WHAT NETWORKING IS

 Networking is a process of cultivation and maintaining relationships in which mutual exchange of information, advice, and support facilitates the growth, success, and happiness of all involved. It allows you to meet key professionals, gather career information,

investigate career options, get advice on job search techniques and get referrals to other professionals.

NETWORKING MADE EASY  

WHY NETWORKING?
Networking can help you…

• To obtain information about careers
• To learn about yourself
• To learn how to be proactive in shaping your career
• To make a good career choice
• To get a job

WHAT NETWORKING IS NOT

• Bothering, pestering, or using people
• A contest to see who can collect the most contacts
• A one-sided, one-shot deal

WHERE TO NETWORK

Networking opportunities can be as impromptu as small talk with the person sitting next to you on a plane to a formal, scheduled appointment in someone’s office. Here’s a brief overview of where to network and gain contacts:

• Personal Friends and Relatives
• Business Peers
• Former Supervisors
• Employment Agencies
• The Internet
• Business and Trade Organizations
• Seminars and Networking Functions

NETWORKING METHODS

• Face-to-face
• By letter or note
• Over the telephone
• Via e-mail and other online communication
• Through public speaking opportunities

The methods you choose from this list depend on a number of factors including your preferred communication style, your networking time frame, your goals and needs, and your resources.

In most cases, a thorough networking effort involves a combination of all these approaches.

 TIPS TO BECOME A GREAT NETWORKER

•  Dress Appropriately and get to events early
• You might not get a second chance to make a good impression
• Bring Plenty of Business Cards (Yes, as a student serious about networking, it’s not a bad idea to have cards made for yourself)
• When attending a networking function, make a goal to meet five new people in an hour
• Never start a conversation by talking about yourself
• Never sit with a friend at an event
• Always send a letter to potential contacts within two business days following an initial meeting

Tampa Networking Events

Pure and Shameless IT Networking Social - www.HotSpaces.Net

Tampa Bay Workforce Alliance Business Professionals - Every Monday morning