The Benefits of Networking:

• Gain new information
• Gain new connections
• Broaden our horizons
• Enrich our lives
• Find an answer to a question or problem
• Get other people’s viewpoints
• Discover new friends
• Find out more about a target company
• Career development
• Learning and growing

With all these benefits, it’s clear to see that networking is a crucial skill to have. But, it is important to understand the dos and don’ts of networking.

Networking Dos

• DO Consider every opportunity as networking
• DO Always be prepared
• DO Focus on the other person
• DO Ask how you can help
• DO Be gracious
• DO Be positive
• DO Add value
• DO Follow up

Networking Don’ts

• DON’T Do all of the talking
• DON’T the world with your information
• DON’T Expect someone to give you all of their contacts/information
• DON’T Ask for something unreasonable
• DON’T Make it all about you
• DON’T Don’t be late for a function or meeting

Another key piece of the networking puzzle is to have an elevator speech on hand. This speech should be 30 seconds to 1 minute and should include your name, professional identity, experience, strengths and what you are looking to gain from the networking contact.

It is important to understand how to network at different events, too. For more on that, plus how to network effectively, gain confidence and create a development plan for networking, check out Amy Dinning’s webinar, Effective Networking.

“Be the Type of Person You Want to Meet,” make connections, follow through with any meetings, show openness, establish rapport, and more!