THE TOP 10 RULES OF NETWORKING

by Sandra Bandler

1. Unfold your wings. Get Out Of Your Cocoon, socialize, pick out a spot in the group that looks good for you. Start listening.

2. Set goals for yourself. What kinds of people do you want to meet? How many contacts do you need to make? Set goals; then do your best to meet them.

3. Trade information; exchange ideas, experiences, and contacts. Tell them who you are, but also listen to who they are. Be a resource: “I know where you can get that.”

4. Play host. Ask if they are enjoying the meeting. Move toward people first. Meet with them one on one. Use this technique at conferences, seminars, business and social gatherings ... take a proactive approach and don’t wait for them to speak to you first.

5. Go for appointments. Get contacts now. Schedule a lunch or breakfast. Talk business then.

6. Make friends. Learn what you have in common. Let them ask for your business card. Don’t hustle.

7. Learn to empower others. Suspend your own needs for the moment. Lock into their dreams and aspirations. Your own rewards come by empowering them, not by climbing over them.

8. Ask for what you want. Find the person who can provide it. Then ask for it. If you don’t ask, you don’t get.

9. Keep going. Broaden your base. Make as many contacts as you can. Go deep when it makes sense. You can never know too many people.

10. Remember. The More You Give, The More You Get.

Sandra Bandler is a Board Member of International Association of Career Management Professionals, former Manager of Career Services at large, global financial services corporation, who can be reached at: sbandler@ix.netcom.com. The original source is: Article in Wall Street Journal.