The Importance of Professional Networking

October 12, 2009

Networking 101

• What is networking?– Developing a broad list of contacts – Know you, love you, like you

• Why should I network?– People in your network can help you find a job

• The hidden job market• The visible job market

– People in your network may be able to offer you advice and information about a particular company or industry

– People in your network may be able to introduce you to other people to expand your network

Networking 101

• Who should I add to my network?– Everyone! You never know how someone can

help you.

• Where do I find these people?– Family– Friends– Associations– Events

Networking 101

• How do I add someone to my network?– Ask– Talk– Volunteer– Attend

• Power Networking from Barbara Gibson

Maintaining your network

• Communicate• Volunteer to help• Develop a system and:

– Follow-up – Follow-up – Follow-up

Social networking

• Social networks can provide you the opportunity to network with people around the world

• For your personal life, you already may do social networking– Facebook– MySpace– Twitter

• Use these tools to expand and keep in touch with your network

Using LinkedIn.com

• Why LinkedIn.com?– http://press.linkedin.com/about– http://www.linkedin.com/in/kaycolley

Why Networking is important?

• Gives you information about the hidden job market

• Provides you a variety of perspectives on your field

• Gives you a smooth transition from student to professional

• Offers you expertise beyond your own• Provides you help when you need it