Networking

How to Land a Job (or anything else) with Confidence

Networking. The word alone sounds intimidating. It's also become so clichéd that just hearing it makes you want to run. But, simply put, networking is the smartest way to get anything you want in life. It's about being in the know, gathering information, and meeting people who can help get you where you want to go. Whether it's scoring an inside tip on an apartment, finding someone you might want to date, or securing a job interview, networking is the way to do it. The thing to remember about networking is that it exists everywhere. Andy Warhol once said that everybody is a potential client. Just because someone doesn't look the part doesn't mean he doesn't have the goods. Some of the best contacts are made simply by saying “hello,” even if you're on a bus ride in the middle of nowhere. You need to relax and open your mind to a new conversation. Don't be afraid to ‘schmooze' a little.

Networking events come in many shapes and sizes: cocktail parties, dinner cruises, weddings, alumni functions, bar mitzvahs, happy hours, even funerals. As intimidating as they may be, they work. So if you're really dedicated to making networking a part of your life, try going to a few of these. Once you're there, here are some useful tips to keep in mind:

Don't Spring to the Buffet Line

Nobody wants to shake your hand while you're balancing a plate of shrimp and a cocktail. First of all, it'll seem like you're more concerned with filling your stomach than meeting people. The buffet line is really a diversion – it's a place to go when you're taking a break from the crowd. Grab a stuffed mushroom here, take a piece of brie there, but don't walk around with a heap of tortellini. It's not becoming. Instead, focus your attention on who you want to meet and why. Sure it's easy to look busy by standing by the food. But it won't get you anywhere.

Read Up on Your Industry

It's imperative to know as much as you can about the industry you're trying to break into before walking into a networking event. Trades, daily newspapers, magazines, online sources – even blogs and editorials…the more you know the better. Try to make reading part of your daily routine, even if it means getting up thirty minutes earlier than usual. You'll feel empowered and have the tools you need to get ahead. A great way to do this is to plop yourself at your favorite bookstore.

Do Your Homework

If you can, call the sponsoring organization beforehand and find out who's going to be at the event. If you had to register to get in, chances are the attendees will be known ahead of time. Other times, trust your intuition. If you think someone is worth meeting by the way she looks or his general aura, go with it and introduce yourself. This leaves a lasting impression. If you can, find out what their most recent projects were, their latest campaigns, current news, bios, etc. so you have conversation points. This will feed your confidence and make you stand out.

Conquer your Fear

Take a deep breath and go introduce yourself to at least two new people. Be honest, direct and as confident as you can without sounding phony. It's hard but just try it. If you're trying to meet someone whom you admire, walk up to her, hold out your hand and say “Hi, Ms. X, I'm Y. I really admire your work and I was wondering if you had a few minutes to give a novice some advice about your industry.” Practice this in front of the mirror. It works!

Don't Ask for a Job; Ask for Advice

People love talking about themselves. Use this tool to its fullest extent. Questions like “How did you get started in this business?” and “Tell me about your background,” open the door for a longer conversation. Immediately jumping to “I'm looking for a job” puts someone on guard and makes her think you're only out to get something (which you are but you shouldn't wear it on your sleeve). Networking is about building personal relationships. You may not get immediate satisfaction, but good questions and timely follow-up will help you immensely in the long run. On the flip side, don't waste your entire evening in a long-winded conversation with someone you're not interested in either. If you find someone pontificating too long about the “good ol' days” of college or his particular industry, thank him for his assistance, say you don't want to monopolize his time and move on. Now's a good time for that shrimp.

Dress Appropriately

Going to a tailgate party? Stay away from the business suit. Of course, if you're going to a networking breakfast, take it out. Cocktail party? Black works. Tray and gauge the event and the industry it's for. That way you won't stick out like a sore thumb or fill ill at ease. Also, wear something you're comfortable in. It's no fun tugging at your skirt for an entire evening or wondering if your underwear is showing. It's a great idea to buy one “networking outfit” and one “interview outfit” and wear them all the time. For suggestions on where to shop, visit Inside Scoop!

Be Assertive

This is one of the hardest aspects of networking – asserting oneself without being too annoying.

Remember, your goal is to get information that will help take you to the next step. This may not mean getting an interview tomorrow, but it may lead you to the person who will get you there. Questions like “Is there someone you know who might be wiling to talk with me?” “What professional organizations do you recommend?” or “Would it be okay for me to contact you in a week?” are good ways to get people to open their Blackberries for you. Knowing what you have to offer is another great way to get in the door. Remember, people are looking for good employees as much as you're looking for a good job! Know your skills and know what you bring to the table. Don't just tell someone what you think they want to hear.

Learn How to Shake Hands

Shaking hands is an art. A strong, well-shaken hand leaves a lasting impression. The converse is also true. Shake hands like a limp fish and there go your brownie points. The goal is not to cut off circulation, but to be firm, confident and secure. Practice with your friends.

Always Repeat a Name

This is one of the quickest ways to build your own list of contacts. Don't overdo this, but as soon as you meet someone, repeat his/her name. Do it at the end of the conversation, too.

Make Sure you have the Right Tools

If you're going to a true networking event, you should bring an updated resume and a business card that has your name, phone number and email address to leave behind. Keep it simple. You don't have to spend $500 investing in a logo. For free business cards and other dirt cheap marketing tools, we suggest vistaprint.com. . Nothing's better than free.

Don't get Discouraged if you're not the King Of Schmooze

If it were easy, everybody would do it. If you're shy, that's okay. Shy people can have great conversations. Try to get into smaller groups rather than larger ones where you won't feel dominated. A one-on-one utilizing the same tactics will get you just as far. Keep practicing and try to go to at least one new event a month.

Follow-Up

You must follow up with every single networking contact. If you've been asked to furnish samples, do this within 24 hours of meeting someone. You don't want to spend all that time making the contact only to have the person forget about you.

Relax

Networking is all about talking to people. Are you a people person? Do you like learning about others? Are you remotely interesting? Then you have nothing to worry about! Go in, feel confident and knock 'em dead!