Understanding the science of networking

1. What networking is
   • relationship building
   • genuine interactions with other people who share some similarity with you
   • exchange of information, ideas, support
2. What networking is NOT
   • Fake, insincere, useless
   • a bother or intrusion
   • a skill that requires a particular personality type to be successful
   • only a way to get a job

Approach to networking

• Motivations for networking
  • What do you want to get out of this, a job, a connection?
• Managing expectations
  • Networking looks different for each person
  • Hardest part is getting out there to begin with
• Timelines/results
  • How do you kno if you are successful with your networking?
• Common scenarios for networking
  • Networking reception/event
  • Information sessions
    • Once you get a business card, send a follow-up thank you email with details of what you talked about with that recruiter/rep, and tell them you want to know more about their work.
  • Informational interviewing

Mastering the Art: Elevator Pitch

• Your story
• Think about who you are talking to/who the audience is when deciding what to include
  • What is relevant as it relates to them?
• Who are YOU? How did you get to this point? Where do you hope to go?

Mastering the Art: Verbal Communication

• Questions and conversation starters
  • What are some great ways to start a conversation?
  • What questions should I stay away from?
  • How do I jump into a conversation?
  • How to be assertive and confident
  • Do I need to know about sports entertainment, news, etc?
  • Appropriate/inappropriate language
    • Be a little more professional than the person you are talking to

Mastering the Art: Nonverbal Communication

• Nonverbal communicatino/etiguette
  • Attire: what are your clothing choices saying about you?
  • Approach everyone with confidence and smile!
  • Use an open stance posture
  • Eye contact
  • Graciously invite others to join your conversation
  • Don’t linger too long
  • If there is food served, remember that it should not be the focus
  • Leave your right hand free for handshaking

Thank you and follow up

• ALWAYS send a thank you
• You are not really networking if you never follow up after the first (or second) conversation

Using the science to master the art

• Quality over quantity
• Information seeker (not a job seeker)
• Never miss an opportunity to say thank you
• Listen
• Be genuine and true to your word
• Impressions matter
• Mentors
• Follow-up