “baby step” to a public gathering: LinkedIn.com

Many of you may know of the site.  For those who are not familiar, the main objective of the site is to bring professionals together and provide an online environment for networking.  Best of all, it is fun!  Think of it as facebook for the professional world.  You can upload a resume, brag about the experiences you’ve had, get recommendations from employers or professors, and most important, make connections!  These connections can be any professionals you meet or are introduced to in a variety of situations.

For example, you could meet someone in a class presentation, special event, or workshop.  At the end of the presentation, simply introduce yourself to the person and have a short sentence prepared such as “Thank you for taking the time to present to our class today.  It was very interesting to learn more about your area of expertise. ” Then, be sure to snag a business card as you say your thank you’s (most professionals will have their business card on hand).  This doesn’t take much effort and by simply introducing yourself and giving them your name, you’ve planted the seed that will make your LinkedIn network grow.

After the event (and as soon after as possible) head to LinkedIn.com and see if your new contact is a member of the site.  If they are, you can request to add them to your network and just like that – you’ve successfully networked.  Before you know it, the contacts you’re connected with will greatly expand. 

The next step is to put the word out that you’re interested in an internship!  You can indicate through your LinkedIn profile that you’re looking for an internship.  Everyone you’re connected to will be able to see this information in your status.  This could lead to one of your connections contacting you about openings or giving you tips on who to contact within their company to set up an interview.  The best way to find an internship or any job for that matter, is to make sure people know you’re looking.  Think of the time saved by posting one status update online vs. emailing or calling all the contacts you’ve made over time.

Once you’ve mastered online networking, you’ll be more at ease at face-to-face networking events and your connections will continue to expand!