Networking…

The what, the why, and the how?

By: Steven Burda ● April 25, 2009

Today’s Agenda

Introduction… Networking: what & why? How: Types & Uses of Networking? Do’s & Don’ts of Networking! YOU can do it! Examples of effective use via Web 2.0 Questions, Comments, Stories?

Introduction: Who am I?

Temple University, FSBM, BBA St. Joseph’s University, MBA Villanova University, Post-MBA

Currently: The Boeing Company Past: Lockheed Martin, SunGard Data

Systems, CIGNA, SalomonSmithBarney

Why am I here speaking?

Worked in many departments, many people, made successful business deals/leads.

“Been there, done that” – known as “Go-to guy”

Communicative; “Networking Expert”

Connector – “Career Coach” – My hobby!

Started my own non-profit consulting company on my “free time” - Burda Consulting Co.

Basics: What is Networking?

Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines

networking ...

– the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions.

– the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business.

Basics: Why Network?

Process of establishing mutually beneficial relationships. Give and take mentality.

Exchange of information, ideas, and support.

Bottom line, it will lead to:

- new opportunities, increased revenue

- learning & development, jobs/leads!

- build trust, friendships, “Sky’s the Limit!”

Basics: How to Network?

2 types, many approaches.

Traditional Networking (everyday!): - face-to-face, BNI, Social Events/Clubs, Job Fairs. - Volunteering, Dinners, Sport Events, “Golf Outing,” etc!!!

Virtual Networking: 21st century - Social media, Web 2.0, online collaboration, - sites like Linkedin, Skype, Plaxo, Ecademy (Business) - sites like Facebook, Twitter, Blogger (both B&P!!!)

Easy in theory…

…Harder in practice?

(yet everyone’s doing it!)

Network successfully by…

Reach out; Participate; Stay connected. Meet, talk, listen = Quality vs. Quantity Communicate, be concise. Be your best = 1st impression matter! Offer help, advise, support. Take time, Give first… rewards will come!

“Dig your well before you’re thirsty.”

Quote by Harvey Mackay:

(Virtual) Networking DOs…

Do connect with “real world” friends, colleagues. Do keep your profile current/updated. Meet new & exciting people = be an opportunist! Be likable, friendly & approachable. Have confidence, but not arrogance. Be an optimist; not a pessimist. Follow-up, introduce others, facilitate discussions. Brand yourself – get known, be heard & recognized! Personalize your requests & approaches! Do have fun doing it!!

(Virtual) Networking DON’Ts…

Don’t presume anything while meeting new people. Don’t assume people have to help/owe you. Don’t be a salesman, even if you are! Don’t think “ME!” but “them!” Don’t ramble or go-off track. Don’t spam/bother your network! Don’t abuse your network; Don’t ignore others! Don’t give up! Don’t do it because you have to!

YOU can do it too!

You can be a successful networker! It’s called networking because it takes work:

time, effort & practice! Establish online presence, participate in

discussions, earn expertise! Network, Network, Network. Mentor & be mentored; Read books: ● "Never Eat Alone" ● "A Friend in Every City" ● "The Power of Nice" ●

"The Virtual Handshake" ● "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People" ●

Utilize sites like Linkedin for…

- Job & Market Research- Control Information, Prepare for Interviews- Company Research/Intelligence- Re-Connect- Personal Brand, Establish Credibility- Connections & Collaborations- Resources for projects/articles- Questions & Answers: Participate!- Give & Get References: Promote Others- Improve Google Ranking; Stand out!- Become a Bigger Business/Get Leads- Passive (“Real-Time”) Digital Resume

Sometimes it’s not just what you know, but WHO you know & who knows YOU.

Questions, Comments, Stories?

I can always be reached at:www.linkedin.com/in/burdae-mail: burda.mba@gmail.com

http://burda.businesscard2.com