How to become an effective Networker

Start by following these guidelines:

1) Establish your goals and identify your contact base. Determine the contacts you already have—professors, department chairs, or administrators, for example. Make use of fellow classmates or members of organizations who can and will help you reach your goals.

2) Conquer the fear of rejection. It's not difficult to become rejection shy after a few unsuccessful networking attempts. However, if you are rejected while trying to make a connection, accept the rejection gracefully and move on to the next networking opportunity.

3) Meet as many people as you can. This is especially important when you have the opportunity to attend professional meetings or social gatherings. Talk about your skills and accomplishments and let people know you are open to hearing about new career opportunities.

4) Exchange business cards with people you meet. If you want to make an impression, it is important to present your card to each new contact. If you are not employed and have no access to a company card, order a personal card from a printer. On the back of each card you receive, make notes, such as highlights of the conversation and the date and place you met the individual. These notes will help you recall the meeting at a future date.

5) Work at getting to know the people you meet. Don’t just go through the motions of meeting people. After a meeting, send a follow-up letter expressing your pleasure in having met the individual. Mention something significant from the conversation or enclose information the person would find interesting or useful.

6) Always show your gratitude. When someone helps you, telephone or send a brief thank you note to express your appreciation.

7) Cultivate long-lasting contact-relationships. You can accomplish this goal by giving as much as you hope to get. Be willing to share your expertise, advice, and counsel whenever you can.

8) Do informational interviews to prepare yourself for the networking experience. Visit with different people in the career field you’d like to enter. Ask questions and share information. Don’t get discouraged. Keep in mind that some contact relationships may develop more easily than others. Remember that the payoff is well worth the effort.