Freeman+Leonard's Blog

2012 is here and you have found “attend more networking functions” on your list of New Year’s Resolutions.  Since this seems a bit easier than losing 20 pounds, you decide to check this one off of the list first.  Here are a few tips…

1. Keep in mind that everyone has that “7^th grade dance” feeling when they first arrive.  Not quite sure where to stand, who to talk to, etc.  Don’t be nervous and strike up a conversation. Keep in mind most people are there to make new contacts and build mutually beneficial relationships and not there to spend 2 hours talking to their co-worker Becky in Marketing.
2. If you are currently employed, be able to clearly explain what your company does and what differentiates you from your competitors.  If you are attending a networking event in search of job referrals, be able to articulate what type of job you are looking for and be specific about your skill set. Remember, if your fellow networker can’t understand what you are talking about, then it will be hard for them to refer you.
3. Ask lots of open ended questions and you won’t have to worry about awkward pauses.  What got you involved in this organization? How did you get started in the XYZ Business?  Do you come here often and what is your sign does not count!
4. Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty.  This is a book written by Harvey McKay with a great message about networking. It is best to establish your contacts and develop relationships long before you ever need them.
5. Become a volunteer for a networking organization event.  Being a greeter or helping with registration keeps you busy and also gives you a chance to expand access to new contacts.

Remember, networking is the key to success in any line of business.  Get out there and start connecting!

By: Kim Cook – Talent Manager at Freeman+Leonard

Kim has over 10 years of experience in the advertising and marketing industry.  During her ad agency life, she held positions including account executive and production manager.  Working in the trenches in the agency world and being a liaison between creative teams and clients prepared Kim for her role as a creative recruiter.   She has been creative recruiter with various companies for the past six years and recently relocated back to Dallas from Chicago. To contact Kim, email kcook@freemanleonard.com.

This entry was posted on Friday, January 20th, 2012 at 12:38 pm and is filed under Events, networking, Tips. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.