What is Networking?!

“In its purest form, it’s about people enjoying other people, communicating passions and connecting with

others who share those passions. ”(Vest, 2014)

1: Start Networking Before You Need It• Networking is not a one time

thing• Have a professional E-mail

account• Think about investing in generic

business cards• Make sure you have a positive

social media presence • Always!

2: Ask Questions • People love talking about

themselves• What do they do?• Why they are at an event?• Stay away from potentially

awkward subjects• Listen and stay focused on

what they are saying

3: Have Prepared “go-to” Topics • Examples: • New restaurants you visited• Events on campus• Current event (make sure it is not

political)• The weather.. It works!

• Know about the event or the person being honored• Bring up their accomplishments

4: Don’t be that person

•Avoid talking over people•Keep a professional tone•Give others time to shine

5: Knowing What the Connection is • They assisted you in some way at that time• Thank you

• E-mail, Hand-written card• You see them as someone who can assist you in the

future• Connect with them

• LinkedIn, Twitter, E-mail• The “we’ll just be friends” • Leave a good impression

6: Never Dismiss Anyone as Unimportant

• You never know where your next connection will lead you• You might be the connection they

are looking for

How to Handle Awkward Situations(But let’s hope they don’t happen)

You Forgot their Name• Try not to forget it!

• First, repeat their name back to them when they introduce themselves- might help you remember

• Use it in conversation, so you don’t forget

• Look for a name tag• Bring them over to someone else

to introduce• Honestly, just ask them again!

Leaving a conversation; Before it’s Over• “You work in ___? So does

____, come with me to meet them! “• Introduce them to someone

else • “Anyway, I don’t want to

monopolize your time”• “It’s been great talking with

you, let’s exchange cards”

Any Questions?!