What do you do if industry influencers are ignoring you during your internship?

1 Assess Approach

Before you change your strategy, take a moment to assess your current approach. Are you reaching out at appropriate times, or could your attempts be seen as interruptions? Influencers are often busy, and timing is critical. Ensure that your communication is professional, concise, and relevant to their interests. If your outreach has been respectful and well-timed, consider whether there might be other factors at play, such as the medium of communication or the clarity of your messages.

2 Offer Value

One of the most effective ways to capture an influencer's attention is by offering value. This doesn't necessarily mean material gifts or favors; think about how you can contribute positively to their work or personal brand. Can you provide insightful feedback, share interesting research, or assist with a project they're passionate about? Demonstrating your usefulness and willingness to contribute can set you apart from others and garner the recognition you seek.

3 Be Persistent

Persistence is key in relationship building, but it must be balanced with respect for the influencer's time and boundaries. If your initial attempts to connect go unnoticed, don't be discouraged. Instead, try reaching out periodically with new insights or questions that show you're engaged with their work. Remember, building a connection often takes time, and your continued interest and respect can eventually lead to a response.

4 Expand Network

While focusing on certain influencers is important, don't put all your eggs in one basket. Expand your networking efforts to include other professionals in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, and engage with peers. These connections can often lead to introductions or opportunities to interact with the influencers you're targeting. A broader network increases your visibility and can indirectly influence how industry leaders perceive you.

5 Learn & Adapt

Every interaction, or lack thereof, is an opportunity to learn and adapt your approach. Reflect on what works and what doesn't in your communication with influencers. Are there patterns in the responses you receive? Do certain topics or types of engagement yield better results? Use this information to refine your strategy, and don't be afraid to try new methods of outreach that may resonate better with your target influencers.

6 Stay Positive

Maintaining a positive attitude is crucial when facing challenges in relationship building. Rejection or being ignored can be disheartening, but it's important to remain professional and optimistic. Your enthusiasm and positivity are infectious qualities that can eventually break down barriers. Keep honing your skills, stay informed about industry trends, and continue to present yourself as a valuable and upbeat presence in the professional community.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?