Networking 101
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by Roberta Chinsky Matuson
There is more to networking than running around a room collecting business cards. Effective networking is an art, not a science. Put your networking plan into place today, and you will soon reap the rewards by being well connected in your community.
A vast number of job openings never make it to the newspaper or job boards. These positions are often referred to as the "hidden job market." Candidates find out about these positions through word of mouth. The higher up the ladder you go, the more likely a position will be filled this way.
Building your network takes time, so you need to get started on the networking basics.
First impressions count. Can you recall a time when you shook someone's hand and it felt like wet, wilted spinach? Yes, you remember that person, but not for the right reasons. Firm handshakes -- grip, strength, eye contact, and duration -- create favourable first impressions.
If you're communicating with potential contacts for the first time online, remember you make a first impression in an email too, so be clear, concise, honest and courteous. If you don't know what to say exactly, start with what you feel you have in common with the other person. Some networking sites help you "break the ice" by providing a list of helpful suggestions you can use when writing that first introductory email.
If the thought of entering a room full of strangers makes you cringe, then relax and take an alternate route. The best way to network is through people you know. Start by listing friends, neighbours, co-workers -- past and present -- and relatives. And while you're at it, don't forget to include important people like your child's teacher or football coach.
