Get Caught In The Net of Networking

Ever heard the saying ?Its not what you know but who you know?. FreeCareerSearch.com recognizes the basics in career advancement and understands that a very important component in getting the right job is knowing the right people.

The key to networking is taking the initiative and refining your conversational skills, while still having a good time.

Instructions:

1. Stay in touch with people you like and respect even if they can't help you immediately. You don't want to go to someone only when you are desperate. Also, you never know when these resources may come in handy.
2. Talk to people you don't know whenever in a public sphere. Cocktail parties, weddings, airplane rides, supermarket lines, football games and festivals are just the tip of the iceberg. You will never meet anyone if you always stay in your own personal bubble.
3. Learn to ask "What do you do?" with comfort, sincerity and interest.
4. Become a better listener. Listening is 90% of being a good conversationalist. Ask a question and truly listen to the answer, not just hear it. Big difference.
5. Practice your own presentation of your skills. Learn more than one approach, whether frank or subtle. Find your own unique style and polish what works and what doesn?t work for you.
6. Keep an updated business card or other form of information about yourself on you at all times. Get comfortable handing out your card. Contact info must be clear and up to date; otherwise, you may lose out on a great lead.
7. Take classes to improve your public speaking, body language and writing skills. Public speaking strikes fear into the hearts of the majority of people. Learn how to embrace the experience rather than fear it.
8. Join every networking club and association in your field.
9. Follow up on any lead, no matter how minor.

Tips & Warnings:

Make news so you can get your name out there. Any publicity is good publicity.

Think before you network. Sometimes it's appropriate, sometimes it's not.