Tips For One-on-One Networking

People often say that PR is all about who you know.  And if that’s true, it’s no surprise that networking is so important!  With that, I’ve recently made it a personal goal of mine to network as much as possible.   From my experience and the advice of many others, I’ve compiled 5 important tips to successfully networking one-on-one.

1. Do the work.

When it comes to one-on-one networking, you are asking a big favor of someone: time.  So, be sure to work around his or her schedule completely.  Give them a few options of times to meet, and options for lunch or coffee, unless they insist on a specific meeting place.   The key is making it as easy as possible for them to want to give you their time. 

 
2.    It’s not about you…. Or at least that’s what you want them to think.
Never walk into a networking opportunity with a list of things that you want to get from the person.  Instead, find a way that you can help them.  How can you help grow their business?  They will return the favor.
 
3.    Be Yourself
This is too often overlooked in networking.  But it is so important to show your personality.  That is how you make connections with people, and remain memorable.  But remember, this isn’t lunch with your friends, so keep it professional too. 
 
4.    Don’t Dismiss Anything
You may find yourself in a situation where you think networking with someone will be a waste of time.  Maybe they’re not in your industry, or your not sure how you can help each other.  But don’t dismiss any opportunities.  There is always something to be gained from networking, even if you don’t see a short-term result.
 
5.    Stay in touch
Everyone knows to send the standard follow up email thanking him or her for their time and advice, but don’t stop there.  Stay in touch with everyone in your network!  Shoot them an email every once in a while to see how they’re doing, and keep up with their businesses.  Be sure to congratulate them about any recent success.  Maybe even send an email or handwritten card to everyone in your network over the holidays.

One of the most important things to remember about networking is that there is no specific formula.  And different things work for different people.  What are some things that you’ve learned from networking?  Let us know!

This guest blog post was written by PRowl Staff Member Chris Covone. 

No LinkedIn? No Job.

LinkedIn has become a staple in job and internship searches.  It gives employers a way to check out your experience and internet presence before you even step foot into an interview.  This can be a great opportunity for you to make a statement about your professional self.  It can also be a way for you to lose points with an interviewer.

I was recently told by a family member that they knew of a company that wouldn't hire someone if they didn't have a LinkedIn profile.  My family member was shocked.  They don't have a Facebook or a Twitter or a LinkedIn simply because they don't feel the need to share so much information with the public.

I explained that there are many benefits of LinkedIn, but only if it is used properly.  I've had a lot of classes that require you to make a LinkedIn and all too often after the class is over students neglect their profile.  That sends a negative message to potential employers.  I think LinkedIn is a great way to connect with the professional community, but if you're going to have a profile it's important to keep a few things in mind:

Use it. Don't just let your profile sit with a blank picture and out of date information.  Even if you don't check it every day, make sure you're updating your content and interacting with people once and a while.

Join groups.  There are tons of groups on LinkedIn that talk about job postings or just advice for young professionals.  They are a great resource.

Connect the right way.  It's important that you're personalizing your messages when asking to connect with someone, especially if it's someone you're interested in getting a job with.  That little message is your first chance to show someone who you are.

So whether you have an up to date and well used LinkedIn or you're just considering getting a profile, keep these tips in mind! 

Do you think it is wrong for companies to disregard interviewees because they don't have a LinkedIn? Share your thoughts!