Networking
is the process of making connections and building relationships
Operational networking
Operational networking
Operational networking is about building relationships inside your company to get work done. An example would be a marketing leader who builds a great relationship with the head of diversity to help him create messages that will engage new market segments.
Personal networking
Personal networking
Personal networking is about enhancing your professional development and exchanging referrals, mostly with people outside of your company.
Strategic networking
Strategic networking
Strategic networking is about enlisting the support of people who can help you to achieve your strategic business goals. For example, a leader of a non-profit organization might network to build great relationships with entertainers who would then be willing to perform pro bono at a fundraising event.
What are the Benefits ?
The beneficial factors of Networking can be academic or professional.
If you are trying to get into a particular academic program in the summer, having a professional contact with whom you have a strong relationship can help you to secure a good recommendation and increase your chances of acceptance.
Having a good employment record with your employers now will allow you to obtain good references for more serious jobs .
Getting Started
Ask the event sponsors for a list of prospective participants
Prepare a list of questions prior to the program
Be prepared to offer some information about your interests, talents, skills, accomplishments and/or goals
Research some career fields of interest
Practice a brief introduction or "elevator speech" which can be delivered in 20 - 30 seconds.
At the Event
Send a follow up email or thank you note
Join social networks based on similar career interests
Initiate connections through the following social networking sites to establish your brand or professional contact database.
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