Networking 101

What is Networking Why Network How to Network Event Networking How to manage your Network

What is Networking Definition The activity of meeting and talking to people to exchange information and advice about work and interest Process of establishing a mutually beneficial relationship with other business people and potential clients and/or customers

Why Network Career Get a referral Meeting potential clients Get useful information

How to Network Identify your objectives Identify who you need to establish a relation with Entrepreneur HR director University student University management Identify where/how you can create a relationship Existing network Chamber of commerce Association Social network Identify contact/ways Family Colleagues Teachers BOA

Event Networking Preparation Find out who will be present Do your homework and research prior to the event Be aware of current events (Read the news)

Non-verbal language Facial expression Look Voice Posture Handshake How to dress

Do’s and Don’ts Don’t’s Do’s Too much food and alcohol Don`t over talk Don’t be silent Don’t talk about politics or controversial topic Be patient. Let people finish their thoughts and do not cut them off. Do not stick with only people you know Do’s Ask open questions Be a good listener (pro-active) Learn to understand quickly what is the subject of discussion Make sure everybody had the time to express themselves before changing subject.

Techniques to master How to present yourself How to change topic You have 7 to 10 seconds Focus on what you do and not who you are Business card exchange How to change topic Ask a question related to the topic but that will change the subject This reminds me of… Use surrounding How to end a conversation I’ll go get a drink / go to the bathroom Oh, Sorry, I’ve seen Marie over there, It has been a long time since I have seen her… Sorry, I need to leave, (make sure to use this one only when your really leaving…)

Go further than the first contact End discussion after 5 to 7 minutes (objectives of networking event is to meet many people) Try to get a engagement to discuss further Email Lunch Phone call Do your follow-up shortly after the meeting (No more than 3 days after the meeting)

Manage your Network Analyze your network Create your contacts file Information (don’t forget to update) Needs What can they bring to you What is their network Etc. Understand the need of your contacts Be generous and help your contacts (two way relationship) Don’t burn your contacts