Networking means letting all the “right” people know you are seeking employment.  It is not “socializing”, rather it is developing contacts with people to achieve goals and build personal rapport.

• Have a goal – why are you at the event – for information or for contacts

• Be prepared – identify contacts, prepare questions

• Listen – show genuine interest

• Ask questions – open-ended questions are best to gather large quantity of information, while closed-ended should be used for specific information

• Follow up – indicates integrity and remember to thank people for their time and keep lines of communication open; keep in touch with people who help you get your job

• Don’t be afraid of rejection

• Include the informal contacts – family friends, teachers, neighbours, co-worker; take advantage of everyday interactions

• Join professional associations