Networking Top 10

1. Tell EVERYONE you're looking: The best place to start developing your network is with your family, friends, and neighbors and with their family, friends, and neighbors. Don't stop there. Talk to co-workers, colleagues in your industry, and those you meet at industry gatherings, such as trade shows and conferences. Talk with former co-workers, bosses and teachers.
    
2. Initiate informational interviews: One of the best ways to gain more information about an occupation or industry and to build a network of contacts in that field is to talk with people who are currently working in the field. The purpose of the informational interview is to obtain information, not to get a job.
    
3. Utilize the Internet to network: Google is your friend. Use the internet for research and finding contact information.
    
4. Investigate professional organizations and associations for networking: Since thousands of professional organizations are available, the best resources in this area are tools that help you find professional organizations and associations in your field.
    
5. Create networking business cards: What do you do in situations where passing out a handful of resumes is not feasible? Use networking business cards. Networking business cards, which have the look and feel of a traditional business card, give you the opportunity to provide critical career and contact information with people you meet in social and professional situations.
   
   Resume Highlights Card
   Consider taking your networking business card one step further by turning your networking card into a resume highlights card. You can print your key qualifications (or summary of accomplishments) on the back of your networking card giving you a mini-resume to distribute when carrying your regular resume is not feasible. Remember to focus on your three or four key accomplishments (or qualifications) and not on past job titles or duties.
    
6. Go low tech: In some cases, a quick phone call can be more efficient than many emails. Pick up the phone and even find time to meet face-to-face. E-mail is excellent when sending documents or directions, but don't overuse it.
    
7. Introductions rule!: This is the ultimate in flattery when someone takes time out of their day to make the effort to introduce you. This separates name droppers from the genuine networkers.
    
8. Avoid 911 networking: When the economy tanked all of a sudden people discovered "networking." They called people in a panic asking for referrals or job leads. Today, build a professional community BEFORE you need it.
    
9. Unlearn shyness: If shyness is a challenge for you, start a conversation with a stranger in the elevator just before you have to get off. Say something quick - "great tie" or "have a nice day." Too often shyness is misinterpreted as indifference and you don't want to send that message - think friendly.
    
10. Stick with it and keep records: Networking can be full-time work. The best networking produces contacts that can benefit you in the long-term. Don't get discouraged if you're not immediately satisfied by your results. Instead, concentrate on new ways and places to network. If you are doing this right you will not be able to remember everyone you meet. Create a system to track your networking contacts.