9 TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR NETWORKING SKILLS
by Don Skipper

Most job search experts find networking to be the most successful way to secure a new position. Networking opportunities are everywhere. The next person you meet could be a future employer or could lead you to a new job opportunity.

Here are 9 tips you can use to improve your networking skills:

1. KNOW EXACTLY what it is that you want from others. Have a plan in place before you start your networking. Prepare questions in advance of a meeting. Be prepared, courteous, succinct, and appreciative.
   
   
2. HAVE A POSITIVE ATTITUDE that manifests itself throughout your networking efforts. No one wants to help a glum person who has no self-confidence.
   
   
3. TALK TO STRANGERS. Despite what your Mom told you, it is OK to mingle with people you haven’t been formally introduced to at meetings, concerts, sporting events, political rallies, and even on airplanes.
   
   
4. SHARE INFORMATION, ideas, resources, and contacts with others. “The more you give, the more thou shalt receive!” Networking is best treated as a two-way street.
   
   
5. DON’T ASK for too much at one time. Limit the amount of help or information you seek from any one person to avoid becoming a burden on that individual.
   
   
6. DON’T FORGET to follow-up on leads provided by the people you talk to. You can never predict where a tidbit of information may lead.
   
   
7. HONOR OTHERS’ desire for confidentiality. Trust is a vital part of networking.
   
   
8. KEEP IT BRIEF and don’t monopolize other people’s time. It may even be necessary to make arrangements to call or meet at another time if you discover areas of vital interest.
   
   
9. CONTINUE YOUR EFFORTS to network even after you have secured a new position. Networking should become a part of your everyday business life because there will always be ways an active network can help you achieve your goals. It is also a powerful tool for enriching your life and the lives of those in your network.
   
   

About the Author: Don Skipper