Finding an internship in London can be both exciting and challenging. It’s a city full of opportunities, but also one with tough competition. With thousands of students and graduates applying for similar roles, standing out becomes essential. One of the best ways to do that is through smart networking.
Networking isn’t just about meeting people. It’s about building real connections that can help you grow personally and professionally. If you’re seeking an internship in London, here are some smart, practical networking tactics to increase your chances of success.
1. Start with Your Inner Circle
Before reaching out to strangers or professionals on LinkedIn, look around you. You might already know someone who can help.
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Family and Friends – They might know someone working in your field of interest.
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University Network – Professors, classmates, or alumni can offer guidance or refer you.
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Former Teachers or Employers – A quick email to check if they know of any opportunities never hurts.
Tip: Be clear and respectful when asking. Say, “I’m currently looking for internship opportunities in digital marketing. If you know anyone in the field, I’d love a chance to connect.”
2. Leverage LinkedIn the Smart Way
LinkedIn is the top platform for professional networking. But simply creating a profile isn’t enough—you need to use it actively and wisely.
Here’s how:
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Polish Your Profile – Add a professional photo, a short and clear summary, and list your skills.
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Connect Thoughtfully – Don’t send blank requests. Personalize with a message like:
“Hi [Name], I’m a student studying [Your Course] at [University]. I admire your work in [Industry]. I’d love to connect and learn more.”
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Engage with Posts – Like, comment, and share useful content in your industry.
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Follow Companies – Many London-based companies post internship updates on LinkedIn.
3. Attend Career Events in London
London is packed with job fairs, workshops, and career meetups. These events are goldmines for making face-to-face connections.
Some great places to check for events:
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Eventbrite and Meetup.com
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University Career Centers
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Industry-specific groups (e.g., London Tech Meetups)
Pro Tip: Always bring a few printed CVs and practice a short intro about yourself (often called an “elevator pitch”).
4. Join Student and Industry Groups
Being part of a community opens many doors. Join university societies, online forums, and local industry associations related to your field.
Why this helps:
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You meet like-minded people with similar goals.
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You hear about internships before they’re posted publicly.
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You get to learn from others’ experiences.
For example, if you’re interested in finance, look into London Institute of Banking & Finance student groups or Young Professionals in Finance.
5. Offer Help Before Asking for It
One of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, tactics is offering help. Instead of immediately asking for an internship, try asking:
“Is there anything I can help you with as a student who’s learning about [field]?”
This shows humility, willingness to learn, and a proactive mindset. It builds trust, which is the key to any strong connection.
6. Follow Up — But Don’t Spam
If someone offers advice or replies to your message, always thank them. A short follow-up email can go a long way in making you memorable.
Example follow-up message:
“Hi [Name], just wanted to say thank you for your time and insights last week. I found your tip about improving my CV very helpful. I’ll keep you updated on my progress.”
But remember: don’t over-message. Give people space, and only reach out when there’s a reason.
7. Use Informational Interviews
An informational interview is a short, casual chat where you learn about someone’s job, not ask for one.
Here’s how to ask:
“I’m really interested in working in [industry]. Would you be open to a 15-minute Zoom call so I can ask you a few questions about your journey?”
These conversations give you insider knowledge and sometimes even lead to opportunities.
8. Volunteer or Freelance
Can’t find an internship right away? Offer your help to small businesses or non-profits. Even short projects build your CV and expand your network.
Benefits:
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Real-world experience
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Strong references
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Unexpected doors may open
9. Be Consistent, Not Desperate
Networking takes time. You might not see results immediately, but each conversation adds up. Be genuine, stay curious, and keep learning. People can sense desperation, so focus on building meaningful relationships rather than just chasing opportunities.
10. Stay Informed About Your Industry
Read blogs, follow influencers, and stay updated on trends in your field. This helps you hold smarter conversations and shows others that you’re serious about your career.
Some sources:
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BBC Worklife
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The Guardian – Careers Section
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Industry-specific magazines like Marketing Week, TechCrunch, or The Engineer UK
Final Thoughts
Networking is not just about who you know—it’s about how you connect, grow, and contribute to a community. In a city as dynamic as London, opportunities are everywhere—but you need to be smart, intentional, and authentic in your approach.
By starting with your existing network, using tools like LinkedIn, attending events, and staying active in your field, you’ll create a solid foundation that not only helps you land an internship but supports your career long after.
Remember: Your dream internship might be one conversation away.
