Network

• People who are genuinely curious excel at making small talk. Work to develop a sense of curiosity about on-going events and the reactions people have to those events.

• When meeting new contacts, err on the side of formality. This is especially important when you are conversing with someone who is: significantly older; significantly more senior; an official; someone from a foreign country.

• Before you attend a networking event, do some research. Identify other invitees.  Research their backgrounds. Identify common interests. Formulate questions.

• Before attending a networking event, eat a small snack. A reception is not intended to serve as your primary source of nourishment. 

• At any networking event or recption, you will introduce yourself to potentially important new contacts. Your introduction must be memorable. Think of it as your own 30-second commercial. 

• When you’re in the middle of making introductions, if you forget one person’s name, don’t worry. You’ve just proven you’re human. Make a joke of your forgetfulness. Then move on. 

• At some networking events, the hosting organization will prepare name tags. Always wear your name tag on the right hand side of your jacket or dress and high enough so that others can easily see and read it.

• Once you’ve asked one person or a group of people to provide you professional advice, make sure you let them know when you achieve your goal. Everyone welcomes a “thank you,” especially when the "thank you" is related to a success.

• Developing a professional network doesn’t mean that you need to become a party animal. You can build effective networks one person at a time using the phone and e-mail. What’s important is that every member of your network understand your professional goals and is committed to working with you to achieve those goals.

• Personal and professional networks are critical to any professional’s success. As you add people to your network, look for people who can satisfy one of four objectives: Provide the latest or most useful information; assist in career development; offer consistent support; influence your future.

Follow-up

• Once you’ve asked one person or a group of people to provide you professional advice, make sure you let them know when you achieve your goal. Everyone welcomes a “thank you,” especially when the "thank you" is related to a success.