Networking

1. Networking Presented by Delicia Lewis Career Management Services

2. Topics Covered • Defining Networking • Benefits of Networking • Who, What, Where is my Network? • How to Network • Building a Network • Keys to Successful Networking • Things to Keep in Mind

3. Networking Defined • Merriam-Webster defines networking as … • The exchange of information or services among individuals, groups or institutions • Specifically the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business

4. Benefits of Networking • Being Active • Openness • Information • Knowledge • New Leads • Contacts • Skills • Reputation • Support • Self Esteem

5. Who, What, Where is My Network? • Who? • Write down the names of people you know and where they work if you know. • Include relatives, past or current coworkers, friends etc. • What? • What job are you looking for? • Consider industry or company. • Where? • Does someone else in the room have a contact at that particular company? • Does someone else know someone who works in that industry?

6. How to Network Know what you want! • What industries are you targeting? • What positions interest you the most? • What are your specific career goals? • What skills are you marketing to potential employers? Knowing the answers to these questions will help you effectively communicate your career direction to your contacts.

7. How to Network • Prepare • Spend time preparing brief introduction about your background, experience, skills and goals • Practice the introduction so you can deliver it with confidence • Complete a list of potential contacts • Keep in mind that “It’s not WHAT your know, it’s WHO you know.”

8. Making the Connection • You can communicate with a networking contact by: • Phone • Letter • E-mail • Social Networking Sites • In Person

9. Making the Connection • When calling a contact, be clear and concise in your message • Prepare a list of questions prior to talking with the contact • Know what advice or information you are seeking • Gather contact information • Ask contact if you can keep in touch periodically • Expand your network by asking the contact to refer you

10. How to Build your Network • Join social networks online • Get a personal business card • Brand yourself • Become an information sponge • Join virtual communities where your target market is • Attend gatherings • Meet 5 new people • Globalize your network • Take control of your virtual presence • Take a leadership role in your industry http://specht.com.au/michael/2008/08/28/10-tips-to-build-your-network The best time to build your network is before you need something; and the best time to keep that network strong is always.

11. Keys to Successful Networking • Always send a thank-you letter after someone has helped you • Organize your efforts by tracking who you’ve contacted, the date of contact and the outcome or action step which resulted • Notify your contacts when you have found a position • Be helpful to others when they ask to network with you

12. Keys to Successful Networking • Consider everyone you meet a potential networking contact • Seek out new networking contacts by a asking for business cards of potential contacts • Join a professional organization related to your career interest • Be enthusiastic and positive when talking to your networking contacts

13. Things to Keep in mind DO NOT Be genuine to gain credibility and long-term relations Feed the networkto pass on useful information and show you are engaged Offer to help using humor and tact Focus on getting something from a new contact immediately Hide behind technology and avoid face-to-face networking Forget to read your audience and provide a personal approach DO

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15. Questions?

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