Networking Key Steps

Companies of interest
Industries
Size of company
Geographical
Key decision makers

Research Target Companies

CareerAdvantage
Business Journals
Book of Lists
Secure financial information
Chambers of Commerce
Trade publications
Library
Internet search engines

Step 3 Arrange Face to Face Meeting

Prepare notes and have them in front of you during the call
Stand up when making the calls
Dress for success
Time your call for best results
Show confidence – observe and listen for non-verbal cues
Have a contingency plan
Handle roadblocks (including voicemail)
Communicate well with administrative support personnel

Step 4 Prepare for the Meeting

Prepare an agenda with questions you want to ask
Research the target companies using CareerAdvantage and other sources
If possible, obtain background information on the person and their role
Write your 30-second commercial and “Tell Me About Yourself”
Bring your marketing collateral (brochure, profile, business cards, and resume) in case they are needed
Think of ways you can give back to your networking contacts
Plan your attire to match the environment you are going into
Get directions, plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early

Step 5 Conduct the Meeting

Warm-up
30-second commercial
Go over networking profile or resume
Ask questions
Networking/Business cards

Step 6 The Follow-up

Always thank people for their time, advice, and leads
Hand written thank-you note
Email thank-you
Formal thank-you
Stay on their radar without being a pest
Try to be of service in your interactions
Create reciprocal relationships
Strive to create long-term relationships