10 Tips for Effective Networking - Student Guide

10 TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE NETWORKING #1 Create authentic relationships

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Networking often involves meeting a variety of people at an event. It can be more beneficial to create several quality connections instead of engaging in multiple quick conversations. This is because you are more likely to make a lasting impression during a longer, more meaningful discussion. When networking, try to find shared goals and interests that could extend the conversation to create a more valuable connection.

When networking, be sure that you don't do all the talking. An effective way

#2 Ask questions and listen

to make a good first impression is to join a conversation with a comment that shows you were listening to the current group of people. The key to being a good conversationalist is being a good listener. If you have asked another person for advice or their opinion, make sure they have the opportunity to offer it and tell you. If you do all the talking, the person may feel you are uninterested in what they have to say.

#3 Meet people through other people

The best and easiest way to meet people is through referrals. Stick around with the people you already know and who know the people you are looking to meet. Being introduced through a mutual connection will very likely receive a warm welcome from the person you want to meet. This also translates to the virtual world through LinkedIn. It is always better to connect with mutual contacts and leave a note if possible.

Speaking of, social media is an effective way to get to know important

#4 Utilize social media platforms

contacts better. This can be done with individuals with mutual contacts or others with who you have little personal connection. Seek out like-minded or key contacts you would like to know better within your LinkedIn profile or other social media platforms. Try commenting on a link they post or responding to a comment they make, start a conversation with them, and offer them value in return. Then, when you have the opportunity to meet them in person, it will be easier to reference previous communications with them.

#5 Use your resume as a tool for advice

Another easy yet highly effective way to network during a job search is to ask others with who you have established a relationship with to review your resume and give you feedback on how to improve it. Using this technique is valuable for several reasons. When reviewing your resume, they will discover your work history, previous titles, objectives, and many things they may not know about you. They may remember a company or a connection that may suit your background and skillset.

10 TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE NETWORKING

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If you want to establish rapport with another person, create a reason to

#6 Find a reason to follow up

keep the relationship going. Always start by connecting with them on social platforms such as LinkedIn. If you read an article that adds to a discussion you had during a networking meeting, save it and send it to them with a brief note on what you found interesting and how you think it could benefit them. Try and find at least two or three opportunities yearly to reconnect with the members of your network.

You may tend to go to the same type of networking events where you

#7 Attend new events

already know many of the attendees. However, it may be beneficial to attend other events, where you can meet new people and diversify your interests. There are many sources online for finding new networking events.

For example, your local community might have a social media page that advertises different functions near you. LIU also frequently provides email blasts and lists of potential networking events with alumni and others.

#8 Help others within your network #9 Research people before you meet #10 Be yourself and don't try to sell

Part of networking is offering help to your connections, which can show you are generous and dependable. Contacts may be more likely to reciprocate your generosity by recommending you for an opportunity that matches your qualifications. When communicating with people in your network, actively listen to them to determine if they need assistance finding a new job or expanding their client base. You may be able to help them by acting as a reference or providing them contact information for a hiring manager or potential customer.

The best impressions are the ones that appear effortless. If you are aware of a networking event's attendees ahead of time, it is helpful to do internet research to better understand their backgrounds, careers, and ambitions.

Then, be prepared with questions that help you learn about others, hold mutually interesting conversations and make it easy to share what you want to about yourself or your business when it's appropriate. Most contacts will be impressed if you have done your research ahead of time.

One of the best approaches for any networking event is to be yourself and speak in a casual, non-salesy way. Always try to share, not sell. After doing your homework on which connections make sense to connect with before attending the event, focus your energy on chatting with people who are relevant to your intended career and goals.

Want more advice? Schedule an appointment with your Promise Coach!

And check out the latest job and internship opportunities at liu.edu/handshake