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Virtual networking during a pandemic

by Makda Araya

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As we enter the second year of this pandemic, many of us have had to adjust our work and school life to completely virtual or hybrid situations.

This spring semester, many of us will be on the lookout for spring or summer internships. Learning how to network virtually will not only help you find these internships, but also create relationships with potential employers and mentors.

Here are some steps to help you begin to prepare.

1. Create an overview: Networking is all about mapping out who you know, nourishing the relationships you have and expanding your circle by getting to know new people. Before attending a networking event – review who will attend.

2. Have a goal: Coming into these meetings and virtual events, you might be overwhelmed. The method you set may be to meet a particular person, or perhaps to meet with an organization — whatever the objectives are, it’s necessary to set them. If you do not have a particular plan, you may find yourself floating through the event and wasting your time, or worse – the time of the group you meet.

3. Take advantage of social media:

Using social networking platforms like Linkedin can be the best way to create and maintain relationships after the event. A goal for you should be to try to collect Linkedin profiles from the people you come in contact with.

Even if you don’t necessarily want to end up at an organization with someone you talked to, this person could end up in your path later on.

Another tip is to send a follow up message when you connect with anyone you know. If you guys had a connection over going to the same school, pets etc. – add that to the message!

Networking is something that many see as hard to do, but coming prepared will always help you in the long run. With time to review your own skill sets, rehearse your 30-second speech and create a goal, you will be able to go far! Networking opens a world of possibilities that you may never have known before.

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