Networking Workshop:Creating Meaningful Professional Connections

Agenda:I. What’s Networking?II. Goals of NetworkingIII. Barriers of NetworkingIV. Ladder of Networking ContactsV. Before NetworkingVI. During NetworkingVII. Networking Next StepsVIII. Cultivating a Long-Term Network

Source: LeadingEffectively.com

Source: Lee Hecht Harrison

The 4 Goals of Networking:

I. Get your message outII. Gather informationIII. Meet insiders & connectorsIV. Get in touch with decision makers

= CREATE PROFESSIONAL RELATIONSHIPS!

How People Find Jobs:

Networking Online:

Barriers to Networking:

Ways to Network:

I. VolunteerII. Local Chamber of CommerceIII. Professional OrganizationsIV. Workshops & SeminarsV. Networking Events VI. Social GroupVII. Alumni GroupsVIII. Class Reunions

The Ladder of Networking Contacts:

Before Networking:I. Set Professional ObjectiveII. Create & Rehearse Your Elevator PitchIII. Get Business CardsIV. Gather informationV. Dress & Groom Accordingly

10 Tips for Creating an Elevator Pitch:

1. Aim to start a conversation. 2. Be clear and concise. 3. Highlight your value. 4. Avoid buzzwords and jargon. 5. Practice makes perfect.6. Let your passion show.7. Keep it short.8. Know your audience.9. Is not about you, is about them.10. Know what your objectives are.

During Networking:I. Give Friendly HandshakeII. Share Business CardIII. Learn NameIV. Watch Body LanguageV. Listen ActivelyVI. Ask Purposeful QuestionsVII. Be Helpful

Source: Lee Hecht Harrison

Cultivating A Long-Term Network:

I. Create a contact management systemII. Join a professional organizationIII. Become active in your communityIV. Volunteer your services/talentsV. Stay connected to former co-workersVI. Pick up the phone and call to check-in

Source: Lee Hecht Harrison

Networking Call Sample #1:

Source: Lee Hecht Harrison

Networking Call Sample #2:

Let’s Connect!