Networking

Networking is critical to your career development. It is more important than ever in finding new jobs, putting together teams and winning new business. Online sites such as LinkedIn provide a powerful tool for contacting people and promoting your owns skills and experience in a professional manner. The most effective form of networking remains face to face contact with new and existing contacts.

Here are some tips to help you get it right:

  • Be clear on what you want from the meeting
  • Never use networking to sell direct
  • Remember both parties need to benefit from the meeting
  • Have a clear elevator pitch - your skills, experience and objectives
  • Do your research properly
  • Set a time limit for the meeting and respect it
  • Try and get two fresh contacts from each meeting
  • Send an email or card afterwards to thank the contact for their time