Summer Discovery Blog

You hear it all the time, “it’s all about who you know.” Although this statement seems unfair, it has been proven time and time again that there is truth in this statement.  So, you might wonder, how can I build my network base from nothing? Here are the top 10 ways to network within an internship.

• Be Professional! The top way to impress in the workplace is by portraying yourself in a professional manner.

• Dress the part: Make sure your work attire is clean and appropriate for the work environment you are in.

• Treat your coworkers with respect: Your coworkers are not friends, they are coworkers! Treat the people you work with respectfully and communicate with them as a professional. This means talking clearly, without slang/profanity, and with confidence.

• Carry yourself with pride: Nothing stands out more than someone with confidence. Walk with your head high while still remaining grounded; this is one of the best ways to get noticed!

• Realize you have something to offer: Just because you’re the office intern does not make you a just a paper pusher. What you do with your internship is up to you. Every intern is going to have some sort of administrative work but it does not have to be the definition of what you do. Make sure to take all your work seriously but don’t be afraid to ask for more responsibility. This type of action will prove your supervisor that you have initiation and motivation.

• Don’t underestimate anyone within the workplace: Some who may seem somewhat inferior to the organization could have a big impact. Treat everyone in the workplace as superior. You want everyone in the workplace to have a good impression of you. 

• Remember names: The last thing you want to do is forget an important name of someone in the organization you’ve already met. Make sure when meeting someone for the first time you look them in the eye, shake their hand, and repeat their name. By doing this you will show professionalism as well as respect.

• Don’t be afraid to ask for introductions: If there is someone in the workplace that you think could help you in your future career don’t be afraid to ask for an introduction. By taking initiative to meet this person you will show that you are serious and proactive about your career goals.

• Be prepared: If you do have an introduction or meeting set up, make sure to be prepared. Have some questions ready to ask this person. Also, do a bit of background checking. Everyone likes to be complimented so do your research and compliment them on a big achievement to show interest in their profession.

• Be thankful: Always, always, always thank someone who is helping you network. You can never say thank you too much, sometimes sending a thank you note makes all the difference even if the networking didn’t help immediately.