Calling all D.C. interns and junior staff!
Across the Aisle™ is excited to announce that for our final event this summer, we will be joined by Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Tom Suozzi (D-NY) to get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to come together on Capitol Hill.
As Co-Chairs of the Problem Solvers Caucus, Representatives Fitzpatrick and Suozzi are dedicated to finding bipartisan solutions to our country’s biggest problems, and they have important insights to share.
At this exciting event you will hear from bipartisan leaders about cooperation and working across the aisle. It’s also a great opportunity to build new connections that will help you jumpstart your career in public service.
But networking is more than adding people on LinkedIn – it is your chance to build meaningful, long-lasting connections with people who will help you build your career and be the change you want to see in Washington.
Don’t know where to start? Here are a few tips for making the most of your Summer Series connections.
Networking 101
- Who are you? – Break the ice with a good first impression. A great elevator pitch describes who you are, what you're interested in, and why you want to get to know them.
- Find a point of connection – Ask them questions about where they went to school, where they grew up, or even their dream vacation destination.
- Make the Ask – Whether it's setting up a coffee chat or getting their email, make sure you establish a way to get back in touch.
- Have a Coffee Chat – In-person meetups go a long way in this age of online conversations and endless Zoom calls. Reach out to your connection to set up a time to grab coffee.
- Pro tip: “coffee chats” don’t always have to be talking over lattes – going for a walk around your building is a common favorite amongst Hill staffers.
- Track Your Relationships – Keep a log of your connections. Use a spreadsheet to track their contact information, where they work, any connections they may have that interest you, and something you talked about.
- Send a Thank You – Following up on the conversation with a thank you email is the perfect way to come full circle with your newfound connection.
- Stay in Touch – Ask them to look over job application materials, practice interview questions with you, or if they know of any job openings that you would be a good fit for.
- Respect their Time – D.C. professionals can have jam-packed schedules. Be aware of how your asks take up time in their busy agendas.
Want to learn more about professional development and foster your leadership skills? Check out Across the Aisle’s Answer the Call™ program and learn more about how we’re removing barriers to careers in public service here.
.svg)
