Studying in a new country can be both an exciting and demanding experience for international students. Whether it’s a language barrier or a sea of new faces, breaking the ice and striking up meaningful conversations as a new person may seem like an uphill battle.
Nonetheless, you need to focus on expanding your professional network, which will help you in your job hunt and advance your career. Read on as we look at five practical networking tips for international students you can practice and follow.
Practical Networking Tips for International Students
If you’re trying to figure out how to expand your network, here are some networking tips that will help in the long run:
- Join clubs and sign up for events
- Plan and prepare yourself
- Ask and answer questions
- Build Relationships with Professors
- Leverage the use of social media
- Follow up after your conversation
Join clubs and sign up for events
One networking tip people overlook is participating in campus activities, workshops, and orientations. These are great ways to network with experts in the field and other students.
In addition, become involved with student groups that share your interests or focus on issues that are important to you. This is useful for both socializing and advancing one’s career.
Plan and prepare yourself.
While your conversation should be as natural as possible, it is not ideal to start talking to someone out of the blue. Spend some time getting ready, especially if you intend to join a club or group.
You can create a good impression if you put in the time and effort to prepare for it.
Ask and answer questions
You can learn more about someone by asking them questions. It also shows that you value them and want to hear what they say. Also, be ready to talk about yourself and share your experiences.
Build relationships with professors
Connecting with your professors is a great way to get advice and guidance. By analyzing programs, identifying academic talents, and choosing a major, they can help you see what you want out of your college experience and provide ways to assist you in getting there.
In addition, they may provide valuable insight into upcoming events and potential career advancement. Keep in touch, and thank them for everything they’ve done for you.
Leverage the use of social media
As a networking tool, social media allows you to get in touch with individuals from all over the world. Leverage platforms like LinkedIn to connect with classmates, alumni, and people in your industry.
It’s possible to locate people who go to the same school as you and begin establishing real-world connections with them while also establishing an online presence.
Follow up after your conversation
Sending a thank-you note or email after meeting someone new is a great way to appreciate them for their time. Be sure to keep in touch consistently to keep the connection alive.
Conclusion
Remember that building a network takes time, and the secret to success is being yourself. You need to be patient and persistent to build genuine connections.
By consistently seeking new networking opportunities, you will create more meaningful contacts and develop a strong network that may help you in the long term.
Feel free to contact Purplebook to guide you through your study abroad journey.
Also, check out this scholarship in case you missed it: University of Tasmania Scholarship Australia 2024 (Fully Funded)
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