1

Blake Barrett, UQ BEL Mentoring- Networking and Communications 11 Aug 16

Good morning. Who here today can be a little nervous about networking? Please raise your hands… be honest …

look around you… you are not alone.

Today, I will share some stories to show you how networking and communication skills can help you succeed in

your career, with:

1. Some tips on one-on-one networking,

2. Help with which events to attend, and

3. What to do at the event.

I grew up in regional Queensland and did most of my schooling in Mt Isa. I was a straight maths science person,

but loved drama, performing in school plays and socialising with school friends.

I joined the Air Force as a technician and later completed an Engineering degree. Around this time I joined

Toastmasters and this helped improve my public speaking. Air Force Officer training helped polish my

communications skills and I was able to practice networking with my colleagues and guests at formal dinner

events.

During postings around Australia, and overseas in England and the USA I had team leadership roles, plus

additional representational responsibilities which enhanced my communication and networking skills to

effectively build relationships with people.

My UQ MBA helped me transition my Defence systems skills into rail infrastructure, and introduced me to more

diverse networking opportunities. STORY of one-on-one networking coffee meetings with QR-PB.

The MBA Corporate Social Responsibilities component also prompted me to volunteer with:

1. The Smith Family on a strategic marketing project

2. Engineers Australia as the Qld chair of the Centre for Engineering Leadership and Management, where I

presented at several events.

3. Defence in Business as the State lead and Director to help serving Defence members transition into

corporate business. I lead our committee in hosting high profile speakers including Campbell Newman,

Steve Baxter, Ipswich and Brisbane mayors, CEOs, MDs, Chairs and senior Defence and business

executives, including Mr Scott White, executive with Brisbane City Council, who is here with us today.

4. UQ MBA and BEL Mentoring is mutually beneficial for me, as I enjoy helping mentees improve their

career potential with a clear understanding of their values, vision, goals, actions, and how to connect and

network with other people who can help them achieve their dreams.

2

WHICH EVENTS? Events can be valuable opportunity to learn lesson from industry expert speakers to help you

with tips to improve yourself or your business.

People often say that landing that great job, or winning that amazing business opportunity is not about "what"

you know, but "who" you know. I believe it is more important to understand relationships and “who knows you”.

One of the best ways for people to know you is though expanding your network, usually at conferences or events.

I prefer shorter events 1-2-3 hours, which are easier to squeeze into our busy lives, and the cost is more bite size

as well from free to $100. You can find out about events from social media, websites like Eventbrite, universities,

and professional organisations.

Try a few different events to see what works for you. And make sure you ask what sorts of people are attending

the event. You can always ask the host or other guests to introduce you to people from organisations of interest.

STORY of focussing your event networking (AIPM – QR/TMR).

You must ensure that you are attending events, that align with your interests, values, and industry. You will also

feel more comfortable meeting new people with common interests. But, make sure you do not always play it

safe... take a chance and get outside your comfort zone by attending some different events every now and then.

You will be pleasantly surprised at the new ideas, information, and connections you might make. STORY – UQ

Lunch meeting Federal Member.

Networking skills AT THE EVENT (what works best for you):

1. Check out the attendee list at the registration table – sent to mentors and mentees.

2. Present well and maintain good eye contact (manners)

3. Prepare and practice your introduction MY “elevator pitch” (20-30sec)

4. Memorise names by using their name, paraphrase a little, and introduce your new friend to others

5. Ok to let them do most of the talking, and ask open questions “how did you become interested in this

company or role?”

6. Tell stories – positive ones

7. Look for opportunities to help people ... and follow up (email, phone, in-person)

8. Avoid selling (you or your company/product/service)

9. HOW TO SAY GOODBYE … “It has been great meting you, I will leave you to network and meet others, and

I will do the same. I will follow up with that thing we discussed…”

10. Follow up and connect on Social Media (LinkedIn / Facebook?)

Today, I have shared some ideas on how networking and communication skills can help your career, benefits from

one-on-one meetings, which events to attend, what to do at the event, and to make sure you follow up post

event. I would be pleased to answer any questions you have and follow up with you this morning or another time.

https://au.linkedin.com/in/blake7barrett