10 Tips to Network like a Pro IM HIRED

10 Tips to Network like a Pro Get noticed and stand out from the crowd You might be thinking that if youre not looking to pursue a career in sales then learning the art of networking is not a vital skill for your job search. But if youre thinking this, then youre mistaken. Networking is an essential skills that you should be demonstrating throughout your CV. And an activity you should be participating in to boost your job hunt. Whether attending formal networking events to connect with decision makers or networking with fellow colleagues, career advisers or other professionals to help enhance your career, the ability to build a quick rapport and be confident in your delivery is key. So these are 10 tips to networking like one of the pros! Dont be too rehearsed Whilst preparation is definitely a must. Coming across too rehearsed or scripted isnt natural and will not lend to building relationships with the others. Networking is all about people connecting so relax, be personable and have a fluid conversation. Whilst you should be professional, showcase your personality. Have a confident introduction Prior to attending any networking event consider the reason why youre looking to build up new connections and use this in your introduction. Prepare a brief summary about yourself, including your work experience and look to add any interesting facts about yourself. Be confident in your introductory pitch and avoid using phrases such as erm or Im not sure what else to say and be specific and engaging in your delivery. Dont go straight into business The aim of attending a networking event maybe to progress in your career or to get back into employment but never go straight into business. Networking should be a two way street and if people feel theyre getting pitched to straight away theyre likely to switch off. First of all building some common ground and discuss more general subjects. Find a topic of conversation where youre naturally  able to  introduce your reason for attendance, youll be more likely to grab their attention. Take notes and Follow up Once the event is over, that doesnt mean youre done.  Follow up with every person you met. Even if you dont think that person could help you in your job search, its polite to send a follow up. You never know when that connection could come in useful. After discussions, write a short description of the person you met. This will help you remember them later on and allow you to personalise your follow up. Dont interrupt the conversation Networking is all about quality over quantity so whilst you dont need to work the room and meet everyone there. You do need to circulate. Once you enter a new group dont automatically introduction yourself and break the flow of conversation, wait for a break or look out for a conversational point you can add to. Interrupting comes across rude and networking isnt supposed to be about making yourself the centre of attention. Listen to others Though you want to get across your pitch, learn that listening is a big part of the ability to effectively communicate. Listen carefully to others and use the information they provide to add to the conversation.  Without strong listening skills you might miss important details that could support your job search. Join in When youre nervous it can be easier to stand in the corner and use the excuse of getting a drink to avoid meeting new people. Stop standing by the bar and actually get into the centre of the room and start meet new people.  Get out there, dont hide behind others. Engage and ask questions Engaging  with others will make you more memorable and asking questions will show your interest in others. By questioning you will be able to enhance the discussion,  leading the conversation. Be on time   Its a common mistake for new comers to the world of networking to think that arriving late will mean you can slide into the back and not be noticed. But always be on time. Getting in early and meeting people as they arrive is much easier than trying to get into the conversation once people have already paired off. Quality not Quantity Its better to create a few strong meaningful relationships than just going around saying hello to everyone in attendance. Pinpoint the key people in attendance you want to meet and focus on building a rapport.  Dont get burden by thinking you have to move on at set time periods.