
Ask a career coach
How to Network
Tips from a career coach
Are you an ambitious lady boss who wants to crush it in her career? One of the most undervalued career success tips is networking. Networking is not only a way to create genuine connections but it's also one of the best ways to find out about job openings that may not get posted online! Plus when you meet a genuine connection at your dream company you already have one foot in the door! Here are my tips below to network like a boss!
Here are my career coach tips for how to create and build your network, ie how to network:
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Ask open-ended questions. This allows you to learn more about someone right off the bat! It's a great start in forming a genuine connection.
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Be an active listener. Hear what someone is saying, don't be anxious to jump in and assert yourself.
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Find a fun ice breaker question. Something that gets people talking but is different from the traditional "What do you do?"
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Be on time. Some events have allotted a set amount of time to network and you don't want to miss it.
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Take networking online! Join an online community within your industry to establish virtual connections.
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Smile!!! SMILE! Smile!!!
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Try sweatworking! Ask your network to attend a fitness class or recreational event instead of a happy hour.
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Practice your elevator pitch. What three things do you want them to know about you?
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Follow up! Don't let your time go to waste. If you met a great connection, send them a follow-up email.
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Set an intention before the event. What do you want to accomplish?
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Be human. Get to know the people and be less concerned about their position. You never know how your paths will cross.
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Ditch the sales pitch at the door. People do business with real people. Don't "network" all over them, be real.
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Start networking before you need it. You'll be more relaxed and open to the experience.