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 Networking is investing time and effort into establishing and maintaining career-related contacts
It's talking with people to gather information, seek advice, expand awareness, and generate referrals
Networking can be done face-to-face, by phone, by letter, email, and electronic bulletin boards, but personal meetings are most effective
Through networking you can learn the jargon of a particular occupational field
Identify role models or mentors to guide your professional development
Gain feedback on your qualifications and resume
Learn about an unfamiliar geographic region or city
Obtain support and encouragement from others who share your interests
Identify good and bad managers to work for
Identify which companies/departments are expanding or laying off
Identify who knows about the type of work/business you're interested in
Identify other types of jobs/businesses that could use your skills
Some Networking Etiquette:
Meet at the convenience of your contact
Be clear about your objectives
Seek advice, information, or feedback
DO NOT ask for a job
Ask only for what a person can comfortably give you
Avoid asking for information you can obtain through personal research
ALWAYS Write a follow-up thank you note
Ready to network? Here's a script to help you get started.
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