Networking Check List
Become a Networking Guru
Networking is an important skill to have when you’re looking for employment. How many times have you heard, “it’s not what you know, but who you know,” when it comes to landing an interview. This is very true, especially in dealing with the current economy. Everyone needs to have a strong base of professional contacts. So, how do you grow these contacts? Welcome to Networking 101!
Many people get slightly nervous about networking. Are you the type who usually experiences a rapid heartbeat and sweaty palms when you have to talk in front of people you don’t know? Do you consider yourself an introvert and don’t like to be around others? Don’t worry. Networking is not as bad as it seems, and everyone can do it.
Before you dive into networking, here are a few key pointers you should keep in mind.
Keep your networking relevant. As a job seeker, the purpose of networking is to make connections with individuals who can help open doors into the career you’re looking for. Based on that, keep your networking relevant to what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for a job in construction, it’s probably not going to be helpful for you to attend networking meetings for accounting professionals.
It’s about quality, not quantity. When it comes to networking, it’s not about trying to meet everyone you possibly can. You don’t have to make 500 contacts to be considered a success at networking. The ultimate goal is to build quality relationships with professionals in your field of interest. You want to get to know them and vice versa. If you only meet 10 people, that’s OK. When you have a good connection with a few professionals, your networking efforts are more successful because you’re able to build more real relationships.
What else do you need to know about networking? Here’s a checklist of things you need to have and do to help you become a networking guru. From the initial meeting to following up with your contacts, we’ve got you covered. Check these off as you go to ensure you don’t miss a beat!
Personal brand statement. This should be 15 - 30 seconds long and should identify who you are, your work background, what you want to do, and your top “selling” points. Create your brand statement in advance and be sure to practice it before you use it. When you use it, keep it sounding casual and unrehearsed.
Copies of your résumé. When you’re networking, always have a few copies of your résumé on hand with you, because you never know who you may meet. And make sure the résumé identifies what it is you’re hoping to do for a career.
Business cards with your personal contact information. When you network, you should have professional looking business cards that include key information like your name, phone number, and e-mail address along with an identification of your professional niche. For example, include designations like CPA or Marketing Professional.
Portfolio or briefcase. If you’re taking the time to create all the necessary networking documents, you’re going to need to keep them safe and handy. Purchase a portfolio for storing your résumé copies, business cards, and any other important information you need. When you’re networking, this will give you a professional and prepared appearance. Depending on the type of event you are attending, you will usually want to have your portfolio, business cards, and a pen. Always a plus!
Positive attitude. When networking, don’t forget to have an award-winning attitude. Be positive, optimistic, and happy. No matter what has happened with the economy, it’s important not to come across as bitter over a layoff or another difficult situation. And, never talk negatively about a previous employer. You never know who knows whom!
Professional appearance. When you attend professional networking functions, look appropriate for the industry you want to get into. You only have one chance to make a good first impression, so make it count.
Nonverbals. It’s important to be aware of what your nonverbal messages are sending. From your smile to your eye contact to your handshake, you are communicating in everything you do. Brush up on your nonverbal skills to help stand out from the competition.
Breath mints. Keep you breath minty fresh when meeting possible employers. You don’t want to be memorable for the wrong reasons.
Social networking sites. Are you on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn ? Depending on your industry, you may open an account to use professionally and become a part of online social networks. Many businesses have profiles on these sites, so once you meet a professional in your field, you can add them to your network online. Also, because these sites allow you to post updates about yourself, you can keep others aware of your job search process. And you never know, through a friend of a friend, you might meet a new connection who could help you.
Contact files. As you meet individuals and get their contact information, have a system for archiving their information. You will want to easily access this information in the future. Import them into your personal e-mail or create an Excel spreadsheet.
Follow-up with contacts. Once you make a connection, stay in contact and continue to grow your professional relationship with them. Don’t just put their information on file to gather dust. Instead, follow back up with them. Send a card telling them how nice it was to meet them and thank them for their time. Or send an e-mail to see how they’re doing and keep them updated about you. Another way to stay in touch with new contacts is to request to be added as a contact on their LinkedIn account or follow them on Twitter.
To help you keep these tips top of mind, download a printable version of the Networking Checklist. Print these off and start your networking today!
Looking for more advice about your job search or your career? Check out Movin' On Up, the Express job blog, to find the tips and information you need to succeed.
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