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We're all looking at a summer of armchair internships and kitchen co-working spaces.
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But, what happens after that?
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Today, we're tackling networking.
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I'm Nicole Ellis, and this is The New Normal.
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Trying to build the kinds of relationships that will take your career to the next level is a lot of pressure.
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Add a pandemic to the mix and it's even more complicated.
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But that doesn't necessarily have to stop you.
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Here are five tips to set yourself up for success for when lockdown is over.
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Tip one is reach out.
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The way we connect with each other has completely changed.
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And that actually means that right now is a great time to connect with people.
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Because they're no longer out having coffee, lunch, dinners or networking with other people.
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They're all at home just like you.
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Tip two is get personal, within reason.
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Being professional doesn't mean that you're impervious to the world around you.
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And being a little vulnerable might foster an even stronger connection.
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Now is the time that you can get more personal with folks and ask people how they're feeling.
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And it also shows that you're aware of what's happening around you.
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And it's not just all about your job search.
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And that's going to be very refreshing when people are anxious and distracted and incredibly busy.
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Asking thoughtful questions and being a part of someone's support system, even as a potential hire, makes you more memorable.
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People will want to be around other people that make them feel like, "Yes, this is a going to be okay."
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So to the extent that you can really demonstrate that kind of calm and confidence that things will get better that's actually going to help you and differentiate you as a job seeker.
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Tip three is get specific.
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Have a clear idea of why you're talking to this person and what you want to get out of the conversation.
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The good rules of networking still apply.
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When you approach someone, you want to be specific about why you're contacting them.
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Tip four is know your value, even from the couch.
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Remember that work experience comes in a lots of different forms, not just from being in an office.
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Hiring managers know that they'll be looking at your full body of work, which includes volunteering, extracurricular activities, school projects, and sports.
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So take note of the things that you've done and how you can apply them to a different setting.
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Finally, tip five is be yourself.
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Authenticity is your greatest asset, and it's what people will remember most.
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For more stories like this one, find us on thelily.com or washingtonpost. com