Networking tips for students learning English
Networking opportunities are abundant in Melbourne. Building contacts and forming new relationships can happen inside of the classroom, at work, and social and networking events. Whether you’re looking to get into a specific job field or want to meet new people, networking skills are an essential component of success and will help you expand new and existing relationships.
Networking events and opportunities may seem like an intimidating space for continuing your education in English but keep in mind that you may not be the only English-language student in the room. Take these tips into consideration to help make your networking efforts successful.
Set expectations
If you plan on attending a networking event, it is imperative that you set expectations before attending. Strategies for who you want to communicate with and what you want to get out of that connection. For example, if you are attending a professional networking event, you should plan to connect with those in your field and obtain advice for success.
Be Prepared
Before attending a networking function, it is vital to ensure you have the tools to make a lasting impression. Before arriving at a professional or educational networking event, update your resume. Be sure to place any current English speaking courses you’re taking at the top of your resume to the person you are interacting with gets a better idea of your background. If you’re attending a more casual networking setting, have a few business cards handy. Even if you aren’t currently in the job market, it’s vital to give whomever you wish to connect with something tangible to remember you by. Your business card can have your area of study on it along with your name, contact information and a photo.
Write down a few thoughtful questions for those you wish to connect with that must be answered before you leave the function, that way you can structure out your strategy.
Bring a friend
It’s normal to feel uncomfortable attending an event alone, no matter the nature of it.
Bringing along a friend, peer or even your English teacher to the event can help you break out of your bubble and interact more with the crowd. The individual you bring may also assist you with any translation confusion and help you convey the message you need help expressing.
Be present
As mentioned before, entering a room with fluent English-speakers may be intimidating at first, but your confidence will shine through any communicative hiccups that may occur. Put yourself in the social mix. Even if you are not a drinker, the bar is usually the right place to sit or stand as that’s where most of the back and forth traffic will be. If you find that people are gathering in groups, choose a group to join and listen in on the conversation. Keep your introduction brief and try to listen more than you speak. You can gain a lot of insight and knowledge that way.
Remember to ask for business cards or contact information from anyone you wish to further connect with.
If you return home and feel as if you didn’t have the opportunity to ask a particular question or truly connect with that person, reach out to them directly. When you reach out, be sure to introduce yourself and document where you met and go from there. It may be more natural and less intense to communicate what you wished to ask through writing.
Plan your own event
If you are having trouble finding a networking or social event that benefits you, plan your own. This can quickly be done through an online ticketing platform that allows you to send out invitations and efficiently manage RSVPs. Before you begin your planning decide on who you wish to target and set a few goals for what you want to come from this event.
Networking and getting out there is the best way to expand your knowledge when you are learning a new language. Also, to find a job as an International student in Melbourne. Remember to relax and just be yourself. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes – try not to judge yourself too harshly because others won’t be.