This document discusses networking, including what it is, why it is important, and how to do it effectively. Networking is defined as extending one's contacts and involves meeting both people you know and people you don't know. It provides access to people and organizations who can offer assistance. Networking benefits individuals professionally by connecting them with others in their field and giving new perspectives, and personally by helping discover career opportunities and increasing confidence speaking to new people. The document outlines ineffective networking behaviors to avoid and tips for how to network properly, such as dressing professionally, active listening, and being interested in others. It concludes by noting that many employers now use social media for background checks on candidates.

1. Networking

2. Networking What is Networking?Why is it Important?How do you network?What should you avoid?

3. What is it?Def: the process of extending a net or string of contacts that continues, intact, and grows in size and quality.A method of obtaining and exchanging information.It begins with people you know and extends very quickly to people you do not know.

4. Networking . . . Provides you with the names of people and/or organizations who may help you by providing technical assistance;Assures you that you are not acting in isolation but are part of a larger group struggling with similar issues;Informs you of training opportunities, workshops, meetings which may be of interest;

5. Opportunities for Networking Can BeFormal or InformalUnseen and invisibleConscious or unconsciousPersonalPoliticalProfessional

6. Professional Benefits of Networking Puts you in touch with others concerned about the same issues;Gives you specific info you wouldn’t find from sound bites;Gives you new ideas and perspectives on current problems;Broadens your perspective on a particular issue;

7. Personal Benefits of NetworkingObtain information about your fieldDiscover what successful people do to become successfulIncrease your base of legitimate contactsGain confidence speaking to new peopleTo be thought of if something develops

8. 6 Ineffective NetworkersThe Self-PromoterThe Name DropperThe Wall FlowerThe Problem SolverThe OpportunistThe Expert

9. How to Network: HygieneDressGroomingCologne/PerfumePresenting YourselfConfident HandshakeEye ContactActive ListeningAvoid Personality Quirks

10. How to NetworkLewis EngmanDecide who you want to beSpeak to Everyone in your GroupParticipate in ActivitiesExtend yourselfBe interested in peopleBe courteousMaster small talkBe approachableGive praise when it is dueBe positive

11. Popular Social Networking47% of employers are using Google/Facebook/MySpace for background research8% of companies nationwide have fired employees

12. Discussion BoardDue October 5th