1. Networking 101:
Building professional relationships
by Ray Kim

2. About me... Blog: http://pianorayk.wordpress.com
LinkedIn:
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

3. 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!

4. 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?

5. 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)

6. Networking – what is it?
Some things to remember throughout our discussion…
We’ll discuss mainly business or professional networking (although social is important too)
There is an art to networking
Networking will NOT happen overnight
It might require stepping out of your comfort zone
It will likely require some effort
There are many ways to network

7. Networking – what is it? Networking is about relationships
Mutually beneficial – two-way street
The stronger the relationship, the stronger the network
Being acquainted is okay. You don’t have to be friends
Connected ≠ Networked
You must have a relationship to be networked
Just because you’re connected does NOT mean you’re networked!

8. 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!

9. Where to network First, let’s start with a few obvious examples:
Your local user group
Data professionals:
Check out Matt Cushing’s “Networking 101” presentation
Technical writers:
General and various meetups:
Bottom line: look for any groups, meetings, or organizations related to your professional interests

10. 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!!!

11. Social networking is important, too…
To be successful with professional networking, you should also network socially.
If you’re likable, people are more likely to engage you
You’re more likely to be remembered
If you’re not likable, people will stay away
Be wary of your body language

12. 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)
Practice and prepare
Bring a friend

13. 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

14. Breaking the ice Feeling awkward about talking to someone?
Some ways you might start a conversation…
“Hi!”
Your name
Some kind of compliment
Make it a genuine compliment! Don’t suck up!!!
Ask a question
Something related to your event or situation
Some neutral small talk

15. Breaking the ice
On the flip side – never, ever, EVER start a conversation with…
Anything related to politics or religion
Anything socially unacceptable, offensive, sexist, racist, etc.
Pickup lines in any way, shape, or form
Anything personal
Brownnosing, sucking up, or kissing up
Anything fake or insincere – no BS!!!
Anything boring or overwhelming
Sales pitches

16. 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
See someone alone? Introduce yourself
Smile!

17. A tale of two requests
This is an actual LinkedIn request that I received…
“I’m always looking to build my network with great people and would be delighted to have you in my network. I hope you’ll consider connecting!”
Perfect example of how NOT to break the ice
Brownnosing/sucking up/kissing up
Canned, condescending, impersonal, and insincere
One-sided, did NOT make me feel valued
I immediately deleted this person’s request

18. A tale of two requests
Also an actual LinkedIn request that I received…
“I really enjoyed your presentation on technical writing at SQL Saturday today! The tie challenge was a really interesting way to get the point across. I’d like to stay in touch and maybe pick your brain about tech writing again at some point in the future.”
Complimentary, made me feel valued
Mentioned something specific
Wants to continue conversation
I accepted this person’s connect request

19. Let’s try an exercise in networking
Let’s take a few minutes to do a little networking!
Introduce yourself to someone you DON’T know
It MUST be someone you DO NOT KNOW
Suggestions for breaking the ice – mention:
Your name
What you do
Something interesting about yourself that has nothing to do with your profession
If you have business cards, trade!!!
Once we’re done, let’s discuss

20. Some things to keep in mind when networking…
Exchange contact information
Get and use business cards!!!
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
If the other person says “ , do not call,” then ; do NOT call!!!
If you sense the other person is uncomfortable, back off!

21. 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

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

23. 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!!!)

24. 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

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

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

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

28. Other resources Other SQL Saturday presentations
“Network your Way to Success!” by Lisa Margerum
“Networking 101: Getting Ready for a SQL Event” by Matt Cushing
“LinkedIn for Professional Success!” (lightning talk) by Paresh Motiwala
“Building Business Contacts at IT Conferences” by Don Gabor
Don’s blog:

29. Other resources Networking resources
Business Networking International (BNI):
(For business owners, not individuals)
Your local user group
If no user group nearby, consider starting one!!!
Any activity in which you’re involved!!!

30. Other resources Improving speaking and social skills
Dale Carnegie training:
Toastmasters International:

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