IT Entrepreneurial Work Term Networking 101 IT Entrepreneurial Work Term

What is Networking? The art & science of building professional relationships. Making effective connections.

What are our networks? Who can we network with? Friends/Friends’ friends Family Co-workers Classmates Mentors Religious or Spiritual Groups Interest Groups (Sports teams etc.) Academic Groups (College) Thought Leaders Influentials (Managers, Educators) Companies Not-for-profit organizations Volunteering experiences Community-based organizations Memberships/Associations

Why is Networking Important? As an entrepreneur: Expand your client base Develop business partnerships Learn of new opportunities in the market place such as new loan programs, grants, training etc. Test your business ideas Access support and resources Promote your business; share benefits of your product(s) or service(s) Personally: Strengthen friendships Find better job or work Meet new people Build a professional image Practice your public speaking skills Access support and resources Learn of membership opportunities with groups/associations

Helpful Networking Tips Be on Time Ask Easy Questions Resist the urge to arrive late to an event Try to be a few minutes early to secure parking, find the coat check, restrooms etc. Get the lay of the land; check the layout of the space Keep it simple Who, what, when, where, why and how? Asking for their name and why they are here is a great way to start the conversation

Helpful Networking Tips Ditch the Sales Pitch Share your Passion(s) Avoid selling your products/services; sell yourself instead! Don’t come armed with samples; you can sell at a later date if they show interest. Be yourself; be honest If comfortable, speak about your hobbies and things that you enjoy personally (family, friends etc.)

Helpful Networking Tips Smile! Don’t Hijack the Conversation Don’t forget to smile Be approachable and appear as if you want to be there! Smiling gives the air of confidence and is a great first impression Listen and respond. Don’t speak over people; don’t interrupt. Be polite Excuse yourself if needed

Helpful Networking Tips Be Professional-always address a person by their name and make eye contact. Shake hands if appropriate. Be considerate of cultural differences. Be Prepared-bring business cards so people have a way to contact you and remember you. Even if you don’t have a business, you can create a personal business card with your contact information very inexpensively at Staples or on your home computer. Do your Research-If you are aware of any keynote speakers, special guests or industry association representatives whom will be present do some basic investigating into their backgrounds. This could be a way to start a conversation and demonstrate interest.

Helpful Networking Tips Take Risks-try to overcome any fear of rejection. Remember everyone is there for the same reason; to network and make new connections! Be Generous-give back to your networking community. Consider establishing a mentoring relationship. Remember to follow up! 79% of leads established through networking are NEVER followed up. That’s a lot of missed opportunities! If you have identified a valuable contact ask permission to reach out to them via phone or email. Give them a timeline as to when they can expect your call or email.

In Summary Networking can aid in the growth of your business. It helps you with creating and launching new products or services as it can assist with giving you a sense of emerging trends. Expands your knowledge and personal horizon Requires work-like all relationships, you must continue to identify ways and means to improve your network. Thank you goes a long way!