Refer the viewer as noted to the networking handouts for specifics on all four steps. There are lots of details that can be helpful
Relatives, friends, faculty, alumni, former employers, teachers, and other professionals are great resources
This will allow you to start a conversation confidently and share information about you and your interests
The latest news, talk radio, or news paper can provide you with interesting topics and industry news that will help you connect Establish goals before the actual networking event takes place. Are you interested in learning more about a particular field, developing internship leads, or perhaps some other objective You can network at a conference, wedding, ball game or even the bus stop
Be sure to keep an open mind. Networking opportunities are endless!
Don’t wait for networking to happen, make it happen! As part of a group, organization, or committee, be sure you participate. Contacts need to see your face and hear your message. Continual contact opens up opportunities. When seeking out groups to associate with and contribute to, the right “fit” is important Make sure your first impression is appropriate. Take the focus off you, listen more than you talk, and you will be surprised with the results. You need to physically move around and speak with a variety of people when you are networking.
Conversation with a stranger is the hardest part, but will get easier as you learn about the person, their experiences, and interests. Begin with an open ended question and follow-up with a closed ended question
Anyone will speak to you for 10 minutes if you are not speaking about yourself. At large functions be content with quality conversation with 5-7 people, who the next day, will remember you and what you spoke about. Pay special attention for cues from the other person, indicating that they are ready to move on.
Make a list of who you’ve spoken with so you don’t forget how and when you met. **For example if you’ve collected business cards at a career fair, utilize the card to keep notes Show your gratitude for a referral, even if there is no result from the lead. If you offer to “take action” follow through with the promise Networking is a never ending task. Share good news, success stories, resources, and information with your network.
![Pomerantz Career Center ,[object Object],[object Object],[object Object]](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)