Summer intern season is just around the corner, can you believe it? I’ll be doing a series of posts on DC internships from style to best happy hours to making your nonexistent pay/stipend streeetttccchhh as far as it possibly can. Let’s start with etiquette.
DC thrives on happy hours. In my job search, I’d go with friends to various happy hours and receptions around the Hill to network (read: schmooze). People work hard but they play hard, too (within reason). After a long day, people want to relax, have a beer or glass of wine and chat.
Receptions in DC (provided interns are allowed) are an excellent venue to network. The great thing about DC is people want to pay it forward: someone helped them get to where they are today and now they want to help you. But how do you impress the movers and shakers?
A Firm Handshake
You spy someone who seems friendly and decide to make a move (Does this sound like trying to get a date? It’s pretty much the same!). Smile, extend your hand and, as you shake hands say, “Hi, I’m XYZ, I’m an (insert position here) at (organization name).” Seems simple right? Make sure your handshake is firm but not too strong, you want to seem confident and self-assured. There is really nothing worse than a limp handshake. A couple of years ago, I met Wolf Blitzer at a gala. I was incredibly excited given my media nerdiness. His handshake was limp and I still think of it whenever I watch The Situation Room. Ugh.
When I was younger, I remember my father having me practice shaking hands. At the time, I really did not get why he insisted we practice but now I do so thanks, Dad!
Easy, Breezy Conversation
You’ve done the hardest part, you’ve introduced yourself. Now the conversation starts. Keep it light, keep it breezy. Now is not the time to go into your favorite speech about government waste or the merits of big government. 1. You don’t know the person’s set of beliefs and risk offending them and 2. We get it, you’re into politics. You probably would not be in DC otherwise so that’s just a given. No need to prove it in a long-winded rant.
Prepare an elevator pitch ahead of time. Think if you were to ride in an elevator with someone, what could you tell them about yourself in that short span of time? If you are looking for a job, now is the moment to say it. Tell them you are looking for a position in a certain field, industry, representative/senator. Don’t be too aggressive, let the other person pursue the employment topic.
A big faux pas: complaining about being an intern. I know, it’s typically unpaid and you are doing menial tasks and it’s rough. However, nearly everyone started out as an intern and it’s practically a rite of passage in DC. Complaining about “paying your dues” will turn people off immediately.
Keep It Classy
When you are on a tight budget and are suddenly presented with an open bar, you can be pretty tempted. While DC loves a good drink, this is not your college bar. I have a two drink maximum at every reception as a personal rule. Two drinks are enough to loosen you up without you appearing later on Heard on the Hill. You are here to network and put your best foot forward, not be known as the boozy spectacle. DC’s a small town, you have to keep your reputation intact. And if you are currently interning, it will get back to your supervisor and they will not be amused.
That being said, you should have a drink in your hand at all times. It’s a bit uncomfortable to talk to someone who isn’t holding a drink. You can sip it, no need to chug. Remember this isn’t your college bar.
Know When to Walk Away
Networking is very much like dating. Not everyone you meet is going to be interested in talking to you, you might have a lull in conversation, they might need to leave but you want to keep talking. Tune into their body language and if things become uncomfortable and you don’t see this networking opp going anywhere just shake their hand (firmly), tell them it was nice to talk with them and walk away. There you go! On to the next person!
Don’t take it personally if someone doesn’t want to chat, they had a long day dealing with press, their legislation was blocked, they woke up on the wrong side of the bed. Shake it off, champ. You’ll be fine.
Another person could walk up to you and your new contact and the two of them need to chat. This is when you bow out gracefully. Thank them for their advice, insights, conversation, etc. Exchange contact info and walk out.
Exchanging Emails
After chatting with them and you realize this is a great networking match: they work in the field you want to break into, they know someone in your industry, etc. You are thrilled! Now you have to keep in touch. DCists carry business cards with them at receptions and if they like you, will hand you their card. I made personal business cards when I was job hunting with my contact and education info through {Vistaprint}. Show that you are poised and professional! You want them to think of you as a pro, not a college kid.
Send an email the next day to appropriately follow up. I could write a whole post on following up but I think I’ve written enough for one post, don’t you think? I’m sure you’re sick of hearing me blab!
I hope you found my tips helpful and if you are interning in DC (or anywhere) this summer and needs tips, email/tweet me!
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