Networking for the New Professional and

the Shy But Talented

Zina HaywoodGateway Technical CollegeMichael WhiteUniversity of Wisconsin-Oshkosh

What is Networking?

• The process of developing and maintaining quality relationships that are mutually beneficial.– On-going (non-stop)– Personal and Practical Purposes– Any place, any time

• How did you find out about your current job?

• How did you choose your neighborhood?

• How did you find your doctor, dentist,

day care provider, health club, restaurant?

Have you Ever . . .• Sought advice from

someone you know?• Been introduced to a

person who could help you?

• Had someone champion your cause?

• Have you done any of these things for others?

“It’s not what you know but who you know.”

What problems or issues do you have with Networking?

Building Relationships (There is no magic formula)1. Meet people

2. Listen and Learn

3. Make Connections

4. Follow up

5. Stay in Touch

Techniques• Develop a 30 second infomercial about

yourself.

• Get in Line

• Start a conversation at dinner

• Look People in the Eye– It shows Respect & Interest

• Be Confident

• Be Appreciative

Techniques• Remember Names

“ . . . A person’s name is to him or her the sweetest and most important sound in any language.” (Dale Carnegie)

– Remember something physical– Repeat the person’s name– Make up a visual story

• Be respectful of Other’s Boundaries

• Give Genuine Compliments

• Be Enthusiastic & Energetic

The Shy, But Talented

Advantages of the Shy, But Talented

Usually good listeners

Usually passionate

Usually well prepared

and thorough

Techniques for the Shy . . .

• Networking on the Internet– Helps you to become known

• Use the third eye approach

• Join a state association committee

• Take Baby steps

Your Current Network• Current Co-workers• Past Co-Workers• Professional Association • Health Club• PTA• Church, Synagogue, Mosque• Doctor, Attorney, Accountant• Current and Former Classmates• Neighbors• Friends• Relatives

Quiz

• I’m expecting an important call. Do I leave my cell phone on during a networking meeting?

No. • I’m going to a networking event and have been

advised to hand out at least 25 business cards. Is this a good goal?

A better goal is to make a certain number of QUALITY contacts. Just handing out your card does not mean you have made a connection.

Quiz• I’m looking for a new job. Should I send a

mass email to my contact list asking for referrals?

No. Thoughtfully go through your list and send a personal message or make a phone call only to those who may have an appropriate connection.

• I’m trying to get a job at XYZ College. I know that a friend of a contact of mine knows the director. Should I use that person as a reference?

Only if you have permission of both parties – your contact and his/her friend.

“Every person you meet is a chance to learn something new.”

Andrea R. NierenbergNonstop Networking

Bibliography

Books• Nonstop Networking: How to Improve Your Life, Luck, and

Career by Andrea R. Nierenberg• Power Networking Second Edition : 59 Secrets for Personal &

Professional Success by Donna Fisher• Professional Networking for Dummies by Donna Fisher• The Networking Survival Guide: Get the Success You Want By

Tapping Into the People You Know by Diane Darling

Internet Articles• What Dogs Can Teach Us about Networking By Diane Darling• http://www.networkingforprofessionals.com/DL.php• How to Craft an Effective Elevator Speech by Chris King • http://www.creativekeys.net/PowerfulPresentations/article1024.html