8 Effective networking etiquette
Whether you are networking online, or in person, you need to do it well. Before reading on, take a few minutes to watch a short video about networking.
Activity 7 Extending and managing your network
Timing: Allow approximately 10 minutes
This activity helps you to recap on some of the main points covered so far, and extends them to include how you might widen your network. The video will take only two minutes to watch.
Download this video clip.Video player: networking.mp4
Transcript
Wendy Woolery:
What is networking?
Networking is about finding opportunities to interact with others, share information and develop professional and social contacts. It's a way to encourage you to help yourself.
What does networking involve?
When you network, you need to identify relevant people connected with the work you want to do, build a rapport with them and an interest in what you have to offer, seek their help and advice, listen to their feedback and act on it. You need to be prepared to stand out.
Why network?
It's a great way to tap into unadvertised jobs. It demonstrates your initiative, you make yourself more memorable by setting yourself apart from the normal application process and you hear about opportunities first, which may open up possibilities you didn't expect.
How to start networking – key questions
Who do you already know who might be connected to your career aims? Think about your personal contacts, those you know through your work, your study, or your leisure interests. Who, of these, already knows you can do a good job? Make them your priority.
How will you get in touch?
By phone, online via social networking sites or a face-to-face chat.
What do you want from your contacts?
Is it insights on their work and experience? A list of relevant organisations and people? Introductions to others? Feedback on your CV? Advice on your area of interest?
Interactive feature not available in single page view (see it in standard view).
Take a few minutes to record in your notebook any key points from the videos which you want to remember or put into practice.
Well done for completing your last activity of week. Now it is time to turn your attention to the weekly quiz.