Effective Networking 101

How to Effectively Incorporate Networking Into Your Job Search

There are no rules, when it comes to networking
o Forget the old saying; it is who you know, but it is also what you know. Make sure you’re downloading your skills to the right people.
o There is no bad time to network. Grocery store, Starbucks, birthday parties, etc…
o Develop a mini-network of networkers. Meaning, solicit others share your cause and your objective.
"Sir, please step away from the computer"
o Look for face-to-face networking opportunities; you can build relationships through your computer, but not with your computer.
o Make sure you’re attending multiple (and different) networking events each week, and month
o Rule of thumb, if you recognize more than 5-10 people in the audience, it’s time to RSVP to a new event.
Identify what your trying to achieve through networking
o In this case, it’s looking for a job
o Target companies, staffing firms or positions that you’re interested in
o Attend events that maybe sponsored by these “targeted” companies. Develop a networking “buddy”
o Develop your 15 second elevator—focus on more on strengths, less on skill set and industry
Ask the Question
o If you don’t ask questions, you’ll never know the answer
o Identify the “give and take” moment: Be prepared to listen and offer to help others, but don’t forget to ask for assistance, a contact or follow-up meeting
Follow-Up and Deliver
o Follow-up is the hardest (and most often neglected) part of networking.
o If you offered to do something for someone else, don’t forget to deliver!
o Use social media tools to keep in touch, ask for a follow-up meeting (one on one), and send a thank you email
o Most important, do not stop developing your network. Continuously prioritize networking on your “to-do” list

This guest post was graciously provided by Jill Lemon, Career Consultant with Momentum Resources, Inc. Thank you for sharing this valuable information, Jill!