Networking: Where do I Start?
50Mini-Saga: Networking
Unemployed, Mipsy was forced to learn Networking 101: Elevator speeches, business cards were key. Her focus changed when she realized that when she helped others, she enjoyed herself. Months passed, but when her luck turned, the harvest came from helping others. Mipsy now knows that Networking is part of her job.
In the real world...
Networking 101. If you’ve been laid off, where do you start?
When I first entered Transition, I found there were many people willing to help and a ton of great books to read. I don’t think Networking is a class you ever leave behind. So while I’ve learned a lot, I’m definitely still growing in this area.
Getting Started:
- Google a search on Local Job clubs - many churches offer help and can serve as valuable resources and moral support
- Look for Professional Associations in your field and go to their meetings
- Get Business cards printed with your contact information. Handing someone a piece of paper with your name scribbled on it doesn’t scream “professional.” Handing them a professional looking card does. There are several services that offer free business cards for just the cost of shipping (Vistaprint, Got Print and others).
- Join LinkedIn
- Join Plaxo
Solutions for Common Excuses not to Network
- Don’t have Time
- Don’t know what I’m doing - This website has lots of tips, ideas and resources for job hunters.
- Don’t know what to do on LinkedIn: Here's How to Create a LinkedIn Profile and 20 Ways to Use LinkedIn Productively
Recommended Reads:Finally, there are many good books out there on the subject. Here are a few:
For more information on Project Management and Business topics, check out my other blog: Shisso, where I talk about Project Management in as simple a manner as possible, but not simpler.
If you have Networking advice or suggestions, please leave a comment or send me a tweet, my id is jgodfrey.
