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Hello All!
As a senior, I am trying to brace myself for the “real world”. On my quest to find a job, I am trying to use every opportunity to network. This week, I will be going out of town with a friend. Not only will this be a nice girls trip but also an opportunity to network with my friends business contacts while we are in that city. All in all, just because you are on vacation doesn’t mean the opportunity to find work isn’t there. Here are some tips to keep in mind when you’re networking:
Keep in mind that networking is about being genuine and authentic, building trust and relationships, and seeing how you can help others.
Ask yourself what your goals are in participating in networking meetings so that you will pick groups that will help you get what you are looking for. Some meetings are based more on learning, making contacts, and/or volunteering rather than on strictly making business connections.
Ask open-ended questions in networking conversations. This means questions that ask who, what, where, when, and how as opposed to those that can be answered with a simple yes or no. This form of questioning opens up the discussion and shows listeners that you are interested in them.
Be able to articulate what you are looking for and how others may help you. Too often people in conversations ask, "How may I help you?" and no immediate answer comes to mind.
Follow through quickly and efficiently on referrals you are given. When people give you referrals, your actions are a reflection on them. Respect and honor that and your referrals will grow.
Call those you meet who may benefit from what you do and vice versa. Express that you enjoyed meeting them, and ask if you could get together and share ideas.
--Victoria
Stay informed!
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