…it isn’t just for breakfast anymore! by Ray Kim

About me... Blog: http://pianorayk.wordpress.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pianorayk Working in technology since 1989: Computer operator , instructor , technical writer , analyst , webmaster , developer Member of CASSUG (Albany SQL user group) and Albany UX/UI user group BS in computer science, Syracuse University (LET’S GO ORANGE!!!) MS in technical communication, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (GO RED!!!) Interests: My wife (Lianne) and two cats (Bernard, Nutmeg) Playing music (four different instruments, member of KKΨ band fraternity) Sports: Syracuse football and basketball, RPI ice hockey, NY Yankees, fantasy football, CrossFit

About this presentation This is NOT a technology- specific presentation This presentation is based mostly on personal experience I don’t like to lecture – I prefer to discuss issues and act as a facilitator Please ask questions! Feel free to engage!

What we’ll discuss Networking – what is it? Why is networking important? Where to go network Breaking the ice Exercise – let’s try doing a little networking! After we do our exercise, let’s discuss it! What about online?

Networking – what is it? networking noun adjective [net-wur-king]  noun A supportive system of sharing information and services among individuals and groups having a common interest: Working mothers in the community use networking to help themselves manage successfully. The design, establishment, or utilization of a computer network. adjective 3. Of or relating to a network or networking: networking software, a networking system. (Source: dictionary.com)

Networking – what is it? For our purposes, we’ll assume the following… Networking is establishing some kind of relationship with another person There are different kinds of networking We’ll focus mainly on business or professional networking Having said that, social networking is also important (as we’ll find out)!

Networking – what is it? Some things to remember throughout our discussion… There is an art to networking Networking takes time – this will probably NOT happen overnight! It might require stepping out of your comfort zone It will likely require some effort Networking is a two-way street – it is mutually beneficial There are many ways to network – not all of them are covered in this discussion

Networking – why is it important? In a 2016 LinkedIn article, a survey revealed that 85% of all jobs were filled via networking – Lou Adler: “New Survey Reveals 85% of All Jobs are Filled Via Networking”, Feb. 29, 2016 Developing professional relationships Career advancement “Hive mind” … Networking = knowledge Maybe someone somewhere has an answer to your question or problem Increased exposure You make new friends!

Where to network First, let’s start with a few obvious examples: Your local user group Data professionals: Technical professionals: Technical writers: General and various meetups: Bottom line: look for any groups, meetings, or organizations related to your professional interests

Where to network Now, some not-so-obvious examples: Kid’s soccer or Little League games Extracurricular activities – hobbies, groups, clubs, etc. Alumni functions Your gym Parties, cookouts, barbecues, etc. Church groups, book clubs, organizational meetings, etc. Any activities in which you’re involved!!! Bottom line: Any time you interact with other people is a networking opportunity!!!

Social networking is important, too… To be successful with professional networking, you should also network socially. If you’re likable and approachable, people are more likely to engage you You’re also more likely to be remembered The opposite is true: if you’re not likable, people will stay away from you Be wary of body language – unspoken communication can speak volumes

It’s awkward, isn’t it? Introverted? Shy? Socially awkward? You’re not alone. You need to make some kind of effort (sorry – there’s no way around this) Step out of your comfort zone Find ways to break the ice (more on that in a moment) It takes practice Prepare Bring a friend

It’s awkward, isn’t it? Three basic steps… Initiate contact (breaking the ice) This is the hardest part! First impressions are important! Make conversation Make the other person feel comfortable and valuable Be genuine and a good listener Close the conversation

Breaking the ice Feeling awkward about talking to someone? Some ways you might start a conversation… “Hi!” Your name Some kind of compliment Beware: there is a difference between a genuine compliment and sucking up!!! Ask a question Something related to your event or situation Some neutral small talk

Breaking the ice On the flip side – never, ever, EVER start a conversation with… Anything related to politics or religion Anything socially unacceptable, politically incorrect, or offensive Anything sexist, racist, etc. Pickup lines in any way, shape, or form Anything personal Brownnosing, sucking up, or kissing up Anything boring or overwhelming Sales pitches

Breaking the ice Other ideas to break the ice – here are some things you can do to encourage conversation… Wear an article of clothing that will start a conversation Be wary, however, about dressing appropriately Talk about your current situation or event Contribute to a conversation Be positive and authentic Smile! Listen!

Let’s try an exercise in networking Let’s take a few minutes to do a little networking! For a large (5 or more people) audience: Make sure you’re sitting next to someone you DON’T know Introduce yourself to that person For a small (fewer than 5 people) audience: Let’s take a few minutes to go around the room and introduce ourselves For both groups, mention: Your name Where you’re from (especially if you’re not local) What you do At least one (but no more than three) interesting things about yourself that has nothing to do with your profession

Now that we’ve done a little networking… Let’s discuss what we just did… How did you feel? Uncomfortable? Awkward? Pleased? Accomplished? Anything else?

Some things to keep in mind when networking… Exchange contact information If you have business cards, use them. If you don’t, create them. Connect on LinkedIn (more on that in a minute) Be sensitive to the other person’s feelings, wishes, and needs Respect the other person’s requests Example: If the other person says “email, do not call,” then do exactly as (s)he requests! Email; do NOT call!!! If you sense the other person is uncomfortable, back off!

Some things to keep in mind when networking… Make yourself likeable and approachable You’ll be more likely to connect Be yourself Be genuine Don’t try too hard or be overbearing – you might end up driving people away

What about online networking? How many of you use at least one of these? (I’m sure I missed a few – any others?)

What about online networking? Social network for professionals Some companies ask for your LinkedIn profile on job applications People use LinkedIn to look people up Maintain your resume information Referrals Other: Google search “uses for linkedin” If you’re serious about networking, you ABSOLUTELY MUST get on LinkedIn!!! (Especially if you’re job-hunting!!!)

What about online networking? Don’t discount Facebook for networking! You’re connected to many friends who know you well Opportunities abound Not everyone is into Facebook – that’s okay

What about online networking? Blogging Online journal Demonstrates your knowledge Personal reference source User comments

What about online networking? Other ways to network online Forums: SQLServerCentral.com 4GuysFromRolla.com StackOverflow.com Twitter Google+

What about online networking? Some things to consider with online networking All networking, including online, is a two-way street Consider joining online groups

Other resources Other SQL Saturday presentations “Network your Way to Success!” by Lisa Margerum “LinkedIn for Professional Success!” (lightning talk) by Paresh Motiwala “Building Business Contacts at IT Conferences” by Don Gabor Don’s blog: http://dongabor.blogspot.com/

Other resources Networking resources (other than those already mentioned) Business Networking International (BNI): https://www.bni.com/ (For business owners, not individuals) Your local chamber of commerce

Other resources Improving speaking and social skills Dale Carnegie training: https://www.dalecarnegie.com/ Toastmasters International: https://www.toastmasters.org/

Check out my ‘blog at https://pianorayk.wordpress.com That’s all, folks!!! Check out my ‘blog at https://pianorayk.wordpress.com