Networking for Success

Description:

The course was designed to cover critical business and professional development topics in the shortest time possible. With a wealth of hands-on exercises, the course keeps you engaged and help you retain critical skills.

This course will help you build the tools to initiate a networking plan with specific goals, establish relationships that are meaningful and long-term, use electronic media to expand your network, and develop ways to promote yourself through your networking.Knowing how to network is an important skill for everyone to have. To get a new job, secure a promotion, publicize your favorite cause, or build a business, you have to create a networking strategy. Everyone has a personal networking style, and this book will help you understand your style, and design an approach that will work for you.

Duration: One day

Table of Contents:

Introduction

Part 1: Understanding Successful Networking
Establishing Contacts with a Purpose
Networking Is a Two-Way Street
Avoiding Networking Pitfalls
Sharpening Your Networking Focus

Part 2: Building Networking Relationships
Cultivating Existing Contacts
Expanding Your Networking Circle
Scripting Your 30-Second Self-Introduction
Preparing for Networking Events
Nurturing Your Support System
Finding a Mentor

Part 3: Refining Your Professional Presence
Making a Positive First Impression
Turning Small Talk into Big Business
Conversational Do’s and Don’ts
Mastering the Art of Listening
Projecting Your Image on Paper: Business Cards

Part 4: Bell-Ringing Telephone Techniques
Identifying Key Contact Points
Cultivating the Gatekeeper
Introducing Yourself by Telephone
Networking Through Voice Mail

Part 5: Networking via E-Mail and the Internet
Reaching Your Contacts Through E-Mail
Formulating an Effective E-Mail Message
Signing Off with a Signature File
Tapping into Online Alumni Networks
Welcome to My Web: Creating Your Online Presence
Surfing the Web for Networking Leads
Netiquette Guidelines for Networkers
Taking Time for Snail Mail

Part 6: The Networking Power of Self-Promotion
Tooting Your Own Horn
Spreading Your News in a Press Release
Press Release Writing 101
Writing Bylined Articles
Putting a Face to Your Name
Promoting Yourself Through Speaking Engagements
Volunteering for Networking Success
Making the Most of Trade Shows and Conventions

Part 7: Special Networking Challenges: Novices and Veterans
Recent College Graduates: Learning the Ropes
Senior Executives: Searching the Hidden Job Market

Addendum
Putting It All Together: Creating Your Strategic Networking Plan
Author’s Suggested Responses
Resources for Successful Networking
Online Networking Sites
Recommended Reading
Notes