By Staff

To some people networking sounds like something old men in business suits do at a hotel lobby.  It sounds, formal and uninviting, maybe even forbidden.   Even the name is strange, “Networking”, sounds like fishermen trying to bring home the days catch.  Yet, that is exactly what it should be.  Because, it is nothing more than working hard to “catch” contacts, or meet people who could further your career.    In some instances, people network for a mutually beneficial goal, were both parties benefit.  For example, a cocktail party for photographers and models were both could make professional contacts that could end in a photo shoot.

In other instances, networking may be done specifically with ones own personal benefit in mind, such as, a job fair, expo, or promotional party.  These environments are meant to allow you to promote yourself as you meet other people.  These events provide the perfect opportunity to showcase your style and abilities, while networking.  Many careers and professional relationships have blossomed after one of these encounters with a total stranger. 

What makes an effective networker?

Becoming an effective networker is really not as easy as it sounds.  It requires finesse and intuitiveness, where lacking one or the other could really cost you.  With that said here are five things to do for successful networking:


1.  No matter what your ultimate goal is, know your audience and what they do.

If you do not have a basic understanding of your audience you are done.  This does not mean that you need an in-depth knowledge of the person or company, but you should have some understanding of the company or individual.  This will go a long way in a five or ten minute conversation. 

2. Limit face-to-face time.

This is where intuitiveness comes in because you do not want to rush the networking, but you also should not overextend it.  As a general rule five to ten minutes may be enough time to exchange contact info, resumes, and a brief introduction.  Remember, sometimes a short meeting may be easier to remember than a long drawn out mountain of information overload.

3. Wear clean underwear.

Your mother was right!  Always wear clean underwear, you know, in case a car hits you.  Well, maybe the overall message is to be clean.  Dress appropriately for the particular networking function.  If it is a corporate job fair then you may want to wear a suit or conservative blouse and skirt.  On the other hand if it is a “Meet The Models” soiree, then corporate may be a bit much.

4. Take notes.

These may be mental notes you make for yourself about the person or actual notes you write on a notepad.  Jot down things that are truly important.  Do not develop an encyclopedia, but a short list of things you my want to research or follow-up on. 

5. Follow-Up

If networking is a first date, then the follow-up is the call one makes to insure a second one.  The actual way in which one can do this is varied, everything from a call, to an e-mail to a formal letter.   None of the other steps are as important as this one.  You want to show finesse and responsibility.  You want to be remembered in a pool filled with many droplets of water.


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