honors prof night - networking

Aaron Von Qualen

Building Your Network

What is Networking?•Networks: Groups of people who talk

and share ideas , information, and resources.


•Networking: Discovering connections between people.

Why is Networking Important?


5 tips


Building your Network

for


Preparation

Tip #1

Tip #1: Preparation


Know who will be attending… Have an elevator speech… Have networking questions

ready… Have a game plan to end

conversation… Set goals for a networking

session…

Tip #1: Preparation


Rules for an Elevator Speech: It should be 30 seconds or less. Your skill (or how you benefit a

potential employer) should be clear.

Include your passion. There should be a goal.

Tip #1: Preparation


I am currently working in the Honors Program at Illinois State University. I have found my passion for serving students who are pursuing higher education. My friends and coworkers often tell me that I have the ability to relate to anyone that I meet. I am a very hard worker and have the ability to adapt to new situations quickly. Because I’m inspired by the students I work with, I’m looking for a position that uses my passion to help young adults grow into well-rounded professionals.

Tip #1: Preparation


CONVERSATION STARTERS YOU WILL ACTUALLY USE• “So ______, what exactly do you do at

____?

• “HI ____, please tell me about you.”

• “What got you involved in this organization/event?”

• “How did you get involved with this kind of work and what have you enjoyed most from your experience?”

• “What can you tell me about_____?”

• “What do you do when you are not _____?”

Tip #1: Preparation


HOW TO END A CONVERSATION AT A NETWORKING EVENT

• It was a pleasure talking with you, but I am going to go check out another table.

• I have to head out now, but I really enjoyed hearing about your work.

• I had a great time talking with you—are you planning to go to the expo next month?

• It’s been great getting to know you, but I need to say hello to a few more folks around here. I hope you have a great evening.

• I need to say hello to a few others here, but can we plan to connect next week?

Tip #1: Preparation


Networking is not a skill that comes natural to anyone. It takes time and practice.


Work the Room

Tip #2

Tip #2: Work the Room


Wear a name tag on your right side. A person’s eyes will follow the line of sight from the handshake.



CHALLENGES

Starting conversation

Making small talk and

continue conversations

Ending conversations



If you are stuck, approach a group of three. One of them may not be actively engaged in the conversation and willing to talk with

you.


Networking Tools

Tip #3

Tip #3: Networking Tools




3 RULES TO SMART BUSINESS CARD

ETIQUETTE1. Keep your card to yourself

2. Give your business card out when

they ask for it3. Don’t waste contact information



A FEW BUSINESS CARD TIPS: Keep at least 15-20 cards on you

Keep them carry case for protection Every professional and student should

have one Take notes on the back of the business

card


Build Meaningful Relationships

Tip #4

Tip #4: Build Meaningful Relationships




Read the Room

Non-verbal cues

Introvert vs. Extrovert



TRY TO SEEK OUT NETWORKING

COMMUNITIES

Student Organizations

Professional Associations

Internships

Career Fairs

Volunteer

Book Clubs

Family

Friends

OPPORTUNITIES COME TO THOSE WHO ARE VISIBLE!



Share stories Connect with people on a personal

level Find out…

Common interests Common passions Common circle of friends

And How can you help them?

Always Focus on Building a Connection with People



We are all unique individuals, with…

…Unique sets of experiences


Build and Maintain Connections

Tip #5

Tip #5: Build and Maintain Connections


DO NOT BE SELECTIVE IN BUILDING YOUR NETWORK



Remember to keep in touch…

…without asking for favors



ALWAYS SAY THANK YOU!Job interviews Receiving a gift Benefitted from a

recommendation Someone supported

you