September 9, 2019
Networking. So many people talk about it, but how many know what it actually means?
According to most experts, networking is building relationships on the basis of trust. Lynne Waymon, co-author of Make Your Contacts Count, says, “It’s about teaching and giving. Teaching people who you are… and what kind of opportunities to send your way. And it is about giving – listening so generously that you can also help people accomplish their goals.”
| DOS | DON’TS |
| Know your goal and have a strategy | Don’t wait until a crisis hits; network now |
| Be confident; find a role model or a mentor you can emulate | Don’t be a wallflower – make an effort to socialize with co-workers at events |
| Say thank you often and smile | Don’t ask for a job, ask for advice first |
| Brag about your skills. | Don’t be afraid to ask questions |
| Make a good first impression | Don’t shy away from exploring online networking groups like Ryze or LinkedIn |
| Follow up with a new contact as soon as you can | Don’t join tons of networking organizations; two or three may be enough |
| Send a Christmas or holiday card to re-establish contacts | Don’t put things on Facebook you wouldn’t want a new boss to see |
| Learn to listen attentively | |
| Gain trust and learn to trust, in order to build friendships |
Want more information? Check out this article from the Washington Post.
Published on September 9th, 2019
Last updated on August 8th, 2019